The Week In Retail Issue 36

RETAIL

THE WEEK IN

SLR WINNERS IN PICS SHOPWORKER PETITION HITS 100K ABSOLUT 20 HOUR BENDER

MERGERS & ACQUISITIONS

BESTWAY SNAPS UP COSTCUTTER

£3BN BUSINESS CREATED PEOPLE NEWS

DEACON LEAVES NFRN

NFRN BOSS GREG DEACON DEPARTS

BREXIT

STOCKPILING 2.0 UNDERWAY

PANIC BUYING RETURNS

+ ONE LAST BLAST OF THE IRN-BRU SNOWMAN!

Commercial Partner:

Brought to you by:

Issue 36 Wednesday 23rd December 2020

R o f Y ENERg F F U T S L A E E R H T ENERGY IS GROWING 6 X FASTER THAN SOFT DRINKS

FLAVOURS NOW ACCOUNT FOR 30% OF MAINSTREAM ENERGY PRODUCTS*

NEARLY 1 IN 2 SOFT DRINKS SOLD IS AN ENERGY DRINK*

FLAVOURED ENERGY IS GROWING FASTER THAN ORIGINAL ENERGY*

MERCHANDISE CHILLED, NEXT TO OTHER SLIM CAN ENERGY PRODUCTS! *1: IRI MARKETPLACE, VALUE SALES, MAT TO 19/04/2020, TOTAL SCOTLAND. *2: IRI MARKETPLACE, PPL & AVERAGE MARGINS, MAT TO 19/04/2020, SCOTLAND CONVENIENCE *3: IRI MARKETPLACE, VALUE ESALES, DRINK NOW, MAT TO 19/04/2020, SCOTLAND SYMBOLS & INDEPENDENTS. *4: IRI MARKETPLACE, VALUE SALES, MAINSTREAM DRINK NOW ENERGY EXCL. ORIGINAL, MAT TO 19/04/2020, TOTAL COVERAGE

THE WEEK IN RETAIL

EDITOR’S COMMENT SHARE YOUR NEWS AND VIEWS WITH ME AT ABEGLEY@55NORTH.COM

OH 2021, WHAT DO YOU HAVE IN STORE FOR US? If we were all allowing ourselves to get just a little bit heady about the prospect of a fresh beginning in 2021 with new Covid-19 vaccines rolling out and a brand new year lying ahead of us, the last week or two have put us very firmly back in our boxes. It looks horribly like 2021 is going to start where 2020 left off with stockpiling, lockdowns, closed schools and general dismay, plus the added spice of a predictably shambolic Brexit to ensure that business as usual is a long, long way off.

Still, local retailers have proven themselves adept at rolling with the punches over the last year and hopefully what they’ve learned under the pandemic will stand them in good stead for whatever infernal nonsense 2021 has up its sleeve for us.

Brexit will cause havoc over the next few months, that much is sure – but being nimble and agile will certainly help local retailers. It could be the supermarkets that find it hardest to cope with the fallout of Boris’s characteristically over-

optimistic ‘reversing out of Europe unscathed’ plan which was, let’s face it, never going to end well.

Let’s not forget that pricing and availability are what supermarkets are all about and if they struggle on both fronts in the face of Brexit and Covid, as is likely, there could well be some more headroom for growth for the local retailing sector as disgruntled big box shoppers once again turn to their local stores.

There’s much that local retailers can do to prepare for that outcome and get themselves ready for what promises to be another hellish year packed full of long hours, stress and anxiety – but also one packed full of big sales and profits.

The local retailing sector could once again find itself in the limelight in the first half of 2021 and beyond, so it’s up to us all to make sure we grab that opportunity by the scruff the neck and continue building a long term legacy for our sector that outlasts Covid, Brexit and Boris.

ANTONYBEGLEY ANTONYBEGLEY ANTONYBEGLEY

ANTONY BEGLEY, EDITOR

WEDNESDAY 23RD DECEMBER 2020 / ISSUE 36 / SLRMAG.CO.UK / 3

Mint and Menthol JUULpods account for £3 of every £10 spent.* Sales of closed system menthol products are growing at 66% year-on-year.** Become a JUUL retail partner.

Email uksales@juul.com today.

Designed for adult smokers.

Not for sale to minors.

JUUL is an e-cigarette.This is an age-restricted product and age verification is required at sale. *Source: IRI value sales , closed systems, 4 Weeks to 13th Sept 2020. **Source: IRI value sales in tracked channels 4 Weeks to 13th Sept 2020.

TM and © 2020 JUUL Labs, Inc. All rights reserved.

WARNING: This product contains nicotine which is a highly addictive substance.

CONTENTS

WEDNESDAY 23RD DECEMBER 2020 / ISSUE 36 WWW.SLRMAG.CO.UK

6

10 THIS WEEK’S NEWS IN BRIEF

19

BESTWAY/COSTCUTTER

SLR REWARDS

What does the future have in store for Costcutter retailers now that Bestway Wholesale has snapped up the symbol group?

The cream of the Scottish local retailing crop pose with their trophies after receiving them, not from a minor celebrity, but a DPD driver.

M&S tackles festive queues with an on-the-spot payment solution and Greg Deacon leaves the NFRN.

8 COVID-19 UPDATE

31 RESEARCH: FRUIT & VEG

39 PICKS OF THE WEEK

25 RESEARCH: STOCKPILING

OVER HALF OF CONSUMERS CLAIM TO

SURVEY FINDS 70% OF CONSUMERS PLAN

HAVE EATEN MORE GREENS DURING

TO PANIC BUY BECAUSE OF BREXIT.

LOCKDOWN.

29 SHOPWORKER PROTECTION

33 GROCERYAID DAY

USDAW’S PETITION ALL BUT GUARANTEES A PARLIAMENTARY DEBATE.

TWITTER.COM/SLRMAG

AND MARKETING CAMPAIGNS. 41 OUT THE BOX: ABSOLUT PARTY

FIND OUT WHAT YOU CAN DO TO RAISE AWARENESS OF THE INDUSTRY CHARITY.

WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/SLRMAG

A LOOK AT THE LATEST NEW PRODUCTS

THE VODKA BRAND INVITES YOU TO A 20HOUR NEW YEAR’S EVE SHINDIG.

43 BEFORE YOU GO...

WWW.SLRMAG.CO.UK

WEDNESDAY 23RD DECEMBER 2020 / ISSUE 36 / SLRMAG.CO.UK / 5

NEWS DIGEST

THIS WEEK’S NEWS FOR ALL THE LATEST NEWS, HEAD TO WWW.SLRMAG.CO.UK/CATEGORY/NEWS/

REACH CUTS MARGINS Newspaper publisher Reach has announced cover price increases to a number of its editions, while also cutting the

QUEUE-BUSTING

M&S TACKLES FESTIVE QUEUES WITH ON-THE-SPOT PAYMENT

margin that retailers receive

M&S HAS UNVEILED A NEW INSTANT ON-THE-SPOT CARD PAYMENT

from sales of its newspapers.

SOLUTION TO TACKLE QUEUES OVER THE FESTIVE PERIOD.

The new pricing structure will see newsagents’ profit margins on all these titles cut to 20% per copy.

LATE PAYMENT The Office of the Small Business Commissioner, which ensures fair payment practices for Britain’s small businesses, will be given more teeth to enforce decisions relating to late payments by extending its powers, if new proposals are accepted as part of a new government consultation.

ASDA ASSET STRIPPING GMB, the union for Asda workers, has branded the

Following a trial in seven stores, M&S has launched an instant card payment solution to help tackle festive queues, with staff able to allow customers today via instantly from anywhere in the store with a handheld terminal.

Available at 200 stores, the Pay with Me service is geared to allow staff member to help customers who are waiting in a queue to pay for just a few items and instantly process their transaction.

PO AND ROYAL MAIL SEAL 12-YEAR DEAL

company’s sale and leaseback plans “nothing more than asset stripping”. Asda owners, the Issa brothers, have reportedly drafted in advisers to prepare for the sale of up to 25 distribution centres and the company’s logistics portfolio – drawing in more than £1bn.

The Post Office and Royal Mail have shaken hands on a new long-term commercial agreement. The deal, which runs until March 2032, follows on from the pair’s original 2012 agreement, which was set up when the two businesses went their separate ways.

It secures long-term access for Royal Mail to the Post Office network and provides the PO with the ability to continue to sell and accept Royal Mail’s range of postal products. Post Office boss Nick Read said the deal would benefit both “postmasters and customers”.

6 I SLRMAG.CO.UK / ISSUE 36 / WEDNESDAY 23RD DECEMBER 2020

NEWS DIGEST

THIS WEEK’S NEWS FOR ALL THE LATEST NEWS, HEAD TO WWW.SLRMAG.CO.UK/CATEGORY/NEWS/

BUMPER MADL MONTH

ACQUISITIONS

BESTWAY BUYS COSTCUTTER

Nisa retailers donated almost £165,000 to good causes between 5 November and 2

BESTWAY WHOLESALE ACQUIRES COSTCUTTER TAKING ANNUAL

December, via the symbol

TURNOVER TO AROUND £3BN WITH AN ESTATE OF 3,795 STORES.

group’s Making a Difference Locally charity. A total of 329

Bestway Wholesale has acquired Costcutter Supermarkets Group, taking Bestway Wholesale’s annual turnover to almost £3bn and its symbol, franchise and company-owned retail estate to more than 3,795 stores. The deal still requires FCA approval but, should it go through, Bestway will also become the 11th largest independently owned multi-national conglomerate of any description in the UK. Bestway expects to complete the acquisition in the first quarter of next year but says that, while Costcutter will

become part of Bestway Wholesale’s retail division, it will “continue to operate as normal” – although without the services of Darcy Willson-Rymer, Costcutter’s CEO of nine years who will leave the business following the acquisition.

Bestway Wholesale MD Dawood Pervez says: “Costcutter is a great brand with a long heritage and a history of success alongside industry-leading and loyal retailers. The acquisition enables us to further build on our solid foundations in independent retail.”

donations were made by 212 stores. Since its formation in 2008, Making a Difference Locally has raised over £12m.

HOSPICE HELP Spar is spreading Christmas cheer by donating sandwiches and treats to nurses and staff at several Marie Curie Hospice across the UK. Deliveries of Spar Turkey Feast Christmas sandwiches and treats to hospices were made this week

DEACON LEAVES NFRN Greg Deacon has left his role as Chief Operating Officer at the NFRN. Deacon, who has held the position since September 2019, leaves with the best wishes of the National Executive Committee, and is not understood to have a new role lined up.

The NFRN’s National President Stuart Reddish, Vice President Muntazir Dipoti and Deputy Vice President Jason Birks will

look after his duties in the interim.

Announcing the move, Reddish said: “We are grateful to Greg for his hard work over the past 15 months.

He has helped the NFRN forge closer links with suppliers, assisting in the introduction of new deals and activity to help independent retailers make money, save money and find easier ways to do business.”

to thank staff for the care and support they have provided to dying people this year.

TIMES INCREASES News UK has announced that the price of The Times will rise on the Monday to Saturday editions, effective from Monday coming. The combined price changes will maintain retailer margin and will result in an extra £19.6m through retailers’ tills over the next 12 months, and an additional £4.1m in retail margin.

WEDNESDAY 23RD DECEMBER 2020 / ISSUE 36 / SLRMAG.CO.UK / 7

NEWS SPECIAL

COVID-19 UPDATE FOR ALL THE LATEST CORONAVIRUS NEWS, HEAD TO WWW.SLRMAG.CO.UK/CATEGORY/NEWS/

AMACOR GROWTH Acquisitive convenience store business Amacor is ending 2020 on a high, taking two new

NI LOCKDOWN ‘DISAPPOINTING BUT NECESSARY’

stores on in the last month

THE NORTHERN IRELAND PRESIDENT

and lifting the total number of

OF THE FEDERATION OF INDEPENDENT

stores it operates into double

RETAILERS (NFRN) SAYS THE LATEST COVID

figures. The Nisa partner

LOCKDOWN ANNOUNCED BY STORMONT

added new stores in Speke

IS DISAPPOINTING BUT NECESSARY IF THE

and Blackpool and aims to

SPREAD OF THE VIRUS IS TO BE HALTED.

reach the 20 milestone by the end of 2021.

STICKING PLASTERS The Chancellor’s extension of the CBILS and Bounceback loan schemes has been dubbed “a sticking plaster to the funding crisis facing

Judith Mercer, who owns Hamilton News in Cregagh Road, Belfast, said: “It’s going to be crippling for the economy, but at the same time we need measures put in place to stop the spread of this virus.

“We need people to understand that they must wear a mask when they are shopping in local stores, to protect themselves and shop staff. The

local newsagents or convenience store seems to be a place where some people think they can just nip in and out, so they don’t need to wear a mask, which is very unfair on the staff.

“We all want to get back to normality as soon as possible, so if it takes a lockdown to help that then that’s what we have to have and everybody needs to stick to the rules.”

business” by tax and advisory firm Blick Rothenberg.

Additionally, access to money is no longer the promised ‘48 hour process’ and often involves four to six weeks of battles with banks to gain access to the funds.

SPAR SUPPLIER FEST Spar UK is hosting its Covidenforced Virtual Suppliers Conference on the afternoon of Thursday 28 January 2021 with the theme of ‘People, Purpose & Passion’.

WAITROSE OFFERS BOOKABLE SHOPPING SLOTS Following trials over the summer, Waitrose is rolling out ‘bookable shopping slots’ to more than 110 stores that allow customers to pre-book a shopping slot to enable them to avoid any queues outside stores during the pandemic.

Customers can reserve slots on the retailer’s website up to seven days in advance of their store visit and receive a reminder 24 hours in advance of their slot. The service will continue into January. The retailer has also extended its opening hours in the run-up to Christmas with most shops opening until 11pm.

8 I SLRMAG.CO.UK / ISSUE 36 / WEDNESDAY 23RD DECEMBER 2020

NEWS SPECIAL

COVID-19 UPDATE FOR ALL THE LATEST CORONAVIRUS NEWS, HEAD TO WWW.SLRMAG.CO.UK/CATEGORY/NEWS/

ONLINE DEVOURS 31% OF EARLY FESTIVE SPEND

JOHN LEWIS ROLLS OUT ‘LATERAL FLOW’ COVID TESTING

THE LATEST ONS RETAIL FIGURES SHOW THAT E-COMMERCE

N

GOBBLED UP OVER 31% OF EARLY CHRISTMAS SPENDING AS THE HIGH STREET SHUT UP SHOP ONCE AGAIN IN NOVEMBER.

The John Lewis Partnership is among the first UK businesses to roll-out NHS Test and Trace ‘lateral flow’ Covid-19 testing. The tech is now available in 40 John Lewis sites in England and provides results within 30 minutes with capacity to test 16,000 employees and temporary agency staff every week.

BLAIR ENTERS VACCINE DEBATE Ex-Prime Minister Tony Blair is urging the government to give as many people as possible an initial dose of a Covid vaccine – rather than preserving stocks so there is enough for second jabs. The Pfizer-Biontech and Oxford University-Astrazeneca vaccines require two doses to be fully effective but Blair says his approach would help the country could come out of lockdown sooner.

Blair said that while people really need two doses, the fist offers “substantial immunity”.

The two doses of the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine are administered around 21 days apart.

More than 500,000 people in the UK have now been given their first dose of the vaccine.

TECH SOLUTIONS

ovember’s retail sales estimates, released this week by the Office for National Statistics (ONS), reveal the High Street’s loss was once more online’s gain. Online sales spiked by 74.7% in value as early Christmas shoppers hit the internet in record numbers.

The closure of non-essential stores across England for the second time this year caused the value of overall retail sales to fall back in November -4.1% compared to the previous month. This had a devastating impact on town centre stores’ sales but created record sales online.

ParcelHero’s Head of Consumer Research David Jinks says: “Black Friday had an epic lead-in this November and Brits made the most of it by snapping up online bargains at Amazon and their favourite stores. The boom in online sales was so strong that it dragged up the volume of all retail sales by 2.4% compared to November 2019.”

As well as Waitrose and John Lewis stores, the sites include Waitrose and John Lewis supply chain depots and Waitrose.com customer fulfilment centres.

WEDNESDAY 23RD DECEMBER 2020 / ISSUE 36 / SLRMAG.CO.UK / 9

COVER STORY

BESTWAY BUYS COSTCUTTER MERGERS & ACQUISITIONS

10 I SLRMAG.CO.UK / ISSUE 36 / WEDNESDAY 23RD DECEMBER 2020

COVER STORY

BESTWAY BUYS COSTCUTTER MERGERS & ACQUISITIONS

FRESH START FOR COSTCUTTER RETAILERS? AFTER SOME CHALLENGING TIMES, COSTCUTTER RETAILERS COULD BE SET TO BENEFIT FROM BEING PART OF THE UK’S LARGEST INDEPENDENT FOOD AND DRINK WHOLESALING BUSINESS.

BY ANTONY BEGLEY

WEDNESDAY 23RD DECEMBER 2020 / ISSUE 36 / SLRMAG.CO.UK / 11

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COVER STORY

BESTWAY BUYS COSTCUTTER MERGERS & ACQUISITIONS

D

ecember is normally a quiet period on the news front as Christmas approaches, but after a year like no other, it’s hardly surprising to end 2020 on a momentous note as Bestway Wholesale announced over the last few days that it had acquired Costcutter Supermarkets Group.

Formerly owned by Bibby Line Group, the addition of Costcutter takes Bestway Wholesale’s annual turnover to almost £3bn and takes its symbol, franchise and company-owned retail estate to more than 3,795 stores in total.

The deal still requires FCA approval but, should it go through without a hitch, 2021 will be a very different year for both groups, now merged into the UK’s largest independent food and drink wholesaler. It will also become the 11th largest independently owned multi-national conglomerate of any description in the UK.

BESTWAY WHOLESALE: FASTFACTS Q Established in 1976.

Q Now the UK’s largest independent food and drink wholesaler with a UK turnover of almost £3bn.

Q Part of the industrial giant Bestway Group which also has global business interests in banking, cement, pharmacy, milling and property investment.

Q 61 Bestway and Batleys depots.

Q Supply partner to over 47,000 independent retailers.

Q Operates the best-one symbol group which has 1,761 members.

Q Over 4,000 independents use depot-run Xtra Local promotional retail club.

“The acquisition enables us to further build on our solid foundations in independent retail and clearly there will be benefits of joining forces for our retailers, for shoppers, and for suppliers.” [ Dawood Pervez, Managing Director, Bestway Wholesale ]

WEDNESDAY 23RD DECEMBER 2020 / ISSUE 36 / SLRMAG.CO.UK / 13

COVER STORY

BESTWAY BUYS COSTCUTTER MERGERS & ACQUISITIONS

The acquisition follows an improvement in Costcutter’s financial performance over the last couple of years. During the 12 months to 31 December 2019, CSG’s sales rose by 10% to £426m with sales and profitability continuing to rise throughout 2020 as consumers increasingly shopped locally because of the Covid-19 pandemic.

Bestway expects to complete the deal in the first quarter of next year but says that, while Costcutter will become part of Bestway Wholesale’s retail division, it will “continue to operate as normal” – although without the services of Darcy Willson-Rymer, Costcutter’s CEO of nine years who will leave the business following the acquisition.

Bestway Wholesale has highlighted that the existing Costcutter supply contract with Co-op/Nisa is not affected by the acquisition and Nisa will continue to supply Costcutter stores. Costcutter retailers will retain access to the same range they have today, including the Co-op Own Brand range.

Approximately 1,500 stores currently branded as Costcutter, Mace, Supershop, Kwiksave, and Simply Fresh, will join Bestway Wholesale’s portfolio of retail brands which includes Bargain Booze, Best-One, Wine Rack, Select Convenience and Central Convenience.

Founded by Sir Anwar Pervez in 1976, the family remains at the helm of Bestway with his nephew, Lord Zameer Choudrey CEO of Bestway Group, and Sir Anwar’s son,

COSTCUTTER SUPERMARKETS GROUP: FASTFACTS Q Symbol group operator which has been supplying independent retailers for over 30 years.

Q Employs around 500 people.

Q Total of 1,550 stores serviced under the Costcutter, Mace, Supershop, Kwiksave and Simply Fresh fascias.

Q Vast majority independently owned and operated.

Q Access to Co-op Own Brand range.

“Bestway expects to complete the acquisition in the first quarter of this year but says that, while Costcutter will become part of Bestway Wholesale’s retail division, it will ‘continue to operate as normal’.”

Dawood Pervez, as Managing Director of Bestway Wholesale.

Bestway Wholesale Managing Director Dawood Pervez says: “Costcutter is a great brand with a long heritage and a history of success alongside industry-leading and loyal retailers, with some of the best in-store execution in the business. The acquisition by Bestway Wholesale enables us to further build on our solid foundations in independent retail, allowing us to expand on our already established and highly respected fascias and national network of stores. Clearly, there will be benefits of joining forces for our retailers, for shoppers, and for suppliers.”

“Independent retailers are vital hubs within their local communities that have become increasingly valued and appreciated by consumers – and government – for their services during the Covid-19 pandemic. We will continue to support and champion this sector and will be investing for its future alongside range, service excellence and technology. Our message to all our retailers is that ‘together we are stronger’ at a time of economic uncertainty, both with Covid-19 and Brexit ahead.”

John Cresswell, CEO of Bibby Line Group, said: “Over the last two years, Costcutter has transformed itself into a profitable and much stronger business, and I’d like to thank the team for their unstinting commitment and passion for helping independent retailers thrive. We hope Costcutter will continue to prosper and grow as it becomes part of a larger business with deep retail expertise.”

With increased buying power, the larger group should now be well positioned to enhance its offer to both retailers and shoppers in 2021 and beyond.

WEDNESDAY 23RD DECEMBER 2020 / ISSUE 36 / SLRMAG.CO.UK / 15

SOLUTIONS

FOR SOFT DRINK CATEGORY GROWTH With so many new soft drinks coming to the market, and new trends emerging as a result of the Covid-19 lockdown period, it has never been more important to stay on top of your range. Craig Starling from Suntory Beverage and Food GB&I (SBF GB&I) joined Umesh Patel at his Up1 News store in East London to find out how small changes can grow sales.

MEET THE RETAILERS

THE STORE AS IT STANDS

UMESH PATEL UP1 NEWS, SILVERTOWN, EAST LONDON

CRAIG STARLING BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER, SUNTORY BEVERAGE & FOOD GB&I

“This is a very mixed area, with a lot of families of African, Eastern European and British heritage. While the majority of our customers come from local families, we’ve recently started to see a real influx of young professionals moving into the new housing being built in the area.

“Our soft drinks display accounts for around 60% of our sales in the summer, worth about £1,500 in the busiest weeks. Energy and sports drinks account for around 60% of our soft drink sales.

“Our busiest times are 8-9am and 3-5pm, with lots of commuters and young people, heading to and from the nearby DLR station.”

"This is a fantastic local store. Umesh has a good mix of people that live locally and commuters stopping by on their way to work. He’s been here for 30 years, so he knows his customers, and what they want, really well.

"Umesh has got a really comprehensive soft drinks range. He has multiple SKUs, flavours, and different formats for the different needs of his customers.

Whether they’re picking up drinks on their way to work or picking up larger formats to take home to their families, he’s got it all covered."

LESSONS FOR YOUR STORE

1.

2.

3.

BLOCK YOUR DRINKS BY SUB-CATEGORY SO CUSTOMERS CAN EASILY FIND WHAT THEY WANT

WITHIN EACH SUB-CATEGORY, BLOCK BY FORMAT TO HELP CATER FOR EVERY OCCASION

IN SPORTS & ENERGY, FLOW YOUR DRINKS BY NEED STATE, AND HIGHLIGHT YOUR TAKE HOME OFFER

1 IGD Food to Go 2016 2 EXT IRI, MarketPlace GB, Value, latest 13 weeks to 26.07.20 vs YA

50%

THE RESULTS

1

OF ALL SOFT DRINKS ARE BOUGHT ON IMPULSE

FLAVOURED CARBS HAVE SEEN GROWTH OF

7.1%

2

RECENTLY

29%

RISE IN SALES OF FLAVOURED CARBONATES BASED ON DATA FROM THE PAST FOUR WEEKS

50%

RISE IN SALES OF LARGE FORMAT TAKE-HOME BOTTLED SOFT DRINKS, BASED ON DATA FROM THE PAST FOUR WEEKS

THE CHANGES WE MADE IN STORE

1. BLOCK YOUR SOFT DRINKS BY CATEGORY

BEFORE

AFTER

It’s important to group the same types of drinks together. We put all of Umesh’s flavoured carbs in one block in the same chiller. Sales in this category have grown 7.1% recently, and putting all of his flavoured carbs together will help shoppers find what they want more easily.

2. WITHIN EACH CATEGORY, ARRANGE BY FORMAT

BEFORE

AFTER

Range formats within each category together so they flow smoothly.

We’ve put Umesh’s cola together, then segmented this section further into cans and bottles. If we can make finding the right format easier for customers, it improves the shopability of the category.

3. BLOCK ENERGY BY CATEGORY AND HIGHLIGHT YOUR TAKE-HOME OFFER

BEFORE

AFTER

TO SEE MORE OF UMESH’S SHOP AND FOR MORE ADVICE AND TIPS FOLLOW SBF GB&I ON TWITTER AT @SUNTORYBF_GBI

Energy and sports drinks accounts for a huge 60% of Umesh’s soft drinks sales.

We’ve blocked his sports and energy by need state – starting with stimulants, flowing into sports, then energy and finally natural energy. We’ve also brought his take-home drinks into this chiller, helping the customer to find the right drink for the right occasion.

Home for

Christmas #holidaysarecoming Thank you to all our customers and wishing everyone a safe, happy holiday season.

To find out more email connect@ccep.com or call 0808 1 000 000 Š 2020 The Coca-Cola Company. All rights reserved. COCA-COLA, COCA-COLA ZERO and DIET COKE are registered trade marks of The Coca-Cola Company.

INDUSTRY AWARDS

SLR REWARDS 2020 WINNER’S PHOTO MONTAGE

HERE’S TO THE SLR REWARDS WINNERS 2020!

THE RECENT SLR REWARDS WAS HELD VIRTUALLY FOR THE FIRST TIME EVER, WITH WINNERS’ TROPHIES HANDED OUT BY DPD DELIVERY DRIVERS, RATHER THAN ON THE NIGHT AS USUAL.

Holding the SLR Rewards virtually for the very first time presented lots of challenges for the team at SLR. One of those challenges was having to courier out the actual awards trophies themselves, rather than handing them over on the night as we would normally do.

Thankfully, many of the evening’s winners decided to take some photos of themselves holding their shiny new trophies and send them to us. Here is a little selection...

WEDNESDAY 23RD DECEMBER 2020 / ISSUE 36 / SLRMAG.CO.UK / 19

Up to

Circa

Additional Weekly Revenue

New Weekly Transactions

£10k

400

£26

+400

Sell

Full

Average Spend

at on-shelf prices

New Customers

Tech Training & Support

INDUSTRY AWARDS

SLR REWARDS 2020 WINNER’S PHOTO MONTAGE

WEDNESDAY 23RD DECEMBER 2020 / ISSUE 36 / SLRMAG.CO.UK / 21

CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR WINNERS!

Premier Dundee University

WINNER

WINNER

JOIN THE WINNING TEAMS!

Beer, Cider, Wines & Spirits Retailer of the Year Fresh, Chilled & Frozen Retailer of the Year Sustainability Retailer of the Year

Premier Racetrack Services, Glasgow Autoport

Forecourt Retailer of the Year Best Refit of the Ye ar ThinkSmart Innova tion Award

WINNER

Premier Turriff

e Year

Newstrade Retailer of th

CALL PREMIER 0808 178 8644

WINNER

r Broadway Linda Williams, Premiein rgh Convenience Store, Ed bu Covid Hero Award

WINNER

Londis Solo Convenience Store, Baillieston Confectionery Retailer of the Year

WINNER

Jack’s of Blantyre

Responsible Retailer of the Year

CALL LONDIS 0808 178 8644

FLAVOURED CARBONATE

STRENGTHEN YOUR SALES *Source: IRI Marketplace, Value Sales, Single Flavour OFC's, MAT to 01/11/20, GB Convenience

RESEARCH

STOCKPILING BREXIT

STOCKPILING 2.0 WELL UNDERWAY THE CURRENT DOVER FIASCO IS LEADING TO STOCKPILING ONCE MORE, WITH A RECENT SURVEY FINDING 70% OF SHOPPERS PLAN TO PANIC BUY BECAUSE OF BREXIT.

W

hile coronavirus had taken most people’s minds off Brexit, the unseemly withdrawal from the EU that is currently taking place has brought the issue back to the top of the agenda, with the images of hundreds of lorries queued up at Dover apparently sparking another wave of panic buying.

Indeed, new research suggests that up to 70% of UK consumers are actually planning to stockpile because of the

uncertainty of what might happen at the Channel ports and around Brexit in general.

Fears of a second wave of panic buying are increasing as the Brexit deadline looms ever closer, especially now with extra Covid-19 restrictions being put in place around the Christmas period.

To understand the buying behaviours of the UK public this time, BusinessWaste.co.uk has conducted an online

WEDNESDAY 23RD DECEMBER 2020 / ISSUE 36 / SLRMAG.CO.UK / 25

RESEARCH

STOCKPILING BREXIT

Brexit the things they usually buy will go up in price, so are stockpiling now to save money in the future.”

WHAT ARE THE MOST COMMON ITEMS BEING STOCKPILED?

survey with 1,100 participants ahead of Brexit, with the following results: Q 603 respondents are planning on stockpiling foods and goods for Brexit Q 238 have already started doing so Mark Hal from the company says: “Overbuying always happens around Christmas, with people overestimating how much food they need. However, with the reality of Brexit around the corner and new tier systems in place, there’s a real risk that tonnes of food will end up in the bin.”

In March, BusinessWaste.co.uk reported that over a million pounds worth of food was wasted due to the panic buying caused by the UK national lockdown at the start of the year.

“It’s clear that over half of people are planning on making sure they have plenty just in case, and it seems that around one in five people are already stockpiling ahead of Brexit,” says Hall.

“Half of people are worried that the items they want won’t be available, and the other half are worried that after

BusinessWaste.co.uk asked the 1,100 participants of their survey which items they would prioritise during stockpiling, and much like the first lockdown, it mostly consisted of dried and tinned goods such as pasta, rice, and baked beans.

Other common items are UHT milk, baby milk formula, and perhaps the most British requirement in a time of crisis – teabags.

Beer and wine are also high on the list for many panic buyers, unsurprisingly as most pubs have been closed this year and as most alcoholic beverages are imported into the UK. “What shocked me was the more perishable items people have suggested stockpiling, such as fruit and vegetables that they are worried they cannot get from EU countries postBrexit,” says Hall.

WHAT ARE OFFICIALS SAYING? The simple advice is not to stockpile. The British Retail Consortium said that shops have plenty of supplies and have prepared for all eventualities on 1 January. Many supermarkets have contacted customers urging them not to buy more than they need.

Should a no-deal Brexit be on the cards for the UK, supermarkets and wholesalers have worked hard to fill up their warehouses to be able to supply as much as possible for as long as possible, with the only real concern the provision of fresh goods.

If stockpiling becomes as much of a problem as it did in March, Hall expect shops to begin restricting how much customers can buy of certain items again in order to keep a steady supply on the shelves and reduce potential waste.

Local retailers may again find that stockpiling and the subsequent availability issues suffered by the multiples will play into their hands once more and could drive footfall over the coming weeks.

WEDNESDAY 23RD DECEMBER 2020 / ISSUE 36 / SLRMAG.CO.UK / 27

SHOPWORKER PROTECTION

PETITION TOPS 100,000 SIGNATURES USDAW

SHOPWORKER PROTECTION PETITION PASSES 100K MARK

A

A PARLIAMENTARY PETITION THAT SEEKS TO PROTECT RETAIL STAFF FROM VIOLENCE, THREATS AND ABUSE HAS PASSED THE 100,000 SIGNATURES NEEDED TO TRIGGER A PARLIAMENTARY DEBATE.

parliamentary petition from trade union Usdaw that seeks to protect retail staff from violence, threats and abuse has passed the 100,000 signatures that the union believes is needed to trigger a parliamentary debate. Usdaw now seeks the support of MPs and the Government for legislation to protect retail staff.

The news came as it was announced that a ‘Violence and abuse towards retail workers’ inquiry is being launched by the House of Commons Home Affairs Select Committee.

The petition was unveiled by union leader Paddy Lillis and can still be signed. It is backed by 23 major retailers and the industry’s leading trade bodies, with research by the Coop showing its aims have public support as well.

Lillis says: “I am grateful to our reps, activists and members who have worked hard to achieve the necessary 100,000 signatures. It is no surprise that we have reached this milestone because this is a hugely important issue for shopworkers. With incidents of abuse doubling during the pandemic, retail workers, their friends, family and loved ones, are saying loud and clear that enough is enough, abuse should never be just a part of the job.

“We now urge the House of Commons Petitions Committee to grant a parliamentary debate and for MPs to support the aims of the petition by persuading the Government to back legislation to protect shopworkers.

“We welcome employer support for the petition and it is clear that the public are also on board, with a Co-op survey finding that over 80% say abuse of shopworkers is unacceptable and want greater sentencing for offenders.

When the shopping public, retailers and the trade union for shopworkers unite in a call for action, it should be time for

the Government to listen to our concerns and deliver much needed protection for staff.

“We were deeply disappointed by the Government’s initial response to the petition, offering little more than sympathy.

Unfortunately, they objected to the Alex Norris’ protection of shopworkers bill in the House of Commons.

“I hope that the level of support shown for our petition will convince the Government to change their minds. Retail staff have a crucial role in our communities and that role must be valued and respected, they deserve the protection of the law.”

MPS’ INQUIRY INTO VIOLENCE, THREATS AND ABUSE AGAINST SHOPWORKERS WELCOMED BY USDAW Retail trade union Usdaw has welcomed the recent announcement of a ‘Violence and abuse towards retail workers’ inquiry by the House of Commons Home Affairs Select Committee.

Last October Usdaw, British Retail Consortium, Association of Convenience Stores and the Federation of Independent Retailers jointly wrote to the Chair of the Home Affairs Select Committee, Yvette Cooper MP, to call for an inquiry into the growing problem of violence and abuse against shopworkers.

Usdaw leader Paddy Lillis called the inquiry “a very welcome opportunity to evidence the need for a ‘protection of shopworkers’ law”.

WEDNESDAY 23RD DECEMBER 2020 / ISSUE 36 / SLRMAG.CO.UK / 29

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NEW IGD RESEARCH SAYS OVER HALF OF ALL CONSUMERS CLAIM TO HAVE EATEN MORE FRUIT AND VEG UNDER LOCKDOWN, SUGGESTING AN OPPORTUNITY FOR RETAILERS TO HELP CONSUMERS RETAIN GOOD HABITS IN THE FUTURE.

ore than three-quarters (83%) of consumers changed how they planned, purchased and prepared their food during the first national lockdown, with over half (51%) claiming to have eaten more fruit and vegetables, according to the latest research in IGD’s Appetite for Change series.

The latest IGD data, drawn from 2,000 UK consumers through September and October 2020, shows there is a unique opportunity for the industry to act now to help consumers turn positive new habits adopted over the last few months into long-term changes to their diets.

Hannah Pearse, Head of Nutrition and Scientific Affairs at IGD, said: “In the first lockdown, we saw the majority of consumers adopting new food behaviours such as cooking more from scratch and spending more time preparing meals.

Many of these new behaviours also had a positive impact on people’s diets.

“This is all hugely encouraging when it comes to ways we can support people to increase their fruit and vegetable consumption. With most consumers still only eating 3.4 portions of their recommended 5-A-Day intake, we know that significant barriers remain around habit, cost and confidence. Our research shows four in 10 consumers think vegetables are not exciting, while almost the same number (38%) perceive healthier, sustainable diets to be more expensive and nearly six in 10 avoid buying certain vegetables because they don’t know what to do with them.

“Our research clearly demonstrates food and drink companies have a unique opportunity to act now and help

consumers turn positive new behaviours into long term changes to their diets.

“From really effective marketing and product placement to meal planning and recipe inspiration, there are lots of really practical actions businesses can take to help shift consumer behaviour further towards healthy and sustainable diets. As an industry we all have a role to play in helping encourage this positive behaviour, and if we come together our impact will be much greater.”

FRESH HELP Q IGD has identified a series of practical actions that retailers can take to help drive behaviour change and encourage consumers to eat more fruit and vegetables: Q Use positive language and imagery to market plant-based meals and meals containing extra vegetables Q Create striking displays of local and seasonal fruit and vegetables, in-store and online Q Inspire consumers to swap ingredients in their favourite recipes Q Use online meal planners, giving shoppers the option of adding ingredients to an online basket as they go Q Access to Co-op Own Brand range.

WEDNESDAY 23RD DECEMBER 2020 / ISSUE 36 / SLRMAG.CO.UK / 31

Helping you to make an extra 3% Gross Profit Ease of use

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RETAILER SUPPORT

GROCERYAID DAY 2021 2 MARCH 2021

WE ALL NEED A LITTLE HELP SOMETIMES...

IT WON’T SURPRISE YOU TO FIND OUT THAT MORE PEOPLE THAN EVER RELIED ON INDUSTRY CHARITY GROCERYAID LAST YEAR, SO WHY NOT NOT SUPPORT YOUR INDUSTRY COLLEAGUES WHO MIGHT NEED A LITTLE HELP BY GETTING INVOLVED IN GROCERYAID DAY 2021?

F

or most of us, 2020 was a challenging year but for some people in our industry it was a truly traumatic one. Convenience channel industry charity GroceryAid was flooded with requests for support of all kinds last year, receiving record levels of contact from colleagues all the way through the supply chain. That means more colleagues needing financial and emotional support than ever before.

Clearly this has put enormous pressure on the charity, but they have been there 24/7 for every industry colleague in

need – and GroceryAid in turn needs your support both in terms of helping raise vital funds and also to raise awareness of the many ways the charity can help those in need. Are your colleagues even aware of the support that’s available to them when times get tough, for instance?

If you would like to play your part, the perfect opportunity is just around the corner. The annual GroceryAid Day is the ideal way to raise awareness of the charity and the support it can provide among your colleagues – and there’s no shame in needing a little help now and again.

WEDNESDAY 23RD DECEMBER 2020 / ISSUE 36 / SLRMAG.CO.UK / 33

Stay connected to your store using the Free EPoS Stock Manager App wherever you are EPoS Pro retailers can enjoy these additional benefits: • Create and print shelf edge labels directly to the PayPoint One in store • Carry out stock counts at the shelf-edge and update your live stock holding • Avoid shrinkage or overstocking by tracking stock in real-time within the palm of your hand • Use your phone camera to scan your order shopping list at the shelf edge • Scan products into your trolley at the Cash and Carry and update your available stock in real-time • Identify your best-selling products so you can optimise your display space

Visit paypoint.one to find out more

RETAILER SUPPORT

GROCERYAID DAY 2021 2 MARCH 2021

GroceryAid Day returns on Tuesday 2 March 2021, and after the year we’ve all had it’s more important than ever that your colleagues know about the support available to them.

While our industry has been resilient, statistics show that over six million households are currently financially fragile, with many falling into arrears with household bills.

GroceryAid is there to support your colleagues with financial support including grants and debt advice. It also offers emotional support in the shape of counselling, relationship advice and mental health services.

Key workers throughout the grocery industry have done an amazing job going into work during the Covid-19 pandemic to keep the nation fed. When you’re busy with work and trying to cope with new, unusual or challenging circumstances, taking care of yourself can take a back seat. It is so important colleagues know they can turn to GroceryAid for support at any time.

HOW YOU CAN GET INVOLVED Last year a whopping 116 companies from all over the grocery industry took part in GroceryAid Day and this year the charity needs you to let your colleagues know about the services and the help available. It’s really simple, all GroceryAid wants you to do is share.

FOR NOW, GROCERYAID HAS THREE ASKS:

1. Look at the services it offers at groceryaid.org.uk – you will be surprised at how much support is available.

2. Follow GroceryAid on LinkedIn and ask your colleagues to do the same.

3. Think about how you and your team can get involved and put the date into your diaries.

This month a GroceryAid Day Pack will be shared covering everything you need to help raise awareness.

HOW CAN GROCERYAID HELP? Christmas and the New Year may be much harder than normal for many this year, so it’s more important than ever to keep GroceryAid in the front of mind for your colleagues should they need emotional or financial support. This video offers a brief overview of how GroceryAid can help.

WEDNESDAY 23RD DECEMBER 2020 / ISSUE 36 / SLRMAG.CO.UK / 35

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RETAILER SUPPORT

GROCERYAID DAY 2021 2 MARCH 2021

NEED HELP THIS CHRISTMAS? IS YOUR HOUSEHOLD STRUGGLING FINANCIALLY? GROCERYAID CAN HELP In these uncertain times, GroceryAid has many ways to help. Here [https://www.groceryaid.org.uk/get-help/ covid-19-advice-support/] is some information about the free confidential debt advice and financial support they offer.

FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE

(08088 021 122) can support you through this difficult

GroceryAid offers non-repayable one-off grants,

time. They offer ‘in the moment’ emotional support for

designed to help those experiencing an unexpected

dealing with anxiety and stress through BACP trained

emergency, a change in circumstances or a sudden

counsellors at the end of the telephone, 24/7 365 days

gap in income. Click here to find out more.

a year so there is always someone to talk to.

COVID-19 FUND

RELATIONSHIP COUNSELLING

The £1.5m GroceryAid Covid-19 fund has been

GroceryAid can provide up to six free sessions of

established to provide enhanced support for

relationship counselling and support to Grocery

colleagues during this unprecedented period. The

Colleagues past and present. Healthy relationships

non-repayable grants are to help those suffering from

with our partners and family are vital to our health

a sudden change in their life which could include a

and wellbeing. It’s good to know that there is support

bereavement, poor living conditions, fleeing from

available to help you, your partner and your family

domestic violence or a sudden gap in income due to

cope with both the emotional and practical impact on

the impact of Covid-19.

your lives together.

DEBT ADVICE

WOEBOT

GroceryAid partners with Stepchange, a debt charity,

Another digital help is Woebot, an artificial intelligence

that can help you assess your financial situation and

counsellor available 24/7 via an app for iPhone or

give advice and practical solutions to help you make

Android. Woebot lets a user access in the moment

a fresh start. Through their freephone Helpline, their

emotional support 24/7 to track their mood, identify

Citizens Advice Bureau- trained Telephone Information

patterns and give insight into particular issues or

Specialists can carry out a full benefits check. They

concerns that the user may not have realised were

have also put together a very useful ‘Find out More’

causing emotional distress. Woebot can teach

Guide.

the user techniques and tools such as cognitive behavioural therapies or breathing exercises.

24/7 HELPLINE It’s important you know that the GroceryAid Helpline

To download woebot, use your email and enter the code ‘groceryaid1′ when prompted.

WEDNESDAY 23RD DECEMBER 2020 / ISSUE 36 / SLRMAG.CO.UK / 37

STOCK UP NOW

NPD AND MEDIA

PICKS OF THE WEEK TO GET YOUR PRODUCT LISTED PLEASE CONTACT RAITKEN@55NORTH.COM

GORDON’S 0.0%

STRIKE THE BALANCE

BLOOMING GOOD

Gordon’s new alcohol-free

Premium non-alcoholic spirit

Symington’s has launched a

option Gordon’s 0.0% (0.0%

Ceder’s is tapping into health

new 100% plant-based brand

ABV) is made using the same

and wellness trends with a

‘Blooming Good Food Co’.

distilled botanicals as Gordon’s

digital-first campaign inviting

The vegan-friendly products

London Dry Gin. At only 24

consumers to Strike the

are available in four flavours

calories per serve, it will be

Balance with the support of

including Warming Tomato &

available in wholesale from 3

yoga aficionado Cat Meffan,

Lentil Dhal and Banging Black

January 2021.

who will help grow awareness

Eyed Bean & Vegetables.

RSP: £14

of the brand.

RSP: £1.50

SOFT OPTION

EMBASSY GOES SUPER

VEGAN KESTREL

General Mills has launched a

Imperial Tobacco has

Kestrel Premium lager has

range of Nature Valley Protein

announced a range extension

repositioned itself as ‘the

Soft Bakes. The first of their

for Embassy Signature with

vegan lager’.The move is

kind to hit UK shelves, Oats

the launch of its new Gold

supported by a marketing

& Honey and Blueberry &

Superkings variant as a

campaign timed to coincide

Almond soft bakes will be

straight swap for Embassy

with Veganuary. Activity will

available from January 2021 in

No.1 Red Superkings. It will be

span consumer and trade

four-packs and singles.

available from January.

media, social media and digital

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platforms.

WEDNESDAY 23RD DECEMBER 2020 / ISSUE 36 / SLRMAG.CO.UK / 39

Two Iconic Brands Back Together Ready to go the distance?

Contact your local Area Manager

Call 0345 456 6300 gulfoil.co.uk/retail

NOW THAT’S A GOOD IDEA…

OUT THE BOX ABSOLUT NEW YEAR’S EVE PARTY

ABSOLUT BEDLAM VODKA GIANT ABSOLUT HAS UNVEILED PLANS FOR A 20-HOUR LIVESTREAM GLOBAL PARTY

TO CELEBRATE NEW YEAR’S EVE WITH 15 DIFFERENT DJS AND PRE-BATCHED COCKTAILS FOR CONSUMERS TO BUY.

WHAT’S THE BIG IDEA? The New Year’s Eve party to end all New Year’s Eve parties: ‘Absolut x Beatport NYE 2020’ is a 20+ hour livestream global event across multiple time zones and featuring 15 of “the most exciting DJs in the world”.

SO, LIKE, A HUGE ONLINE RAVE? That’s not exactly how Absolut describes it, but it sounds like a hell of a bash. It’s the latest initiative for the brand “towards a more inclusive world” and sees it team up with Beatport, the world’s largest electronic music platform, to deliver a global celebration connecting the world on New Year’s Eve.

HOW WILL THAT WORK THEN?

planning to attend the event. Absolut is selling pre-batched cocktails direct to consumers through a virtual bar section on its website.

WHAT ARE ABSOLUT SAYING? Marnie Corrigan, Brand Director at Pernod Ricard UK, comments: “Absolut x Beatport NYE 2020 will be a New Year’s Eve party to remember which connects people across the entire globe; and whilst we can’t be together in real life right now, we can still celebrate the great things that happen when different people come together. Together we are going to create an incredible experience to welcome in the New Year and a brighter future, using music to build human connections across the world and ignite home celebrations.”

DJs across the globe will be broadcasting from their homes, studios or iconic locations, before passing the turntables to the next city via back-to-back sets. It kicks off in Australia and the event will be streamed via Absolut’s website and Facebook page as well as across all of Beatport’s channels, including YouTube, Twitch and Facebook. From Melbourne to Miami, London to Los Angeles, and New Delhi to Dubai, Absolut and Beatport are connecting the world through music, celebrating the turning of the clock and the end of a challenging year with sets from dance floor legend Carl Cox, and electronic artists including Jamie Jones, Patrick Topping and Jaguar. There’s a full list of artists, times and more information on the Absolut website.

ANY OPPORTUNITIES FOR RETAILERS? Not directly, although publicising the event in-store or on social media might help drive some sales for anyone

WEDNESDAY 23RD DECEMBER 2020 / ISSUE 36 / SLRMAG.CO.UK / 41

BEFORE YOU GO...

RETAIL RANDOMS

IS THERE NOT WHAT’S YOUR A LAW AGAINST FAVOURITE THAT, OR FESTIVE SOMETHING? Far be it from us to have a pop at supermarkets in what are undoubtedly tough times with unique challenges – but c’mon? Either there has been some sort of labelling balls-up or Tesco has found an as yet undiscovered way of growing British carrots in Spain.

JOURNEY?

Have you ever found yourself wondering what the nation’s favourite Christmas journeys are? No? Neither have we.

That notwithstanding, fuel brand JET has compiled/ invented a list of the top 10 trips we apparently love to make over the festive period. We assume they had Chris Rea on in the background as they wrote up the list.

According to some unspecified and unquantified research, here it is: 1. The journey home after the last day of work 2. The journey home after it’s all done 3. The journey to your parent’s house 4. The journey down the stairs to see what’s under the tree 5. The journey home from the Christmas food shop 6. Your fork’s journey from your plate to your mouth at Christmas dinner 7. The journey to take your kids to meet Santa 8. The journey to see your best mates for drinks on Christmas Eve 9. The journey home after you finally find a present for your partner 10. The journey home with the Christmas tree

THE PERILS OF PERSONALISATION

It’s always lovely to receive a wee freebie or two at Christmas time from the big suppliers – particularly if it’s from Cadbury and it’s an enormous bar of Dairy Milk that you could use as a doorstop. This year Cadbury upped the ante by adding a touch of personalisation by emblazoning the recipient’s name across the front of the bar. Only problem is... there’s no-one on the SLR team called Chris. Presumably, there’s another baffled trade journalist out there wondering why he has a bar of chocolate called Findlay.

WEDNESDAY 23RD DECEMBER 2020 / ISSUE 36 / SLRMAG.CO.UK / 43

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