AF Blakemore

‘SYMBOL GROUPS

New Era’ stores programme to be extended

The first store to launch on the programme has delivered “exceptional results”.

AF Blakemore’s New Era stores programme is to be extended across the Meridian & Welsh Guild.

Delegates at the virtual Spar Retail Show heard that the first store to launch on the programme, Blakemore Retail’s Bala store in North Wales, has delivered “exceptional results” and is soon to be followed by several independent stores across the region.

Blakemore Trade Partners said it will be working closely in partnership with retailers to develop their stores, providing tailored design, range, pricing and marketing support, as well as the finance to deliver retailers’ projects.

In addition, delegates heard about AF Blakemore’s newly-launched Natasha’s Law support package for retailers that enables them to trade in compliance with the legislation.

It includes support with providing a compliant food-to-go range, production instructions and hardware; help with training store staff; and a network of Blakemore colleagues who can help retailers maintain compliance after the initial introduction of the law.

Support will also be available when the new HFSS legislation is introduced next October. Blakemore Retail is currently trialling new store layouts so that the business will be able to recommend the best course of action for retailers who will need to alter their layouts to comply with the regulations.

JERRY MARWOOD

AFB Group Commercial Managing Director, Jerry Marwood, told the event: “If we’ve learnt anything from the last two years, it’s that the Spar model of independent businesses collaborating for mutual benefit works now more than ever. Being part of an organisation that protects your independence is vital for a vibrant retail community. We are truly stronger together.”