RETAIL THE WEEK IN
ACCESS TO CASH
EASY MONEY
GOVERNMENT UNVEILS POWERS TO PROTECT ACCESS TO CASH FOOD-TO-GO
BIGGER SLICE OF THE PIE INDIES NOT GETTING THEIR SHARE OF FOOD-TO-GO GROWTH
● BESTWAY’S £250,000 JUBILEE CAMPAIGN
●
NISA LOCAL OPENS NEAR CHELTENHAM
● DIAGEO PARTNERS
SAFETY
MONKEY TALK
WITH LGBTQ+ MUSEUM
MONKEYPOX GUIDANCE ISSUED AS CASES RISE
+
RIES LKING DELIVE A W H C N U A L O ARKET T FIRST SUPERM E M O C E B O T P CO O
Brought to you by:
Commercial Partner:
Issue 106 Wednesday 25th May 2022
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T H E W E E K I N R E TA I L
EDITOR’S COMMENT
Cash in hand Finally, after years of campaigning by trade associations, consumer groups, and retailers, the government has announced new legislation to protect cash withdrawal and deposit facilities, to ensure financial inclusion for millions of people across the UK. Up until now measures to protect cash were only voluntary and there was nothing to prevent individual banks from withdrawing from them at any point. Never has this legislation been more important, as recent research by consumer group Which? revealed around 15 million regular cash users say it helps them to keep track of their spending, which will be crucial during this cost-of-living crisis. Those most likely to use cash were people in the lowest income households, according to the research. More than a third (34%) of respondents whose annual income was lower than £20,000 found cash, on its own or alongside other payment methods, easiest to budget with, compared to 24% of people earning between £40,001 and £60,000. In addition, the survey indicates that the rising cost of living could mean more people who do not usually use cash will turn to it to manage their finances. A fifth (20%) of non-regular cash users also said they would start using cash if the cost-ofliving crisis gets worse. However, just as cash becomes an increasingly important tool for people managing on ever-tighter budgets, communities are seeing their access to
cash dwindle, with 4,685 bank branches closing since 2015, and 12,178 free-to-use ATMs vanishing since 2018. The powers set out by the government would see the UK’s largest banks and building societies subject to new Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) powers to ensure the continued availability of withdrawal and deposit facilities in local communities across the UK. The measures will be legislated for in the upcoming Financial Services and Markets Bill. The FCA’s powers will allow it to address cash access issues at both a national and local level. To support the FCA, the government will set out its expectations for a reasonable distance for people to travel when depositing and withdrawing cash. This will reflect the existing spread of cash withdrawal and deposit facilities in the UK. And more good news is anticipated later this year, when ministers are expected to come forward with proposals to ensure people can deposit it without travelling an unreasonable distance.
LIZ WELLS, DEPUTY EDITOR
WEDNESDAY 25TH MAY 2022/ ISSUE 106 / SLRMAG.CO.UK I 3
CONTENTS
WEDNESDAY 25 MAY 2022 / ISSUE 106
6
10
22
THIS WEEK’S NEWS
COVER STORY
COMMUNITY
Electric vehicle uptake more than doubles in the north of England, and new figures demonstrate the need for shopworker protection legislation.
The government sets out new powers in the upcoming Financial Services and Markets Bill to protect access to cash for millions of people.
Spar Torry, in Aberdeen, gets revamped by the winner of a competition for local primary schoolchildren.
9
News special: monkeypox
17 Food-to-go
24 Wholesalers
The UK Health Security Agency issues
Independent convenience stores are not
Bestway launches a major promotional
guidance for monkeypox as cases rise
getting their share of food-to-go growth,
campaign for the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee
across the UK.
says TWC and MealTrak.
across all its depots, representing an
13 Store openings
20 Business intelligence
A new Nisa Local opens near the UK’s
UK supermarket sales fell in recent weeks,
intelligence, security and cyber agency in
while grocery inflation accelerated to the
Cheltenham.
highest level since May 2009, according to
14 Cost of living Soaring inflation is putting household
new Kantar data. 21 Grocery
finances under increasing pressure,
Research from consumer champion
according to the latest data.
Which? reveals that hundreds of grocery
15 Consumer confidence The GfK Consumer Confidence Barometer sinks to its lowest-ever score. 16 Retail sales
prices have soared by more than 20% in two years.
25 Picks of the week A look at the latest new products and marketing campaigns. 34 Out the box: quick convenience The Co-op expands its ‘quick convenience’ concept with the launch of walking deliveries and an increased use of robots. 37 Before you go... Our latest Retail Randoms.
23 Community James Hall & Co marks National
Alcohol and tobacco sales gave retailers
Vegetarian Week with several educational
an unexpected boost in April, says the
talks in primary schools around the north of
Office for National Statistics.
England.
TWITTER.COM/SLRMAG
investment of more than £250,000.
WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/SLRMAG
WWW.SLRMAG.CO.UK
WEDNESDAY 25TH MAY 2022/ ISSUE 106 / SLRMAG.CO.UK I 5
NEWS DIGEST
THIS WEEK’S NEWS FOR ALL THE LATEST NEWS, HEAD TO WWW.SLRMAG.CO.UK/CATEGORY/NEWS/
SUPERMARKETS TRIAL ECO-LABELS Co-op, Morrisons, Sainsbury’s and Tesco are to trial environmental labels in a
TRANSPORT
EV registrations double in north Transport Secretary Grant Shapps reports that sales of electric vehicles have reached an all-time high.
virtual reality setting, as the food industry moves towards a harmonised environmental labelling scheme. The trials are the latest phase of a workstream kicked off by IGD at the end of last year.
MADL WINS NEW AWARD Nisa’s Making a Difference Locally (MADL) charity has won its second award in as many weeks. After success at the Better Society Awards, which saw MADL take the National Commitment to the Community Award, it won the Corporate Foundation Award at the Business Charity Awards.
BLUE LIGHT SAVING BACK Asda is to reinstate its offer of 10% off in stores to Blue Light Card holders. Workers in the NHS, emergency services, social services, social care sector, and armed forces will be able to access a 10% discount in all Asda’s stores across the UK when they present their card.
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Electric vehicle uptake has more than doubled in the north of England, with EV registration numbers in the area rising to 74,677 in 2021, according to new government figures. The statistics were released by the Department for Transport ahead of a meeting between Transport Secretary Grant Shapps and northern leaders and mayors, part of the Northern Transport Acceleration Council, to discuss green
transport innovation and the government’s mission to build strong infrastructure, transport links and economic growth in regions across the nation. Shapps discussed the government’s recently published Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Strategy, which is backed by £1.6bn funding, to boost on-street EV charging by tenfold and eradicate so-called ‘range anxiety’ across the UK. He said: “With a £2.5bn cash injection, the UK continues to be a global frontrunner in the switch to electric vehicles – helping drivers to save money on fuel while moving towards our net-zero targets. “I’m pleased to be meeting with colleagues today to ensure the north of England has the support it needs for an emission-free transport future, as we clean up our air and support green jobs across the nation.”
Freight to be ‘prioritised’ during rail strikes Transport Secretary Grant Shapps has confirmed that freight traffic would be prioritised ahead of passenger trains during industrial action by rail staff, to ensure that shelves are kept stocked. Earlier this week, members of the National Union of Rail, Maritime and Transport Workers voted in favour of national strike action, with strikes to be scheduled across June, and are set
to cause major disruption to the UK transport network. Petrol deliveries and supplies to power plants would also be severely disrupted by the proposed strikes. Shapps told Sky News: “Freight and distribution and the supply train are absolutely critical… making sure that distribution both of energy and food nationally takes place is very important and of course we’ll prioritise that.”
NEWS DIGEST
THIS WEEK’S NEWS FOR ALL THE LATEST NEWS, HEAD TO WWW.SLRMAG.CO.UK/CATEGORY/NEWS/
CRIME
Figures demonstrate need for shopworker protection legislation
There were 675 common assaults and 984 cases of threat and abuse reported to Police Scotland in the six months after the Protection of Workers Act was introduced.
ACS GIVES SALES TAX EVIDENCE ACS has submitted evidence to the government’s consultation on the development of an online sales tax, calling for a reduction in business rates
More than 1,600 cases of shop worker abuse were reported to Police Scotland in the first six months after the Protection of Workers (Retail and Age Restricted Goods and Services) Act came into effect in August 2021. Figures released by the Scottish Retail Consortium and compiled by the Scottish Business Resilience Centre show six serious assaults were reported, 675 common assaults, and 984 cases of threat and abuse. The research also shows in 58% of cases the report was detected by Police Scotland following the initial report. These figures also show that cases of abuse rose consistently up to December, before falling back slightly in the first two months of the year, coinciding with peak trading for the industry.
for retail properties. In its submission, ACS highlights that physical stores are at a tax disadvantage compared to their online counterparts.
Ewan MacDonald-Russell, SRC Head of Policy, said: “This new law provides a new mechanism to hold to account and punish the transgressors whilst making it much more straightforward to measure this problem. As the months move forward this data will help to assess if Police Scotland have the right resources in place to ensure they are able to deal with this unacceptable blight upon our communities.”
Nisa Sales Director Steve Leach steps down Nisa Sales Director, Steve Leach, has decided to leave the business to explore new opportunities. Leach, who joined Nisa in January 2014, played an important role in devising and implementing the symbol group’s partner recruitment strategy. Leach said: “I have very much enjoyed being part of the Nisa team and helping to build something we can
all be proud of. I am looking forward to taking some time out, ahead of seeking a senior role that will enable me to step up to new leadership challenges.” In response, Nisa Chief Executive Michael Fletcher, said: “Steve has always provided great support to all Nisa partners and colleagues, and leaves with our thanks for all the hard work, dedication and expertise he has brought to Nisa.”
SUPERMARKETS STICK TO HFSS TIMELINE Tesco and Sainsbury’s are to go ahead with the ban on volume-led promotions from October, despite the government delaying official restrictions on promotions until October 2023, as part of measures to mitigate the ongoing cost-of-living crisis.
ICELAND OFFERS OLDER PEOPLE DISCOUNT Iceland is giving over-60s a 10% discount on their groceries every Tuesday with no minimum spend. The retailer is also exploring a national rollout of £30 vouchers to those receiving state pension, following a regional trial over Christmas.
WEDNESDAY 25TH MAY 2022/ ISSUE 106 / SLRMAG.CO.UK I 7
Spring is the season of
GROWTH
for Mr Wintermans’ profits When the sun’s out so are Henri Wintermans smokers. Stock up now to profit from the spring trade.
Visit us online to learn more
For the information of tobacco traders only
stgtrade.co.uk
NEWS SPECIAL
MONKEYPOX
M&S MARKS END OF LATEST HACKATHON
Monkeypox high-risk contacts told to isolate
Marks & Spencer has marked the completion of
UK Health Security Agency has issued guidance for monkeypox as cases rise across the UK.
its fifth 24-hour Hackathon, supported by the retailer’s Beam Academy. The event saw more than 200 staff come together to develop digital and data solutions to “real M&S opportunities”. Sharon Peters, Head of Technology - Corporate Functions, said on LinkedIn: “This team has created an
virus spreads through close contact, we are urging everyone to be aware of any unusual rashes or lesions and to contact a sexual health service if they have any symptoms. “A notable proportion of recent cases in the UK and Europe have been found in gay and bisexual men so we are particularly encouraging these men to be alert to the symptoms.” In addition, UKHSA has purchased supplies of a safe smallpox vaccine (called Imvanex) and this is being offered to identified close contacts of someone diagnosed with monkeypox to reduce the risk of symptomatic infection and severe illness.
“All the team played more than their part. We all laughed, and we all created memories. But the
TECH SOLUTIONS
C
lose high-risk contacts of those with monkeypox must self-isolate for three weeks under new guidance issued by the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA). With the number of cases in England having reached 56 with one in Scotland, officials are now advising those have been at risk of having caught the infection to self-isolate for 21 days. This includes no travel, providing details for contact tracing and avoiding direct contact with immunosuppressed people, pregnant women and children under 12. Dr Susan Hopkins, Chief Medical Adviser at UKHSA, said: “Because the
enabler for change.
best part – we will be now creating sustained change for M&S – powered through technology.” The Beam Academy was hailed as “the world’s first ever data science and AI academy in retail”, having been launched in collaboration with education provider Cambridge Spark.
WEDNESDAY 25TH MAY 2022/ ISSUE 106 / SLRMAG.CO.UK I 9
C OV E R S T O RY
ACCESS TO CASH
Easy money The government has set out new powers to protect access to cash for millions of people across the UK.
T
he UK’s largest banks and building societies will now be subject to new Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) powers to ensure the continued availability of withdrawal and deposit facilities in local communities across the UK, under new rules set out by the government. The measures will be legislated for in the upcoming Financial Services and Markets Bill. Under the new regulations, the FCA will be granted new powers over the UK’s largest banks and building societies, to ensure that cash withdrawal and deposit facilities are available in communities across the country. The FCA’s powers will allow it to address cash access issues at both a national and local level. To support the FCA, the government will set out its expectations for a reasonable distance for people to travel when depositing and withdrawing cash. This, it said, will reflect the existing spread of cash withdrawal and deposit facilities in the UK. Economic Secretary, John Glen, said: “Millions of people across the UK still rely on cash, particularly those in vulnerable groups, and today we are delivering on our promise to ensure access to cash is protected in communities across the country. I want to make sure that people are still able to use cash as part of their daily lives, and it’s crucial to ensure that no person nor community across the UK is left behind as we embrace a more digital world.”
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T
he news has been welcomed by the Association of Convenience Stores. Findings from ACS’ 2021 Local Shop Report show that consumers think that two of the most valuable services offered in convenience stores are cash machines and the Post Office. ACS Chief Executive, James Lowman, said: “We welcome further detail on the how the Treasury plan to legislate for access to cash and delivery of a flexible criteria for cash provision between urban and rural areas. “Cash is still an incredibly important way of paying for goods and managing money for millions of people, and convenience stores play an increasingly important role in being often the only provider of ATM services locally. One of the most effective ways to promote access to cash would be to ensure banks provide adequate funding for a viable ATM network, yet this has been cut in recent years.”
Consumer group Which? said it was good to see the government acting and giving the FCA powers to protect the millions of people for whom cash remains a vital lifeline. Rocio Concha, the group’s Director of Policy and Advocacy, said: “The sheer scale of cuts to the UK’s ATM and bank branch networks in recent years has seriously eroded access to cash for consumers and communities around the country. “The Treasury’s proposal to base reasonable access to cash on geographical distances is a decent starting point, but this can often be a blunt tool, so the FCA must fully consider a wide range of factors when determining a local community’s access to cash needs.”
T
he news has also been welcomed by the UK’s main ATM machine network LINK. Its Chief Executive, John Howells, said: “We are pleased that the government recognises that protecting access to cash is vital. We know that consumers are becoming increasingly digital and using alternatives to cash, but there are still 10 million people who rely on cash. “A great deal of progress has been achieved by the banking industry over the past couple of years, in which LINK has played a critical role. This is good news for any community in the future as we continue to protect access to cash services and we look forward to seeing the details of the Bill in due course.”
“It’s crucial to ensure that no person nor community across the UK is left behind as we embrace a more digital world”
S TO R E O P E N I N G S
NISA
Checking in at Cheltenham
A new Nisa Local has opened just near the UK’s intelligence, security and cyber agency in Gloucestershire.
R
etailer Kishore Samanathy has invested in a former Spar near Cheltenham, in Gloucestershire, and opened it as a Nisa Local. The convenience store in Benhall Avenue now features F’real, Skwishee, and Costa Coffee machines, as well as a Bake and Bite section. Located in a heavily populated residential area and just a couple of streets away from GCHQ – the UK’s intelligence, security, and cyber agency – the potential footfall is substantial and something owner Samanathy plans to make the most of. “Basket spend is steadily increasing and we’re seeing new faces coming in, and many are becoming regular shoppers,” he said.
When he took on the store it was unoccupied and had been empty for a couple of months but the interior was in great condition, meaning minimal work was required to bring it back to life and re-launch as a fully functioning convenience store.
Having been closed for several months, Samanathy says the challenge now is to get customers back through the door and show off what is on offer that was not available under the previous ownership. “We have a much better range here now than what was available before and gradually we’re getting shoppers returning and the feedback we’re getting is really good,” he said. A strong Co-op own brand presence is winning customers over as are the new services and Samanathy is confident that sales will continue to grow. “The Co-op range is definitely something they enjoy – it’s good quality and the taste is great, and the products are bringing my customers in.”
WEDNESDAY 25TH MAY 2022/ ISSUE 106 / SLRMAG.CO.UK I 13
BUSINESS INTELLIGENCE
COST OF LIVING TRACKER
Rising in cost of living crisis hits discretionary income Research shows more than a quarter of consumers say that they currently “just about manage” and nearly a third say that they are “a little concerned” about their current financial situation.
I
nflation at all-time highs outpacing pay growth is putting household finances under increasing pressure, according to the latest data from Retail Economics-HyperJar. The Retail Economics-HyperJar Cost of Living Tracker shows that the rising cost-of-living crisis has seen levels of discretionary income – how much households have left after paying for all essentials – among the least affluent UK households face severe decline, plummeting by 12.3% in April. This is the equivalent of £59 per month less cash available to spend on non-essential items.
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The average household saw their spare cash fall by 8.1% year-on-year, leaving them with £83 less to spend on discretionary items in April. Across the economy, this is likely to have wiped out around £2.3bn worth of income for non-essentials throughout the month. The research shows that more than a quarter of consumers already say that they currently “just about manage” and nearly a third say that they are “a little concerned” about their current financial situation. This is even before the costof-living crisis gains full momentum. Richard Lim, Chief Executive of Retail Economics, said: “The country is
witnessing an enormous income shock with the least affluent families anchored at the epicentre. With inflation nearing double digits, life has turned extremely uncomfortable for many households. “The most disadvantaged families are facing genuine trade-offs between what essentials to buy. There’s only so much cutting back and shopping around that can be done.” Mat Megens, HyperJar boss, added: “Many of us have never lived through a period of high inflation and it shows. Individuals can’t control this surround-sound of uncertainty, but we can control what we spend and where .”
BUSINESS INTELLIGENCE
CONSUMER CONFIDENCE
Consumer confidence hits new low Consumer confidence is now weaker than in the darkest days of the global banking crisis, the impact of Brexit on the economy, or the Covid shutdown.
C
onsumer confidence decreased two points to -40 in May, the lowest score since records began in 1974. GfK’s long-running Consumer Confidence Index, which was conducted among a sample of 2,000 individuals aged 16 years and over, found four measures of confidence were down in comparison to the 22 April announcement and one was up. Joe Staton, Client Strategy Director at GfK, said: “The GfK Consumer Confidence Barometer recorded a headline score of -40 in May, the worst since our records began in 1974. This comes as UK unemployment hits a 50-year low with vacancies outnumbering job seekers for the first time, and inflation peaking at a 40-year high driven by soaring food and fuel bills. “May’s result is one point lower than the previous record set in July 2008 when the headline score plunged to -39. This means consumer confidence is now weaker than in the darkest days of the global banking crisis, the impact of Brexit on the economy, or the Covid shutdown. “Consumer pessimism is most evident in depressed sub-measures on the general economy at -63 for the past year and -56 for the coming year. The Major Purchase Index has decreased for each
of the past six months and is now at -35, reflecting the latest dismal set of retail sales figures. “Even the Bank of England is pessimistic, with Governor Andrew Bailey
this week offering no hope of tackling inflation. The outlook for consumer confidence is gloomy, and nothing on the economic horizon shows a reason for optimism any time soon.”
WEDNESDAY 25TH MAY 2022/ ISSUE 106 / SLRMAG.CO.UK I 15
BUSINESS INTELLIGENCE
OFFICE FOR NATIONAL STATISTICS
Alcohol and tobacco sales boost retailers New data shows sales of alcohol, tobacco, and sweet treats were the main drivers behind an unexpected rise in sales in April.
O
verall UK retail sales rose in April, particularly at off-licences, according to new figures from the Office for National Statistics. The data reveals that sales volumes increased by 1.4% in April, following a fall of 1.2% in March, despite the rising cost-of-living hitting household budgets. Over the three months to the end of April, sales overall edged down by 0.3%, which revealed a longer downward trend, the ONS said. Heather Bovill, the ONS Deputy Director for surveys and economic
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indicators, said: “Retail sales picked up in April after last month’s fall. However, these figures still show a continued longer term downward trend. “April’s rise was driven by an increase in supermarket sales, led by alcohol and tobacco and sweet treats, with off-licences also reporting a boost, possibly due to people staying in more to save money. In response, Oliver Vernon-Harcourt, Head of Retail at Deloitte, said: “Despite expectations, the arrival of April’s warmer weather and the first bank holiday barbecues of the year have fired up retail
sales, as both values and volumes rose by 1.9% and 1.4% respectively, driven by food sales and the first Easter free of Covid-19 restrictions.” Silvia Rindone, EY UK&I Retail Lead, added: “Consumers are now making more considered decisions about how to spend their money as a result of the squeeze on their finances. We expect significant ‘trading down’ to ‘own-label’ brands, repeating what we saw in the 2008-9 financial crisis, but we also expect an increasing focus on ‘value for money’ options as sustainability-conscious consumers look for purchases that will last.”
BUSINESS INTELLIGENCE
FOOD-TO-GO
Independents not getting their share of food-to-go growth TWC says this is the ideal time for retailers to review their food-to-go range in line with what’s happening in the market to maximise this opportunity.
W
holesale experts TWC and food-to-go and out-of-home tracking programme MealTrak have reported that the food-to-go market has grown by 9% year-on-year in value in independent convenience stores in the latest 12 weeks. However, the total market across all channels has grown by 31% over the same period and total grocery retail outlets have grown at an even more impressive 51%. This has been driven by a particularly strong performance for both discounters (+81%) and multiple convenience stores (+63%). TWC says this suggests that independent convenience stores are not getting their ‘fair share’ of food-to-go growth.
Tom Fender, Development Director at TWC, said: “It was understandable that many retailers opted to scale back their food-to-go offer at that time as consumers weren’t commuting or getting out and about very much, rather they were preparing most of their meals at home. But what we have seen in the last few months is the rapid return of consumers eating food-to-go again. “We all know the discounters have been attracting new shoppers as well as benefiting from returning lapsed shoppers. This always happens during economically challenging times. But discounters are not renowned for selling food-to-go items, so this should be a
slight warning to local convenience operators that discounters are now competing on this mission too.” He added: “This is the ideal time for independent retailers to review their food-to-go range in line with what’s happening in the market to maximise this opportunity. This will include in-store fixtures and ranging as well as external comms. “Now is the time to grab food-to-go sales. Whilst many consumers are tightening their belts, food-to-go is more insulated due to its lower-ticket nature versus other eating out occasions – and it also offers respectable margins for retailers.”
WEDNESDAY 25TH MAY 2022/ ISSUE 106 / SLRMAG.CO.UK I 17
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BUSINESS INTELLIGENCE
KANTAR
UK sees highest grocery price inflation since 2009
Despite the rising prices, Kantar predicts supermarket sales will be boosted by the upcoming Platinum Jubilee weekend.
U
K supermarket sales have fallen in recent weeks, while grocery inflation accelerated to the highest level since May 2009, according to new data from Kantar. The figures reveal that UK grocery sales fell by 4.4% to £29.91bn in the 12 weeks to 15 May. However, the sales decline eased in the closing weeks of the survey. Kantar said: “Sales declined more softly over the past month and dipped by just 1.7%, the market’s best performance
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since Christmas as the nation looks ahead to the Platinum Jubilee weekend. “Despite the squeeze on budgets, the Platinum Jubilee is expected to bring with it bumper supermarket sales. Alcohol, soft drinks, barbecue foods, and desserts are all predicted to be particularly popular over the long weekend.” Kantar noted that the Diamond Jubilee in 2012 saw a 10% boost in supermarket sales leading up to the festivities. The figures also highlighted the soaring inflation UK consumers are facing.
For the full 12 weeks, grocery inflation stood at 5.7%, accelerating from 4.8% in the 12 weeks to 17 April. During the past four weeks alone, grocery inflation raced to 7.0%, the highest level since May 2009. Kantar analyst Fraser McKevitt said: “To put the most recent numbers into context, if you were picking up supplies for a family fry-up over the long weekend with toast, eggs, sausages, bacon and beans, it would cost you £6.83 – that’s a significant 40p increase on last year.”
BUSINESS INTELLIGENCE
GROCERY PRICES
Hundreds of prices soar more than 20% in two years Which? research reveals that fizzy drinks have had the biggest average price rises over the past two years at 5.9%.
P
rice hikes of more than 20% on hundreds of popular items are putting increasing pressure on household budgets, while Which? research suggests a decline in availability of supermarket discounts and budget ranges compared with two years ago as the cost-of-living crisis continues to bite. The consumer champion, which analysed the prices of more than 21,000 groceries across two years, found that the price of 265 groceries shot up by more than a fifth over the past two years. Across the 20 categories of groceries Which? looked at, fizzy drinks had the biggest average price rises, at 5.9%, followed by butters and spreads (4.9%), energy drinks (4.8%), and milk (4.6%). Groceries which saw the lowest inflation included chocolate (1.4%), fresh
fruit (1.6%), biscuits (1.8%), and vegetables (1.9%). Which? has also found that over the past two years, there have been fewer discounts, smaller products at the same price, and limited availability of own-label budget ranges at different supermarkets. The number of promotions has reduced across every one of the 20 categories of popular-selling groceries the consumer champion looked at – the number of discounts on bottled water was down 14.7%, vegetables down 11%, and energy drinks down 10.8%. The size of the savings offered in promotions that did still happen had also been cut in three-quarters of the
categories. This was most pronounced for butters and spreads, where the size of savings was reduced by 3.6% across the two-year period, followed by vegetables (3.5%), and crisps (2.9%). The research also found that ownbrand ranges had the lowest level of inflation at just 0.2%, standard ranges rose in price by 2.8%, and the highest inflation was seen in own-label premium ranges which saw 3.2% inflation over two years. However, own-brand items were out of stock on three times as many days during the most recent three-month period, compared to two years previously. Ownbrand cheese was out of stock the most of all the 20 products categories Which? looked at.
WEDNESDAY 25TH MAY 2022/ ISSUE 106 / SLRMAG.CO.UK I 21
COMMUNITY
SPAR SCOTLAND
Spar Torry allows young designers to revamp store The winning design features the slogan ‘no matter if you’re near or far, come to your local Spar’.
S
par Torry, in Aberdeen, has been given a makeover, after it invited local young designers to give the internal front-of-store wall a fresh look. The Spar retailer offered the winner a £100 Spar gift voucher and for their design to hang in the store. The winning design by Leyla Paterson, aged 9, measures 2640mm by 5280mm in size and incorporates the store’s passion for Scotland and brands available in-store.
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Garry Brailsford, Area Manager for Spar Scotland, said: “We had a lot of entries, and we are delighted that Leyla’s picture got chosen. We loved her slogan ‘no matter if you’re near or far, come to your local Spar’.” He added: “It is always exciting to see what our customers think of our stores and by using designs from local school children to revamp the front of store area, it has allowed us to connect our store to our local community in
Aberdeen, as well as showcasing Leyla’s amazing talent.” Leyla said: “I saw posters on my board and school primary website about the competition and I thought it looked quite cool, so I tried it out. I love drawing and I am always doing something at school or home whenever I get the time. I was so happy and surprised when I heard I had won. I enjoyed spending my prizemoney on treats for my mum, toys for my brother, and loads of snacks.”
COMMUNITY
JAMES HALL & CO
James Hall & Co celebrates National Vegetarian Week The Spar wholesaler delivered educational talks and fruit at several of its local primary schools.
C
hildren at primary schools in Cumbria and Lancashire learned about fresh food and the importance of a balanced diet during Spar’s National Vegetarian Week celebrations. Wilf Whittle, Fresh Food Trading Manager at Spar UK’s North of England wholesaler and distributor James Hall & Co, was out and about delivering educational talks to children. He visited Longtown Primary School in Cumbria, and Sherwood Primary School and Eldon Primary School, both in Lancashire. Whittle shared facts and figures with children on a range of fresh produce during a series of special interactive assemblies and handed out a variety of fresh fruit including apples, satsumas, pears, and bananas. He also highlighted several healthier and better value lunchbox alternatives to children and donated Spar vouchers to the pupils to encourage spending on fresh products in-store. James Hall & Co owns and services two Spar stores in Longtown to support the rural community in and around the Cumbrian market town, while Spar has 35 stores in Preston postcode areas that are integral to communities in the city and the towns and villages in its surrounding areas. The visits by Whittle have been in line with two of Spar’s key brand pillars
– Nurturing Our Neighbourhoods and Passionate About Local. Whittle said: “Fresh food is my absolute passion, and I was delighted to visit the children at schools in Cumbria and Lancashire to interact with them during one of my favourite weeks of the year – National Vegetarian Week. “The enthusiasm the children had for fresh food was great to see, and they had very good knowledge of fresh foods generally, which was exceptionally pleasing.” He added: “After two years where
we have not been able to get out into the communities we serve across the North of England, it was fantastic to be welcomed so warmly into the schools.”
WEDNESDAY 25TH MAY 2022/ ISSUE 106 / SLRMAG.CO.UK I 23
WHOLESALE
BESTWAY WHOLESALE
Bestway invests £250,000 in Jubilee campaign
Large palaces will be opening in Bestway’s depots across the country offering special products and retailer promotions.
B
estway has launched a major promotional campaign for the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee across all its nationwide depots, representing an investment of more than £250,000. In collaboration with key suppliers, the ‘Majestic Palace’ campaign has been designed to create theatre, fun, and visual appeal. It sees a large, prefabricated palace opening its doors within the main thoroughfare of depots, surrounded by chariots, horseman guards, and the Queen’s ‘Jewels’. There are branded individual rooms in the palace with key product pallets from suppliers including Heineken,
24 I SLRMAG.CO.UK / ISSUE 106 / WEDNESDAY 25TH MAY 2022
Coca-Cola, Britvic, Mars Petcare and Nestlé. There will also be ‘Tobacco Rooms’ with products from Imperial Tobacco, JTI, and Juul. Large digital screens will highlight special products, retailer promotions, and supplier content. The campaign will also be supported by a series of competitions, including best depot display and various supplier competitions. Bestway is also supporting The Queen’s Green Canopy Initiative by inviting suppliers to support retailers by sponsoring the planting of trees in their area. Bestway has confirmed that it will match all donations made by suppliers.
Kenton Burchell, Trading Director at Bestway, said: “We’re looking to create more theatre and excitement in the depot for our cash and carry customers. If we can generate that level of enthusiasm and inspiration with the retailer in depot, then they’ll get behind it in-store, which will help grow their sales.” Burchell added: “The key is having the right product at the right price and having the theatre to bring it to life. These things co-exist. One thing on its own is not going to optimise the opportunity.” The promotion will run until Friday 3 June.
THIS WEEK
NPD AND MEDIA
PICKS OF THE WEEK – FAMOUS GROUSE
FAMOUS GROUSE DIAGEO GOLDEN WONDER CAMPO VIEJO WHITE CLAW GINSTERS MARS WRIGLEY PLUS PICKS
FAMOUS GROUSE LAUNCHES SHERRY CASK FINISH The brand says its new blend has been in development for more than two years.
The Famous Grouse has unveiled Sherry Cask
Grouse plans to support further habitat protection
Finish, a new premium expression of Speyside
projects focusing specifically on the Capercaillie.
malts matured in sherry seasoned, European
Sanele Gwala, Global Senior Brand Manager
oak casks to deliver a blend of rich, warming and
at The Famous Grouse, commented: “The aim
spiced flavours.
was to create a blend that is slightly sweeter but
A permanent addition to The Famous Grouse portfolio, the blend has been in development for
still in keeping with the smooth and distinct DNA of classic Grouse.
over two years and takes its name from the matura-
“Once the blend is in its final stages of matu-
tion process that uses the most premium ex-sherry
ration, which involves the meticulous combination
casks to secure a sweeter balance.
of hand-selected malt and grain whiskies, The
The packaging of Sherry Cask Finish features
Famous Grouse Master Blender does not stop
the Spanish female Capercaillie. It was chosen for
there. The full blend is married in ex-sherry casks
its link to the product’s Spanish sherry heritage and
to further enhance their sweet, rich, and smooth
its vivid orange and red plumage which echoes
characters. The Sherry Cask Finish is a deca-
the deep amber of the liquid itself. Alongside its
dent blend of festive flavours including chocolate,
ongoing support for RSPB Scotland, The Famous
almonds, dried fruits, and sweet spices.”
WEDNESDAY 25TH MAY 2022/ ISSUE 106 / SLRMAG.CO.UK I 25
NPD AND MEDIA
PICKS OF THE WEEK – DIAGEO
DIAGEO PARTNERS WITH UK’S FIRST LGBTQ+ MUSEUM Partnership, ahead of the Pride movement’s 50th anniversary, will see Diageo help fund the setup of the inaugural space and support the museum’s archivists. Diageo, maker of Guinness, Johnnie Walker and
moments into mini-documentaries to educate and
Baileys, has formed a new two-year partnership
inspire, and honour the Pride movement’s 50th
with Queer Britain in London, the UK’s first national
anniversary. The raw footage and materials will also
LGBTQ+ museum.
be donated to the Queer Britain archive.
The first-of-its kind partnership aims to capture
Conor Brown, Chairman of Diageo’s Rainbow
some of the lost LGBTQ+ contributions to history
Network Group at Diageo GB, said: “As part of Dia-
and culture in the UK, creating space for the commu-
geo’s ongoing commitment to creating a fairer, more
nity to find meaningful connections to both past and
inclusive society, we’re honoured to support an archive
present. The partnership will see Diageo provide
that strives to reinforce that all-important sense of
funding to support the setup of the inaugural space
belonging and connection for the community.”
and provide resources to support the museum’s
Joseph Galliano, Co-Founder and Chief Executive
archivists in their mission to grow an archive of
Officer of Queer Britain, added: “Our archives allow us
stories and artefacts.
to bring LGBTQ+ icons, trailblazers, and artefacts out
Diageo archivists will work with Queer Britain to
of the margins and onto centre stage, and our collab-
upskill volunteers and create archive best practices that
oration with Diageo will allow us to take this important
will enable the museum to preserve LGBTQ+ history.
work one step further, ensuring that inclusivity and
The brand has also partnered with filmmaker
intersectionality are consistently at the forefront of
Mark Bleziri who will turn five iconic LGBTQ+
26 I SLRMAG.CO.UK / ISSUE 106 / WEDNESDAY 25TH MAY 2022
everything we do.”
NPD AND MEDIA
PICKS OF THE WEEK – GOLDEN WONDER
GOLDEN WONDER UNVEILS HFSS-COMPLIANT SNACK
The brand’s new Ringos Puffs are already being listed by some multiples and wholesalers.
Golden Wonder has launched Ringos Puffs, a
ories’. For many savoury snacks, reducing fat
new HFSS-compliant snack, which “delivers [the
and salt to meet the guidelines means compro-
brand’s] legendary ‘punch per crunch’”.
mising too much on taste – and consumers will
The Scottish brand says that while HFSS reg-
vote with their feet.
ulations don’t yet apply in Scotland, it is only a
“In some products, however, smart innovation
matter of time until similar restrictions come north
in flavours, recipes and manufacturing can over-
of the border, so it has been getting ahead of the
come this challenge – which is how we’ve created
game by redeveloping some of its products with
Ringos Puffs.”
lower levels of salt and fat.
Ringos Puffs is available now in BBQ and Sweet
Matt Smith, Marketing Director at brand
Chilli flavours in three formats: 20g (RSP 49p), 60g
owner Tayto, says making great-tasting snacks
(£1 PMP) and multipacks of 6 x 16g (RSP £1.50).
that meet the HFSS guidelines is not easy. He
The new product has already secured a number of
explained: “Healthier snacks have a real credibil-
listings in both multiples and wholesalers.
ity challenge, as many consumers don’t believe
The brand is urging retailers to stock up now
that they will taste as good. Health-conscious
and not miss out on the fantastic sales and profits
consumers expect snacks to be ‘worth the cal-
that HFSS-compliant products have to offer.
WEDNESDAY 25TH MAY 2022/ ISSUE 106 / SLRMAG.CO.UK I 27
NPD AND MEDIA
PICKS OF THE WEEK – CAMPO VIEJO
CAMPO VIEJO RETURNS TO THE SMALL SCREEN
The red wine brand’s new campaign captures the spirit of sharing this summer. Red wine brand Campo Viejo has returned to
Viejo portfolio, including its Tempranillo, Reserva,
screens with ‘Decanta La Vida,’ a new campaign
Winemakers’ Blend, Rosé and Blanco SKUs.
which celebrates the Spanish way of life.
Lucy Bearman, Wine Portfolio Director for Per-
The campaign, which captures the spirit of
nod Ricard UK, said: “Campo Viejo is one of the
sharing, went live in May and will run throughout
world’s most-admired brands whilst Spanish wine is
June on video-on-demand, social media, and out-
amongst the top 10 Countries of Origin and holds a
of-home. It will also come to life through a media
8.4% market value share. Passion is at the heart of
partnership with News UK, which includes Virgin
our brand, and we’re delighted to once again inspire
Radio, to encourage consumers to share a bottle
consumers to live life spontaneously, passionately,
with friends and family over the summer season
more expressively: learning to enjoy the small things
at various events.
in life, the simpler, more intimate moments.”
The 20-second digital creative sees six friends
Campo Viejo has recently been awarded five
in their 20s, 30s, and 40s gathering around a table
medals at the Global Rioja Masters 2021, a Silver for
to enjoy a meal and a bottle of Campo Viejo. The
Campo Viejo Garnacha 2020 at the Global Garna-
campaign is set to reach 75% of 25-54-year-old UK
cha Masters 2022, and three stars for Campo Viejo
wine drinkers, highlighting the breadth of the Campo
Winemakers’ Blend at the Harpers Wine Stars 2022.
28 I SLRMAG.CO.UK / ISSUE 106 / WEDNESDAY 25TH MAY 2022
NPD AND MEDIA
PICKS OF THE WEEK – WHITE CLAW
WHITE CLAW MAKES WAVES IN THE FESTIVAL SCENE
The hard seltzer brand will be present at more than 40 festivals across the UK this summer.
Hard seltzer brand White Claw is investing more
Michael Dean, Head Of Marketing at White
than £4m in a multichannel summer strategy, which
Claw, said: “The Better-for-you drinking experience
will see it take over the UK festival season.
was trailblazed by White Claw targeting core Gen
The brand, manufactured by Mark Anthony
Z and Millennials audiences. White Claw doesn’t
Brands International, will be present at London’s
force consumers to choose between having a good
All Points East, Mighty Hoopla and Wide Awake, as
time and maintaining a healthy lifestyle, therefore
well as festivals up and down the country including
festivals made complete sense, we need to be part
Parklife in Manchester, Loves Saves the Day in
of that experience.
Bristol and Boardmasters in Cornwall.
“By supporting a long line-up of local and
White Claw’s two-floor Wave of Summer bar
national festivals, our fans won’t need to com-
will provide a destination where festival-goers can
promise as White Claw will be on hand to offer
socialise and get refreshed with a cold can in hand.
drinkers lighter alternatives that deliver genuine
This year’s bar includes LED festoon interactive
refreshment.”
lighting, 8,000 recycled cans forming a complete
White Claw’s festival line up comes off the back
sensory wave experience, and a new and improved
of the recent debut of the brand’s new global cam-
360° service bar with purpose-built relaxation
paign ‘Bring the Wave’ that celebrates the brand’s
spaces. The brand will also be giving away VIP
mission to bring a new wave of pure optimism to
festival experiences and loads of merch.
the world.
WEDNESDAY 25TH MAY 2022/ ISSUE 106 / SLRMAG.CO.UK I 29
NPD AND MEDIA
PICKS OF THE WEEK – GINSTERS
GINSTERS INVESTS £1.3M IN NEW CAMPAIGN The campaign aims to drive awareness and building an understanding of the brand’s provenance and quality credentials.
Pasty maker Ginsters has invested £1.3m on a
on screens up and down the country. As we look
media campaign that runs throughout May and
forward, we want to find new ways to reacquaint
June. The campaign, which introduces the new
the nation with the Ginsters brand. What better
strapline: ‘Ginsters. From A Land Where Comfort
way than through demonstrating the great taste
Matters’, went live on 19 May.
and warm comforting hug that a Ginsters Cornish
Ginsters’ latest TV ad, aimed at building an
Pasty can provide?”
understanding of the brand’s provenance and
She added: “We understand that as a brand,
quality credentials, runs across channels including
we need to establish a deeper relationship with
the ITV network, Channel 4, Channel 5, and Sky.
UK consumers and continue to create a conscious
The campaign stars the hero of the Ginsters
preference for the Ginsters brand. We want to
range, the Cornish Pasty, and seeks to drive home
show Savoury Pastry consumers why Ginsters is
the importance of quality comfort food when you
the best taste experience, and the difference that
need it most, with a creative that summarises
quality makes.”
Ginsters’ brand identity and Cornish heritage. Emma Stowers, Marketing Director at Ginsters, said: “I’m excited for Ginsters to be back
30 I SLRMAG.CO.UK / ISSUE 106 / WEDNESDAY 25TH MAY 2022
The campaign also features activity at cinemas, social activity, and a selection of out-of-home posters.
NPD AND MEDIA
PICKS OF THE WEEK – MARS WRIGLEY
MARS WRIGLEY LAUNCHES QUARTET OF NON-HFSS TREATS Triple Treat, which consists of more than 75% fruit and nuts, will be available in four variants.
Mars Wrigley has unveiled Triple Treat, a new
products on which they are based – from chewy
chocolate snack that is 100% compliant with
caramel in the malt-infused Mars Triple Treat to
England’s forthcoming HFSS legislation.
the crunchy roasted nuts on the Snickers variant.
High in fibre, and consisting of over 75% fruit
Kerry Cavanaugh, Marketing Director at Mars
and nuts, Triple Treat will be available in four var-
Wrigley UK said: “Triple Treat does exactly what
iants – Snickers, Mars, Galaxy and Bounty.
is says on the tin – it’s packed with a knockout
Forty-gram singles RSP at 80p and will be available from the start of June in Tesco stores, with a wider roll-out later in the summer. Multipacks of 4 x 32g bars (RSP £2) will also be available. Each bar is dipped and drizzled with smooth milk chocolate, and the variants reflect the original
trio of fruit, nuts and our iconic chocolate, and is delightfully delicious to boot. “At Mars Wrigley, we’re thrilled that Brits can now enjoy a great-tasting – and HFSS compliant – Galaxy, Mars, Snickers and Bounty treat. It’s tasty reinvented.”
WEDNESDAY 25TH MAY 2022/ ISSUE 106 / SLRMAG.CO.UK I 31
NPD AND MEDIA
PICKS OF THE WEEK – BOOST DRINKS
BIG CANS FROM BOOST The 500ml can segment is currently the fastest-growing category in energy drinks.
Boost Drinks has launched Juic’d, a new 500ml
Adrian Hipkiss, Marketing and International
canned energy drink range, to tap into the biggest-
Business Director at Boost Drinks, said there was
selling can segment.
a huge demand for a new brand in the 500ml can
The range, which has been developed with 5%
space.
real fruit juice, comes in three flavours: Mango
He said: “Juic’d is jam-packed full of fla-
& Tropical Blitz, Watermelon & Lime Twist, and
vour, with real fruit juice refreshment but at
Pineapple & Guava Punch.
the same great Boost value price point for
Launching to the trade this month, the new range will be available in cases of 12 x 500ml price-marked at £1. Big can sales are booming at the moment, with
consumers. With the cost of living increases, it’s great to be able to launch a new brand in this thriving category and provide more choice for consumers.”
a 28% growth (worth £232m) resulting in the 500ml
The launch will be supported by a cross-chan-
can segment being the fastest-growing category
nel marketing strategy that includes out-of-home,
in energy drinks.
digital, social media, and in-depot activities.
32 I SLRMAG.CO.UK / ISSUE 106 / WEDNESDAY 25TH MAY 2022
PICKS OF THE WEEK
NEW AND CHEWY
PERI PERI BOX
RYE GREATNESS
Mentos and Fanta are making a
Rustlers is expanding its cook-
Speciality Brands is expanding
new chewy sweet, Mentos Fanta.
in-box range with a Peri Peri
its Canadian whisky offering with
The sweet will be launched this
Chicken Tenders Burger (RSP
the addition of Lot No. 40 Dark
summer as a limited edition and
£2.75), to tap into a trend for spic-
Oak from distiller Corby Spirit and
will be sold in 50 countries. The
ier flavours. The product joins
Wine. The drink is twice distilled
Mentos Fanta orange flavour
Rustlers’ existing cook-in-box
then aged in new, lightly charred
will be available in different pack
range, that includes an all-day-
barrels, before being finished in
sizes and supported by a global
breakfast sausage muffin and a
heavily charred American oak
promotion campaign.
cheeseburger.
barrels.
CARAMEL TWIRL
ALCOHOL-FREE
JUBILEE SHIFT
Cadbury is expanding its Twirl
Accolade Wines has unveiled
The Real English Drinks Distillery
range with a new limited-edi-
alcohol-free wine range &Then,
has introduced a limited-edition
tion Caramel flavour. Available
which launches with a Cabernet
Rhubarb & Ginger Colour Chang-
to order from June in cases of
Sauvignon and a Chardonnay.
ing Gin to mark the Queen’s 70th
48 x 43g bars, Cadbury Twirl
Both RSP at £8. The Chardonnay
Jubilee. Showcasing the colour
Caramel (RSP 69p) brings the
boasts a fruits and oak palate,
palette of the Diamond Jubilee,
number-one best-selling choco-
while the Cabernet Sauvignon
the gin transforms from a Union
late flavour to one of the nation’s
offers dark berry fruit characters
Jack Squadron Blue to Royal
favourite confectionery bars.
and hints of oak and spice.
Purple.
WEDNESDAY 25TH MAY 2022/ ISSUE 106 / SLRMAG.CO.UK I 33
NOW THAT’S A
OUT TH
Back to the future
Co-op has unveiled its concept of ‘quick convenience’ as it expands its delivery service.
The Co-op is introducing the next step in its roll-out of what it calls ‘quick convenience’ by becoming the first supermarket to launch walking deliveries and expanding its use of robots.
WHAT’S THE CONCEPT? As the retailer aims to grow its online
34 I SLRMAG.CO.UK / ISSUE 106 / WEDNESDAY 25TH MAY 2022
business in 2022 by a further 50% to £300m, the move is expected to help expand its online services. Following successful trials in Cornwall, walking deliveries will be offered from 200 stores this year to include smaller towns and rural villages, often considered ‘offline’ by other rapid home delivery providers.
What’s more, the retailer is partnering with Starship Technologies to introduce its home delivery robots in Cambridge – following a successful trial in Milton Keynes and Northampton.
WHY WALKING DELIVERIES? Co-op takes pride in its footprint in local communities and that might just
A GOOD IDEA…
HE BOX A new feature from Farmstead reminds you what’s in your refrigerator to reduce food waste.
give it the edge when it comes to this new – yet old – concept. The service is expected to appeal to homes with vulnerable or housebound residents, or parents of young children. The initial trial saw shoppers use the service for top-up shopping, forgotten
items, as well as treats and meals for evenings at home. “Co-op stores across the country are well placed to serve shoppers locally and a key part of our strategy is to develop our ecommerce offer, using the competitive advantage of our store footprint to provide fast home deliveries, click and collect and added services,” Chris Conway, Co-op’s eCommerce Director, said. “We know that as a convenience retailer, the ability to pop into a local Co-op will always be important to customers, but we also know that timepressed shoppers also want flexible options online, and so we continue to work to meet customer needs,
however, and wherever they choose to shop with us.”
AND WHAT ABOUT THE ROBOTS? For those who have been Milton Keynes or Northampton residents, those little R2D2-like robots are a familiar sight by now. It is now quite commonplace and their introduction in Cambridge is bound to bring smiles and confusion in equal measure. The move also supports Cambridgeshire County Council’s environmental agenda which includes a focus on reducing short car journeys and improving air quality in communities.
S E L A S R U O Y P U R E W PO
HIGH CAFFEINE ENERGY DRINK WITH THE INDESC
RIBABLE TASTE OF IRN-BRU
FROM THE N0.1 SCOTTISH GROCERY BRAND *
*Source: Kantar World Panel, Value Sales, Take Home Non-Alcohol Brands, MAT to 06.09.21, Total Scotland
WEDNESDAY 25TH MAY 2022/ ISSUE 106 / SLRMAG.CO.UK I 35
Fort Matilda Industrial Estate, Greenock, Scotland PA16 7QF Tel: +44 (0)1475 721099 www.goldencasket.co.uk
enquiries@goldencasket.co.uk www.millionssweets.co.uk
BEFORE YOU GO
RETAIL RANDOMS
E E L I B U J M U N TAT-I With just over a week until the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee, patriotic punters are spoiled for choice when it comes to commemorative tat, with products at every price point. Samsung’s Platinum Jubilee Fridge Freezer can be yours for only £999, for
example. You’d think it would’ve come in red, white and blue at that price. Amazing ly, the $75 Barbie Signature Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee Doll has already sold out, despite it looking
RUBBERNECKERS We received an email from Jane from China Tianjin Recare Co the other day. This, it must be said, was an unsolicited communication from the company, which has apparently been “specifically and reliably” manufac-
turing latex condoms for more than 25 years. Now, you wouldn’t think there was a great deal of new product development going on in the world of barrier contraception, but Jane was reaching out to tell us about Recare’s latest innovation: wine condoms. To clarify, that’s not
wine-flavoured condoms but condoms for wine.The patented johnnies, which the company says are both “funny and practical,” are deployed as one imagines over the necks of opened bottles and perform the same anti-oxidative function as a traditional wine stopper, albeit in a slightly more snigger-inducing fashion.
more like Helen Mirren than the real deal, while the £12.99 Lego minifigure impressively replicates our monarch’s trademark helmet hair. As does Aldi’s The Queen Kevin the Carrot, which sees the discounter’s much-put-upon vegetable don some lippy and a Chairman Maostyle outfit to grace shelves at £3.99. And if you’re planning a party, look no further than Amazon’s bunting – which showcases Her Majesty’s impressive hat collection. It should be right up your street. Be warned though, it just won’t be very far up your street, costing £12.99 for a miserly three metres.
WEDNESDAY 25TH MAY 2022/ ISSUE 106 / SLRMAG.CO.UK I 37
Let’s create a great recycling experience. The deposit return scheme (DRS) is coming to Scotland. Make it easy with TOMRA.
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