SLR February 2021 edition. by 55 North

FEBRUARY 2021 | ISSUE 214

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SLR Products of the Year 2020 Winners inside! p24

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COLIN MCLEAN

Spar boss predicts big year for local sourcing

FEBRUARY 2021 | ISSUE 214

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MATT STANTON

EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW WITH DANIEL JOHNSON MSP

DCS urges retailers to clean up

SIGNATURE SUCCESS

HISTORIC DAY FOR RETAILERS

Better protection for shopworkers on its way...at last.

SLR Products of the Year 2020 Winners inside! p24

Dan Brown lights up Signature Action sales

SNACK ATTACK

Snacks in stellar Covid growth

DREAM TEAM

Helen Lyons and David Rees join SLR

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February 2021

Contents

Contents ISSUE 214

NEWS p6 p7 p8 p10 p11 p12 p18 p20

Coronavirus Shopworkers could be given priority to receive a Covid vaccination. Legislation The Scottish Parliament votes through a landmark law to protect shopworkers. Coronavirus The NFRN’s hardship fund has now paid out almost £125,000 to help struggling members. Symbol Groups Nisa recruited over 600 stores last year. Awards Two local retailers are recognised in the Queen’s New Year Honours List. News Extra Post Office The PO looks to the future with two seats on the board for Postmasters. Product News Cadbury unveils some Easter NPD while Mars Wrigley cuts down on the calories. Off-Trade News Absolut starts trialling a paper bottle and Beefeater Gin gets a makeover.

INSIDE BUSINESS p22 Local Sourcing Colin McLean The SPAR Scotland boss says 2021 could be a huge year for working with small local producers. p24 Products of the Year Awards As voted for by retailers, we reveal just what were the best new products of 2020. p36 Symbol Spotlight Nisa Nisa’s flexible model continues to deliver, with new stores seeing 12% average sales rises. p40 Tobacco Signature Dual Trial Dan Brown has seen his Signature Dual sales grow by more than 600% in the last couple of months, and they’re still rising. p42 Hotlines The latest new products that suppliers want to see on your shelves. p62 Under The Counter The USA may well have sworn-in a new commander-in-chief, but SLR remains firmly stuck with the same old swearing curmudgeon-in-chief. FEATURES p44 Home & Personal Care The pandemic and subsequent lockdowns have put antibacterial and disinfectant products very much at the forefront of shoppers’ minds. p48 Snacks Snacking has seen huge growth during the pandemic, presenting a huge opportunity for local retailers. p52 Tobacco Legislative and lifestyle changes mean retailers need to constantly adapt to meet the needs of consumers. p56 Forecourts A rapid-fire digest of the latest news and views reflects another busy month on the forecourt front. p58 Soft Drinks Larger format soft drinks and multipacks are driving the growth in the soft drinks category under lockdown, a trend that has big implications for local retailers.

ON THE COVER p16 Protection of Workers Bill An exclusive interview with Daniel Johnson, the MSP behind the landmark legislation.

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FEBRUARY 2021 | SLR

News CORONAVIRUS Health Secretary to “look carefully” at frontline retail staff

£100 contactless limit could be on cards The single payment limit on transactions using contactless technology could be increased to £100 as the Financial Conduct Authority commits to consulting ‘shortly’ on a further change to the rules. The new limit would be more than double the current limit as spending via contactless payments continues to grow during the coronavirus pandemic. The limit was raised last year from £30 to £45.

Morrisons supplies convenience stores Morrisons has started offering wholesale terms to convenience stores. The supermarket chain started discreetly approaching retailers last November and is now sending out price ﬁles with details of 1,800 lines, both household brands and Safeway own-label products. The move is a further encroachment into

Shopworkers could be among ﬁrst to receive Covid vaccine Frontline shopworkers could be some of the first people to be vaccinated in the next stage of the coronavirus vaccination programme. Speaking in the House of Commons (Tuesday 12 January), Health Secretary Matt Hancock said: “We will be looking very carefully at those professions that will need to be prioritised in phase two of the prioritisation programme. We will look at teachers, police and others, but we will also look at shopworkers and will make those decisions based on the data.” Hancock also praised workers in the retail industry for their service during the pandemic: “I want to thank shop workers in essential shops who have to be there for all of us, even in these difficult times when the virus is widely spread.” NFRN National President Stuart

Reddish said: “I welcome the comments from Mr Hancock and hope that the government acts upon his words. “Thousands of independent retailers and their staff have been at the frontline throughout the pandemic. While safety measures have been put in place to protect staff and their customers, our members still put themselves at risk day in and day out to keep the population supplied with food and other essential goods.” A new petition asking for frontline retail staff to be prioritised for the Covid-19 vaccine has been launched at bit.ly/3t42pMO. Hancock’s comments came a week after Usdaw wrote an open letter to him and the Business Secretary Alok Sharma calling for shopworkers to be given priority.

Matt Hancock The retail trade union also requested full pay and support for those who are ill, self-isolating or shielding. It also urged retailers to reinstate and reinforce safety measures in shops and for customers to follow the rules. Usdaw General Secretary Paddy Lillis said: “We are calling on the Government to ensure that retail workers and delivery drivers are given priority, because they provide the essential service of keeping the nation fed.”

the convenience sector for the supermarket following its 2017

CORONAVIRUS CJ Lang staff go “above and beyond”

CATEGORY MANAGEMENT

McColl’s supply deal.

SPAR Scotland recognises behind scenes colleagues

Acosta partners with C-Store Collective

SPAR Scotland has launched a new campaign that shares stories of dedicated staff who have been supporting the business during the pandemic. The campaign rolled out across SPAR Scotland’s website and social media channels. Colin McLean, CEO of SPAR Scotland, said: “We have a number of individuals who have gone above and beyond to support our business during the coronavirus crisis, working tirelessly to ensure people can work remotely for the first time, or field questions from colleagues concerned about their health, delivering supplies all over the country or serving customers in SPAR stores. “The crisis has reminded us how much we all rely on the work of others – be it retail staff, delivery drivers, administration staff, all of whom are risking their lives to keep the rest of us fed, healthy and safe.

C-Store Collective, a panel of associate consultants supported by convenience industry experts, has announced ﬁeld execution and category advice provider Acosta Europe as its 18th partner. Acosta Europe is the parent company of Reach, ShopSmart Agency, Disrupt and Flexforce. The business holds long-term partnerships with Nestlé, Heineken, Premier Foods and British American Tobacco. The partnership will focus on bringing improved category expertise to the convenience channel by partnering with new and existing manufacturer and retailer clients. The aim will be to optimise the impulse, packaged grocery, household, health and beauty categories within a convenience store.

PayPoint Q4 revenue down PayPoint’s trading update for October to December 2020 revealed a fall in group net revenue of £3m to £24.5m. This included the cessation of its contract with British Gas, which was worth £1.7m. UK retail services net revenue decreased by 1.4% to £10.6m, with 46.2% increases in card payment transactions and service fees from PayPoint One.

Demand for bodycams rockets during pandemic Reveal, a manufacturer of bodyworn cameras, has announced 30% growth year-on-year. It attributed much of its recent growth to an 80% increase in new retail customers since the beginning of the pandemic. Reveal CEO Alasdair Field said: “For many, the pandemic has opened their eyes to some of the daily challenges faced by retail workers, from managing customer behaviour to enforcing

“I am proud to see the dedication of our team who are working hard behind the scenes to help SPAR Scotland adapt.” SPAR Scotland also announced it recruited 14 new stores during the second half of 2020. The convenience store group saw particular success in the north, where four new sites signed-up. Mike Leonard, Sales Director for SPAR Scotland, said: “he north of Scotland will continue to be a huge focus for SPAR Scotland in 2021.”

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SLR | FEBRUARY 2021

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News LEGISLATION Scottish Parliament votes through landmark Bill

Holyrood passes shopworker protection law In a monumental move for the retail industry, the Scottish Parliament has voted to make it a specific offence to assault a shopworker. The Protection of Workers (Retail and Age-restricted Goods and Services) (Scotland) Bill creates a new statutory offence of assaulting, threatening or abusing a retail worker and provide further legal protections when the worker is carrying out their statutory duties around age restricted sales. The Bill will now be submitted for Royal Assent and is expected to become law towards the end of the year. Its passing marks a significant victory in the fight against in-store violence and couldn’t come at a better time; according to a survey conducted by shopworkers’ union Usdaw, incidents of abuse, threats and violence against shop staff

have doubled during the coronavirus outbreak. The Bill was proposed by Daniel Johnson, MSP for Edinburgh Southern, in 2018. Johnson, who has a background in retail, argued that since shopworkers must uphold the law regarding the sale of age-related products they should therefore have specific legal protection while performing this obligation. Refusal of sale is one of the main triggers for abuse and assault of staff. The new legislation will hopefully give a push to similar reforms south of the border where, in the words of Crime Minister Kit Malthouse, the UK Government doesn’t “yet” see a case for a specific offence of assaulting a shopworker. Malthouse’s comments flew in the face of public opinion, and came at a time when an Usdaw parliamentary petition calling for such a law had

been signed over 90,000 times. Shortly thereafter, the petition garnered the 100,000 signatures necessary to trigger a debate in the House of Commons. Turn to page 16 for an exclusive interview with Daniel Johnson.

Aldi to spend £3.5bn more with British suppliers Aldi has announced it plans to increase its spend with British food and drink suppliers by an additional £3.5bn over the next ﬁve years. The company is investing £500m in new and upgraded stores, distribution centres and its supply chain in 2021, which it says will create over 4,000 jobs as well as new opportunities for British food and drink producers.

Union condemns number of working-age deaths Office for National Statistics figures have revealed that 180 shopworkers in England and Wales died last year after contracting Covid-19. There were at least 8,000 working age deaths linked to coronavirus south of the border in 2020, with workers in low-paid occupations at a statistically significant

Daniel Johnson allows himself a smile as his Bill is passed

elevated risk of dying. The GMB union called the ﬁgure “a devastating and bitter milestone that could have been avoided”.

APPOINTMENTS Deacon signs up with shopping app Jisp

Greg’s ﬁlled role Greg Deacon, who stepped down from his post as the NFRN’s Chief Operating Officer in December, has been named as the new Chief Customer Officer for all-in-one shopping app Jisp. Effective from this month, Deacon will manage customer relationships and focus on Jisp customers as a wider business strategy. Prior to the NFRN, he had stints at Camelot and News UK looking after field sales and retail trade marketing strategies.

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Commenting on his move, Greg Deacon said: “Absolutely delighted to join Jisp to help cement our leading app proposition as the bestin-class mobile marketing, shopping and payment solutions for UK retail and further afield. I look forward to working with existing and new business partners, retailers and independent small business owners to develop our solutions we offer to the benefit of all.” Julian Fisher, CEO and Founder of Jisp said: “For the last 10 months, whilst at the NFRN, we worked closely with Greg developing and implementing our shopping and payment solutions for their members. Now, as a member of Jisp’s senior team, we look forward to benefiting even further from his retail knowledge, skills and experience, as we take our services into new markets and globally into new territories.”

WHOLESALERS

Booker unveils new website

Lidl Robroyston opens

Booker Wholesale has launched a new website. The improved site is designed to be mobile friendly and has a cleaner, fresher look and feel than before. It also benefits from a simplified branch finder and more straightforward checkout process. Other features include mobile optimised imagery and a pinch-to-zoom feature; a choice between grid or list view; enriched product, nutrition and allergen information; and the addition of picking and delivery driver instructions. A mobile phone scanner is coming soon. Booker’s website support is available seven days a week from 7am to 7pm on 0345 602 3108.

the city. Up to 40 people will be

Lidl has opened its largest store in Glasgow to date, at Robroyston in the north-east of recruited to staff the store, which features an in-store bakery, customer toilets and parking. The store is Lidl’s 105th in Scotland and has a sales area of 15,424sq ft. Its near neighbours include Asda, B&M and Food Warehouse stores.

Nisa’s charity sees record donations in December Nisa’s Making a Difference Locally charity saw a record ﬁgure donated to good causes in December, as retailers sought to support local charities in the run-up to Christmas. A whopping 201 Nisa stores supported good causes with 278 donations throughout December, totalling £303,549, the most ever donated via Making a Difference Locally in one month.

FEBRUARY 2021 | SLR

News CORONAVIRUS Hardship fund helps struggling retailers

Mults accused of over-theodds fuel price hikes Morrisons, Sainsbury’s and Tesco have been accused of raising fuel prices well above the increase on the wholesale market in the latest monthly RAC

NFRN pays out £125k to members in need

Fuel Watch survey. The average UK price at the pump increased by 2ppl in December. The RAC said this was due to the three multiples raising prices by 3ppl. Asda matched the wholesale market price increase by raising its prices by around 1.5ppl.

Bestway lawyer raises bar Rabiah Younus Sheikh, Bestway’s Legal Counsel and Company Secretary has been selected as one of The Lawyer’s Hot 100 for 2021. The

Stuart Reddish: “NFRN will continue to help members that are in dire need.”

Hot 100 recognises the most daring, innovative and creative lawyers from in-house, private practice and The Bar. The legal eagle, who has been part of the Bestway team since 2016, made the ﬁnal selection after been shortlisted from hundreds of

The Federation of Independent Retailers (NFRN) has now paid out nearly £125,000 to cash-strapped members from its Covid-19 Hardship Fund. Created last April, the Hardship Fund helps alleviate some of the

financial pressures that independent retailers are facing due to the coronavirus pandemic. It offers financial assistance in the form of a grant to members suffering cash flow and other financial challenges.

NFRN National President Stuart Reddish said: “Covid-19 has impacted the livelihoods and businesses of independent retailers across the UK and Ireland, and the NFRN will continue to help members that are in dire need of financial assistance. “While some members have seen a dramatic increase in their sales and profits during the pandemic, others have had their footfall completely decimated due to their location or personal circumstances. “I would like to thank our districts, branches and retail partners for their generous donations, which have enabled us to help 101 members and pay out £124,650 so far. “If your store has to close or is struggling to survive due to Covid-19, apply for a grant today via the NFRN’s website, TheFedOnline.”

nominations. CHARITY SLR recognised as a GroceryAid supporter

Applegreen for go Applegreen’s founders are to take the company private in a £650m sale to a consortium that includes B&J Holdings and Blackstone Infrastructure Partners. The company’s independent directors agreed unanimously to the deal. Applegreen’s founders Bob Etchingham and Joe Barrett will keep their respective current positions of CEO and COO. The sale is yet to be approved by independent shareholders.

Morrisons pay rise Retail trade union Usdaw has negotiated a £10 per hour basic rate for Morrisons shopworkers. The offer, which goes out to ballot and is recommended by Usdaw, is a major step forward for the union’s New Deal for Workers campaign that called for £10, and is 50p an hour above the voluntary Living Wage Foundation rate. If accepted the new rates will be paid from 5

Happy to help Scottish Local Retailer has been presented with a GroceryAid Bronze Award in recognition of its support for the industry charity throughout 2020. Bronze Award winners are companies who have participated in four activities across two of GroceryAid’s critical pillars: awareness, fundraising and volunteering. SLR highlights the amazing work performed by the charity and raises awareness of the services it provides across its portfolio of print and digital magazines as well as online. Furthermore SLR Publishing Director Antony Begley sits on the GroceryAid Scotland Committee and the National GroceryAid Independent Retailing Strategy Group. A total of 271 companies received a GroceryAid Award for their support to the charity throughout 2020. This is a growth of 24% on 2019 and is a

great testament to how the industry has leant in despite an exceptionally challenging year. In 2020 GroceryAid saw a 55% increase in applications for financial support. The number of crisis grants paid increased by 87% and 74% more calls were made to its helpline. The number of Relate counselling sessions delivered also doubled. Steve Barnes, Chief Executive at GroceryAid commented: “Without the backing of these amazing organisations we would not have been able to help more than 17,000 colleagues who found themselves in need of our emotional, financial and practical help when times got tough last year. As our country and industry move into another challenging year, I am extremely grateful for their continued support.” The GroceryAid Helpline is available 24/7, 365 days a year on 08088 021 122.

VAPING

Vaping industry calls for click & collect reprieve The UK Vaping Industry Association (UKVIA) has called for specialist vape stores to be exempt from the ban on Scotland’s non-essential retailers operating click & collect services during the current lockdown. John Dunne, Director General at UKVIA, said: “Cancer Research UK has already cautioned that Scotland is on course to miss its smoke free target by 16 years. All the nations of the UK must reconsider how they support the vaping industry and the public during lockdown. Squandering the potential of modern, harmreduction tools is a disaster for public health.”

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STOCK UP NOW

BOOST SALES THIS MARCH WITH THE NO1 IRISH WHISKEY* Jameson holds a 91% value share of the Irish whiskey category in the Impulse channel*

*Source: AC Nielsen, Total Coverage, Value Sales, MAT to 05.09.20

News SYMBOL GROUPS New smaller format helps Nisa boost sign-ups

Covid claims Tesco colleagues Two workers from a Tesco Extra in Greenock have died from Covid-19. A man and a woman both became seriously ill and passed away within days of each other after an outbreak of coronavirus at the store in the town’s Dalrymple St. Tesco won’t comment on individual cases, but a spokesperson said: “Our thoughts are with their families and we are supporting our store colleagues at this difﬁcult time.”

Illicit tobacco seller has sentence extended An English retailer, who was jailed for three years in 2017 for smuggling, storing and selling illegal cigarettes, has been sentenced to a further threeand-a-half years behind bars for failing to repay a £494,000 conﬁscation order. Karim Heabah was given three months to hand over the sum in July 2019 but

Nisa sees recruitment soar Nisa has announced it recruited more than 620 stores in the last 12 months – a significant uplift on the previous year. The symbol group put this down to its ability to serve a broad spectrum of retail and wholesale operators, strong availability levels throughout the pandemic, and access to the Coop’s own-brand range. The launch of the new sub1,000sq ft Nisa Express format in October helped take the year’s forecourt tally to over 60. Despite the many challenges brought by the pandemic, 2020 also saw 131 Nisa stores converted to the latest Evolution format as retailers continued to invest in their stores. Several multi-site key accounts were also recruited including Ascona Group, Touts and the Highland Group. A number also continued to grow their estate since joining Nisa, including Amacor and PGNJ.

Steve Leach, Sales Director at Nisa, said: “2020 was a record year for store recruitment at Nisa, which is testament to the strength of Nisa’s offer and that of the recruitment team, who have adapted brilliantly to embrace a primarily virtual recruitment method under such difficult circumstances this year.

“This flexibility, combined with our ability to serve a broad spectrum of retail and wholesale operators has enabled us to not only recruit a significant number of new stores but also unlock key growth in existing partner estates by providing an environment in which independent retailers can flourish.”

had only coughed up £173,340 as of last month. Interest is accruing on the outstanding amount.

Wholesalers ﬂock to SWA during lockdown The Scottish Wholesale Association has bolstered its numbers after a lockdown recruitment drive saw nearly 30 wholesalers join the trade group. Many of these chose to sign up as a direct result of the pandemic as they sought quick and conﬁdential access to advice on how to navigate myriad regulations plus receive help with grant applications.

New Year splurge for MFG Motor Fuel Group has signed a deal to purchase seven operational stations and nine new to industry (NTI) sites from BP. This is part of a wider agreement including fuel supply for 100 sites. Six of the operating stations are in Scotland and one is in Surrey. The NTI sites are spread throughout Scotland and England. This acquisition will bring the total number of stations

WHOLESLERS Unitas focuses on breakfast

APPOINTMENTS

Unitas plans for proﬁt with new category guides

Helen Lyons and David Rees join SLR team

Unitas Wholesale has launched ‘Focus On,’ a new series of its ongoing Plan for Profit mini category guides. The first two editions include key insights and advice developed in partnership with Kellogg’s and Mondelez, on the ‘Healthy breakfast’ and ‘Mini seasons’ categories respectively. The guides are specifically designed for independent retailers and highlight the key opportunities that each mini category presents. Plan for Profit Category Controller Tracey Redfearn commented: “The new Focus On guidance will serve to complement the portfolio of business tools we already make available to independent retailers regularly through Plan for Profit, providing key information they require to support them in meeting the needs of their customers and grow the specific categories that will be featured throughout the campaign.” The first two editions of Focus On are available now at participating Unitas member wholesalers, and via the Plan for Profit website and app. Unitas will launch more ‘Focus On’ guides throughout 2021.

SLR is delighted to announce significant investment in its commercial and editorial teams with the appointment of two of the best-known and most experienced convenience retailing experts in the industry. Helen Lyons has been named Sales & Marketing Director of SLR publisher 55 North while David Rees joins to head up the editorial team at 55 North with direct responsibility for both SLR and the company’s client publishing division. Helen Lyons is the former Publishing Director of Independent Retail News (IRN) and TalkingRetail.com. She also managed the Retail Industry Awards and the Quality Food Awards at Emap. David Rees worked at William Reed Business Media for 20 years, spending the last 15 years as Editor of Convenience Store magazine before the magazine was taken online last year. Together, Helen and David have around 50 years’ experience in the local retailing industry and bring unrivalled expertise to SLR. 55 North Publishing Director Antony Begley said: “We are absolutely thrilled to be able to bring Helen and David onto the SLR team. We are justifiably excited about the future and firmly believe that we could not have secured two better calibre individuals.”

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News AWARDS Abdul Majid’s and Graham Watson’s community service rewarded

Retailers recognised in Honours List Two Scottish local retailers have been recognised in the Queen’s New Year Honours List. Lanarkshire Nisa retailer Abdul Majid was honoured with an MBE while Dumfries & Galloway Premier retailer Graham Watson was awarded a British Empire Medal. Based in Bellshill, former SGF President Abdul is a hugely respected figure within convenience retailing and is widely seen as being a driving force behind the restructuring of SGF in 2015, which re-established the Federation as a major force within the industry. The award was made for outstanding service to the local community, Scottish retail and to charities at home and abroad. A “surprised but humbled” Abdul thanked his family, friends and retailer colleagues at the SGF for their love

Abdul Majid

and support. He said: “I would also like to offer a special mention for the wonderful people at the following charities for all their efforts: Sarwar Foundation, St Andrews Hospice and Maggie’s Lanarkshire. I’d also like to thank the good people of Bellshill for putting up with me these past 37 years!” Graham’s BEM came in recognition of his services to the community in Moniaive and Glencairn during Covid-19. He said: “I am genuinely moved and humbled by this and would like to thank everyone who lives in Moniaive and Glencairn and right throughout southwest Scotland who have supported the shop over the last year. In particular I’d like to big up all our fantastic staff who have given their all in support of the shop and the community as a whole.”

BEFORE AFTER

Graham Watson

CORONAVIRUS Local retailers bypass ban thanks to trade bodies

C-stores exempt from new lockdown takeaway rules Lobbying from the Scottish Grocers’ Federation has ensured local retailers are exempt from new Scottish Government rules banning customers from entering a business to collect takeaway food or coffee. The new rule came into force on 16 January and means customers of nonexempt businesses have to pick up from a doorway or serving hatch instead. The Federation worked with other trade bodies including the Scottish Retail Consortium and the NFRN to secure the exemption. SGF Head of Public Affairs John Lee said the new regulations were a “significant blow” to takeaway businesses that had invested heavily in protective measures and that there was no evidence to justify the decision. He commented: “‘Essential retail’, such as c-stores, can continue with click & collect services. This is yet more recognition of how important convenience stores are to customers, communities and the local economy.”

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To get regular updates on the project, follow SBF GB&I on Twitter at @suntorybf_gbi

FEBRUARY 2021 | SLR

News Extra

Post Office

NewsExtra CLEAN UP IN THE HOME CARE CATEGORY – P44 POST OFFICE CEO Nick Read is determined reset the company’s relationship with Postmasters

Scottish Grocers’ Federation

Convenience Matters with the SGF Within this unprecedented public health challenge, the convenience sector continues to make a remarkable contribution to customers and communities. The sector has coped with everything that has been thrown at it and the feedback we get from members suggests that staff morale remains very high. However, the pressure has been relentless and the capacity of the sector to maintain this level of performance should not be taken for granted. The roll out of the vaccination programme offers a way out of this crisis and it can’t come quick enough. The very elderly and NHS workers are at the top of the list. Quite rightly so, but we have made a very strong case to the Scottish government that convenience staff should also be given a high priority. This is not to create winners and losers – the vulnerable must be protected – but there is a growing recognition not just of the contribution convenience stores have made but of the vital part they play in the overall supply chain. Convenience stores are on the front line. Prioritising convenience staff is not a self-centred thing to do (and the tragic events at Tesco in Greenock demonstrate the need for it). Ensuring the health of convenience staff will have a much wider societal beneﬁt, conﬁrm their status as key workers, and build on the growing recognition that our sector is the fourth emergency service. Unfortunately, we simply cannot guarantee that the government will move on this and events may overtake us as the vaccination programme rolls out further, but we need to stand up for our industry and we need to do it now.

SLR | FEBRUARY 2021

Post Ofﬁce: blue skies beyond the Horizon? Do a strong performance over the festive season and seats on the Board for two serving Postmasters mean the Post Office is moving on from the Horizon IT scandal? Like much of the retail sector, PO boss 2020 was a challenging year Nick Read for the Post Office. The coronavirus outbreak meant it had to top-up the pay of independent postmasters and offer hardship payments to help a small number of branches that struggled to stay open. Lockdowns caused a drop in cash deposits as many of the PO’s business customers had to shut up shop. On the other hand, these closures forced a number of businesses online to continue trading, which boosted the Drop & Go fast track parcel service. There was also a muscular performance over Christmas, which saw a 17% increase in total network income compared to the same period in 2019, with £66.3m in sales. December’s Drop & Go use was up 87% year-on-year, while bill payment volumes rose 27%. Postmaster variable remuneration also increased on average by an estimated 20% compared to December 2019. Despite the pandemic, over 99% of the network stayed open. And now proceedings to appoint two serving Postmasters to join the Board of Post Office as NonExecutive Directors for the first time in its history are under way. The move is part of the PO’s re-set of its relationship with Postmasters, as it tries to put the Horizon IT scandal behind it. The relationship was soured when the Post Office’s faulty Horizon software caused shortfalls in some branch accounts, leading to accusations of theft. A number of Postmasters were bankrupted as a result, while others ended up in prison. The Post Office agreed to pay out £58m to settle the dispute in December 2019. Applications for the directors’ jobs have just closed and – as Post Office boss Nick Read is keen

for the selection process to be “transparent and independent” – will now be scrutinised by a recruitment company before a selection is put forward for interview by a panel of leading industry figures that includes ACS boss James Lowman and Co-op CFO Shirine Khoury-Haq. A shortlist will then be put to a vote in March. Postmasters will be able to learn more about the candidates ahead of the election, with the option to vote online or by post. Subject to approval by the Board and the Business Secretary, the two winning candidates should be in post by the start of the Post Office’s new financial year in April. Nick Read said: “Having two serving Postmasters on our Board sends the clearest signal yet of our determination to ensure Postmasters really are at the heart of our business, and this election is another vital milestone in resetting our relationship with Postmasters.” Whether two seats on the Board will be enough get Postmasters back on board, so to speak, is debatable. The Post Office still uses the Horizon system. And it still appears to be causing problems. Giving evidence to the inquiry into the scandal, one Postmaster said they were still experiencing “big losses” – including an £800 shortfall in one month – well after bugs in the software should have been fixed. Nick Read gave written evidence to the inquiry. When asked how many Horizon errors had been reported each year since tracking started, he declined to give a number, saying that the current list of bugs was available to internal support teams. He also said he was “confident but not complacent” in the Horizon system. Whether postmasters share his optimism remains to be seen. www.slrmag.co.uk

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A SAFER WORKING ENVIRONMENT – AND NOT BEFORE TIME

EDITORIAL Publishing Director & Editor Antony Begley 0141 222 5380 | abegley@55north.com Web Editor Findlay Stein 0141 222 5389 | fstein@55north.com Editorial Contributor Karen Peattie

Last month, a little bit of history was made in the Scottish Parliament as Daniel Johnson MSP’s Protection of Workers (Retail and Age-restricted Goods and Services) (Scotland) Bill was formally voted through Stage 3 of the parliamentary process, clearing the way for the Bill to become law in Scotland later this year. The Bill is expected to gain Royal Assent within the next few months and should be enacted in law around six months after that, creating a brand new statutory offence of assaulting, threatening or abusing a retail worker. It will provide further legal protections when the worker is carrying out their statutory duties such as age-restricted sales. In other words, retail workers across Scotland will receive a richly deserved and hugely important new level of protection in the eyes of the law. This is a potentially transformative development for our sector and could be the beginning of the end of the daily abuse and violence that has blighted local retailing for decades. Spare a thought, however, for our industry colleagues across the rest of the UK. The UK government has repeatedly shown itself entirely unwilling to follow suit, leaving retail staff to face the horrors that are apparently accepted as ‘just part of the job’. Daniel Johnson actually campaigned on a #notpartofthejob hashtag while forcing this Bill through and it’s entirely baffling that the UK government doesn’t appear to agree that shopworkers need more support, despite the endless stream of depressing statistics and horrendous CCTV footage of customers rampaging around stores, destroying stock and terrorising staff. So, this is a massive moment for the local retailing industry in Scotland and we should all take a quiet moment to offer a little private thanks to Daniel Johnson, and indeed to the team at SGF who played such a vital role in the genesis of this Bill and its journey from nothing more than idea to an Act of Parliament. We were lucky enough to secure an exclusive interview with Johnson, just an hour or two before the historic vote – and his comments make for interesting reading. A former retailer himself, he is only too familiar with the challenges of life on the front line and his commitment to getting this Bill past the finishing post is entirely praiseworthy. There is now light at the end of the in-store abuse tunnel – and let’s hope that Westminster does the right thing and follows suit sooner rather than later.

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CIRCULATION & SUBSCRIPTIONS Circulation Manager Cara Begley 0141 222 5381 | cbegley@55north.com Scottish Local Retailer is distributed free to qualifying readers. For a registration card, call 0141 222 5381. Other readers can obtain copies by annual subscription at £50 (UK), £62 (Europe airmail), £99 (Worldwide airmail). 55 North Ltd, Waterloo Chambers, 19 Waterloo Street, Glasgow, G2 6AY Tel: 0141 22 22 100 Fax: 0141 22 22 177 Website: www.55north.com Twitter: www.twitter.com/slrmag DISCLAIMER The publisher cannot accept responsibility for any unsolicited material lost or damaged in the post. All text and layout is the copyright of 55 North Ltd. Nothing in this magazine may be reproduced in whole or part without the written permission of the publisher. All copyrights are recognised and used specifically for the purpose of criticism and review. Although the magazine has endevoured to ensure all information is correct at time of print, prices and availability may change. This magazine is fully independent and not affiliated in any way with the companies mentioned herein. Scottish Local Retailer is produced monthly by 55 North Ltd.

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Cover Story

Protection Of Workers Bill

HISTORY MADE AS SCOTTISH SHOP WORKERS BILL IS PASSED

Daniel Johnson MSP’s game-changing Protection of Workers Bill was formally passed last month and will now become law later in the year. SLR secured an exclusive interview with him. BY ANTONY BEGLEY

EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW

istory was made last month – and it’s not a cliché we use lightly – as Daniel Johnson MSP’s Protection of Workers (Retail and Agerestricted Goods and Services) (Scotland) Bill was voted through the Scottish Parliament at Stage 3, clearing the way for the Bill to become law in Scotland later this year. This represents a massively important moment for Johnson, the Labour MSP for Edinburgh Southern, as it

SLR | FEBRUARY 2021

means the Bill will be submitted for Royal Assent in the coming weeks – required for it to become an Act of the Scottish Parliament. This will create a new statutory offence of assaulting, threatening or abusing a retail worker and will provide further legal protections when the worker is carrying out their statutory duties such as age-restricted sales. The Week In Retail was granted an exclusive interview with Johnson yesterday just a couple of hours before the www.slrmag.co.uk

Cover Story

Protection Of Workers Bill

vote was due to take place at Holyrood and Johnson would take his place as a true champion of the local retailing sector.

DANIEL, YOU MUST BE VERY PLEASED? I have to say I am absolutely delighted to see my Bill pass all the legislative hurdles to become law and give retail workers the proper protection they need. For too long, violence and abuse were seen as part of the job for shopworkers but, having worked with the Scottish Grocers’ Federation and other stakeholders across the country these past years, we have all challenged that assumption and provided workers with the protection of the law they deserve.

HOW DID THE IDEA FOR THE BILL COME ABOUT? Believe it or not, the concept for the Bill was first discussed way back in 2016, before I had even been elected as an MSP. SGF and shopworkers’ trade union Usdaw both supported the idea of a Bill that would offer enhanced legal protection to shop workers and SGF asked whether I would back a Bill of this nature, should I be elected. It was such an important issue that I decided not just to back the Bill but also to sponsor it. Indeed, it was one of the first things I did after being elected – so it’s enormously pleasing to see the Bill clear the final hurdle.

AND YOU ARE A FORMER RETAILER YOURSELF? Yes, that’s true. I ran a gifting and greetings card business (Paper Tiger in Edinburgh), rather than convenience stores, but that gave me plenty of insight into abuse of shopworkers and the sorts of challenges that retailers face every day. So the Bill was something that came from personal experience.

WAS IT A DIFFICULT PROCESS, GETTING THE BILL THROUGH? It was long and it was very challenging, yes. The Scottish Government initially took a very sceptical view of the retailing industry and it took a lot of work to turn that around. At the end of the day, however, over quarter of a million people work in the retailing industry in Scotland and you can’t ignore an industry of that size, no matter how sceptical you are.

DID CORONAVIRUS HAVE AN IMPACT? It certainly impacted the speed with which the Bill passed through the Scottish Parliament, but the pandemic also helped reinforce the need for the new law because, tragically, incidences of in-store abuse of retail workers grew during the last year. I think the pandemic also served to help people understand the vital role that retailers in general, and local retailers in particular, play within the communities they serve across Scotland.

HOW IMPORTANT COULD THIS NEW LAW PROVE TO BE? It won’t solve all of the industry’s huge problems around in-store abuse and violence, but it is a huge step forwards for the industry. Making it a statutory offence to assault, www.slrmag.co.uk

threaten or abuse a retail worker sends out a clear message and should help curb a lot of the abuse and violence that is currently commonplace in the retail sector. Even just siting a new legal notice at the till point will help retailers make sure that customers are aware of the serious consequences of their actions. In a sense, however, the Bill becoming law is only the beginning of a new set of challenges for the retail sector. We have a lot of work to do in order to communicate the new law both to retailers and to consumers.

WHEN DO YOU EXPECT THE NEW LAW TO BE ENACTED? Typically, Royal Assent would be given within two to three months and the Bill become law around six months after being given Royal Assent. So we’re basically looking at the back end of this year.

WHAT THEN? Clearly, we will be looking for enactment and enforcement of the law in retail outlets across Scotland, and the enforcement point is particularly critical as we do not want retailers themselves to be left to police the new law. We also need the Scottish Government to stop passing laws which involve shop workers being forced to effectively enforce the law on the cheap. There are already too many examples of this type of legislation where retail workers are expected to police the law in and around stores. But these are all challenges I relish, and I look forward to promoting this change in the law with retailers and keeping our hard working retail colleagues safe.

SGF VIEW: PETE CHEEMA, CEO, SGF “We are delighted that the Protection of Workers Bill has successfully passed Stage 3 of the Parliamentary process. SGF has worked with Daniel Johnson MSP since 2016 to call for additional protections for shop workers and has been a committed supporter of his Bill. At the SGF hustings event in Edinburgh in April 2016, we first floated the idea of giving front line retail staff similar legal protection as that given to emergency workers. The idea received strong support from senior politicians who took part in the event including Murdo Fraser (Conservatives) and Deputy First Minister John Swinney (SNP) but Daniel Johnson said that not only would he support it but, as a former retailer, he would sponsor it – and he has been true to his word. “For SGF, 19th January 2021 was an historical day, to have overseen a bill from conception to proceeding for Royal Assent is nothing short of a dream. It has been a magnificent achievement, helped originally by Rory McPherson and then Michael McDougall from TLT in writing the original Bill and making the necessary amendments and then passing it over to Daniel Johnson, who has handled it magnificently. “Once the Bill receives Royal Assent we will at last have key protections in place for shop workers who will benefit from a safer in-store environment and will also provide them with confidence when carrying out their work. The vote represents a key step-change in terms of Scotland’s approach to retail crime. “Throughout the current pandemic convenience retailers and their staff have been working extended hours to ensure that the communities which they serve have access to the key groceries and services they need. It is fitting that the Scottish parliament has taken the decision to afford retail workers the protection they deserve under the law.”

FEBRUARY 2021 | SLR

News

Products

Best of Both beneﬁts from vitamin boost Hovis has reformulated its Best

ProductNews

of Both range to include added vitamin D to support consumers’ im-mune systems. The new recipe also provides calcium and is low in fat and sugar. One slice of the loaf is said to contain at least a third of the daily recommended vitamin D and calcium intakes. Apparently as many as 30% to 40% of the UK population is vitamin D deﬁcient in winter.

Cadbury Dairy Milk freshens up Cadbury Dairy Milk has unveiled a new visual identity which will see it given a fresh, more modern look. New packs feature a redrawn Cadbury wordmark, a new look for the Dairy Milk logo and a new design based on the original Dairy Milk packaging. The new visual identity will start

GET YOUR SHARE OF THE GROWING SNACKS MARKET – P48 CONFECTIONERY Two new eggs hatched

Cadbury reveals Easter NPD Mondelez has unveiled four new Cadbury products for Easter 2021. The much-anticipated Cadbury Mini Eggs Bar (110g, RSP £1.49, cases of 20) is joined by an addition to the Cadbury Hollows range and two new shell eggs. The Cadbury Dairy Milk Peter Rabbit White Oreo Hollow Bunny (100g, RSP £2.99, cases of 8) unites two powerhouse Mondelez brands, and taps into the growth of the £179m white chocolate category. The same could be said for the Cadbury White Oreo Easter Egg (220g, RSP £6, cases of six). Containing one egg, made from a creamy white chocolate shell with Oreo pieces, it targets shoppers looking to buy for family members aged 18-35. This Easter will also see the introduction of the Cadbury Dairy Milk Fruit & Nut Easter Egg (302g,

RSP £8, cases of 4), which offers one giant egg alongside three Fruit & Nut 49g bars. The launch taps into the 9.7% growth of the 94-year-old brand and is aimed at those buying for over-45s. For further enquiries, retailers can telephone Mondelez on 0870 600 0699, email retailer. services@mdlz.com or visit deliciousdisplay.co.uk.

appearing on single blocks this month before rolling out across the rest of the range throughout 2021.

Hancocks hatches Easter confectionery range Hancocks has unveiled its Easter 2021 confectionery range, with over 350 branded lines offering retailers margins of up to 65%. A Hancocks Easter Brochure covers a broad spectrum of confection-ery categories including self-eat and impulse; novelties; a range of eggs; sharing; gifting; bulk pick & mix; and dairy free. Digital copies are available from marketing@ hancocks.co.uk.

Signature Dual rebrands as Signature Action Scandinavian Tobacco Group has started transitioning its Signature Dual brand to Signature Action, to maintain consistency within its global

HEALTH & BEAUTY

Radox revamps Unilever’s bath and shower brand Radox has been relaunched with a complete brand overhaul, new products and a new £6m marketing campaign. The brand’s new look sees almost 80 different products get a makeover, with a new ‘Mineral Therapy’ design celebrating its blend of 13 herbs and four minerals on pack. Eight new bathing and hand cleansing products have rolled out. These include: Q Two new Radox Antibac Handgels – Thyme & Tea Tree and Grapefruit & Basil Q Radox Muscle Soak Bath Salts – the brand’s bestselling bath salt has received a packaging refresh and now comes in a larger, recyclable, waterproof and resealable pouch packaging Q Two new bath bomb variants – Relaxing Lavender and Soothing Chamomile Q Two new bath salts – Radox Muscle Restore Epsom Salts with Eucalyptus & Lemongrass and Radox Crystal Calm Himalayan Salts with Jasmine & Hibiscus Q Radox Mini Showergels – new 60ml travel-sized versions of the brand’s Feel Awake fragrances

brand portfolio. Since launching last February, the Filter Cigarillos have proven popular with a growing number of adult smokers due to their peppermint

The new products are supported by the ‘Life’s Better with Bubbles’ campaign, which is estimated to reach 86% of the population while it runs between now and April across TV, radio, out-of-home and social media.

BREAKFAST

Quaker has 2021 for breakfast Quaker Oats wants the nation to kick-start the new year with its new campaign, Have 2021 For Breakfast. The campaign features an on-pack promotion, with thousands of prizes to be won, including home experiences, staycations and outdoor activities. The promo is backed by instore media, social, video-ondemand and influencer activity. The brand also returns to TV screens with its Go Forridge ad, which centres on the versatility of Quaker Oats. It also highlights two new flavours for Oat So Simple sachets: Classic Banana and Velvety Chocolate. Danielle Mendham, Senior Brand Manager, said: “2021 is set to be a new chapter for many – it signifies a fresh start. UK consumers have spent the last year re-evaluating exactly what is important to them in life – and Quaker can provide the proper breakfast they need to set them up for a new day and a new year.”

click ﬁlter, Virginia blend tobacco and natural leaf wrapper. KEEP UP WITH THE LATEST NEWS AS IT HAPPENS – FOLLOW US ON TWITTER @SLRMAG

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News

Products

St Pierre Groupe celebrates Scottish success St Pierre Groupe has secured signiﬁcant growth in Scotland throughout 2020, quadrupling sales in retail, more than

CONFECTIONERY It’s just like a Mars Bar, only smaller

Mars Wrigley unveils 100 calorie or less range

doubling sales in wholesale and

Mars Wrigley has launched its three most popular singles bars – Mars, Snickers and Twix – in a new 100 calorie or less format. Original versions of the bars are still available and won’t be replaced by the lower calorie versions. Despite the nation’s ongoing love affair with confectionery, Mintel research ahead of the launch found that almost half of shoppers consider the portion size of snacks when they are looking to buy and one in four say that calorie labelling impacts their purchase decisions. The new Mars, Snickers and Twix bars retain the exact same recipes that consumers know at

year-on-year increase in retail

bucking the trend in bakery with its branded proposition. The business, which includes the St Pierre, Baker Street and Paul Hollywood brands, secured new distribution which fuelled a 255% sales compared to 2019.

Old El Paso and NFL UK partner for the ultimate Super Bowl night in Old El Paso is teaming up with NFL UK for a new season-long partnership which sees the brand become an Ofﬁcial Partner of Super Bowl LV. During the run-up

a reduced size. Whilst the wider industry looks at reformulation, 68% of the population have said they would rather have less of a favourite chocolate than a larger amount of a low-sugar chocolate. Kerry Cavanaugh, Mars Wrigley Marketing Director, said: “Our new 100 calorie format gives

consumers their favourite brands original recipes but in a size that is a meaningful snacking choice. This new range is for consumers who want a sweet treat but in a smaller portion size.” The new bars have a suggested RSP of 40p for singles and £2.79 for multipacks.

to the event, the brand will bring back its ‘Make some noise for Super Bowl’ content series. The videos will be promoted on both NFL UK and Old El Paso social channels as part of a wider marketing plan.

Vitalite updates packs with plant-based messaging Saputo Dairy UK has unveiled

COMPETITION

Get your bills paid by Walkers and Bestway Following last year’s YAYcation campaign, Walkers has once again teamed up with Bestway for a competition that will see one lucky retailer’s utility bills paid for a year. The competition runs until 25 March 2021. Retailers can enter as many times as the like by purchasing any qualifying case of Walkers crisps from Bestway either in-depot or online. One winner will receive £8,970.55 cash to put towards their utility bills. Three runners-up will receive £1,495.09 each and 10 retailers will receive x 1 case of each Promotional Product. Matt Goddard, Wholesale Trading Director at PepsiCo, said: “2020 was a tough year all of us, and convenience retailers really stepped up to support their communities, investing a lot of time, effort and money to make sure essentials were available for all. “Retailers spend a lot in the last quarter to prepare for Christmas which can often lead to financial challenges when it comes around to the start of the new year. With the vast majority of the country being under Covid-19 restrictions during what are normally some of the biggest trading months of the year, it’s possible that a lot of retailers have seen a substantial dip in profits. “This campaign provides a bit of relief to retailers financially, rewarding them for all their efforts last year and offering a way for them to start the new year afresh and with renewed positivity.”

SOFT DRINKS

V is for Vimto Vimto has launched a new visual identity across its entire portfolio. The contemporary design delivers a cleaner, bolder and more modern look that Vimto said represents its “unique and refreshingly different brand personality”. Centred around a large ‘V’, the new design nods to Vimto’s 113-year heritage with the inclusion of ‘since1908’ as well as the brand’s red, white and purple colour palette. Becky Unwin, Senior Brand Manager for Vimto said: “The redesign for Vimto marks the start of what will be an exciting year and we can’t wait to reveal what we have in store.”

new packs for its dairy free spread brand, Vitalite, which now bear secondary ‘plant based deliciousness’ messaging. This is in response to a growing interest in plant-based diets, which has seen 15% of Brits cut their dairy or egg intake since the pandemic started.

Creme Egg’s Golden Goobilee Cadbury is marking the 50th birthday of its Creme Egg with the launch of a new Golden Goobilee campaign. Thirty out of 200 Golden Cadbury Creme Eggs will be hidden in the convenience channel for consumers to ﬁnd, giving them the chance to win up to £5,000. When a shopper wins, so does the retailer, with a variety of cash prizes or Amazon vouchers up for grabs. To participate, retailers must use Cadbury promotional display material.

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News

Off-Trade

Between a rock and the hard stuff Stirling Distillery has released

Off-TradeNews

two new single cask whiskies under their Sons of Scotland label, making it the ﬁrst whisky ever released from the Stirling Castle rock. The pair are named after Stirlingshire distilleries which were in operation in the 18th and early 19th century – Cashly and Arngibbon. Both whiskies have been matured in ex-bourbon hogsheads for eight years.

Brockmans’ top guy Brockmans Gin has appointed Guy Lawrence as its CEO. Lawrence joined the business a year ago as Managing Director and takes over from co-Founder Neil Everitt, who remains on the Board and is the company’s largest shareholder. The company, which now sells globally in 54 countries, also

ARE YOU KEEPING UP WITH THE TOBACCO CATEGORY? – P52 SUSTAINABILITY Premium vodka brand takes first step to binning glass

Absolut launches paper bottle trial Premium vodka Absolut has started rolling out a prototype paper bottle from 25th January, initially in the UK and Sweden. The prototype is the brand’s first step to achieving a fully bio-based bottle able to contain spirits. An initial batch of 2,000 bottles will be tested amongst consumers. The prototype is made up of recyclable content – 57% paper and 43% recycled plastic – with the plastic making up a thin layer within the bottle that can be successfully recycled after use. The normal Absolut glass bottle uses 47% recycled glass

and Absolut reuses almost one third of all clear glass recycled in Sweden. In the UK, the trial sees Absolut partner with design-led and sustainability influencers to drive awareness of the prototypes on social media and offer consumers the chance to win a uniquely numbered paper bottle. The influencers are also being challenged to customise a bottle with their own design and create a unique limited-edition item for their followers to win. The paper bottle is one of a number of initiatives underway to help the brand meet the Ellen

MacArthur Foundation target of ensuring all primary packaging is 100% recyclable, compostable, reusable and/or bio-sourced by 2025.

announced that it secured over £4.6m of new investment last year.

Tennent’s takes £7m sustainability step A £7m investment in packaging equipment will remove 150 tonnes of plastic from Tennent’s Lager can packs by 2022. Work at the Wellpark Brewery is expected to complete in the spring, when the brewer will be able to produce up to 120,000 cans per hour, packaged in fully recyclable cardboard. This will remove all plastic packaging from Tennent’s Lager can formats for the ﬁrst time in more than 40 years.

Distilleries secure funding to go green with hydrogen Highland Park and The Orkney Distillery have received £58,781 to investigate alternatives to fossil fuels. Funding for the HySpirits 2 project came from the UK Government’s Department of Business, Energy, and Industrial Strategy to produce a feasibility study, assessing a host of technologies that would enable

WHISKY

New Master Blender for Halewood Halewood Artisanal Spirits has announced the appointment of Dr Kirstie McCallum as its new master blender, as the business looks to strengthen its growing whisky portfolio. McCallum will be responsible for evolving and developing Halewood’s core whisky brands, which includes Crabbie whisky from Scotland; Irish whiskeys Gelston’s and The Pogues; Aber Falls Welsh whisky; and Peaky Blinder English whisky from Halewood’s newest distillery in the West Midlands. In addition, she will work with the group on new projects and expressions. McCallum has over 20 years’ experience in the spirits industry, and joins Halewood from Glen Turner, where she worked as head of whisky creation for the Glen Moray brand. Prior to this, she was the senior blender at Distell International, working across the Bunnahabhain, Deanston and Tobermory brands. Lee Tayburn, Operations and Production Director at Halewood Artisanal Spirits commented: “Over the last ﬁve years we have invested heavily in distilleries across the UK and globally, and are constantly evolving to ensure that we provide our customers with premium, quality spirits with provenance. With her extensive experience and expertise, Kirstie will be integral to this, and we look forward to working closely together as we grow and develop our whisky credentials.”

WINE

First-ever New Zealand Wine Week announced New Zealand Winegrowers has announced the inaugural New Zealand Wine Week, which commences on 8 February 2021. The week will comprise of a range of online activities including a winemaker-led panel discussion exploring behind the scenes in New Zealand wine cellars, a Syrah masterclass, a guided selfpour tasting and a number of webinars. An online New Zealand wine catalogue will also be launched. This will let customers browse participating winery proﬁles and compare varieties, price, channel, and availability. Guests can make appointments with wineries and importers, and request samples where applicable.

the use of green hydrogen as fuel in the distilling process. KEEP UP WITH THE LATEST NEWS AS IT HAPPENS – FOLLOW US ON TWITTER @SLRMAG

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News

Off-Trade

Number one ﬁnish Speciality Brands has brought Michter’s US*1 Toasted Barrel Finish Rye 2020 release to the UK. The whiskey is made by taking fully matured Michter’s

GIN Beefeater gets a London-inspired makeover

Beefeater unveils new look

US*1 Single Barrel Kentucky

Beefeater has launched a new bottle design inspired by the brand’s 200 year-long London heritage. The new design highlights the brand’s position as the world’s most awarded gin, strengthens existing premium and modern design cues, and features optimised sustainability credentials. The new bottle is made from 100% recyclable glass, the existing plastic cap has been replaced with a premium embossed, aluminium cap and the label has moved from PVC to paper for a crafted, elegant feel. These reductions have allowed the brand to create an annual saving of 410 tonnes of plastic.

is available with an RSP of £98

Murielle Dessenis, Global Brand Director, Beefeater, commented: “The brand is fortunate enough to have 200 years of distilling heritage to draw from and this new pack certainly celebrates the history but also looks forward to the next 200 years. “We’re proud to have designed this new iteration of Beefeater’s iconic bottle with sustainability in mind, taking the brand on to the next step in its journey with a natural evolution for today’s gin enthusiasts.” The new Beefeater bottle will be rolled out globally from this and will extend across the full range, excluding Beefeater 24.

Straight Rye at barrel strength and then further aging it in a second custom-toasted barrel. It for a 70cl bottle. Barrel strength for this release ranges from 53.6% to 55.6% ABV.

Brandy’s dandy Sales of brandy have soared by 43% during lockdown compared to 2019, according to a data analysis by cashback app Ibotta. Spirits overall surged by 33%, helped by strong performances from tequila (+40%), whisky (+39%) and, somewhat surprisingly a 75% jump in sales of liqueurs. Wine saw a 12% overall increase but beer sales were down 2%,

MARKETING New product gets watchdog barking

The highs and the lows of CBDinfused gin The Portman Group has been forced to issue a Retailer Alert Bulletin after a manufacturer of CBD-infused gin fell foul of the alcohol marketing watchdog. ‘Colorado High’ was the first CBD-infused product to be considered by the Group’s Independent Complaints Panel. It now also has the dubious honour of being the first to have a complaint against it upheld. A member of the public complained that the gin broke the Portman Group’s rule prohibiting association with illegal drugs and another that there should be no association with therapeutic qualities. The Complaints Panel found the product to be in breach of both rules. Producer Silent Pool Distillery decided not to work with the Portman Group’s Advisory Service on revising the product, which is now the subject of a Retailer Alert Bulletin. This allows retailers to sell any remaining stock but prevents them from re-ordering the product in its problematic form after 20 April 2021. The Portman Group is now developing guidance to aid producers in their use of CBD in alcohol products.

FLAVOURED SPIRITS

although ﬂavoured malts climbed

Everything looks peachy for Jim Beam

an impressive 37% and non-

Catering to a growing trend for peachflavoured alcoholic drinks in the UK, Jim Beam has launched Jim Beam Peach (ABV 32.5%, 70cl, RSP £18). Initially available exclusively to Asda, the brand’s latest flavoured bourbon will roll out to other retailers from April. The latest addition to the Jim Beam portfolio aims to attract new consumers to the category while also giving the 225-yearold brand a chance to increase its share of the flavoured whiskey market.

which is available now in limited-

alcoholic brews rose 15%.

High-strength premium Kestrel takes flight Brookfield Drinks has unveiled Kestrel Extra 7% Premium Lager, edition 24 for 22 promotional packs from wholesalers. Brookfield said retailers can achieve an average POR of 33.3.% when sold at the RSP of £1.99 per can. The launch is backed by digital activity and in-depot support. The entire product is 100% recyclable, including outer packaging.

Jameson backs emerging artists during lockdown Irish whiskey brand Jameson teamed up with music events organiser Sofar Sounds to host a series of virtual gigs showcasing emerging talent last month. Fifteen up-and-coming artists were paid to perform 20 minute sets in Sofar’s online Listening Room. The free gig series was designed to highlight and support artists after a challenging year for live music.

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FEBRUARY 2021 | SLR

Inside Business

Local Sourcing | Colin McLean, CEO, Spar Scotland

2021: A LANDMARK YEAR FOR LOCAL SOURCING? Thanks to the bizarre year we’ve all lived through, reliance on local suppliers has never been more critical – and 2021 could be a massively important year for working with small local producers, says SPAR Scotland CEO Colin Mclean.

ne of the many major shifts to take place during the turmoil of 2020 was an increased reliance among retailers and wholesalers on local suppliers – and one man who understood this shift perhaps better than most is CJ Lang & Son CEO Colin McLean. The Spar Scotland retailer and wholesaler works with over 150 local suppliers and that number has grown over the last year as elements of the global and UK-wide supply chain crumbled under the weight of coronavirus-inspired panic buying, as well as several other important factors that meant many wholesalers – and thus retailers – couldn’t get their hands on a whole array of products from big name brands. Those availability issues forced wholesalers like Spar Scotland to look closer to home for reliable supply of key products and categories. As well as ensuring availability, however, Spar Scotland and most other wholesalers and retailers learned that there are many other benefits to working more closely with smaller local suppliers, as McLean explains.

SPAR SCOTLAND BACKS THE SCOTTISH RETAIL FOOD & DRINK AWARDS Spar Scotland recently confirmed its sponsorship of the vital Small Producer of the Year category at the inaugural Scottish Retail Food & Drink Awards 2021. The Awards have been created to get more great Scottish food and drink products onto more Scottish shelves, a goal that fits perfectly with Spar Scotland’s long-standing commitment to championing small Scottish producers. The Awards will be held virtually in April and will celebrate some of the best branded and own label food and drink products that are available in Scottish stores. Colin McLean said: “As a family-owned business with more than 100 years of history in serving hundreds of communities across Scotland, we understand just how important it is to support the country’s many fantastic small local producers. That’s why we are absolutely thrilled to sponsor the Small Producer of the Year category at the first ever Scottish Retail Food & Drink Awards. We view this as a fantastic celebration of Scottish food and drink but with a clear commercial aim: to grow sales for both small producers and the retailers who stock their products.” To find out more visit ScottishRetailFoodAndDrinkAwards.com.

WHAT IMPACT DID 2020 HAVE ON YOUR RELATIONSHIP WITH SMALLER LOCAL SUPPLIERS? We have always been keen to support good local producers, but there’s no question 22

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Colin McLean, CEO, Spar Scotland | Local Sourcing

that 2020 and the pandemic forced us to rely on Scottish suppliers more than ever. We work with over 150 local suppliers and the relationships with existing suppliers were taken to a new level in 2020. We also developed strong relationships with new suppliers and that’s benefitted everyone: the local suppliers themselves, Spar Scotland, Spar retailers and, of course, Spar customers. We also made a number of key appointments including Head of Food-To-Go Stephen Brown and Trading Director Richard Collins, whose vast experience in local sourcing has clearly helped us embrace the opportunity.

WAS PART OF THIS SHIFT IN 2021 SHEER NECESSITY? Absolutely. We had to move to using more local suppliers because it was the only way that we could guarantee the availability we needed. Scotland remains a very brandfocused nation of shoppers, which is great for CJ Lang as a business, but this migration towards stocking more local products gives our retailers and customers the best of both worlds: great brands and great local products. www.slrmag.co.uk

AND YOU’VE RECENTLY SUPPORTED THE SCOTTISH RETAIL FOOD & DRINK AWARDS? Yes, we decided to sponsor the Small Producers Category at the inaugural Scottish Retail Food & Drink Awards because it’s a great fit with our own business model and ambitions. The Awards are all about getting more great quality Scottish food and drink products onto more Scottish shelves and Spar Scotland has long championed Scottish suppliers, so it meshes nicely. We’re delighted to help small producers make the next step by securing listings in retail outlets in Scotland and we have long experience of how beneficial these can be. We have seen many small producers flourish in the time we have been working with them and I think 2021 could be an important year for smaller producers in Scotland.

DO YOU SEE THE GROWING INTEREST IN LOCAL PRODUCTS CONTINUING IN 2021? Very much so. It could be a landmark year for producers who seize the opportunity that is there for them. The growth of the local

Inside Business

retailing sector over the last year has helped raise the profile of our channel and I think a lot of small suppliers are now viewing convenience as an important potential route to market for them. Being based in Scotland with a full distribution network and a full Scotland-based buying team means Spar Scotland is in a great place to work with more small local suppliers and help them get their products out to more shoppers. It also benefits Spar retailers by helping them offer a differentiated range to shoppers and drive footfall, sales and profits.

DO YOU SEE FOOD-TO-GO REMAINING KEY IN 2021? We do. We have already rolled out our CJ’s food-to-go brand to 40 company-owned stores and we expect to have the brand in every company-owned store by the end of the year. Food-to-go is now a core element of convenience for us and, again, we work closely with a number of local suppliers for the CJ’s range including local bakers Asher’s, Browning’s the Bakers, JG Ross, McGhee’s and Stuart’s. FEBRUARY 2021 | SLR

Inside Business

Products Of The Year 2020

SLR PRODUCTS OF THE YEAR 2020

The winners of the inaugural SLR Products of the Year 2020 were revealed for the first time in a special Digital Winners Handbook. Here’s a recap…

ou can’t beat a bit of engaging and exciting NPD to drive footfall, sales and profits. Amidst the carnage of 2020, never was the role of NPD more important – which is why SLR unveiled the new SLR Products of the Year 2020 at the end of last year. The new SLR Products of the Year Awards 2020 shine a light on the incredible role that suppliers have played in this most challenging of years for the sector. The Awards recognise and reward the innovation, creativity and adaptability of the many suppliers who have delivered a stream of exciting new products in 2020 to help retailers generate excitement both in-store and on social media. Critically, the SLR Products of the Year were chosen by the people that really matter: retailers themselves. All local retailers were able to vote for their favourite products of 2020 – and many did. 24

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How did we choose the winners? Q The winners were decided exclusively by retailer vote. When there was only a small margin between the winner and the runner-up, we have awarded Highly Commended status. Q All products that were launched in the 2020 calendar year and were available in the local retailing channel in Scotland were eligible for entry. Q The shortlist was curated from a list of every product carried in SLR in print or digital in 2020 and scored against a selection of the most important engagement criteria including digital views, reads and clicks and offline retailer feedback. Q All winners are entitled to carry the special Winners logo on-pack or in their marketing materials and all shortlisted entrants will be entitled to carry the special Shortlisted logo on-pack or in their marketing materials. www.slrmag.co.uk

. Y G R E N E R A G U S O . E R E V Z A O W T S N I E L T A E S G A H C T A C OWTH. R G % 2 2 + . G H ROWIN RY WIT G O E G E R T A A S C K E N I H ERGY DR RIVING T N D E D R N A A G R U B S .1 ZERO THE NO S I A R T L U R E MONST

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Source: Zero Energy Drinks Are Growing – Nielsen Total Coverage Value (% growth 6%) MAT w/e 31.10.20. Source: Monster Ultra is the No.1 brand driving the category with +22% growth – Nielsen Total Coverage Value (Monster Ultra Value Share 36%) MAT w/e 31.10.20 ©2020 Monster Energy Company. All rights Reserved. MONSTER ENERGY®,

®, MONSTER ENERGY ULTRA® are all registered trademarks of Monster Energy Company

Inside Business

Products Of The Year 2020

BEER TENNENT’S ZERO

BISCUITS MCVITIE’S VIB RANGE

In a closely fought contest, Tennent’s Zero was the choice in the beer category. Launched in October, the 0.0% beer has the same flavour profile as Tennent’s Lager, Scotland’s top-selling beer. With 42% of adult drinkers looking to cut down on alcohol, Tennent’s Zero is helping to meet increased demand for the no and low category. With just 17kcal per 100ml, Tennent’s Zero also appeals to those consumers looking to reduce their calorie intake. It is sold in 4x440ml card packs.

The biscuit category went to McVitie’s Very Important Biscuits (V.I.Bs), described by McVitie’s as its “finest biscuit to date”.

HIGHLY COMMENDED GROLSCH UK RELAUNCH

BREAD WARBURTONS HALF WHITE HALF WHOLEMEAL Warburtons new Half White Half Wholemeal range of bakery products is the winner in the bread category. Comprising medium and thick loaves, as well as rolls and Thins lines, each product is made with a blend of half white and half wholemeal flour, and all products also have additional vitamin D and calcium. Darren Littler, Innovation Director at Warburtons, says, “The Half White Half Wholemeal range not only provides a great way of getting more fibre Into the diet but It also makes it easy for busy families to get a third of their daily intake of vitamin D and calcium.”

CHOCOLATE ORANGE TWIRL Retailers enjoyed the return of Cadbury Orange Twirl in 2020, after a phenomenal limited-edition introduction in 2019. Cadbury Twirl Orange offers consumers a twist on a favourite brand, combining Cadbury’s number one selling singles SKU with one of the nation’s favourite chocolate flavours. The product is aimed at younger adult consumers. The 2020 edition was available from September last year, with an increased number of bars available after huge demand in 2019 caused well-publicised shortages. Nielsen rated the product as one of the leading product launches of 2019, despite only being available for a few weeks.

SLR | FEBRUARY 2021

The V.I.Bs are available in three styles – Classic Caramel Bliss, Heavenly Chocolate Hazelnut and Luscious Blood Orange. Each biscuit is topped with chewy caramel and finished off with a thick coating of milk chocolate. The McVitie’s Very Important Biscuits range launched with an RSP of £1.79 for each 250g pack, giving retailers a good opportunity to trade-up consumers. HIGHLY COMMENDED JAMMIE DODGERS VEGAN FRIENDLY

CANDY SKITTLES GIANTS Skittles Giants from Mars Wrigley was named the winner in the candy category. Softer on the inside and bigger on the outside, Skittles Giants are three times the size of a standard Skittle. According to research, shoppers for fruity confections expect a variety of flavours and textures. By creating a sweet that is bigger and softer than original Skittles, the company was aiming to appeal to a broader range of shoppers. Skittles Giants are available in a single 45g pack, £1 PMP treat bag (125g), 141g value pouch and 170g grocery pouch. HIGHLY COMMENDED VIMTO JUICY MIXUPS

CRISPS AND SNACKS DORITOS FLAMIN’ HOT TANGY CHEESE Doritos warmed up the snacks market in 2020 with the launch of its Flamin’ Hot Tangy Cheese variant. Pippa Pennington, Doritos Marketing Manager, commented: “Shoppers are constantly looking for snacks that excite them and break away from what they would deem ‘the norm’. Doritos Flamin’ Hot Tangy Cheese flavour does just that. ” Available in 180g, 150g and 70g (£1 PMP) formats, the launch was supported with TV, online and in-store activity. HIGHLY COMMENDED KP £1 PMP RANGE

www.slrmag.co.uk

Inside Business

Products Of The Year 2020

FOOD-TO-GO CHICAGO TOWN PIZZA TO GO

FREE FROM RUSTLERS MOROCCAN VEGETARIAN BURGER

The roll-out of the Chicago Town Pizza to Go concept was warmly welcomed by retailers in 2020. The 12-inch takeaway pizzas are available in Loaded Cheese, Loaded Pepperoni, New Chicken & Bacon and New Manhattan Meaty varieties, and can be sold in quarters, halves or as full pizzas. Retailers can use their existing ovens to heat the pizzas - they cook in 6-12 minutes - or source an equipment solution from Chicago Town. The company can also supply disposables and point of sale material.

January 2020 saw the launch of the first vegetarian burger from Kepak Consumer Foods, the Rustlers Moroccan Vegetarian Burger. It is made with chickpeas, grated carrot and coriander and served with mango chutney and a yoghurt and mint sauce. Intended to help meet the growing demand for meatfree products, the new burger was also developed to drive penetration amongst younger shoppers.

HIGHLY COMMENDED SPAR FOOD TO GO RANGE

HIGHLY COMMENDED QUORN VEGAN PEPPERONI SLICES

GUM MARS WRIGLEY EXTRA REFRESHERS

HARD SELTZER ECHO FALLS ROSE SELTZER

Mars Wrigley set out to “recharge and refresh” the gum category with the launch of Extra Refreshers last year, and the company’s efforts have been acknowledged by retailers in our poll. Combining a thin shell and a soft chew experience, Extra Refreshers offers a longer-lasting flavour in a choice of three flavours - Peppermint, Spearmint and Bubblemint. Single packs of seven pieces have an RSP of 59p, and pre-filled counter top units are available through wholesalers.

In a fast-growing category with lots of new contenders, retailers chose Echo Falls Rose Seltzer as the best new hard seltzer in 2020. A mix of rose wine, sparkling water and fruit flavours, the 250ml cans contain just 69 kcal and are 4.5% ABV. Three flavours are available - Blueberry & Hibiscus; Strawberry & Pink Pepper; and Raspberry, Lychee & Rose. HIGHLY COMMENDED SMIRNOFF NO. 21 RANGE

ICE CREAM BEN & JERRY’S CHOCOLATE CHIP COOKIE DOUGH CHUNKS Fans of Ben & Jerry’s Cookie Dough brand were no doubt delighted by the launch of just the chunks as a standalone product in 2020. Aimed at “chunk divers” who seek out the cookie dough pieces within the brand’s iconic ice cream, Ben & Jerry’s Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Chunks brought the kind of innovation to the frozen food category last year that was welcomed by retailers in our poll. The snackable dough chunks come in 170g bags, approximately six servings.

SLR | FEBRUARY 2021

NICOTINE POUCHES NORDIC SPIRIT ELDERFLOWER Elderflower was added to the Nordic Spirit range in June 2020 and it was variant that retailers made their Product of the Year winner in the nicotine pouch category. Designed as a discreet nicotine product for occasions where smoking or vaping might not be possible, Nordic Spirit is supplied in a choice of 6mg and 9mg strengths. Also available in mint and bergamot wildflower varieties, Nordic Spirit has a rrp of £6.50 for a pack of 20 pouches. Price-marked packs are also available.

www.slrmag.co.uk

Product Launch of the Year winner. • Menthol JUULpods win Vaping Product Launch of the Year from Scottish Local Retailer magazine. • JUUL is the U.K.’s #1 vaping brand growing 63% year-over-year* • Full JUUL portfolio is available from your symbol operator and Batley’s, Booker, Filshill, and United Wholesale. • Are you stocking the JUUL product range your customers want? • Scan the barcode to add Menthol JUULpods to your basket.

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 Total Market Value Sales 4 weeks to 27th September 2020 TM and © 2021 JUUL Labs, Inc. All rights reserved.

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

Inside Business

Products Of The Year 2020

OWN LABEL WINE SPAR PERLEZZA ROSÉ SPUMANTE

PERSONAL CARE AQUAFRESH SPLASH & SENSES RANGE

The winner in the own-label wine category is Perlezza Rosé Spumante from SPAR. Sourced within Northern Italy, the wine is described as refreshing with subtle fruit flavours, perfect for al fresco dining or as an aperitif on a warm, sunny afternoon. Launched in time for summer, the extra dry sparkling rosé joins the white grape Perlezza Brut within SPAR’s leading sparkling wine brand family. Philippa Carr, SPAR’s Master of Wine, said the rosé is “gently aromatic and certainly one for lovers of fruit.”

GSK sweetened up the personal care market in 2020 with the introduction of toothpastes with innovative fruit flavours under its Aquafresh brand. Aquafresh Splash is a strawberry and mint flavoured toothpaste for children aged 3-8 years. Aquafresh Senses is designed to bring a fresh approach to the adult toothpaste sector with two new flavours Energising Grapefruit, Lemon & Mint and Refreshing Watermelon, Cucumber & Mint. Aquafresh Splash is available in 50ml and 75ml sizes, while Senses is supplied in 75ml tubes.

HIGHLY COMMENDED SPAR RIOS DE LOS ANDES MALBEC ROSE

PET CARE PEDIGREE DENTASTIX CHEWY CHUNX With owners spending more time with their dogs during lockdown, the market for pet oral care products grew strongly in 2020, helped in by the launch of Pedigree Dentastix Chewy Chunx. Designed to provide effective defence against plaque build-up throughout the day, Chewy Chunx contains less than 3% fat, with 15kcal per treat and no artificial flavours or added sugars. The product is supplied in 68g packs, in chicken and beef varieties. There are also mini or maxi options in each flavour for both smaller (5-14kg) and larger (15kg+) dogs.

SMOKING ACCESSORIES RIZLA FLAVOUR INFUSIONS

RTDs PINK HOOCH Retailers stocking Hooch were in the pink last year, naming the brand’s latest flavour extension as the best RTD launch of 2020. Pink Hooch (ABV 4%) is an alcoholic raspberry lemonade with a citrus kick, available in 275ml bottles, 440ml cans and 70cl bottles in both price-marked and plain formats. The brand targeted consumers through digital media for the launch, and many retailers used social media effectively to raise awareness of the new product and to highlight availability. HIGHLY COMMENDED BLOSSOM HILL GIN FIZZ RANGE

SOFT DRINKS RIBENA SPARKLING

Imperial Tobacco’s Rizla Flavour Infusions offered retailers and adult smokers of menthol cigarettes an effective and convenient solution after the May 2020 menthol ban. Rizla Flavour Infusions are flavour cards that can be used to mentholate traditional FMC or RYO tobacco products by inserting them into a cigarette or tobacco packet. Two different variants are available – Menthol Chill and Fresh Mint. Cards are packed separately, for sale at an RSP of 25p each.

The growing market for flavoured carbonates was recognised by retailers in our poll, identifying Ribena Sparkling as the soft drinks launch of 2020. Ribena Sparkling is available in two flavours across three formats - Ribena Sparkling Blackcurrant comes in 500ml, 2l and 6x330ml cans, while Ribena Sparkling Raspberry is available in 500ml and 2l. Flavoured carbonates have one of the highest penetrations of any soft drink category, with four out of five buyers consuming flavoured carbs at least once a week.

HIGHLY COMMENDED ZIG ZAG LIGHTERS RANGE

HIGHLY COMMENDED DIET COKE SUBLIME LIME

SLR | FEBRUARY 2021

www.slrmag.co.uk

RRP

Â£7.99

Available at

Inside Business

Products Of The Year 2020

SPIRITS GORDON’S SICILIAN LEMON In a category rich with variety and innovation, Gordon’s Sicilian Lemon was retailers’ favourite spirits launch of the year. Introduced in time to hit the summer market, the product blends the classic characteristics of Gordon’s with the finest Sicilian lemons, using 100% natural flavours. Capitalising on the ongoing gin trend, Gordon’s Sicilian Lemon follows on from Gordon’s Premium Pink Distilled Gin. The 37.5% ABV product is supplied in 70 cl bottles. HIGHLY COMMENDED DEAD MAN’S FINGERS RANGE

SPORTS & ENERGY MONSTER ULTRA PARADISE Coca-Cola European Partners brought a tropical twist to the zero calorie energy drinks market last year with the launch of Monster Ultra Paradise, the winner of the sports & energy awards category. The drink combines kiwi, lime and cucumber for a light and refreshing flavour, giving consumers an energy boost with no calories and no sugar. The can design combines the brand’s flagship green colour with an idyllic island landscape. The product is available in plain or £1.29 price-marked packs. HIGHLY COMMENDED RED BULL ZERO

SQUASH RIBENA RASPBERRY & RHUBARB

TOBACCO STERLING DUAL CAPSULE LEAF WRAPPED

Ribena topped the voting with its Raspberry & Rhubarb squash flavour which it introduced into the wholesale channel in July. Ribena Raspberry & Rhubarb squash is available in cases of 6 x 600ml bottles, pricemarked at £1.50. The launch came at a time when squash sales in the independent and symbol channel were nearly double what they were the same time the previous year.

JTI stole a march on its competitors with the launch of MEDIA INFORMATION Sterling Capsule Leaf Wrapped, a new King Size For Dual immediate release Cigarillo containing a Virginia blend tobacco and, unlike conventional cigarettes, wrapped in tobaccoMEDIA leaf.INFORMATION For immediate release JTIalaunches Sterling Dual Capsule cigarillos It also has mentholated capsule inLeaf theWrapped filter, which existing adult smokers can click to release a peppermint JTI launches Sterling Dual Capsule L flavour. Sterling Dual Capsule Leaf Wrapped has an RRP of £4.50 and 10 pack size.

HIGHLY COMMENDED VIMTO REMIX ORANGE, STRAWBERRY & LIME

HIGHLY COMMENDED JPS PLAYERS CRUSHBALL LEAF WRAPPED

London, January 2020 – JTI has today announced the

– an innovative newLeaf cigarillo product. London, January 2020 – JTI has today announced the launch ofWrapped Sterling Dual Capsule Wrapped – an innovative new cigarillo product.

VAPING JUUL MENTHOL The winner of the vaping category for 2020 is Menthol JUULpods. Launched last April shortly before the ban on menthol and capsule cigarettes took effect, JUUL Labs’ new menthol line gave adult smokers an alternative product to switch to, and retailers an alternative product to sell. At the launch, John Patterson, JUUL Labs’ UK sales director said: “With electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS), adult smokers have a choice of flavours and a range of alternative options that may help them transition away from combustible cigarettes. Indeed JUUL Labs and the ENDS category exist to help end the era of combustible cigarettes.”

SLR | FEBRUARY 2021

WINE CAMPO VIEJO RIOJA TEMPRANILLO PMP

The King Size Cigarillos contain a Virginia blend tobacc are wrapped in tobacco leaf.

The King Size Cigarillos contain a Virginia blend tobacco and, unlike conventional cigarettes, are wrapped in tobacco leaf. Rolling out across all channels from January, Sterling

mentholated capsule in the filter, which existing ad

peppermint flavour. The cigarillos Rolling out across all channels from January, Sterling Dual Capsule Leaf Wrapped has ajoin the successful St share of over 40%i. mentholated capsule in the filter, which existing adult smokers can click to release a peppermint flavour. The cigarillos join the successful Sterling Dual family, which has a sector Sterling Dual Capsule Leaf Wrapped will also allow retai share of over 40%i. with an RRP of £4.50* and 10 pack size.

of trend, Sales at JTI UK, says: “We Sterling Dual Capsule Leaf Wrapped will also allow retailers to tapRoss into Hennessy, the currentHead value with as much choice as possible by launching innovative with an RRP of £4.50* and 10 pack size. trends.

Pernod Ricard UK’s offer priceRoss Hennessy, Head decision of Sales at JTIto UK, says: a “We are committed to that providing “We expect Sterling retailers Dual Capsule Leaf Wrapped c smokers and appreciated with as much choice as possible by launching innovative new products respond to current by those looking for marked pack (PMP) of its bestselling Campofor adultthat trends. more information, retailers should visit the refreshed Viejo Rioja Tempranillo paid off as retailers For local JTI sales representative. “We expect that Sterling Dual Capsule Leaf Wrapped cigarillos will become a popular choice are of course free to choose to sell JTI products a smokers and appreciated those looking value-for-money options.” voted forit adult their favourite winebylaunch of for the year.* Retailerstobacco TheFor £7.99 price point communicated via site, or speak to their more information, retailers was should visit the refreshed jtiadvance.co.uk JTI sales representative. a necklocal sticker to reassure shoppers when they * Retailers are of course free to choose to sell JTI products at whatever price they choose. bought the UK’s number one red wine (Nielsen MAT, year to 21 March 2020). Pernod Ricard ensured additional stock was available to convenience retailers as it launched the PMP in May 2020. HIGHLY COMMENDED 19 CRIMES SAUVIGNON BLOCK

www.slrmag.co.uk

THANKS FOR THE

TAAAASTY AWARD

• Up to 3 hours’ hold time • New quarter slice and self serve boxes • New branded hot-hold equipment for self-serve day or night • 4 takeaway flavours

YOUR GO-TO PIZZA EXPERTS Contact foodtogo@oetker.co.uk for further information

Inside Business

Symbol Spotlight | Nisa Retail

NISA SHINES IN A CHALLENGING YEAR It has been a massively challenging year for the local retailing sector, but Nisa has met all challenges head on – and Nisa retailers are thriving.

he coronavirus pandemic has created a hugely challenging environment for the entire local retailing sector in Scotland but Nisa has remained committed to meeting all challenges head on – and the results speak for themselves. Nisa already works with many multi-awardwinning stores in Scotland including Pinkie Farm, Greens of Markinch and David’s Kitchen, making us the proven partner of choice for market-leading, independentlyminded retailers in Scotland. And with a record number of retailers moving to Nisa Retail in 2020 and those investing in new and upgraded stores enjoying average sales uplifts of 12%, there never has been a better time to join us. For more than 40 years we have worked with independent retailers, helping them to grow their businesses through a comprehensive support package. To highlight how Nisa retailers have thrived in recent times, we look at some of the latest initiatives and successes that Nisa retailers in Scotland have enjoyed.

PGNJ CONTINUES GROWTH Fast-growing retailing chain PGNJ recently added its eighth and ninth Nisa Local stores in Scotland, bringing contemporary shops with fantastic ranges to the communities of Renfrew and Giffnock. PGNJ moved to Nisa just over a year ago and is thriving. The latest stores underwent full refurbishments and range reviews. Nisa partner Jay Javid said: “The best part of retail for me is development. Turning an empty shell in to a community store is what is all about. We take pride in being able to offer our customers affordable, reliable, sought 36

SLR | FEBRUARY 2021

after products that are displayed in an easy and attractive manner. “It doesn’t matter if you have one store or 10, we still merchandise our stores like our first. It’s our business but it’s my passion to merchandise. “Our crisp, cool style and use of modern lighting is designed to make our customers’ shopping experience that bit more pleasant.”

Victoria Lockie, Head of Key Accounts at Nisa said: “These developments really are brilliant and the finished stores looks fantastic. We’re thrilled to be working with the team at PGNJ and are looking forward to supporting them on their journey which is proving to be extremely exciting and fast-paced. A huge well done to everyone on this latest addition to the PGNJ portfolio.” www.slrmag.co.uk

Nisa Retail | Symbol Spotlight

Inside Business

MANZ CELEBRATES 25 YEARS IN STYLE Manz Rasul’s family-run convenience store in North Berwick recently marked its 25th birthday with a complete refurbishment which has improved shopper experience and brought the busy shop bang up to date. The Nisa store sits on the High Street and first opened its doors in October 1995. It has taken on a whole new look, closing for almost three weeks to complete the transformation. The overhaul has given a facelift to the exterior of the store with the entry point changed and automatic doors installed as well as full length windows to the front aspect introducing more natural light to the shop. Meanwhile inside all the fixtures and fittings have been replaced with new flooring, lighting, refrigeration, checkouts and shelving. Manz, a Nisa partner for more than 30 years, said: “We’ve created a light and airy space that makes the shop feel bigger and look so much more modern. Because of Covid

we wanted our customers to feel comfortable when they’re shopping with us. We’ve made our new shelving slightly narrower to allow more room in the aisles for customers to pass one another and added an extra till point so shoppers won’t need to stand and queue for long.” Manz said customer loyalty, which has always been good, was superb during lockdown and the vital service provided by the store at the height of local restrictions also led to new customers. “We traded really strongly through lockdown and sales went through the roof. It can be seasonal here because we’re in a seaside town but this year the coronavirus has seen us incredibly busy. “People were really impressed with how we handled the lockdown – we were the first to have hand sanitiser in the store and everyone seemed impressed with our proactive response.” www.slrmag.co.uk

The refit has allowed for the chilled range to be expanded from seven bays to 14, the introduction of a small food-to-go section with a coffee machine and instore bakery as well as an extension to the alcohol range. Additional Co-op own brand lines have also been included to the already strong range which is popular with shoppers and fits with the business ethics of Manz himself, who has a keen focus on sustainability. And products from local suppliers will also be introduced to the store over the coming months. “Everything that we have done with the store has been done looking at it from a customer point of view, making it easier and better for them with an overall improved experience and range. I really hope they like it,” said Manz.

NOBODY GOES HUNGRY IN GREENOCK Nisa Local Greenock been running an in-store foodbank to ensure nobody in the community

goes hungry. Driven by the staff themselves, the foodbank has been making up packages for those in the local community who are struggling. It has also been supported by customers who have made donations, in a bid to help local people in need. The store, which opened last March just as the coronavirus outbreak hit, has quickly established a place in the community and the launch of the foodbank is in response to the local support they have received. The 1,500sq ft Nisa Local Greenock, a 1,500sq ft shop in the heart of the community, is operated by the Ahmed family and owner Harry Ahmed says he is wants to help locals in any way possible. He said: “We are very grateful to have our business here and to be doing well thanks to the support of the locals. We just wanted to help and give something back and we have seen how much some people are struggling right now.” FEBRUARY 2021 | SLR

Inside Business

Symbol Spotlight | Nisa Retail

People have been urged to contact the store or speak to Harry directly, in confidence, and the team then puts food packages together. He said: “No nobody needs to feel embarrassed. We just ask that people contact us. They can message us on Facebook with their needs, or pop into the store and speak to a member of staff and then we arrange what they need.” As well as donations made by the store, locals have rallied around to show their support by donating groceries and money to purchase essential goods. Harry said: “Everyone in the community wants to support us and we have had some really generous donations. The local people have been great and together we are just trying to do our best and help those who need it right now.”

A CENTURY OF SATISFIED SHOPPERS James Kinnaird’s family-run Nisa store in Dumfries and Galloway recently celebrated a century of trading, putting shoppers at the heart of all they do to ensure their success. James, who owns the 1,500sq ft Nisa Local store in Dalbeattie says being an integral part of the community remains one of the most important factors for his business. James, said: “We are truly a local business having been here for 100 years and being a part of the community is really important. “One of the best parts of the job is the people; I know most of our customers by name and we also employ local people with most of our 25 staff coming from the village. It all goes towards making it more personal for our shoppers.” The store stands out from local competition by ensuring they offer numerous points of difference with a strong focus on local suppliers for products ranging from eggs and fresh produce to gin and craft ales. A fresh serve over deli counter which offers cheeses and meats, cut to the individual requirement of each shopper, is also a favourite. And the ability to provide competitive prices on key brands and earn a reputation for offering good value has helped the store thrive. “We focus on a better branded selection and give attention to offers and promotions but we also have permanent minimum prices on some key products so our customers know they can come to us and they can get a good deal.”

TO FIND OUT MORE, CONTACT THE NISA DEVELOPMENT TEAM ON 0800 542 7490. 38

SLR | FEBRUARY 2021

www.slrmag.co.uk

O T S N O REAS

JOIN NISA ÂŁ

98%

Sales +12% with Nisa Evolution store format

Next day delivery service*

98% Availability

2,000+ Co-op own label products

Opening our new store just before the Coronavirus hit was a huge challenge but Nisa were there to support us through it. They have been in contact regularly to assist us and have been great at maintaining stock availability. Now we are thinking about the future of the store and again Nisa have been really helpful. Harry Ahmed, Nisa Local Greenock

For even more reasons, visit join-nisa.co.uk *currently in selected locations only

#JoinNisa | 0800 542 7490

Inside Business

In-Store Project | Signature Dual

600% SIGNATURE GROWTH AND RISING! Musselburgh retailer Dan Brown, our reigning Scottish Local Retailer of the Year, has grown his sales of Signature Dual by more than 600% in the last couple of months, and sales are still rising.

HOW DID DAN MANAGE IT? Dan’s top tips for growing sales of Signature Dual are: Q Make it the cheapest product on the gantry, to appeal to shoppers looking to minimise out-of-pocketspend. Q Encourage staff to upsell at the till point, highlighting Signature Dual when a customer mentions price. Q Train staff on the features of the product so that they can talk knowledgably and answer any questions from customers. Q Maintain good stock levels.

SLR | FEBRUARY 2021

here’s nothing quite so satisfying as seeing your efforts rewarded in the till, and that’s something Musselburgh Nisa retailer Dan Brown has found over the last couple of the months as part of an in-store project with SLR and Scandinavian Tobacco Group UK (STG). The project centred around the increasingly popular Signature Dual leaf-wrapped cigarillos, recently renamed and rebranded as Signature Action [see panel]. After more than two months of effort focusing on the product, Dan and his team have succeeded in growing sales by a whopping 600% –and sales are still rising. “It’s been a pretty successful initiative, I have to admit,” says Dan, the youngest-ever President of the Scottish Grocers’ Federation.

“First and foremost I have to say thank you to my team who have been incredibly helpful and supportive in our drive to focus on Signature Dual, or Signature Action as it’s now called. I remember being pleasantly surprised that we had seen 500% growth in the first month of the project, so to see that figure keep growing to 600% is fantastic. And we’re still seeing that growth continue.” Dan points out that, yes, the growth was from a relatively small base, but a 600% increase in sales is pretty remarkable for any product in any category let alone a category facing so many practical in-store challenges. The store has gone from selling around one outer a week to selling at least six a week, which is impressive growth. The success proves once more that a little focus and attention dedicated to the product www.slrmag.co.uk

Signature Dual | In-Store Project

SIGNATURE ACTION: NEW NAME, SAME PRODUCT Scandinavian Tobacco Group UK transitioned its Signature Dual brand to Signature Action at the start of this year, in order to maintain consistency within its global brand portfolio. STG’s UK Country Director, Alastair Williams, comments: “Sales of our newly re-named Signature Action brand have been growing steadily since launch, and we will be continuing to build on this momentum throughout 2021, not least through our ﬁeld sales force who will be calling on as many independent retailers as possible to talk to them about it. “We are keen to stress that only the name of the product is changing and the cigar itself will remain the same. It still offers adult smokers the same smooth and enjoyable smoking experience and will continue to play an important role in our market leading Signature brand portfolio.”

and the wider cigars category will deliver for retailers. “I’m actually surprised that we’ve had such big success because, at the end of the day, the legislation around the category means we don’t have a lot of tools at our disposal to www.slrmag.co.uk

drive sales, but it just goes to show what can be achieved, even with so many challenges,” says Dan. The secret to Dan’s success? “There’s no doubt that making Signature Action the cheapest product on the gantry was a major

Inside Business

factor,” says Dan. “We had to make a very small tweak to the pricing, and we trained staff to upsell at the till point. Whenever anyone mentioned price, we were able to suggest Signature Action as the lowest-priced product we stock. “We also gave the staff a briefing on the product itself so that they could talk knowledgeably, should customers want any more information – and many did. “But the fact that sales have grown consistently means that the product is delivering for shoppers. Repeat purchases mean shoppers like the product and it’s repeat purchases we’re looking for.” Signature Action features a peppermint capsule and comes in a convenient and stylish pack of 10 that isn’t covered by EUTPD2, so the product is still in branded packs. “Most of the new sales are coming from people looking to minimise out of pocket spend or looking for a menthol option, now that they can’t buy menthol cigarettes,” concludes Dan. STG’s UK Country Director, Alastair Williams, says: “600% growth is an outstanding achievement by any standard. Dan and his team have clearly done a fantastic job and demonstrated that this is an outstanding product that will sell in volume when retailers get behind it.” FEBRUARY 2021 | SLR

Hotlines

Product News & Media Watch

Monster Energy flavours Coca-Cola European Partners Three new additions to the Monster Energy range – Monster Mule, Monster Ultra Fiesta and Monster Juiced Monarch – are available in 500ml plain and price-marked cans from this month. Monster Mule is said to be the first ginger-flavoured energy drink in GB; mangoflavoured Monster Ultra Fiesta offers no calories and no sugar; and Monster Juiced Monarch has real peach and nectarine juice and and an eyecatching butterfly pack design.

Walkers captures taste of KFC with new ﬂavours

Swan Flavour Fusion Cards Republic Technologies Available from this month, the cards will launch in two variants – Fresh Burst and Menthol – in outers of 25 individual cards with an RSP of 39p per card. Cards are placed in a packet of cigarettes or rollyour-own tobacco to impregnate the contents with a new flavour. For more information on stocking the range, call 01494 492230 or email enquiries@ republictechnologies.co.uk.

Milk Chocolate Cashew Bar Ritter Sport Ritter Sport’s new 100g Milk Chocolate Cashew bar contains salted and roasted cashews coated in smooth milk chocolate. This latest addition to the brand’s Nut Selection range is available now in cases of 12 with an RSP of £1.50. The range, formerly called Nut Perfection, has been given a packaging refresh to highlight that the bars are made with 100% natural ingredients, as well as an increased logo size to improve brand awareness on shelf.

SLR | FEBRUARY 2021

Walkers MAX has teamed up with fried chicken restaurant KFC to launch two new variants which capture two of Colonel Sanders’ signature flavours in a packet of crisps: Walkers MAX Kentucky Fried Chicken and Walkers MAX Double Crunch Zinger. Both will be available all-year-round and launch with a limited time on-pack promotion that gives consumers a 2 for 1 KFC Meal with every pack. The launch will be supported by a multi-channel media campaign due to kick off in February, the details of which were still under wraps when SLR went to press. However, if this doesn’t play on the striking resemblance of Walkers’ brand ambassador Gary Lineker – complete with goatee beard – to the

McVitie’s Fully Coated pladis McVitie’s has entered the special treats sub-category with the launch of a new, premium ‘Fully Coated’ collection which feature classic biscuits completely enrobed in the brand’s signature milk chocolate. The range launches with two variants: McVitie’s Digestives ‘The Fully Coated One’ and McVitie’s Hobnobs ‘The Fully Coated One’. Both are available now with an RSP of £1.79 per pack.

aforementioned Colonel then it’s surely time for the crisp maker to sack its advertising agency. Katherine Cook, Walkers MAX Senior Brand Manager at PepsiCo, said: “A partnership between Walkers MAX and KFC is a no-brainer for us as there are a number of synergies between our brands.” Walkers MAX Kentucky Fried Chicken and Walkers MAX Double Crunch Zinger are available in 50g Grab bags (RSP 85p), 70g and 65g £1 PMPs, 140g Sharing bags (RSP £1.99) and 6-packs (RSP £1.70). For more information on Walkers products, telephone 0800 274 777 or complete the form on the Walkers trade website at countsformore.co.uk/ contact-us.

Häagen-Dazs Duo General Mills Luxury ice cream brand HäagenDazs has launched Duo (420ml, RSP £4.99), a 2-in-1 multi-textured ice-cream in three variants that combine two contrasting yet complimentary flavours: Belgian Chocolate & Vanilla Crunch, Dark Chocolate & Salted Caramel Crunch and Belgian Chocolate & Strawberry. The launch is supported by a £3m media campaign and a shopper marketing plan to introduce Duo in convenience, wholesale and grocery.

Super Natural Gum Milliways This new gum is the first product from UK start-up Milliways and provides an alternative to synthetic products. It is plant-based, sugarand plastic-free, and biodegradable. Three flavours are available – Mighty Mint, Peppermint Power and Watermelon Wonder, – with an RSP of £12 for a 12 pack. For retail or wholesale information, please contact sales@milliwaysfood.com.

www.slrmag.co.uk

Hotlines

Product News & Media Watch KA new flavours Barr Soft Drinks

Cherry and Passion Fruit McVitie’s Jaffa Cakes pladis

AG Barr has added three new flavours to its KA Caribbean soft drink range – Tropical Krush, Strawberry Soda and Citrus Punch – available from this month in outers of 24 x 330ml cans, pricemarked at 79p. The new flavours will be supported by a year-long brand investment, which will see KA partner up with online media platform GRM Daily for an online ad campaign. Barr has a range of POS that retailers can use to signpost the NPD.

pladis has added two new flavours to its McVitie’s Jaffa Cakes range: Cherry and Passion Fruit. Both are available now in boxes of 10 cakes (122g) with an RSP of £1.20. The launch coincides with a new packaging design, paired with novel and colourful illustrations for each new flavour. A Pineapple variant, launched last January, has already added £2.1m RSV to the brand.

MEDIAwatch



Come dine with Président Lactalis brand Président is to continue its sponsorship of the Channel 4 cooking show Come Dine with Me in 2021. The £1.5m sponsorship deal will run through to the end of April on Channel 4, E4 and More4, reaching 8.6 million consumers. Targeting ABC1 adults, the sponsorship will promote the Président cheese and butter range.

Get off to the right start

Walkers Flamin’ Hot PepsiCo

Ribena Sparkling Singles Suntory Beverage & Food

Walkers has added a new Flamin’ Hot flavour across its core potato crisps range, in the wake of last year’s launch of Wotsits Flamin’ Hot. It is available now in 6-Packs (RSP £1.65), Singles (RSP 69p), 45g Grab Bags (RSP 85p) and a 65g £1 PMP. Packs feature a distinctive, no artificial colours, red crisp and a warming spicy kick. At +13%, Spicy is the fastest-growing flavour in the UK just now.

Ribena has launched a new 330ml single can in two flavours, Ribena Sparkling Blackcurrant and Ribena Sparkling Raspberry. Both are available now in cases of 24 cans price-marked at 65p. The Sparkling Blackcurrant variant is also available in plain cans (RSP 80p). SBF advised retailers to site with other flavoured carbonates in the chiller and separate from Ribena’s core juice drinks.

Quavers Prawn Cocktail and Salt & Vinegar flavours PepsiCo

Quaker Porridge to Go PMPs PepsiCo

Weetabix has launched a £2m campaign that encourages the nation to start the day right with versatile and inspirational recipe ideas, and features the brand’s ‘Have You Had Yours’ tagline. The campaign is set to reach 70% of the UK population five times each and runs across TV, video on demand, online and social media platforms until the end of February.

Fibre One update Fibre One is back with a refreshed TV ad and is also challenging the nation to ‘Take30’ in a new wellbeing initiative. A bolder and brighter TV advert highlights the improved, reduced sugar recipe and eye-catching new packaging. A sampling campaign will also get the product into the hands of 50,000 consumers.

Make it Meatless

Walkers has bowed to public pressure and brought Prawn Cocktail and Salt & Vinegar flavours back to the Quavers line-up. Both variants are available in singles (RSP 65p), grab-bag (RSP 85p), sharing (£1 PMP) and multipack (RSP £1.50) formats. The relaunch is supported by a cross-channel marketing campaign that runs until the end of March including in-store shopper marketing, digital and TV activity.

Quaker has added new pricemarked bars to its Porridge to Go range. Golden Syrup and Strawberry, Raspberry & Cranberry flavours are both available now in 55g 75p PMPs. Danielle Mendham, Senior Brand Manager at Quaker, said: “We’ve seen shopper sentiment towards breakfast change substantially, with consumers increasingly looking for convenient, on-the-go breakfast options that can be enjoyed at home.”

Meatless Farm is taking a pop at rival veggie brands with a cheeky marketing campaign aimed at convincing meat eaters to reduce their meat consumption and suggesting that making dishes meatless isn’t what it used to be. With lines like ‘Meatless not Quorny,’ the campaign will be supported by social media, PR and advertising.

Smint stays at home freshens up Smint is back on screens with the latest version of its ‘Fresh Moments’ ad, as the brand highlights a number of ‘fresh’ occasions, whether it’s on-the-go or working from home. The £500,000 campaign includes a mixture of video-on-demand, social and digital content that will target a predicted 27.5 million consumers.

for all the latest product news, head to www.slrmag.co.uk/category/product-news/ www.slrmag.co.uk

FEBRUARY 2021 | SLR

Feature

Home & Personal Care

CLEAN UP! The virus pandemic and subsequent lockdowns have put antibacterial and disinfectant products very much at the forefront of shoppers’ minds.

veryone can remember the bizarre surge in demand for toilet rolls last March, but pretty much every subcategory within the personal care and household cleaning market has been impacted in some way by the pandemic and subsequent lockdowns. The toilet roll surge meant that the home care category saw significant growth of 12% year-on-year, but it is in the areas of anti-bacterial and disinfectant products that the impact of the pandemic has been most marked, with sales of bleach up 30%, disinfectants up 61%, hand wash up 162% and hand disinfectants up 720% during the year, the latter driven by the Carex and Enliven brands [all figures: Nielsen]. Matt Stanton, Head of Category and Insight at specialist wholesaler DCS Group, says: “The importance of anti-bacterial and disinfectant products has been the biggest change to the home care market in 2020. “According to research, 46% of consumers are using more anti-bacterial products in their home, 35% are using an anti-bacterial washing up liquid, and 25% are using antibacterial dish washer products (all Calayx research).” “With the current anti-bacterial trend here to stay, retailers should ensure that they stock anti-bacterial variants within all key personal and home care care categories as part of an all year round core range. Where space allows, we recommend displaying anti-bacterial lines in an area of the store with high footfall to encourage impulse purchases.” The antibacterial trend is clearly evident from some of the NPD launched into 44

SLR | FEBRUARY 2021

the market in the last year, notably Persil Antibacterial Laundry Sanitise – an incremental product designed to be used alongside consumers’ usual detergent and fabric conditioner – Febreze Anti-Bacterial Fabric Refresher, and a whole range of antibac lines under the Carex brand, including bar soap, hand & surface spray, wipes, hand cream and shower gels. While antibacterial and virus protection products have been among the most visible new entrants to the market, other significant trends are emerging too, most notably the increasing consumer demand for sustainability. “We are seeing an increase of biodegradable products in the market, along with the transition of mainstream products becoming more sustainable through both formula and packaging,” explains Stanton. “Persil has recently removed the dosing ball from their liquid bottles to cut down plastic use, and their latest Bio liquids are made from a plant-based formula, while we are also seeing refillable packaging solutions on best-selling lines such as Carex hand washes.”

CORONAVIRUS-CONSCIOUS SHOPPING With the pandemic at the front of everyone’s minds, it is worth considering setting up a dedicated bay in store for products with valid germ-killing claims. Matt Stanton at DCS has the following advice: “Where space allows, you can encourage impulse purchases with displays of anti-bacterial lines in an area of the store with high footfall such as at till point, on gondola ends or on FSDUs. “The hand sanitiser category has seen exponential growth, and 65% of hand sanitiser purchases are made on impulse. Where space allows for a dedicated anti-bacterial bay, we would encourage stores to stock hand sanitisers and face masks as a priority.”

www.slrmag.co.uk

Feature

Home & Personal Care

“The importance of anti-bacterial and disinfectant products has been the biggest change to the home care market in 2020.”

With new financial pressures leading to more cautious shopping behaviours, value for money becomes a vital consideration. “Brand trust becomes important, and it is more important than ever to give customers peace of mind when shopping in store,” says Stanton. “Pricemarked packs are a fantastic way of doing this. Where PMPs are available, consider stocking these in place of straight packs.” That said, the fact that people are going out much less during the pandemic means that they are also looking to treat themselves and improve the ambience in the home - through products such as air care and fabric softener and by seeking out premium varieties. Other things for retailers to keep on top of, continues Stanton, are trends within 46

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fragrances and the impact of social influencers on demand. “Coconut has been a popular scent across home and personal care, with Surf, Comfort and hair care brand Tresemme all releasing coconut-scented products. Surf has a new ‘Watermelon Breeze’ scented liquid detergent which is likely to prove popular in 2021. “Mrs Hinch continues to be a successful public figure, with her home care recommendations listened to by millions of followers,” he adds. “Lenor’s Spring Awakening fragrance has proved a favourite of hers, and now Bold has released a new Spring Awakening variant of their laundry pods, meaning there is now a full wash regime - pods, fabric conditioner, and fabric enhancers - available in this fragrance.”

RANGING AND MERCHANDISING ADVICE TOP TIPS FROM DCS GROUP: Capitalise on retail events such as ‘Spring Clean’. Focus on the brands – shoppers are brand loyal, and brand trust is important. Use secondary sitings to drive impulse sales. PMPs are important to shoppers - they offer price confidence and more than one in four shoppers are more likely to purchase PMPs on an impulse mission (HIM/Luminar Omnichannel 2020). Embrace anti-bacterial products these lines should take precedence over duplicated SKUs in other categories on-shelf.

www.slrmag.co.uk

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Feature

Snacks

SNACKING UNDER LOCKDOWN As with many categories, snacking has seen huge growth during the coronavirus pandemic which presents a huge opportunity for local retailers.

he coronavirus pandemic has fuelled significant growth in most categories in local retailing and the vital snacks category is no exception. In its recent State of Snacking trends report, global snacking leader Mondelez International interviewed over 6,200 people to take a deep dive into how the category was transformed in 2020 and highlighted a number of key issues that influence how local retailers should approach the category.

ACCELERATED GROWTH According to the report, nine in 10 global adults (88%) say they are snacking more (46%) during the pandemic, with millennials and those who are working from home right now being especially likely to say they

UNITAS TARGETS SNACK CATEGORY WITH PLAN FOR PROFIT To help independent retailers capitalise on the growth of the snack category, Unitas Wholesale has launched ‘Focus On,’ a new series of Plan for Profit mini category guides. The first two editions of Focus On include key insights and advice developed in partnership with snacking giants Kellogg’s and Mondelez International. The guides are specifically designed for independent retailers and highlight the key opportunities that each mini category presents. Printed copies are available in selected Unitas Wholesale member depots and digital versions are available to view and download at www. planforprofit.co.uk or via the Plan for Profit app. 48

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DISCO INFERNO KP Snacks has announced that its snack brand Discos will be added to KP’s growing £1 PMP range with the launch of Discos Salt & Vinegar £1PMP (70g). Designed to capitalise on the growth of £1 PMPs, the brand in its new format has been created to excite shoppers and drive impulsive purchases. Available now, the Discos £1 PMP joins other consumer favourites in the KP Snacks PMP range, including McCoy’s Fire Pit and Hula Hoops Big Hoops BBQ, and features the new £1 flash that has been incorporated across the entire portfolio.

www.slrmag.co.uk

Healthier Bars as defined by Nielsen

Feature

Snacks

prefer snacks over meals (70% and 67%, respectively).

SNACKING AS COMFORT Comfort was the number one driver of snacking in 2020. More than half have been buying nostalgic snack brands from childhood (53%) and snacks that bring back good memories (59%). Two-thirds say snack time is one of the few moments of peace in their day (64%).

MINDFULNESS AND WELLBEING 54% of adults have relied on snacks for nourishment of the body, mind and soul during the pandemic. A majority are more focused on the snacks they eat these days (57%) and have more control over the portions they eat because they are snacking at home more often (66%).

ONLINE REACHES TIPPING POINT Almost half of adults say they have started to buy snacks online more often than they do in-store or offline (47%). Three in 10 have discovered snacks to try on social media (28%). In other words, the pandemic has had an enormous impact on what, how, why and when shoppers buy and consume snacks. These shifts are significant, but have you reflected that in how you range, merchandise and promote your snacking category?

PRINGLES GET SIZZL’N Pringles has launched three new extra hot flavours under a new range called Sizzl’n, each with a different level of heat intensity. The range includes Kickin’ Sour Cream (medium), Spicy BBQ (hot) and Cheese & Chilli (extra hot). This is the first time Pringles has entered the extra hot market and the lines carry an RSP of £2.99.

DAIRY MILK GRAB BAGS

PLADIS FLIPZ OUT

Cadbury has unveiled a new range of Mini Bite Grab Bags featuring Cadbury Dairy Milk Flapjack Bites, Cadbury Dairy Milk Mini Cookies and Cadbury Dairy Milk Caramel Flapjack. The new range is individually priced at £1 per bag. Peter Duncan, European Licensing Director at CSM Bakery Solutions said: “We’re always looking for ways to bring a moment of joy to chocolate fans!”

Global snacking company pladis has added a new flavour to its Flipz brand: Flipz Cookies & Cream. This new, on-trend flavour combination offers the familiar ‘swavoury’ flavour combination of the brand’s signature salty pretzel coated in a sweet Cookies & Cream glaze. The line is available in wholesale in a 90g pack format at an RSP of £1.50. Packaging will be recyclable through pladis’ partnership with Terracycle (www. terracycle.co.uk).

CADBURY GETS NUTTIER Mondelez is helping retailers expand their ‘Healthier Bars’ range with the launch of a new fruit and nut snack brand, Cadbury Nuttier. The brand’s three flavours – Peanut & Almond; Cranberry, Peanut & Almond; and Coconut & Almond – are available in single bars, helping retailers to recruit new shoppers to the range with a trusted, recognisable brand, while tapping into this expanding and valuable category. The new bars are filled with fibre and are made up with over 40% of whole fruit & nuts. They are available in 40g single bars at an RSP of £1.19.

SLR | FEBRUARY 2021

www.slrmag.co.uk

Feature

Tobacco

ADJUSTING TO THE NEW NORMAL Tobacco remains a vital and resilient category for convenience retailers, but legislative and lifestyle changes mean retailers need to constantly adapt to meet the needs of consumers.

rogressive tax increases, the ban on menthol cigarettes and restrictions on travel have all had an impact on the tobacco category in one way or another. And when once smokers stuck rigidly to one brand and one pack format, now they are increasingly taking a “nicotine portfolio” approach, creating sales opportunities for a range of new products. The key trend in the category, however, is not a new one: value for money. Duncan Cunningham, UK Corporate Affairs Director at Imperial Tobacco & blu, says: “The tobacco market remains heavily price-driven and this has led to an uplift in consumers switching into Roll Your Own (RYO), as well as value Factory Made Cigarettes (FMC). We’re also seeing a rise in dual users buying both RYO and FMC for different occasions – a quarter of consumers are now dual smokers.” As a result of this continuing shift, RYO now accounts for 45% of tobacco sales, and brands in the economy RYO segment are also rising. “Since its launch in November 2019, Lambert & Butler RYO has been growing its share and, in July 2020, it accounted for 4.7% of all sales within the economy RYO 52

SLR | FEBRUARY 2021

segment, making it a must stock product line for retailers,” argues Cunningham. “Restrictions on travel due to Covid-19 have reduced the amount of tobacco purchased abroad for consumption in the UK which, in turn, has led to increased domestic sales. For example, the volume of Golden Virgina Original sold to consumers in July 2020 was

almost 50% higher than before the pandemic in February 2020. We expect this trend to remain as consumers continue to buy in bulk.” The shift towards RYO creates new sales opportunities for tobacco-related accessories, he continues. “Retailers should make sure they’re fully stocked at all times of filters, papers, lighters and other flavour-related innovations like Rizla Flavour Infusions and www.slrmag.co.uk

Feature

Tobacco

Rizla Polar Blast Crushball filters, to cater for the rising number of consumers buying into the RYO segment,” he says. Rizla Flavour Infusions, launched in late 2019, comprise flavour cards that can be used with traditional factory made cigarettes or RYO tobacco products to impart an additional flavour (Fresh Mint or Menthol Chill varieties are available). The brand is currently selling more than 900,000 packs per week as consumers look to recreate the menthol experience following the ban on menthol and capsule cigarettes in May last year, Imperial reports. Cunningham maintains that adult smokers are still deciding on what solution suits them best postban. “It’s still really too early to say what impact the menthol ban has had on tobacco sales overall, as it will take time for shoppers to settle on the nicotine products most suited them. In the meantime, it’s likely they’ll be looking to trial different products, so it’s important to stock a broad range of products across all the segments,” he suggests. Despite the growing trend towards RYO, factorymade cigarettes still account for the majority of tobacco sales with a 55% share of the market. As in the overall tobacco category, value for money remains a key trend, and Imperial Tobacco recently announced a range extension for Embassy Signature with a Gold Superkings variant to cater for shoppers looking for premium products at a value price. Embassy Signature Gold Superkings carries an RSP of £9.50 per pack of 20 and is a straight swap for Embassy No.1 Red Superkings. The 2019 launch of JTI’s Sterling Dual Capsule Leaf Wrapped gave the UK cigarillo category a boost, to the extent that it is now the fastest-growing sector within cigars, and accounts for 32.2% of the total. The company has recently released a 20s format for Sterling Leaf Wrapped to stand alongside the original 10s pack, currently rolling out in selected wholesalers and soon to be across all channels nationally. JTI has also entered the heated tobacco sector with the UK launch of Ploom S. Initially, the heating devices (RSP £89) are being sold online via www.ploom.co.uk and through 60 selected retailers in London plus – when they are able to re-open –

SLR | FEBRUARY 2021

KEY ADVICE FOR RETAILERS Duncan Cunningham, UK Corporate Affairs Director at Imperial Tobacco & blu, has some top tips.

two branded lounges in the capital and a number of pop-up shops. The tobacco sticks – sold under the EVO brand name – are available in four different flavours with an RSP of £4.50 per pack, and are only currently available within the M25 region. But Ross Hennessy, Sales Vice President at JTI UK, is confident that soon retailers everywhere will be able to participate in the growing market for heated tobacco. “Ploom S is a sleek, unique and innovative heated tobacco device which offers existing adult smokers an alternative but familiar tobacco experience by heating tobacco instead of burning it,” he explains. “It is predicted that by 2025 there will be nearly one million heated tobacco users nationwide, and that traditional retail will contribute to two thirds (67%) of this volume.”

CUSTOMER SERVICE With in-store restrictions in place, retailers need to be prepared to proactively offer customer advice at the till point and help shoppers feel at ease. EDUCATION It’s essential that staff know what products are stocked in store and where they are positioned on the gantry, and they should be encouraged to read up on the latest category developments. GO DIGITAL The Ignite app is a great resource and allows retailers to keep up to date with the latest news, product information, advice, and downloadable POS.

www.slrmag.co.uk

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Feature

Forecourts

FORECOURT DIGEST

It’s been another busy month on the forecourt front, so SLR brings you a rapid-fire digest of the latest news and views.

EG TO BUY ASDA FORECOURTS

FREE GRIPHERO DISPENSERS

In a complex agreement, Euro Garages’ parent company EG Group has reportedly agreed a deal to acquire Asda’s forecourt business for £750m. EG Group announced in October that, as part of a consortium, it had reached a deal to buy the entire Asda Group in the UK. Both deals will be subject to CMA clearance and it is understood that the forecourts will remain Asda-branded. The deal, if concluded, would give EG Group around 700 UK forecourts, still a long way behind MFG’s 900+ sites.

Hand protection specialists GripHero is offering its dispensers free to forecourts across the globe to help protect against transmission of coronavirus as well as protecting consumers from the potentially harmful effects of direct contact with fuel. The offer is valid until 19 February.

JET ADDS 10 ASCONA SITES

Fuel supply brand JET has announced that 10 new Ascona-owned sites will be joining its growing nationwide network of JET branded dealer sites – a move that further strengthens its relationship with the roadside retailer. The deal means JET’s portfolio of sites tops the 300 mark and – with Ascona sites now numbering 13 and with the potential for further sites in the future – Ascona is fast becoming one of JET’s largest retail customers. Commenting on the decision to move to JET, Darren Briggs, MD, Ascona Group says: “JET provides an industry-leading fuel supply package and together with their new JET brand image, is recognised in the industry for great value and service. They are the perfect partner for Ascona as we continue to expand our operations in the UK via both organic and acquisitive growth and focus on building best-in-class retail roadside destinations that cater to changing customer needs.” Working with Ascona, the 10 sites will be rebranded and repumped including two knock down and rebuilds. The licensed supply contract with Ascona Group is in place until 2026. 56

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ESSO PARTNERS WITH BA Esso has partners with British Airways in a move that will enable Esso customers to convert their Nectar points into Avios, which can then be redeemed through the BA Executive Club on flights, accommodation and other options. 400 Nectar points will be converted into 250 Avios and vice versa, should shoppers wish to convert Avios into Nectar points. To mark the agreement, customers will receive a one-off bonus 500 Avios if they convert 1,600 Nectar points. Shoppers will also be rewarded with double Nectar points at Sainsbury’s, which owns Nectar, until 19 April. www.slrmag.co.uk

Feature

Soft Drinks

SOFT DRINKS:

THE COVID EFFECT Larger format soft drinks and multipacks are driving the growth in the soft drinks category under lockdown, a trend that has big implications for local retailers.

t’s been a tumultuous year in local retailing with rapid transformation making it difficult to keep pace with rapidly evolving consumer trends, and nowhere more so than in the critical and very high volume soft drinks category. So what has last year done to the category? “In recent months we’ve seen an increase in drink-later formats, which are growing strongly with multi-packs driving that growth,” says Matt Gouldsmith, Channel Director, Wholesale, Suntory Beverage & Food GB&I. “Our portfolio replicates this, as we’ve seen strong growth in Lucozade Energy’s and in Ribena’s drink-later portfolios. In fact, the top three 1L Lucozade Energy SKUs represent 22% [IRI, May 2020] of the brand’s total sales, meaning it’s increasingly important retailers have a larger format offering in-store for this demand.” But has this been at the expense of impulse and drink-now sales? “We’ve seen encouraging evidence that the impulse and drink-now occasions will re-emerge when lockdowns are relaxed,” says Gouldsmith. “As local and national lockdown restrictions continue to be reviewed, we’d advise retailers to pay close attention to the needs of their shoppers and adapt their soft drinks range accordingly.”

PRICING & PMPS One key tool in maximising sales is ensuring that consumers understand the value they’re getting when they shop in your store, which is why value pricing and price-marked packs (PMPs) are so important at this time. 58

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“We understand how important it is to offer competitively priced drinks for retailers who want to demonstrate value to their shoppers,” says Gouldsmith. “To help retailers cater for shoppers drinking more soft drinks at home, we have reduced the on-pack price of some of our most popular drink-later products, including Ribena 600ml squash and Lucozade Energy 1L format drinks. Reduced to £1.50, these drinks will tap into the continued popularity of price-marked packs, and the growth in sales of drink-later formats.” The reduced PMPs across the Ribena and Lucozade Energy drink-later range offer a lower everyday price to consumers at a time when many shoppers will be looking for increased value from their regular purchases. Now is the perfect time for retailers to capitalise on the popularity of the drink later format with a new reduced price-marked pack. Plain packs are, of course, still available across the range, including leading brands Lucozade Energy, Lucozade Revive, Lucozade Sport and Ribena.

TRENDS One of the most prominent trends in recent times has been flavour innovation, as Amy Burgess, Senior External Communications Manager at Coca-Cola European Partners GB (CCEP), comments: “We’re seeing more innovation in the

SUNTORY’S TOP TIPS Suntory recently worked with independent retailer Umesh Patel of UP1 News, Silvertown, East London, to find out how small changes can help to grow soft drinks sales: 1. BLOCK YOUR SOFT DRINKS BY CATEGORY

It’s important to group the same types of drinks together. After putting all flavoured carbs together in one block in the chiller, Umesh’s sales in this category grew 7.1%. Doing his will also help shoppers find what they want more easily. 2. WITHIN EACH CATEGORY, ARRANGE BY FORMAT

Range formats within each category together so they flow smoothly. Putting colas together, for example, and then segmenting tis section further into cans and formats, will improve the ‘shopability’ of the category by making it easier to find the right format. 3. BLOCK ENERGY BY CATEGORY AND HIGHLIGHT YOUR TAKE-HOME OFFER

Energy and sports drinks account for around a third of total soft drinks sales in convenience, so it’s an important segment of any retailers’ chiller, with drinks satisfying different shopper needs. By blocking sports and energy by need state – starting with stimulants, flowing into sports, then energy and finally natural energy, customers will be able to easily find the right drink for the right occasion.

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New name

same tasty, lower-sugar drinks.

Suntory Beverage & Food GB&I is the new name for Lucozade Ribena Suntory.

Feature

Soft Drinks

category, as shoppers become increasingly adventurous, and experiment with new and exciting variants of their favourite soft drinks. That’s why it’s essential that retailers look out for the latest launches and emerging sectors. “Consumers are becoming more adventurous than ever and are looking to experiment with new and exciting variants of their favourite soft drinks. More than a third of shoppers (35%) agree that they like trying new things when grocery shopping [HIM, 2018], so it is increasingly important for retailers to keep an eye out for the latest flavour innovations launching this summer.” To make the most of the growing demand for innovation, CCEP has evolved its flavoured carbonates portfolio even further in 2020 with the launch of Fanta Raspberry. The new variant has already delivered sales

SLR | FEBRUARY 2021

worth almost £3m in GB, contributing to an impressive 31% of the Fanta Zero brand’s growth in the last year [Nielsen, Sep 2020]. “Elsewhere, our Light Cola flavours have also proven extremely popular,” says Burgess. “Earlier this year we expanded our range further with the launch of Diet Coke Sublime Lime, combining the much-loved taste of Diet Coke with a refreshing citrus twist, which has delivered £5m worth of sales since launching in January 2020 [Nielsen, Sep 2020]. “In energy, we recently added three new flavour variants to our range – Monster Mule, Monster Ultra Fiesta and Monster Juiced Monarch – to tap into growing demand for new flavours in the category. “Some 72% of energy sector growth over the last year has come from new products [Nielsen, Sep 2020]. Much of this is thanks to the huge success of Monster’s new variants which contributed to over half of this.” Another key trend is low and no sugar, as Gouldsmith explains: “The demand for lower-

sugar drinks will likely continue throughout the category irrespective of the radical changes brought on by coronavirus. We have seen a long-term trend towards drinks with lower sugar as consumers are becoming more aware of their health and wellbeing. “With 45.8% of soft drinks shoppers agreeing they ‘try to lead a healthy lifestyle’, retailers should ensure their chillers are stocked up on lower-sugar soft drinks such as Ribena Light and Lucozade Zero to capitalise on the ongoing trend towards lower-sugar choices.”

NPD In terms of growth drivers, it’s important to remember shoppers want variety when buying soft drinks. “We are investing in ambitious innovations across our portfolio of leading brands to drive sales for retailers by giving consumers a choice of exciting flavours in a range of formats,” says Gouldsmith.

CCEP’S RANGING AND MERCHANDISING ADVICE Core Best Sellers & Larger Packs: Allocate the most space to best sellers including double facings where needed – to avoid running out of stocks during peak times of the day. Ensure you increase space for larger packs for at-home sharing occasions. Low & No Sugar Options: Stock a wide range of low and no-sugar variants. Position these alongside original alternatives, so it’s easy for shoppers to choose the one they want. Cross-category seasonal displays: Place soft drinks alongside complementary categories like snacks to drive linked purchases and use clear pricing and promotions to grab shoppers’ attention. Space & Promotions: Group key soft drinks segments like Cola, Mixers and premium Adult Soft Drinks together to make the fixture easy to shop and consider stocking PMPs as they offer visible value, reassuring shoppers that they can get the products they want, at an affordable price.

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Feature

Soft Drinks

“Ribena has brought its unique taste and vitamin C to the flavoured carbonates category with the launch of new Ribena Sparkling, in two exciting flavours. Ribena Sparkling Blackcurrant and Ribena Sparkling Raspberry are both available in 500ML and 2L bottles and – newly available – 330ML single cans. “Ribena is also helping retailers capitalise on the growing demand for interesting and great-tasting squash options with the recent launch of a new flavour. Ribena Raspberry & Rhubarb squash is available in 600ml bottles which are perfect for sharing. “Also relatively new is Ribena Raspberry Rays. The thirst-quenching flavour, rich in Vitamin C, is ideal for shoppers looking for a burst of summer sunshine from their soft drink. “Additionally, Lucozade, the UK’s biggest sport & energy drink brand, tapped into the no- and low-sugar trend last year with the launch of Lucozade Revive. Sweetened with Stevia, and with 4.3g sugar per 100ml, the sub-brand is designed to offer a different

type of energy. It’s not a boost or a buzz, it’s a naturally inspired uplift that makes drinkers feel revitalised and back in the groove. By stocking up on price-marked formats of these drinks, retailers can help to encourage sales from new shoppers.

PREMIUMISATION Another key trend under lockdown, says Burgess, is ’premiumisation’: “With people spending more time at home, many are looking for ways to make nights in feel special – especially if they’re marking an occasion. “Adult soft drinks like Appletiser offer a sophisticated, soft alternative to beer, wine and cocktails to enjoy alongside a meal in. Made with pure fruit juice, and with no added sugar, Appletiser is particularly appealing to health-conscious consumers. “Premium pack formats can also help to create a sense of occasion. Our iconic CocaCola glass bottles are a good example of this and are currently in 87% growth [Nielsen Sep 2020].”

PEPSI MAX RASPBERRY

WORTH OVER £20M SINCE ITS LAUNCH IN 2019*

PEPSI MAX CHERRY

DELIVERED 61% OF DEFERRED FLAVOURED COLA GROWTH IN 2020 AND GREW 27% YOY**

PEPSI MAX FLAVOURS

DELIVERED £34M IN SALES IN THE LAST YEAR & 43% OF TOTAL FLAVOURED COLA SALES***

VIMTO REBRANDS Vimto has launched a new visual identity across its entire portfolio. The new contemporary design delivers a cleaner, bolder and more modern look that represents Vimto’s unique and refreshingly different brand personality. Designed to represent Vimto’s personality whilst championing the brand’s unique and refreshingly different taste, the new look also aims to inject some playfulness into the soft drink category.

STOCK UP NOW *£20.317m - Nielsen ScanTrack, Total Coverage value data to w/e 21.11.2020 **IRI, Value Sales, Deferred Cola, Convenience, 52 w/e 27/12/20 ***IRI, Value Sales, Total Cola, Convenience, 52 w/e 27/12/20

Time to

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FEBRUARY 2021 | SLR

UTC

HOW’D YOU LIKE THEM APPLES?

As an old skool west coaster, UTC has a natural empathy with the underdog trying to make it in this big hostile corporate world of ours. So he was fair scunnered to learn how a wee distillery in Stirling was getting it tight from some big Australian mob over... the name of an apple. Turns out Stirling Distillery recently launched a new Pink Lady gin. Fairly innocuous, you would think. The name stems from a famous Stirling legend, The Pink Lady, a young noblewoman who died defending Stirling castle in the siege of 1304. The distillery then received a letter from Apple and Pear Australia Ltd (APAL) threatening legal action against them. Why? Well, APAL apparently owns the Pink Lady trademark and takes a dim view of people using the term without a licence (and, presumably, paying a hefty fee). While hardly an expert on trademark law, UTC did know that registered trademarks tend to be issued for use within a specific trading sector – in this case, ‘apples’. Or maybe the wider-ranging ‘fruit’. Which begs the question, why does a big Australian company feel threatened by a gin made by a tiny Scottish distillery? As these things tend to work out, the distillery chose to rename and rebrand the gin (at significant cost) rather than face a lengthy legal battle. The auld boy has vowed never to eat another Pink Lady apple as long as he lives. Which might not be very long, considering the amount of Pink Lady gin he drinks.

SPICE UP YOUR VALENTINE’S RANGE It will surprise absolutely no-one that Valentine’s Day is far from the highlight of Mrs UTC’s year. If she gets anything at all on 14 February, it’s a naff card and a bunch of past-theirbest flowers from the old yin’s local forecourt. So imagine the mirth on that wizened old face when he stumbled across a range of slightly more, ahem, risqué Valentine’s cards from a company called Thortful. Mind you, some of them are a bit close to the bone, even for UTC’s fairly liberal tastes... 62

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The Scottish Retail Food & Drink Awards

‘A growing number of shoppers are turning to local products during lockdown. Get noticed by entering your products and be in with a chance of winning a listing in retail outlets across Scotland including our Small Producer Partner SPAR Scotland’s stores.’ SPONSORS Small Producer Sponsor

Scottish Grocers’ Federation

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Entry deadline Friday 26 Feb 2021 Awards presentations take place April 2021. Full information & entry online www.scottishretailfoodanddrinkawards.com Follow us on Twitter @ScottishRFD

BIGGER ON THE OUTSIDE SOFTER ON THE INSIDE

• Skittles Giants are softer and 3x bigger! • Brand New Texture Innovation! • Giants will build on the success of Skittles Chewies, which is the best performing NPD in the FC category since launch! *Nielsen Value Sales October 2019