The Week in Retail 107

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FORECOURTS

APPROVED SUPPLIER CERTAS ENERGY AND HENDERSON TECHNOLOGY TEAM UP DEALS

COMPETITION CONCERNS

McCOLL’S TAKEOVER PROBED BY WATCHDOG

● ILLICIT TOBACCO

DEALERS TARGETED IN KENT

STORE REFITS

MEETING NEEDS

COSTCUTTER STORE CELEBRATES 181st YEAR OF TRADING WITH REFIT

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BESTWAY REWARDS RETAILERS

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ND BILEE WEEKE U J R O F A R T X SET TO BUY E HOUSEHOLDS

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Issue 107 Wednesday 1st June 2022

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T H E W E E K I N R E TA I L

EDITOR’S COMMENT

Service with a smile The coming days belong to one woman as the nation comes together to celebrate the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee, which marks her 70-year reign.

NielsenIQ figures show that 20% of UK households expected to buy extra groceries for the Jubilee weekend and it’s estimated that 39 million adults will be doing something to celebrate, while a Co-op report suggests the nation will be celebrating with retro favourites from the 1950s, so it looks set to be a joyous occasion.

The news this week has reminded me that convenience retailers are quite like the Queen, okay you don’t wear crowns and sit on thrones, but you are dedicated to serving your local community. And during hard times, such as the recent pandemic, you were there for your customers like never before.

This week another great story of long service comes from Hertfordshire where Costcutter Codicote has celebrated its 181st year of trading. The store was first opened by Joseph Robarts in 1841 and has been at the heart of the community ever since.

It is currently run by Josie Chamberlin alongside a team, many of whom have been with the retailer for more than 30 years. The store has recently undergone a major refit to meet the changing needs of its customers.

The importance of convenience stores is demonstrated by new figures which show the convenience channel outperformed supermarkets in the four weeks ending 21 May, with a 3.7% growth in sales,

and now accounts for 24% of all FMCG sales. It was also this week highlighted by the ACS in its submission to the Labour Market Enforcement Strategy. The ACS pointed out the importance of the 392,000 jobs provided by the sector and the benefits that those jobs provide to colleagues.

However, very worrying news this week came from The Retail Trust. Its new report found that more than 20% of British retail workers are planning to quit the sector blaming concerns around their finances, rising levels of abuse from customers, and deteriorating mental health coming out of the pandemic.

More than 80% said they have experienced a decline in their mental health in the past year, I’d like to take this moment to remind you that if you need any If you need emotional or financial support this weekend, please call the GroceryAid 24/7 Helpline on 08088 021 122.

Finally, I’d like to wish you all a successful, and if you have time, restful Jubilee Weekend.

LIZ WELLS, DEPUTY EDITOR

WEDNESDAY IST JUNE 2022/ ISSUE 107 / SLRMAG.CO.UK I 3

CONTENTS

WEDNESDAY 1 JUNE 2022 / ISSUE 107

6

12

26

THIS WEEK’S NEWS

COVER STORY

AWARDS

One Stop launches a new Summer campaign across its 900 stores, and Morrisons’ takeover of McColl’s faces an investigation by the CMA.

Certas Energy appoints Henderson Technology as an approved EPoS supplier to its Gulf and Pace forecourt sites.

Bestway Wholesale announces the winners of its Retail Development Awards 2022 at a ceremony at the London Marriott Hotel.

8

Crime

25 Recruitment

Enforcement officers in Kent seize

The ACS calls on the Welsh government to

More than 20% of British retail workers are

thousands of illegal cigarettes and

support local shops.

planning to quit the sector, according to a

hundreds of illicit vapes.

9

18 Business support

19 Newstrade

Retail Trust survey.

Store refits

Moves to cut retailer margins on many

Bestway Wholesale’s Costcutter Codicote

national and regional titles have been

The Co-op summer range launches

store, in Hertfordshire, celebrates its 181st

criticised by the NFRN.

into Nisa stores, with new tastes to help

anniversary.

11 Covid-19 update The latest coronavirus-related news.

16 Advertorial An independent SPAR store and service

21 Grocery sales New NielsenIQ data reveals a change in

27 Symbol groups

celebrate summer and offer value.

30 Picks of the week

shopper behaviour as the convenience

A look at the latest new products and

channel outperforms supermarkets.

marketing campaigns.

22 Jubilee

41 Out the box: pop-up dining

station opens in the small village of

A Co-op report finds the nation set to

Asda tries its hand at a pop-up aiming

Mosstlodoch, Moray.

celebrate the Platinum Jubilee with retro

to bring ‘dining finesse’ and affordability

17 Trade associations The Association of Convenience

favourites from the 1950s.

23 Grocery prices

Stores gives evidence to an All-Party

ONS data shows some of the lowest-

Parliamentary Group on the Future of

priced everyday grocery items have seen

Retail.

increases of more than 15%.

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together.

43 Before you go...

Our latest Retail Randoms.

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WEDNESDAY IST JUNE 2022/ ISSUE 107 / SLRMAG.CO.UK I 5

NEWS DIGEST

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

BRC SEES ATTACKS RISE The British Retail Consortium’s Annual Retail Crime Survey shows that violence and abuse

SYMBOL GROUPS

One Stop’s new Summer Campaign The symbol group has collaborated with several trading partners to offer customers multiple opportunities to win prizes.

against shopworkers more than tripled over the pandemic, in part as a result of Covid restrictions. The number of incidents surged to 1,301 each day in the year to March 2021, from 455 per day a year earlier.

BYE-BYE BAINES John Baines, Trading Director of Unitas Wholesale, has retired after 40 years in the wholesale and retail channels.

The wholesaler says Baines has played a leading role in the buying group since he joined Nisa/Today’s in 1994. Aoife Kenny will officially commence her role as Commercial Director in September 2022.

M&S TACKLES OBESITY M&S Food is partnering with the England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland national football teams, to use the power of football and the influence of some of the UK’s biggest football stars to help families make healthier choices under the campaign banner ‘Eat Well, Play Well’.

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One Stop has launched a new Summer campaign across its 900 stores.

The symbol group will be offering customers the chance to win prizes, along with ‘Great Offers’ and ‘Summer Savings’ across many top brands.

The campaign kicks off today (1 June) and runs until 26 July. The first week sees a ‘Great British Celebration’ where all 900 stores have a British jubilee takeover – decorated with bunting and posters, and offering big promotions.

One Stop has also collaborated with several trading partners to offer customers multiple opportunities to win top prizes including a 4-star family holiday to Portugal, a glamping staycation, and a garden makeover. There will also be a £500 cash giveaway every week throughout the campaign. Customers also can take advantage of a top promotion from the brand which has sponsored that week’s prize, from Blossom Hill White Zinfandel to King Pot Noodle.

The symbol group leads with its ‘Great British Celebration’ campaign during week one and then follow with ‘Great Offers’ across weeks two to eight.

One Stop’s integrated campaign will see promotional activity online, with a dedicated landing page and emails to customers, alongside social media activity and weekly deals.

PayPoint reports ‘positive year’ PayPoint has reported “another positive year” that has seen its pre-tax profit increase by 25% to £45.6m, excluding one-off items, in the year ended 31 March.The company’s net revenues from continuing operations for the year increased by 13.6% to £145.1m.

PayPoint’s UK retail network increased to 28,254 sites, up from 28,067 a year earlier, with 69% in independent retailers and 31% in multiple retail groups.

The company said its home delivery partnership with Snappy Shopper continued to grow, with 269 sites live and positive sales growth.

NEWS DIGEST

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

ACQUISITIONS

McColl’s takeover probed by CMA The competition watchdog could force Morrisons to sell off stores in certain areas if it finds the takeover could lead to higher prices for shoppers.

Morrisons’ £190m takeover of McColl’s is facing an investigation by the UK’s competition watchdog.

McColl’s collapsed into administration at the start of May, putting 16,000 jobs at risk after it was hit by supply chain issues and rising inflation.

The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has issued an initial enforcement order, forcing both Morrisons and McColl’s to continue to compete as they did before while investigators carry out their work.

The CMA will investigate whether the deal could lead to reduced competition and leave shoppers worse off.

The watchdog, which can force Morrisons to sell off stores in certain areas if it finds the takeover could lead to higher prices for shoppers, did not reveal when its decision will be announced.

Sainsbury’s is to invest a further £500m in lowering prices as customer concern over the cost-of-living crisis increases. The supermarket chain is focused on investing on essential items and key household essentials, with “no compromise on quality or sustainability”.

PETROL PRICE HITS NEW RECORD Average petrol prices have

Meanwhile, Smiths News, which was serving 600 McColl’s stores, says it expects its bad debt risk from the administration to be between £3.4m to £4.5m, a reduction on the earlier estimate of £5.6m, which it “took steps to mitigate”. The company continues to supply McColl’s under its new ownership on improved payment terms.

JET strengthens its presence in the south Fuel supply brand JET has revealed that nine Petrocell-owned sites will be joining its network of JET-branded dealer sites.

The sites – currently all Gulf-branded and supplied by Certas Energy – are predominantly located in the south with three in Kent, two in Devon and one in Buckingham.

In addition, two are in East Anglia and one in Staffordshire. Over the

SAINSBURY’S CUTS PRICES

coming months all the sites will be rebranded to JET. Oliver Mueller, Retail Business Manager at Phillips 66, said: “This is an exciting opportunity to introduce the JET brand to new communities.

“With a reputation for great service and great value we are looking forward to working closely with the dealers to increase volume and drive future success.”

reached a new record high of 173.02p a litre after an EU ban on Russian oil imports.

Meanwhile, the average price of diesel is heading towards 190p a litre. The RAC has called on the government to take more action to ease the increasing burden on drivers.

MORRISONS BACKS FARMERS Morrisons is launching a Sustainable Beef and Lamb Scheme to help and financially support farmers working to help the environment. It will offer livestock premiums, green discounts, subsidised audits, and free environmental advice to help and reward farmers for acting sustainably.

WEDNESDAY IST JUNE 2022/ ISSUE 107 / SLRMAG.CO.UK I 7

CRIME

ILLEGAL TOBACCO

Illicit tobacco dealers targeted Officers visited locations in Dover and Thanet over a two-day period as part of the ongoing national initiative to crack down on the illicit trade.

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housands of illegal cigarettes and hundreds of illicit vapes were seized

by Kent Trading Standards and Kent Police in the latest operation to tackle the unlawful tobacco trade in the county.

Officers visited locations in Dover and Thanet over a two-day period as part of the ongoing national initiative to crack down on the illicit trade – Operation CeCe. Working in partnership with HMRC, a multi-agency team visited four retail premises and two private residences and searched two vehicles where, in total, they recovered approximately 15,400 cigarettes, 10kg of hand-rolling tobacco, and 400 illegal vapes.

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In addition, three mobile phones were seized along with a vehicle that had been storing tobacco. One person was arrested for questioning.

Clive Phillips, Operations Manager for Kent County Council Trading Standards, said: “The sale of illicit tobacco brings organised crime into communities and undermines local legitimate businesses. It also makes smoking more affordable for young people and those attempting to quit.

“We will work with our enforcement partners using all available tactics to disrupt this activity and protect the safety and rights of the residents and businesses of Kent.”

Inspector of Dover Community Safety Unit, Paul Barrell, added: “Frequently the cash raised from selling illicit tobacco will be used to fund organised criminal groups as they carry out other illegal activities.

“Our officers have a good local knowledge of the communities they patrol and will regularly work with other agencies to gather information and identify offenders in order to deal with this issue robustly.”

Wendy Martin, Director, National Trading Standards, said: “The trade in illegal tobacco harms local communities and affects honest businesses operating within the law.”

S TO R E R E F I T S

BESTWAY WHOLESALE

Costcutter Codicote celebrates 181 years of trading The Hertfordshire-based retailer celebrated its anniversary with a major refit to meet the changing needs of its customers.

B

estway Wholesale’s Costcutter Codicote store, in Hertfordshire, has celebrated its 181st anniversary.

The store was first opened by Joseph Robarts in 1841 and has been at the heart of the community ever since. Currently run by Josie Chamberlin alongside a team, many of whom have been with the retailer for more than 30 years, the store has been in the hands of the same family for five generations.

To celebrate the anniversary the store opted for a major refit to meet the changing needs of its customers, who can now enjoy a much greater choice

of chilled products, as well as a greater selection of fresh fruit and vegetables.

In addition, there’s now an extensive range of beers, wines, and spirits for customers to choose from. The retailer will soon be hosting regular in-store wine tastings.

The store’s delicatessen offers a wide range of cheeses, charcuterie, and locally sourced products including local sausages and pies. In addition, a bean coffee machine and a slush machine have been installed to ensure the store caters for all members of the family.

The shop opened its doors with the ribbon being cut by 80s pop star and

radio DJ Kim Wilde accompanied by Tony Lutkin; both are familiar local faces in the store.

Store owner Josie Chamberlin said: “It was a truly amazing day with so many of our customers and friends joining us to celebrate our 181st year and our significant refit.

“We were delighted that Kim Wilde was able to join us and carry out the formal opening of our revamped store.

It’s taken lots of hard work to get to where we are, and it was wonderful to celebrate the opening with many of our loyal customers and hopefully we will attract new customers too.”

WEDNESDAY IST JUNE 2022/ ISSUE 107 / SLRMAG.CO.UK I 9

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

COVID-19 UPDATE

UK Covid infections continue to decline

ZAPP OFFERS PERIOD STORE London-based on-demand grocer Zapp has launched

The number of deaths involving coronavirus has also fallen to its lowest level for nine months in England and Wales.

the first dedicated period store.

Zapp will deliver an array of period products – from organic tampons and pads, menstrual cups, liners, treats, hot water bottles, magnesium products and more – within minutes.

In addition, the brand will also donate £2 for every hot water bottle sold to Period Poverty UK, which is eliminating period poverty

infections continue in the right direction across much of the UK, falling to below a million people infected in England for the first time since early December.

“While Scotland and some regions of England saw an uncertain trend in the most recent week, it is too early to say if these uncertain trends mark the end of recent declines, and we will continue to carefully monitor the data.”

In addition, the number of deaths involving coronavirus has fallen to its lowest level for nine months in England and Wales. A total of 547 Covid-related deaths were registered in the seven days to 20 May, according to the ONS. This is down 24% on the previous week.

in Britain’s most deprived communities by 2025.

Zapp also plans to join

TECH SOLUTIONS

C

oronavirus infections in the UK continue to fall, with one in 60 people now affected, according to latest estimates from the Office for National Statistics.

Infections fell in England, Wales and Northern Ireland in the week to 21 May, but changed little in Scotland. That means around one million people have the virus, which is similar to infection levels at the start of December.

The data shows infections in those aged 25-34 were also unchanged, although they fell in all other age groups in England.

Sarah Crofts, from the ONS’s Covid19 Infection Survey, said: “Overall

working towards the goal of

the likes of other retailers like Boots and Asda by scrapping the term ‘intimate care’ to remove the stigma around menstrual cycles.

Silje Renberg Kvaavik, Zapp Catalogue Manager, said: “We’re so happy to be able to extend our ‘need it now’ products to include period products.”

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C OV E R

FORECO

Certas Energy and Hende

The partnership enables Henderson Technology to supply EDGEPoS to ret

C

ertas Energy, the largest fuel supplier to the UK’s independent forecourts, has appointed Henderson Technology as an approved EPoS supplier to its Gulf and Pace sites.

The partnership enables Henderson Technology to supply EDGEPoS to retailer stores branded Gulf and Pace across Scotland, England, and Wales.

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The deal starts immediately and means sites can be supplied over a 60-month lease agreement with no upfront costs.

Henderson Technology’s EDGEPoS covers the three main areas of running a retail business: operational efficiency, security and business development. The company is now supplying EDGEPoS to

more than 725 sites across the UK and Australia. Earlier this year, Henderson Technology launched EDGEPoS Analytics, which provides a remote overview of the data from inside a store.

Darren Nickels, Retail Technology Operations Director for Henderson Technology, said: “We are delighted to have been installing our award-winning

S T O RY

OURTS

erson Technology team up

tailer stores branded Gulf and Pace across England, Scotland, and Wales.

EDGEPoS system with Gulf forecourts since 2019. It has been a successful couple of years, and we look forward to building our network through this partnership.”

Alex Friendship, Head of Business Development Roadside Services at Certas Energy, added: “We work with several forward-thinking forecourt retailers

who are looking to invest in an innovative EPoS system.

“When we looked at Henderson Technology and the EDGEPoS system, we saw these same progressive ideas from the company and the software it provides.

“We undertook a rigorous tender process and were impressed with

Henderson Technology’s technical expertise, market knowledge and support.

“We are delighted to announce EDGEPoS as an approved EPOS supplier for fuel forecourts across our dealer network and I look forward to working alongside the team at Henderson Technology.”

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ER

RS A

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•1947-2022•

E

WO

D

FUL

Y

WE’RE CELEBRATING SO GET THE CRISPS IN!

LOOK OUT FOR OUR EXCITING ON-PACK PROMOTION supported by social, digital and trade activity

DON’T MISS THE SALES & PROFITS PARTY

STOCK UP NOW!

GOLDEN WONDER

75 WONDERFUL YEARS

Golden Wonder is celebrating… so get the crisps in!

This year, Golden Wonder is celebrating 75 years as a much-loved British snacking icon.

T

his year, Golden Wonder is celebrating 75 years as a much-loved British snacking icon. Founded by baker William Alexander in Stockbridge, Edinburgh in 1947, it’s been an unforgettable family favourite ever since.

Matt Smith, Marketing Director at Tayto Group (owners of Golden Wonder) says: “We really felt 75 years of delivering fully-flavoured crisps and snacks is a major milestone worth celebrating – particularly in Scotland where the brand was born. We wanted our devoted consumers to be part of the celebration by giving them just what they want – their favourite flavours in packs that bring back wonderful memories – as well as offering them the opportunity to create some new memories.”

Flavour is at the heart of this year’s anniversary celebrations. Loyal fans recently voted to bring back their all-time favourite flavours. Beef & Onion and Chip Shop Curry will return to the Golden Wonder range this month, initially on a limited edition run, in classic 1970s packs.

Cheese & Onion, Golden Wonder’s flagship flavour which launched in 1962, will also join this heritage range in impulse pack and six-pack multipack formats. Both formats

feature an on-pack promotion to win one of 75 experience vouchers. And there’s also 10% off at experiencedays.co.uk for every entrant.

The on-pack promotion is also running across Golden Wonder’s recently launched £1 crisps range which is performing ahead of expectations.

Golden Wonder’s big anniversary comes at a time of resurgence for the brand – particularly in Scotland. Over one-third of Golden Wonder’s total sales are in Scotland – where they over-trade in symbols and independents.

Matt shares the secret to 75 years of success for the much-loved brand: “Our fans say, ‘I buy Golden Wonder because it tastes better, the flavours are stronger, they are unique.’ The fact we’re still here 75 years after we started is a testament to us making brilliant products. It’s all about flavour for us – we won’t put our names to anything that doesn’t taste great!”

“And we have no plans of stopping! So here’s to another 75 years – or more – of fully-flavoured crisps and snacks with more punch per crunch!”

The promotional packs are available now and the campaign is being promoted across social, digital and trade channels throughout 2022.

Find out more here.

DON’T MISS OUT ON THE PARTY – STOCK UP NOW!

A DV E RTO R I A L

SPAR SCOTLAND

SPAR Mosstlodoch Service Station The forecourt store offers a Post Office, car care section, a wide selection of news and magazines, and a large food-to-go area.

“We are very excited to be able to offer a fantastic new SPAR store and forecourt to the local residents of Mosstlodoch.” - Suraj Thapa

A

SPAR store and service station owned by independent retailer Suraj Thapa opened 30 October 2021 in the small village of Mosstlodoch, Moray in Scotland.

The JET-branded forecourt has six lanes and car parking for 20 cars. The site also provides a car wash, vacuum, and air. The large convenience store employs 10 people who all live locally.

Inside it provides a Post Office, car care section, and a wide selection of news

and magazines. A large foodto-go area including Costa Coffee, Rollover Hot Dogs, Tango Ice Blast and Fwip Ice Cream is available, as well as a hot food-to-go counter.

The store has a huge off-licence section providing an extensive range of spirits and malt whiskies. Paypoint and an ATM are also available for customers to use.

Owner Suraj Thapa said: “We have owned the store for over two years, and

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we are delighted to have transformed it into a fantastic SPAR store.

As well as our huge range of malt whiskies, we are stocking a large range of food-to-go, a larger chill range and also local suppliers like Baxters, Sinclair’s and Murdoch’s. We are very excited to be able to offer a fantastic new SPAR store and forecourt to the local residents of Mosstlodoch and to those driving through this northerly area of Scotland.”

F U T U R E O F R E TA I L

ACS

Vital role of local shops highlighted The trade body told MPs that its members are facing new challenges in light of the cost-of-living crisis and these businesses cannot face these pressures alone.

A

CS has highlighted the security, sustainability and flexibility of local employment in the convenience sector during an All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) on the Future of Retail.

The group serves to provide a forum to engage with interested stakeholders and promote the value of the retail sector in collaboration with industry.

The evidence session, chaired by Liz Twist MP, heard from ACS Chief Executive James Lowman, Retail Trust Head of Wellbeing Cliff Lee, Retail Trust Commercial and Services Director Neil Duffy, EVRi Head of Public Affairs

Helen Barker, and Usdaw Deputy Head of Research and Policy Chris Morris.

The aim of the session was to examine the retail workforce as the sector recovers from previous coronavirus restrictions and adapts to other pressures including the growing cost-ofliving crisis.

During the evidence session, ACS Chief Executive James Lowman, said: “Convenience stores offer local, flexible and secure employment for hundreds of thousands of people in communities across the UK. Local shops acted as a lifeline for their customers throughout the pandemic and demonstrated the

adaptability and resilience of the sector, but our members are now facing new challenges in light of the cost-of-living crisis and these businesses cannot face these pressures alone.

“The Queen’s Speech earlier this month was a missed opportunity to recognise examples of good employment in the sector and to take action to address insecure employment in the gig economy.”

Findings from the 2021 Local Shop Report show that there are almost 400,000 people working in the convenience sector in 2021, 92% of which are on a permanent employment contract.

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BUSINESS SUPPORT

WELSH GOVERNMENT

ACS calls for backing of local shops The trade association has highlighted the measures that the Welsh Government can take to support small businesses at an evidence session.

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he ACS has called on the Welsh Government to support local shops in Wales by helping them to invest in energy efficiency measures, recognising the status of employment in convenience stores, and taking action to ensure that stores can get the deliveries that they need.

At an evidence session taking place as part of the Economy, Trade and Rural Affairs Committee held in the Welsh Parliament, ACS highlighted the measures that the Welsh Government can take to support small businesses during the cost-of-living crisis and wider recovery from the pandemic.

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Speaking during the session, ACS Communications Director Chris Noice said: “Convenience stores in Wales are facing significant pressures at the moment from increased, energy costs, challenges with the cost and frequency of deliveries into stores, difficulties with hiring new colleagues, and rising wholesale prices.

“These retailers can only hold off on passing additional costs on to customers for so long before they have no other option, so it’s essential that the Welsh Government acts to support local shops through targeted interventions that will allow them to reduce the cost of doing

business, and in turn avoid further price hikes for customers.”

Noice added: “We’re urging the Welsh Government to look at ways to support local shops by acting to mitigate the cost of their energy bills, ensuring that the looming return of business rates bills next year does not have a significant negative impact, and finding ways to incentivise businesses that provide sustainable, local, flexible and secure jobs.”

The evidence session also heard from Assistant Director at CBI Wales Leighton Jenkins and Senior Policy Adviser at the Federation of Small Businesses Dr Llŷr ap Gareth.

NEWSTRADE

NFRN

Reach, News UK cut margins The move to cut retailer margins on many national and regional titles has been criticised by the NFRN.

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each and News UK have decided to accompany price rises on many of their national and regional titles with a cut in the percentage margin that retailers receive.

Reach has revealed cover price rises of 10p on a large number of its regional titles, including the South Wales Evening Post, Western Mail, Teesside Gazette, Grimsby Telegraph and Cambridge News, from 30 May. At the same time, the percentage margin that retailers receive will be cut to as low as 16.5% on some of the publications.

In addition, the Monday to Friday editions of the Daily Record will now cost £1, on Saturdays it will cost £1.60,

while the Sunday Mail will rise to £2.30.

The new margin for the Daily Record will be 19.5% on Monday to Friday editions and 19% on the Saturday newspaper. The Sunday Mail margin is being adjusted to 19.5%.

Meanwhile, News UK has revealed that price increases on Monday to Friday, Saturday and Sunday editions of the Sun and Times will take effect from 6 June. Weekday editions of the Sun will rise 10p to 80p, the Saturday edition will increase to £1.10, and the Sunday edition rises to £1.40. The percentage margin on all editions will be cut to 21%.

Weekday editions of The Times will rise 30p to £2.50, the Saturday paper will

cost £3, and the Sunday Times cover price will increase 50p to £3.50. From December 5, the margin of all Times editions will be cut to 20%.

In response, NFRN National President Narinder Randhawa, said: “While each cover price rise does offer some pence per copy increases, this is limited, and Fed members will not see such moves as in the interest of a fair-trading relationship. :I have said it before and will say it again – cover price increases and margin cuts will cause more people to exit from the category when the net percentage margin and volume sold is evaluated against the space it is given.”

WEDNESDAY IST JUNE 2022/ ISSUE 107 / SLRMAG.CO.UK I 19

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BUSINESS INTELLIGENCE

GROCERY SALES

Convenience channel outperforms supermarkets The data highlights the change in consumer behaviour, as they spend more time on the go, and are reverting to shopping little and more often.

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he convenience channel outperformed supermarkets in the four weeks ending 21 May, with a 3.7% growth in sales, and now accounts for 24% of all FMCG sales, according to new NielsenIQ data.

NielsenIQ says the increase in the channel highlights the change in consumer behaviour, as consumers spend more time on the go, at work or socialising, and are reverting to shopping “little and more often”.

Total Till UK grocery sales rebounded to +0.6% over the four-week period, the first sign of positive growth since the Christmas 2021 period.

The data also shows that shoppers spent 1.2% less at UK supermarkets than in the previous four weeks, down to £10bn. Meanwhile, online sales fell 15% in the past four weeks, but this is a reflection of Covid-19 comparatives in the previous year.

NielsenIQ says the cost-of-living crisis is causing consumers to “shop around” for the best prices and its data shows that it is visits to stores (+7% year-on-year) that is driving Total Till growth and the improvement in bricks and mortar sales (+2%).

The overall growth in sales was also helped by a 2.3% increase in the

week ending 21 May, as UK shoppers prepared for the school holidays and the long bank holiday Jubilee weekend, with 20% of households expected to buy extra groceries for the Jubilee weekend.

In the past four weeks, there has been a strong increase in sales for pet and pet care products (+11.9%), soft drinks (+11.2%) with sports and energy drinks sales increasing 21%, and health, beauty and baby care products (+10.4%).

The categories with the biggest declines were beers, wines and spirits (-12.1%) due to Covid-19 comparatives, as well as meat, fish and poultry (-4.7%).

WEDNESDAY IST JUNE 2022/ ISSUE 107 / SLRMAG.CO.UK I 21

BUSINESS INTELLIGENCE

PLATINUM JUBILEE

Shopping baskets for Jubilee weekend to feature 1950s faves Research by Co-op found that many Brits will be marking the occasion with a quintessential afternoon tea, picnic, or a BBQ.

C

o-op’s Jubilee Convenience Report shows that the nation is set to celebrate the Platinum Jubilee with retro favourites from the 1950s.

Meringue nests, ice cream cones, golden syrup and jam are all expected to be on buffet tables with cakes set to be big sellers and expected to have a sales uplift of up to 20%. Families and communities will be tucking into a Victoria Sponge Cake to mark the historic occasion with sales expected to be up as much as 75%.

22 I SLRMAG.CO.UK / ISSUE 107 / WEDNESDAY 1ST JUNE 2022

If the temperature spikes, the retailer expects to see people switch to ice cream rather than cake, selling three times as many frozen treats over the bank holiday weekends, with sales of sales of ice lollies expected to rise as much as 150%.

It’s estimated that 39 million adults will be doing something to celebrate, with 4.1 million families celebrating the milestone by attending a street party.

However, 34% of 16- to 24-year-olds plan to celebrate with their friends, and 24% of people aged 55 and over plan to watch the Platinum Jubilee on TV.

The research found that while a quarter of Brits will be opting for a quintessential afternoon tea (21%) or a popular picnic (11%), some will be opting for a less traditional route this year as 31% are planning to host a BBQ to mark the occasion. In addition, sales of English sparkling wine are set to double.

Matt Hood, Co-Managing Director of Co-op Food, said: “Over the last 70 years, shopping habits have changed significantly but particularly due to the pandemic, our behaviours are mirroring those from the 1950’s more and more.”

BUSINESS INTELLIGENCE

GROCERY PRICES

Inflation data reveals price rises in value-brand

ONS data shows some of the lowest-priced everyday grocery items have seen increases of more than 15%.

T

he lowest-priced grocery items have increased in cost by around 6% to 7% over the 12 months to April 2022 – as much as average food and non-alcoholic drinks prices, according to research by the Office for National Statistics.

The research shows the lowest-priced everyday grocery items have seen a notable variation in price change over the year, with some items showing increases of more than 15%, while other items fell in price.

In cash terms, the largest price rises, on average, were measured for beef mince (up 32p for 500g to £2.34)

and chicken breast (up 28p to £3.50 for 600g). Pasta (up 17p), vegetable oil (up 14p), and crisps and rice (both up 12p) showed the next largest increases in cash terms.

The largest average fall in the lowest price over the year was measured for potatoes (down 12p to 75p for a 2.5kg bag), followed by cheese (down 7p to 88p for 255g) and pizza (down 4p to 95p for 300g).

Over the month from March to April 2022, the items that saw the largest increase in the lowest price were breakfast cereal (up 6%), mixed frozen vegetables and vegetable oil

(both up by 5%). The ONS said there was some evidence of ‘shrinkflation’, but sugar-free or low-salt versions of some lowest-cost items are often the same price as the standard versions of these products.

Jack Leslie, Senior Economist at the Resolution Foundation, told the I newspaper: “Inflation is always felt the hardest by poorer families because if you are only just about making ends meet you are spending all of your money on essentials and as soon as the prices go up for essentials you don’t have anywhere to cut back which doesn’t start impacting your living standards.”

WEDNESDAY IST JUNE 2022/ ISSUE 107 / SLRMAG.CO.UK I 23

BUSINESS INTELLIGENCE

RECRUITMENT

One in five retail workers plan to quit the industry Most of those intending to leave the sector blame their finances, abuse from customers, and deteriorating mental health.

M

ore than 20% of British retail workers are planning to quit the sector, according to a new report. The Retail Trust’s survey of more than 1,500 retail staff, published within its new Health of Retail report, found that most of those intending to leave blame concerns around their finances, rising levels of abuse from customers, and deteriorating mental health coming out of the pandemic.

More than 80% said they have experienced a decline in their mental health in the last year, with retail workers aged between aged 16 and 29, those working in distribution and warehouses, and employees of larger retailers found to be struggling the most.

In addition, 85% of retail managers reported an increase in mental health problems among their teams, and 54% said team members have experienced

issues that they felt ill-equipped to deal with. A quarter of retail managers say they also want to leave the industry.

The Retail Trust has also joined forces with Microsoft, WorkL, BJSS, Ascent and Incremental to interrogate and analyse a wide range of Retail Trust and industry data on wellbeing in retail.

They discovered: ● Retail workers aged 16-29 are the unhappiest. ● Female retail workers are unhappier than male retail workers. ● Male retail workers are less likely to reach out in a crisis and could require earlier intervention from their employers as a result.

Prioritising the well-being of employees and retail managers specifically will have a big impact on a retailer’s commercial performance.

Chris Brook-Carter, Chief Executive of the Retail Trust, said: “We believe the retail industry is committed to improving workplace wellbeing but our research shows there’s a clear gap between how retailers think their employees are feeling and the reality.”

He added: “This poses a serious long-term challenge as more and more people turn away from the sector. The retail industry must foster a happy and healthy workforce to attract and retain the talent it needs to survive and thrive.”

WEDNESDAY IST JUNE 2022/ ISSUE 107 / SLRMAG.CO.UK I 25

R E TA I L A W A R D S

BESTWAY WHOLESALE

Bestway reveals winners of Retail Development Awards A 400-strong audience of independent retailers and key supply partners attended the awards in London.

B

estway Wholesale announced the winners of its Retail Development Awards 2022 at a ceremony at the London Marriott Hotel.

The awards celebrate achievements and business successes from Bestway Retail and independent retailers across the country as part of the wholesaler’s Retail Development Programme.

The event attracted a 400-strong audience of independent retailers, members of the Bestway Retail symbol group members, Bestway Wholesale’s Xtra Local Retail Club, and key supply partners. This year’s category award winners are:

● Pet Food: Best-one Fiveways,

● Soft Drinks: Four Seasons,

● Baby Food: Manor Park Mini

Tipton Liverpool ● Water: Best-one Plus, St Helens ● Beer & Cider: M.R. Foodstores, Leamington-Spa

Market, Newham, London ● Community Award: Weeley Post Office and store, Clacton-On-Sea.

● Wines & Spirits: Stanley Wines, Warrington ● Tobacco: M1 Metro, Manchester

In addition, regional and national awards were presented to:

● Confectionery: S & B Supermarket, Northampton ● Crisps & Snacks: Costcutter, Kidderminster ● General Grocery: Green & Fresh, Hackney, London ● Household, Health and Beauty: Simis Food and Wine, Thornton Heath ● Chilled & Diary: Best-one Jacks, Prescot

26 I SLRMAG.CO.UK / ISSUE 107 / WEDNESDAY 1ST JUNE 2022

● Southern Winner: Mini Supermarket, Croydon ● Northern Winner: D&S Stores, Tamworth ● Scottish Winner: Brownlies, Biggar, Scotland ● National Bestway Retailer of the Year: Fairways, Wallasey, Merseyside.

Dawood Pervez, Managing Director at Bestway Wholesale, said: “For us here at Bestway, this is one of the most exciting events in the industry calendar. I am always humbled by the sheer talent, commitment and determination of our retailers and nowhere is this evidenced more strongly than within our Retail Development Awards.

“The Retail Development Programme does what it says on the tin. It’s there to help our retailers develop and make more possible within their businesses and with our supplier partners the programme also offers a unique opportunity for retailers and suppliers to get together.

He added: “Tonight’s results are on the back of hard work, dedication and unwavering vision on the part of each retailer.”

RANGES

NISA

Nisa retailers introduce Co-op’s summer range The range incorporates firm favourites alongside a raft of NPD lines with a guide on suggested must-stock lines.

T

he Co-op summer range has launched into Nisa this month offering new tastes to help celebrate summer and offer value.

The ‘Summer Feastival’ collection incorporates a collection of dips and side salads, picnic treats and barbecue bits, ice cream tubs and cones, as well as refreshing new lines in licensed.

The range includes firm favourites alongside a raft of NPD lines with a guide on suggested must-stocks.

In addition, the Co-op own brand gives everyday value to the shopper, as well as good margins to retailers.

The launch is supported by a full-colour brochure, which is now live online.

Jonny Lambert, Wholesale Category Lead for Co-op, said: “With two-thirds of shoppers currently worried about rising costs, we’re supporting Nisa partners to help shoppers be smarter with their spending with the Co-op own-brand range.

“Summer is always a good opportunity for convenience stores when good weather makes people more spontaneous, meaning they’re more likely to buy outside of weekly shops and while on the move. With the cost of living squeezed like never before, the great value summer collection is perfect to help partners take advantage of this potential extra trade.”

The range is available to order now via the Nisa order capture system.

WEDNESDAY IST JUNE 2022/ ISSUE 107 / SLRMAG.CO.UK I 27

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THIS WEEK BARR SOFT DRINKS RIBENA WKD MARS WRIGLEY PLADIS ELFBAR ROBINSONS PICKS

NPD AND MEDIA

PICKS OF THE WEEK – BARR SOFT DRINKS

BARR LAUNCHES FRUITY LEMONADES The company says the new sub-range has been created to meet the needs of Gen Z shoppers, who are the heaviest soft drinks consumers.

Barr Soft Drinks is set to add incremental summer

sumers. Barr Fruity Lemonade Cherry and Fruity

sales to the soft drinks category with the launch

Lemonade Blue will be available from June this

of its latest innovation – Barr Fruity Lemonades.

year, across all channels.

The new sub-range, Barr Fruity Lemonades,

Adrian Troy, Marketing Director at Barr Soft

has been created to meet the needs of Gen Z

Drinks, said: “Barr is well known for its wide range of

shoppers, who are the heaviest soft drinks con-

tasty and enticing flavours. With flavoured carbonates acting as the perfect entry point into the soft drinks category, new product innovation is key for retailers looking to drive incremental sales.

“Barr Fruity Lemonades offers shoppers something really quite different, blending big, full-on fruit flavours with a refreshing lemonade finish.”

The company said that in consumer research with 12-24-yearolds, both new flavours performed extremely well, with more than 85% saying they would buy it again and 77% of non-Barr drinkers confirming intent to purchase.

Troy added: “We are launching this exciting NPD alongside an exciting range of POS across all channels. Retailers should stock up on both flavours and make use of this eye-catching POS to grab shoppers’ attention and encourage impulse sales throughout the summer months, a key sales period for soft drinks.”

The range is available in outers of 12 x 500ml PET bottles (RSP 89p).

30 I SLRMAG.CO.UK / ISSUE 107 / WEDNESDAY 1ST JUNE 2022

NPD AND MEDIA

PICKS OF THE WEEK – RIBENA

RIBENA UNVEILS NEW BRAND POSITIONING

The brand has launched a new £7m campaign featuring a TV commercial, online video, out-of-home, social media, and in-store marketing.

Ribena has unveiled a new brand positioning to

The campaign launches today (1 June) with a

drive further relevancy across its range of drinks,

£7m investment, which will help it to reach 91%

helping retailers grow their sales.

of adults in the UK, at least seven times.

The brand is rolling out a new campaign this

Charlotte Flook, Head of Ribena at Suntory

summer that is rooted in those awkward moments

Beverage & Food GB&I, said: “With the brand

that at the time make you want the ground to

in strong growth of 15%, now is the perfect time

swallow you up, but when shared with friends,

to launch our new campaign. ‘Chin Up’ puts our

these moments make everyone laugh. Ribena

brand’s cheeky, irreverent personality at its heart

helps people keep their “chin up” through these

by encouraging the nation to reach for a Ribena

moments and see the funny side.

to help them laugh through life’s awkward little

The new creative is driven by the tagline ‘Chin Up’, which is also a link to the physical action of taking a sip of Ribena.

The campaign features a new TV commercial, online video, out-of-home, social media, and in-store marketing prompting shoppers to reach for the drink “when it’s Ri-bena bit awkward”.

stumbles.”

The brand says retailers should ensure their chillers and soft drink aisles are well-stocked across the brand’s core range to take advantage of the buzz created by the campaign.

They can also display point-of-sale materials to bring ‘Chin Up’ to life in-store.

WEDNESDAY IST JUNE 2022/ ISSUE 107 / SLRMAG.CO.UK I 31

NPD AND MEDIA

PICKS OF THE WEEK – WKD

WKD PARTNERS WITH LOVE ISLAND FOR SECOND YEAR The tie-up will see ads airing across ITV2, ITV Hub, video-on-demand, and the official Love Island app.

SHS Drinks has struck an exclusive deal for WKD

WKD will have a robust activation programme

to be the Official Alcohol Partner of Love Island

with display space and impactful POS as part of a

series 8; a summer campaign of support will

nationwide focus in depots, and tailored content on

amplify the brand’s association with the ITV2 show.

WKD social channels will create consumer aware-

The high-profile tie-in will see WKD on TV with

ness of retailers’ offers and help drive store footfall.

ads showcasing the programme association. Airing

A Love Island promotion, as part of an acti-

across ITV2, ITV Hub, video-on-demand, and the

vation in pubs and bars, will feature for the

official Love Island app, the broadcast elements of

first time this year as an additional strand of

the campaign will reach 7.2m UK viewers.

the campaign.

Bringing the partnership to life at the point of

Alison Gray, Head of Brand – WKD, at SHS

purchase, two impactful co-branded initiatives will

Drinks, said: “Consumer and trade feedback

cement the sponsorship association in the eyes

was extremely positive last year and we’re

of the consumer:

back with an all-inclusive package deal that’s

● A striking co-branded design will appear on limited edition WKD

even bigger and better. Consumers are going to see WKD and Love

Pink 700ml bottles.

Island brands partnered

● A co-branded offer on

up on TV, partnered up

all WKD 10-packs will

on retailers’ shelves and

create opportunities to win exclusive

partnered up on social media. In addition, this

Love Island

year we’ll be filming

merchandise.

exclusive WKD content on location in the sun and also setting Islanders some of our very own cheeky ‘YourWKDSide’ challenges. As 2022’s winning couple, WKD and Love Island are going to serve up some sizzling summer fun to entertain, engage and engender sales growth for retailers.”

32 I SLRMAG.CO.UK / ISSUE 107 / WEDNESDAY 1ST JUNE 2022

NPD AND MEDIA

PICKS OF THE WEEK – MARS WRIGLEY

PUSH TO DRIVE FRUITY GUM SALES WITH NEW CAMPAIGN The brand has launched a new £7m campaign featuring a TV commercial, online video, out-of-home, social media, and in-store marketing.

VOTE FOR A CHANCE TO

SUPPLY WIN AOFYEAR’S FRUITY GUM

UK 18+. To enter, scan the QR code on in-store POS or register at www.extragum.co.uk between 19.05.22 and 17.07.22 to vote for your favourite flavour of Extra Fruity Gum and for the chance to win 1 of 1,000 x a year’s supply of Extra Fruity Gum. No purchase necessary. Max. one entry per person per day. See website for details and full T&Cs. Promoter: Mars Wrigley Confectionery UK Limited, 3D Dundee Road, Slough, Berkshire, SL1 4LG.

© 2022 Mars or Affiliates.

Mars Wrigley is continuing to drive category

sale for EXTRA fruity gum in store. They can also

growth through fruit gum with a Flavour Vote

cast their vote via SMS by texting ‘VOTE’ with the

campaign this summer. The campaign, which runs

flavour of their choice to 60163.

until 17 July, will give consumers the opportunity to vote for their favourite EXTRA fruity flavour.

The Flavour Vote campaign is the next phase of Mars Wrigley’s continued approach to recruit

Mars Wrigley has partnered with social publisher

consumers to the fruity gum category, which now

LADbible for the campaign to drive awareness, devel-

accounts for more than one-quarter of gum market

oping content that resonates with young audiences

value in the UK.

across its Facebook, TikTok and Instagram platforms,

Hannah Lee, Senior Brand Manager, EXTRA,

to a combined audience of 59.8 million. Posts will

at Mars Wrigley, said: “As fruit flavoured gum

feature influencers, including Cole Anderson and

continues to grow in popularity, the Flavour Vote

Love Island’s Joanna Chimonides, each representing

campaign is a fun way to engage with consumers to

a flavour of EXTRA’s fruity range. Influencers will take

grow the category. This campaign also helps drive

part in a series of social-first games to encourage

awareness of EXTRA fruity flavours, including the

consumers to vote for their favourite flavour.

newest additions to the range, Apple and Blueberry,

To vote, consumers can visit the EXTRA gum website, or scan the QR code shown on point of

whilst driving footfall in-store as consumers seek out the different fruit.”

WEDNESDAY WEDNESDAYIST XXJUNE XX 2022X/ 2022/ ISSUE ISSUE 1XX 107 / SLRMAG.CO.UK I 33

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NPD AND MEDIA

PICKS OF THE WEEK – PLADIS

HELP TO TAP INTO DEMAND FOR HEALTHIER BISCUITS The company has launched a new and improved recipe for Go Ahead Fruit Slices, which offers shoppers more fibre, with less sugar and salt.

Snacking company Pladis is helping retailers tap into

actively seeking snacks which deliver on both taste

demand for healthier biscuits with a new and improved

and health credentials. This means that now, more

recipe for its bestselling Go Ahead Fruit Slices.

than ever, Healthier Biscuits represent an attractive

The recipe update offers shoppers more

and scalable growth opportunity for retailers.

fibre, with less sugar and salt. Consisting of

“As the leading brand in low calorie snacking,

the same light-textured, crispy baked biscuit –

Go Ahead is perfectly placed to help retailers

encasing the brand’s signature chewy sultana,

unlock additional Healthier Biscuits sales. In fact,

currants and fruit flavour filling – each individu-

the uplift in demand for products which fall under

ally packaged portion comes in at an average

this sub-category is something we’re already see-

of just 54 kcals per slice.

ing reflected in the performance of the brand

The change comes hot off the heels of a recipe

– worth £30.1m and growing +2.8%.

update for Go Ahead’s popular Fruit & Oat Bakes

“By bringing our bestselling product – Go Ahead

in February this year and marks the next step in

Fruit Slices – under the HFSS legislation threshold,

Pladis’ ongoing efforts to offer shoppers even more

we’ll attract a ream of health-conscious consumers

choice when it comes to snacking.

looking out for healthier options. This will enable us

Charlotte Priest, Senior Brand Manager – Go

to build on Go Ahead’s already strong momentum,

Ahead at Pladis UK&I, said: “With a heightened nation-

all whilst helping retailers take an even bigger bite

wide focus on health, more and more shoppers are

out of healthier snacking sales.”

WEDNESDAY IST JUNE 2022/ ISSUE 107 / SLRMAG.CO.UK I 35

NPD AND MEDIA

PICKS OF THE WEEK – ELFBAR

ELFBAR LAUNCHES FIRST OUTDOOR CAMPAIGN The vape brand has big plans to build on its success in the UK and is significantly investing in its promotional efforts.

ElfBar, a manufacturer of disposable vaping

UK and we have big plans to build on the brand’s

products, has launched its first outdoor advertising

success to date. The UK marketplace represents

campaign in the UK.

one of the fastest-growing opportunities for our

The vape product brand is predicting major

business globally, so we are significantly investing

growth in the UK as the country returns to normality

in our promotional efforts to increase our market

after the pandemic and the squeeze on household

share through our retail partners.”

budgets creates an extra incentive for smokers

She added: “The policy environment, the

to consider much more cost-effective vaping as a

recognition by the healthcare community of the

way to quit their habits.

opportunity presented by vaping in getting smok-

The advertising campaign promoting ElfBar’s

ers to quit their habits, the growing acceptance

Mate 500 product is being featured on hundreds of

of vaping’s role in supporting a smokefree future

billboards and buses in and around London. The

and the professionalism and responsibility shown

range has introduced five new flavours including

by all those involved in the vaping industry, make

Peach Ice, Cotton Candy, Strawberry Ice Cream,

the UK our top target worldwide to do business.”

Spearmint and Strawberry Banana. As a recharge-

The Mate 500, which provides 500 puffs, is also

able device with a refillable pod, Mate 500 appeals

available in 13 original flavours – Blueberry, Grape,

to users who want to be kind to the environment

Cola, Blueberry Raspberry, Cream Tobacco, Water-

when they are vaping.

melon, Strawberry, Energy, Mango, Blue Razz

Daisy Luo, UK Country Lead for ElfBar, said: “ElfBar has been tremendously successful in the

36 I SLRMAG.CO.UK / ISSUE 107 / WEDNESDAY 1ST JUNE 2022

Lemonade, Banana, Pink Lemonade, and Kiwi Passion Fruit Guava.

NPD AND MEDIA

PICKS OF THE WEEK – ROBINSONS

ROBINSONS UNVEILS BIG FRUIT HUNT The £1.5m campaign centres around a digital Augmented Reality fruit hunt, which has more than 90,000 prizes up for grabs.

More than 90,000 prizes will be up for grabs in the ‘Big Fruit Hunt’ game, including bespoke Robinsons water bottles and outdoor activity kits.

Running from 1 June until 2 September across the brand’s squash promotional packs, a QR Code will feature on-pack, where shoppers can scan and be taken to an interactive map to find virtual fruit to fill a water bottle and collect prizes. The campaign will include in-store, out-of-home, POS, digital, and social activations.

Ben Parker, GB Retail Commercial Director at Britvic, said: “This summer, we want to bring families together and get outdoors by taking part in the ‘Big Fruit Hunt’. Robinsons remains the number one squash brand in convenience with nearly 50% share of the category. With Robinsons Ready to Drink as the official soft drinks partner for The Hundred cricket tournament and the launch of the ‘Big Fruit Hunt’, we’re making sure that there is something for everyone this summer and drive further sales for retailers.”

Robinsons will also be partnering with Squash brand Robinsons is continuing its biggest

Heart Radio’s breakfast show, which is pre-

summer activity to date with the launch of its ‘Big

sented by Jamie Theakston and Zoe Hardman. The

Fruit Hunt’.

show will be running a one-week on-air promotion

The £1.5m campaign centres around a digital

– the live ‘Big Fruit Hunt’ rooftop game and online

Augmented Reality fruit hunt, created to encour-

competition, along with sponsored ads on weekend

age families to flavour their water bottles with

mornings during the summer. In addition, each

Robinsons. The activation will inspire families to

month, Heart Radio listeners will be challenged to

get active together this summer and ensure the

find hidden fruit on its social channels and website,

Robinsons brand continues to be front of mind

with the chance of winning a family day out, plus

for shoppers across a key season for soft drinks.

Robinsons squash supplies.

WEDNESDAY IST JUNE 2022/ ISSUE 107 / SLRMAG.CO.UK I 37

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NPD AND MEDIA

PICKS OF THE WEEK

BLAST OFF

MICRO MEALS

SUMMER CITRUS

World of Sweets is launching

Ben’s Original is introducing a

Diageo is relaunching its Cîroc

three new Pez dispensers to

series of vegetarian microwavea-

Summer Citrus vodka as a

coincide with the new Buzz Light-

ble meals. The launch sees Chilli

permanent line following a suc-

year film. Two of the dispensers

Non-carne, Spicy Lentil Stew and

cessful limited launch in 2021.

are of Buzz Lightyear and the

Sweet Potato & Chickpea Tikka

Summer Citrus – available now

third Buzz’s personal companion

Masala all become part of the

to convenience and wholesale,

Sox. Each pack contains one dis-

regular range, as well as limited

as well as the wider off-trade and

penser and individually wrapped

edition Korean BBQ and Katsu

the on-trade – sold out during its

packs of Pez refill sweets.

Curry dishes.

launch last summer.

RAISING THE BAR

TWIGLET TWIST

MCCORMICK MOVE

Geek Bar has revamped its

Pladis has updated the recipe

Seasoning giant McCormick is

S600 vape range in a bid to

for Jacob’s Twiglets to make

launching Old Bay Seasoning in

increase its market share in

it HFSS-compliant. The refor-

the UK. Old Bay is a blend of 14

the UK specialist and conven-

mulation comes alongside

herbs and spices which is appro-

ience retail sectors. The S600

a fresh new look across the

priate for a wide range of dishes,

range has been modernised

entire Jacob’s Twiglets portfo-

like burgers, chicken, seafood,

to include a new rectangular

lio. The redesignputs greater

chips, popcorn and pasta. It will

shape to enhance the ergonom-

emphasis on the benefits the

be available in fully recyclable

ics of the device.

snack can offer.

75g tins at an RSP of £2.99.

WEDNESDAY IST JUNE 2022/ ISSUE 107 / SLRMAG.CO.UK I 39

NOW THAT’S A GOOD IDEA…

OUT THE BOX

Asda glamour

Asda is trying its hand at a pop-up aiming to bring ‘dining finesse’ and affordability together.

Asda is launching a pop-up steak restaurant for one night only, inviting guests to enjoy premium cuts in a fine dining setting, free of charge.

WHAT’S THE CONCEPT? Pop-ups are primarily meant to promote or kick off a marketing campaign, but this one is quite innovative for the gro-

40 I SLRMAG.CO.UK / ISSUE 107 / WEDNESDAY 1ST JUNE 2022

cery industry. First off, Steak Bay as it’s called, prides itself in being “the cheapest” restaurant in the capital to offer premium cuts, “celebrity guest treatment and a sprinkling of salt”.

Secondly, it’s not often that supermarkets do these kinds of activations in order to promote their products.

This type of marketing is traditionally

reserved for perfume, cosmetics, liquor, or confectionery.

Open for one night only on 9 June, the restaurant in London will welcome just 50 diners selected at random.

WHAT IS IT OFFERING? As a marketing exercise, it will promote the supermarket’s significant recent

investment in its meat, fish and poultry quality, including increasing the thickness and maturity of all core range Extra Special steak lines to 30 days, with prices as low as £5.

This summer the retailer has also launched a new Ultimate Extra Special Range, designed large enough to cater for the whole family.Guests will have the chance to choose from the 21-day-matured Tomahawk and extrathick-cut 30-day-matured Sirloin Steaks, alongside Steak Burgers, slow-cooked Pork Rib Racks and other products.

AND THE EXPERIENCE? Steak Bay promises to give guests the real deal by resting the meat in tinfoil to lock in all the flavour, then seasoned

with salt at the table by the waiting staff.

All dishes will be prepared and plated by Asda’s Executive Chef, Senior Director of Innovation and Trends, Jonathan Moore and his team.

WHY IS THIS A GOOD IDEA? Pop-ups like this are incredibly popular

in many retail settings and amidst the grim news we’re surrounded by, this is a good excuse for people to forget about price tags, have a night out and remember Asda the next time they go food shopping.

“We can’t wait to open the doors to the Steak Bay restaurant to showcase these products in all of their glory, proving that you don’t need to spend hundreds or thousands of pounds to access amazing quality dishes,” Gavin Warburton, Asda Senior Director of Meat, Fish and Poultry at Asda said.

If the retailer pulls it off well, it can be just the promotion it needs, especially if diners shout out about it on social media.

POWER UP YOUR SALES

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 IST JUNE 2022/ ISSUE 107 / SLRMAG.CO.UK I 41

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

NS E S E N O C S F O LOT Waitrose has been accused of “totally blowing it” after it had the temerity to advertise Platinum Jubilee cream teas with a picture of a scone that had the jam on top of the cream.

Not a massive deal one would imagine, unless you’re from Cornwall, where they take these kinds of things seriously.

How seriously? “Should be run out of Cornwall”, “Boycott this abomination”, “Respect the Cornish way”, “Disgraceful insult”, “From what planet do these people come from?”, “What a travesty” and “Disrespectful to the Cornish” were just some of the comments on social media.

Barry West, who was first to call out Waitrose over its gaffe, explained the outrage thus: “In Cornwall our cream always goes on top because we are so proud of it. In Devon, they hide it under the jam.”

To make amends, the Waitrose branch in the Big City (that’s Truro, not London, obviously) will donate cream teas to local foodbanks over the Jubilee weekend.

So which county is correct – Devon or Cornwall? National treasure and

E M I T N E E R C S F O S BAG Forget Hilda Ogden or Jack and Vera Duckworth, it looks like there’s a new star gracing the Weatherfield cobbles of ITV’s long-running soap Coronation Street: the Co-op shopper.

Product placement in UK-made TV programmes has been around since 2011, so one imagines ITV would have mastered the art of doing it in a subtle and nuanced manner by now.

Apparently not. During a gripping episode broadcast last week in which a wet cement fight

featured prominently, one eagleeyed viewer counted four separate bags. Before the ad break.

This included one inexplicably hung on a glass-panelled door and beautifully backlit. The producers must have thought the bag’s partial obscuration by a kitsch apron would transform what was

former Bake Off judge Mary Berry narrowly missed out on the Nobel Peace Prize in 2018 for her proposal to end the cream tea conflict: cut your scone in two then do one half jam first and the other cream first.

practically a neon sign into a subliminal marketing message.

So, who fancies two pizzas and a four-pack of beer for a fiver then?

WEDNESDAY IST JUNE 2022/ ISSUE 107 / SLRMAG.CO.UK I 43

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