Cash and Carry Management December 22

It’sawardsseason,whenmany wholesalersandtradeassociations recognisethepeoplewhohave excelledintheirbusinessorindustry. Rewardingemployeesforexemplary workshowsthemthattheyarevalued andcanboostmoraleacrosstheworkplace.AccordingtoHarvardBusiness Review,‘celebratingachievementsgreat andsmallishighoctanefuelforfurther achievement’.

Inthisissue,wehavecoverageofthe winnersofvariousawardsonpages6,9, 10,11and12,andweofferourcongratulationstoeveryonewhohasbeen acknowledgedfortheirexceptionalcontributiontothebusinesstheyworkfor.

Wholesale,retailandhospitalityare allpeopleindustries,anditisperhaps evenmoreimportantduringthebusy ChristmasandNewYearperiodtotryto seethepersonbehindtherole.

Althoughthefestiveseasonbrings widespreadjoy,itisundoubtedlya stressfultimeformanypeople.Thisyear, thecost-of-livingcrisiswillbeaddingto thepressure,andIwasheartenedto hearthatBidfoodisfundingHospitality Action’sfree24/7helpline(0808802 0282)duringthefestiveperiod.

Inaddition,thewholesalerhasintroduced#CheckPlease(page7),acampaigntohelpemployersandconsumers spotearlysignsofstressinhospitality workers.Theinitiativeisalsoencouragingmembersofthepublictointeract withstaffinakindandrespectfulway.

The#CheckPleasecampaignshould notbeneeded,butwith30%ofhospitalitystaffsayingthattheyhavehadto dealwithdifficultorrudecustomersdaily (3Gem),aninitiativethatpromotesbetterbehaviourcanonlybeagoodthing.

AsHospitalityAction’schiefexecutiveMarkLewissays,“Notonlydoes thiscampaignreflectthehardwork, dedicationandimportanceofourindustryoverthefestiveperiod,butitalso remindsusofthedifficultiesandstresses thatitbringstothoseinthesector.

“Staffsacrificealotsothatothers canenjoythemselves,andit’sfantastic thatwe’reofferingsupporttohelpthem navigatewhatcanbeachallenging period.”

Outsideofhospitality,peopleworkinginwholesaleandretailcangoto GroceryAidforsupport.Youcancallthe charity’sfree,confidentialhelplineon 08088021122anytimeofthedayor nightandspeaktoatrainedcounsellor whowillprovideyouwithin-themomenthelp.Therearealsoother resourcesavailablethroughthewebsite ifyoudonotwanttotalktoahuman: www.groceryaid.org.uk/get-help/.

Atwork(andoutsideofwork)Ihope thatkindnessprevailsthisfestiveseason,andIwishyouallaveryhappyand healthyNewYear.

Cash&CarryManagementisfreetocash&carryand deliveredwholesaledirectors,buyersandmanagers. Themagazineisavailabletoothersubscribersforjust £74ayearor£7percopy.Overseasyearly subscriptionsarepricedat£95.Backissuesdating backto2011areavailableonline.

Emailmail.winlove@btconnect.comorcall(01342) 712100formoreinformation.

KirstiSharratt

Birminghamlead

Parfetts hasappointedJon Griffinasgeneralmanagerof itsnewdepotinBirmingham.

Griffin(pictured)hasover 30yearsofexperienceinthe wholesaleandconvenience sectors.Hehasheldsenior rolesatBestway,having manageddepotsinthe MidlandsandSouthWales.

The100,000sqft Birminghamdepot–Parfetts’ eighthsite–willopeninthe

NewYear,andGriffinwill recruitateamof100overthe comingmonths.

Griffinsaid:“Parfettsisa greatemployee-ownedcompanythatisbringingsomethingnewandexcitingto theMidlandsmarket.It’sa fantasticopportunitytobuild ateamthatwillbelaserfocusedondeliveringthe bestcustomerexperience.In addition,IfindthatParfetts hasapassionforwholesale thatisuniqueintheindustry atthemoment.

“Parfettsisinvestingin theindependentretailbusinesstoensureithasthesupportandmarginstothrive. It’satruepartnership approachthatisrefreshing, andI’mconfidentitwilldrive thegrowthofthenewdepot inBirmingham.”

JJFoodservice hasintroducedanewpayment method,PaybyBank, backedwithspecialoffers.

PaybyBankallowscustomerstopayforshopping quicklyandsecurelyby usingopenbanking.

JJisworkingwith Ecospendtoprovidethe solution,whichinitiatesa directbanktransferwithprepopulatedpaymentdetails.

ThemethodwillhelpJJ tocutoperatingcostsby incurringlowertransaction feescomparedwithtraditionalcardpayments.The wholesalerhassaiditwill passmanyofthesesavings ontocustomers.

EddieLanham,chief financeofficeratJJFoodservice,told Cash&Carry Management: “Inaworld

wherepricesandfeeskeep goingup,PaybyBankoffers aneasy,secureandcosteffectivepaymentmethod, whichwillhelpustokeep offeringgreatdealsatatime whenourcustomersneed themthemost.”

JJhaslaunchedaPayby Bankpromotion,offering pricedropson66popular productstoencouragecustomerstoswitchtothenew paymentmethod.

CountryRangefinishestheyearinstyle

The CountryRangeGroup announcedthewinnersofits annualsupplierandmember awardsatits‘AnEvening With’eventatStPaul’s CathedralinLondonon1 December.

Hostedbytheactor JamesNesbitt,theevent formedpartofCRG’s30th anniversarycelebrations.

Guestsweretreatedtoa champagnereceptionanda three-coursedinnerpreparedbyClinkEvents–the outsideeventsoperationfor TheClinkCharity.

Aspecialraffleonthe nightsawtheCountryRange Groupsurpassitsfundraisingtargetof£100,000,which willbesplitbetween HospitalityActionandlocal causesnominatedbythe members.

CRGchiefexecutive MartinWardsaid:“Ourannual

[ INDUSTRYNEWS ] 06 December2022 www.cashandcarrymanagement.co.uk

our30thanniversaryfund-

raisingtarget.”

refresheditscorporate brandingwiththeintroductionofanewlogoanda relaunchedwebsite.

Thewebsitewillbe updatedwiththelatestCRG news,alongwithinformation onitsservicesformember wholesalersandsuppliers.

OwnBrandSupplier: Ornua Ingredients FrozenSupplier: Lamb Weston

BrandedSupplier: Nestlé Professional BestNewcomer: Agristo Inothernews,CRGhas

Inaddition,thewebsite willincorporateatrading portalformembers,sothat theycanaccessthelatest informationonsuppliersand productsallinoneplace,and amarketingportalforthe members’creativeteamsto accessthewiderangeof assetsavailabletothem.

Supportinghospitalitystaff

Thisfestiveseason, Bidfood hasjoinedforceswith HospitalityAction tointroduce#CheckPlease–acampaigndesignedtoencourage employersandconsumersto spotearlysignsofstress,be kinder,andcheckthatthose workinginhospitalityare okay.

Bidfoodisalsofunding HospitalityAction’sfree24/7 helpline(08088020282)for thefestiveperiod.Hospitality Action’steamareonhandto providehelpandadviceto anyhospitalityworkerswho arestrugglingwiththementalhealthstressandfinancial pressurethefestiveseason canbring.

Inaddition,toolkitshave beenassembledtohelp employersnotonlytoreach out,butalsotoinvigorate theirteamsthroughrecognitionandreward.

With30%ofhospitality

staffsayingtheyhavehadto dealwithdifficultorrude customersdaily(3Gem)duringwhatismeanttobethe happiestseasonofall, Bidfoodhasalsoexplored waystohelpmembersofthe publicbemoreawareofthe impacttheycanhaveonstaff.

Posters,table-talkersand ‘specials’menus,willbe availablethroughthetoolkits,advisingconsumerson howtheycaninteractwith staffinakind,appreciative

andrespectfulway,alleviatingtheirstress.

TimAdams,sales&marketingdirectoratBidfood, said:“Asweapproachour firstcompletelynormal Christmassince2019,there isboundtobesomenervousnessandanxiety amongstworkers,sowe wantedtolaunchacampaigntohelpsupportthose whoneedit.

£100,000 promotion

AFBlakemore&Son is givingawayupto£100,000 worthofprizesina‘Merry Textmas’campaign,running until1January.

Liveinmorethan300 BlakemoreRetailandindependentstoresacross SPAR’sMeridian&Welsh Guild,thepromotion includesweeklyprizedraws givingcustomersthechance towinoneoffourbigprizes, includingfuelforayear.

Shopperscanplaydaily towinoneofmorethan 30,000spotprizesthatare redeemableatSPARstores simplybysendingatext. Everyvalidentrygainsone freeentryintotheweekly draw,andcustomerscanwin additionalentriesbyscanningaQRcodeonaposter ataSPARstoreordownloadinga‘MerryTextmas’app.

BonuspaymentsandappointmentsatUnitas

UnitasWholesale isrecognisingthehardworkanddedicationofitsteamwithan exceptionalpaymentinlight ofthecost-of-livingcrisis.

Eachemployeewill receive£500net.Thepaymentcomesinadditiontoa company-widepayincrease earlierintheyear.

MDJohnKinneysaid: “Ouremployeesareour mostvaluableassetandare attheheartofeverythingwe doforourmembership.

“Itiswiththeirhardwork anddedicationtothegroup thatwecontinueourjourney tobecomeamoremembercentricorganisation,anditis rightthatwerecognisetheir commitmenttotheorganisationduringsuchachallengingtime.”

Unitashasalsoannounced theappointmentofPeter Burleighastradingcontroller forthegrocery category.

Burleighpreviouslyspentmore than25years withWmMorrison Supermarkets,latterlyasseniortradingmanager.More recentlyhewasa directorofFMCGGlobal, workingontheMulrinesfruit juicebrand,andhehas alsoworkedforSukhothai RestaurantsandWHSmith–DoItAll.

Kinneycommented:“I amdelightedtowelcome PetertoUnitasatsuchan importanttimeinourdevelopmentaswecontinueto

“Wereallyhopethepublic getbehindthiscampaign.” reshapetheorganisation.

“Peterisagreataddition toourbusinessandhasthe skillsandexperiencethatweare lookingfortocontinuethedevelopmentofthegrocery category.”

Inothernews, Unitashasappointed twonewdirectors toitsboard.

TheyareRobert Eastwood,managingdirectorofSmall Beer,andQaiser Aziz,tradingdirectorofGlobalFoods.

Eastwoodwill representUnitas’s on-tradedivisionand replacesAndrew Wild,managing

directorofWildsofOldham, whileAzizreplacesJames Russell,managingdirector–wholesaledistributionatAF Blakemore,asoneofUnitas’s retailrepresentatives.

UnitaschairmanMark Aylwinstated:“Iampleased thatRobandQaiserhave joinedthealreadystrong boardofUnitas.Theyboth runexcellentbusinessesand willbringawealthofexperienceandknowledgetothe board.”

Headded:“I wouldliketotake thisopportunityto thankAndrewand Jamesforthe tremendoussupporttheyhaveprovidedsincejoining theboard.”

PeterBurleigh

RobEastwood

Electricdual-temp

SavonaFoodservice isnow deliveringtocustomersin NorthDevonandOxfordin dual-temperaturevehicles thatare100%electric.These areclaimedtobethefirstof theirkindintheUKand Europe.

“Muchtime,effortand investmenthasgoneinto gettingthespecanddesign ofthesevehiclesright,”said DarrenHolloway,directorof centraloperations.

“TheMaxuse–Deliver9 vehiclesareuniquebecause thegrossvehicleweightis upliftedfrom3.5to4tonnes, therebycompensatingfor theadditionalweightofthe batteries.Thisallowsthe

vehicletoprovideapayload of1.2tonnes,withdual-temperaturecompartments,and coverarangeof100miles.”

Comparedtodieselvehicles,theelectricvanswillsave 24,960ofcarbonperyear (basedonarangeof120miles perday,sixdaysperweek).

Thedecisiontointroduce thesevehiclesgoeshandin handwiththechoiceofan energyproviderthatuses 100%renewableenergy, whichinitselfhasremoved 12%ofSavona’stotalcarbon emissions.

“Thisisjustthebeginning ofourvehiclereplacement programme,andwe’re proudtobeinnovatorsinour industryforthegoodofthe planet,”saiddirectorKelly Williams.

Savonahasalready adoptedotherpracticesas partofitsaimtoreachnet zero.Forexample,itbecame thefirstwholesalerinthe SouthWesttoeliminatesingle-useplasticsfromitsrange.

Twomorerecruits

Confex hastwonewmembers:CressCoandMetro Cash&Carry.

TheCressCompany (CressCo)isafinefooddistributorinDunfermline,Fife.

Itstartedin2004froma smalllock-upinPerth,witha handfulofartisanproducers lookingforlocaldistribution. Sincethen,thebusinesshas growntothepointthatit nowdeliversthousandsof ambientandchilledstock andpre-orderlinesnationwidefromitssitesinDunfermline,Telford,Leighton Buzzard,andMaltby,with furtherexpansionplanned.

MetroCash&Carryisa Glasgow-basedfoodservice wholesalerspecialisingin ethnicandcontinentalproduceandalsosellingawide rangeofpackagingand cleaningproductstoitscustomerbaseofrestaurants, cafesandtakeaways.

Inits50thyear,Confexis upby72%invalueand 78%involumeyeartodate,

FWDchairman

SPARScotlandwholesaler andretailer CJLang isto organiseafirewalknextyear insupportofSPAR’snational charitypartnerMarieCurie.

Itwillalsorolloutfoodbankbinstocompany-owned andindependentSPARstores andwillworkwithsuppliers tocontinuetodonateto charitiesandfoodbanks.

Since2013SPARScotland hasgivenover£1millionto community-basedinitiatives andcharities.Thisyear, £142,753wasdonated.

MarketingmanagerPaula Middletonsaid:“Weputour valuesattheheartofwhat wedo;thatmeanssupporting thelocalcommunitieswhere ourstoresaresituated.”

The FWD hasnamed BestwayWholesale’s managingdirectorDawood Pervezasitsnewchairman.

HewillsucceedCoral Rose,CEOofFairway Foodservice,inJanuaryand willbecomethe61stperson toheadthetradeassociation

inits104-yearhistory.

AnFWDCouncilmember since2018,Pervezwantsto seethesocialandeconomic contributionofthewholesale sectorbroadcasttoaneven wideraudience.

“Peopleneedtounderstandtheroleandtheimportanceofwholesaleandhow bigitis,”hesaid.

takingitto£3billionincombinedturnover.Thenew membersCressCoandMetro addafurther£50millionto this.

AbrarAhmad,managing directorofMetro,said:“We areparticularlyexcitedto joinConfextoaccessthe CORErangeandworkmore closelywithtopsuppliers. MetroCash&Carryarelookingforwardtoaddingavarietyoffreshlinestoourofferingandwelookforwardto workingwithConfextogrow ourbusiness.”

PervezandRose.

Pervezwillencourage FWDmemberstoparticipate inthreeareas:Planet,Talent andTrade,coveringsustainability,recruitmentand development,andhelping supplierstounderstandthe opportunitythewholesale channeloffersfortheir brands.

Brakes haslaunchedanew rangeoffrozensoupsinindividual275gpouchesunder itsSyscoClassicbrand.

Theproductsareallsuitableforvegansandcanbe cookedtoorderfromfrozen ordefrostedforconvenient individualportionsinminutes.

Therangeconsistsoffour varieties:SpicedWinter VegetableSoup,Parsnip Soup,Butternut&Sage Soup,andItalianStyleWhite BeanSoup.

‘Changeiscrucial’

Aspartofitsaimtoachieve £200millionturnoverby 2026, Pricecheck hassetup anewfunctiondedicated toimprovingitsinternal processes,systemsand technologies.

Thebusinesschange teamisbasedatthewholesaler’sheadofficein Sheffield,andmembersof theteamwillworkacross departmentstoexperience differentrolesfirst-handand identifyimprovementsthat canbemade.

Theteam,whichismade upofsixinnovatorswitha passionforchange,isassistingwithanarrayofprojects setoutinthecompany’s Vision200strategicplan.

Headinguptheteamare twobusinesschangemanagers:HelenCoulthard,who hasoveradecadeofexperienceinwholesaledistributionincludingstintswith Palmer&HarveyandBestway, andRebeccaWalker,alongstandingemployeeof21

yearswho‘knowsthebusinessinsideout’.

Sofar,thebusinesschange teamhasimplementedsystemsthathavealreadyseen apositiveimpactonthe ecommerceandbranddistributionsidesofthebusiness, fromimprovingthefulfilmentofAmazonordersand smallpickprocessestoplayinganinstrumentalpartin thelaunchofthecompany’s

newwebsite.

Pricecheck’sjointmanagingdirectorDebbieHarrison commented:“Inanybusiness,changeiscrucialto driveinnovation,staffdevelopmentandbusinessgrowth opportunities.Byhavingour ownteamofexpertsthat thrivefromthisconstant change,wecandobusiness better,andinnovatemore effectivelyasacompany.”

PurposeBeforeProfitaward

CotswoldFayre haswonthe PurposeBeforeProfitaward atTheLloydsBankBritish BusinessExcellenceAwards.

TheTheale-basedfine foodwholesalerandretailer wasoneofthefirstUK companiestobecomeaB Corporationin2015,andit hascontinuouslysoughtto improveitssocialandenvironmentalimpactforall people,communitiesandthe planetoverthepastdecade.

PaulHargreaves(pictured withtrophy),founderand chiefempowermentofficer atCotswoldFayre,said: “Whileweweredelightedto beshortlistedforthree awards,thisistheonethat

weallreallywantedtowin.

“Itwastrulyacompanywideachievementand couldn’thavebeenaccomplishedwithouttheteam’s constantdriveandcommitmenttocreateapositivedifferenceineveryaspectof

whattheydo.”

CotswoldFayreandits sistercompanyFlourish Foodhall&Kitchenproduce anannualImpactReportthat looksatthecompany’seffect ontheworldaswellasits financialperformance.

Diamond anniversary

KFF (KentFrozenFoods)has turned60,andithasbeen celebratingthemilestone witheventsandgiveaways forcustomersandstaff.

Thewholesalerhasbeen givingcustomersdualbrandedchef’sjackets, whilstitsemployeeshave beenabletotakepartina regularweeklyprizedrawto winanythingfrom£50 restaurantvoucherstoan overnightstayinLondon, includingaMarcoPierre Whitediningexperience.

“Weareextremelyproud ofthewaythatKFFhas grownoverthepast60years andthefactthatithasnow becomeoneoftheUK’s leadingfoodservicewholesalers,”saysmarketingmanagerJamesMills.

“Withtheongoingsupportofourparentcompany, Sysco,wecontinuetoinvest innewproductsandservices thatfurtherimproveour customerpropositioninall areas,fromonlineordering tosustainability.”

Establishedin1962,KFF startedlifeasasupplierof frozenfoodtolocalbusinesseswithintheKentarea, butitnowcoversawidepart ofthesouthofEnglandand hasexpandeditsproduct portfoliotoincludefreshfruit andvegetables,freshand frozenfish,freshmeat,anda selectionofartisanandlocal products.

Thenewbusinesschangeteam.

GregSuszczenia

theamountraisedwasover £46,000:justgiving.com/ fundraising/greg-suszczenia.

Greentrailer

Parfetts’ formerjointmanagingdirectorGregSuszczenia hasdied.

Afterfindingoutthathe hadterminalbraincancera yearago,heretiredfrom Parfettstospendtimewith hisfamily.

Inthelastfewweeksof hislife,Suszczenia(pictured) launchedacampaigntoraise £5,000forTheBrainTumour Charity–histargetwas exceededseveraltimesover asfriendsandcolleagues gavetheirsupporttothe charityandSuszczeniahimself.When Cash&Carry Management wenttopress,

GuySwindell,jointmanagingdirectorofParfetts, said:“Gregwasadedicated colleaguewhowillbe rememberedfondlyby everyoneatParfetts.Heled Parfettsthroughaperiodof sustainedexpansionandhad apassionfortheindustry thatwascleartoeveryonehe met.

“Heretiredlastyearfrom theindustryafteracareer thatspannedbuyer,depot manager,tradingdirector andjointmanagingdirector atParfetts.Greghelpedoverseethesuccessfultransition fromafamily-ownedtoan employee-ownedbusiness andalsoservedonthe Unitasboard.Hewasa respectedvoiceinthe wholesalesector.

“WeshareourcondolenceswithhiswifeBevand sonsMichaelandKristian.”

Charityrecognised

Furthertoits2022Pakistan FundRaisingAppeal,which todatehasraisedmorethan $2.5milliontohelpthe victimsofthefloodingin Pakistan, Bestway hasbeen awardedtheCharitable FoundationoftheYear Awardatthisyear’sAsian BusinessAwards.

SincetheBestway Foundationwasestablished in1987bySirAnwarPervez asthecharitablearmofthe BestwayGroup,morethan $46millionhasbeengivento worthycauses.

HaiderChoudrey(pictured),BestwayGroup’s chieffinancialofficerand trusteeofTheBestway Foundation,said:“Weare

veryhonouredtowinthis awardaswestandshoulder toshoulderwiththepeople ofPakistanthroughthisterriblecrisis.

“It’snotjustaboutthe short-termrelief;weareat theforefrontofproviding sustainablesupporttohelp Pakistanrebuilditsinfrastructureandlivelihoods.”

JamesHall&Co hastaken deliveryofitsfirstfullyelectricrefrigeratedtrailer,which eliminatesdieselcostsas wellasCO2 emissionsfrom thetrailerrefrigerationunit.

Thenewtrailer,whichwill transportproductstoSPAR storesacrosstheNorthof England,hashadaspecial greenliveryputontoitto markitoutfromothersinthe fleet.

Whileonsiteatthecompany’sSPARDistribution CentreinPreston,thereisa facilitytochargethebattery andpre-chilltheloadspace.

Whenoff-site,thebattery packprovidesafive-hour reserveruntimetosupport thetrailer’sfridgewhenitis notmovingandwhenitis withoutamainssupply.

Theinvestmentinthe newtrailerispartofJames Hall’scontinuousreplacementprogrammeandthe company’scommitmentto runningagreenerfleet.

IanFarnworth,fleetengineeringmanager,said:“The trailerisalreadydelivering savingswhenoutontheroad. Wewillbemonitoringits performancewithinterest.”

Lifetimeachievement

SPARInternational has awardedPatMcGarry,group logisticsdirectorat HendersonGroup, aLifetime AchievementAward.

Itisthesecondaccolade thatMcGarry(pictured)has beenpresentedwiththis year–hewasnamedthe TransportPersonalityofthe YearattheExport&Freight Transport&LogisticsAwards inSeptember.

OrganisersoftheSPAR ‘ConnectedRetailConference’inRotterdamsaidthat McGarrywasrecognisedfor hislonganddistinguished servicetotheglobalSPAR organisationandretailindustry,whichhasspannedover fourdecades.

McGarrycommented:“I amhumbledandgratefulfor thisrecognitionforacareer thatallowsmetoworkwith suchfantasticpeopleand organisationsaroundthe world.TobepartoftheSPAR Internationalfamilyallows ourteamtoaffectchange globally.”

‘We need to box clever’

(right).

Although the foodservice market has declined over the last couple of years, Caterforce has grown its share, moving from 4.8% to 6.3%. That was just one of the upbeat messages that the group’s managing director Gary Mullineux gave to the 250 delegates at the Caterforce conference, held in Wales last month.

“ With the exception of 2020 for obvious reasons, we’ve continued to increase our sales year on year and it was a proud moment in 2021 when we managed to grow sales on 2019’s performance,” he said.

This year, the group bolstered its membership by signing up Dunsters Farm, and Mullineux is predicting further growth: “Our eight family- owned members are investing more than £36

million next year in their people, fleet and warehouses, and by 2025 we expect our group turnover to hit threequarters of a billion pounds.”

As far as central office is concerned, next year there will be an even bigger focus on the end user and customer. “Consumer confidence is at an all-time low, and as disposable income decreases, there will be a fight in the market for customer share,” he pointed out.

“Our commitment to you, the supplier, is to hold our agreements at the same level as this year, which is a big commitment because we’re also experiencing inflation. In return, we need you,

the supplier, to buy into our initiatives. Marketing is really important. It used to be about data and, yes, data is important but that ’s a given these days – it is now about customer attention.

“ We need to box clever,” he insisted. “We need to be smarter in terms of what we’re doing with inflation – looking at our packaging innovation, product engineering, factory and logistics savings –because we need to support the independent foodservice market.”

At the Caterforce conference, Philip Parker, purchasing director of Pilgrim Foodservice, was presented with a Lifetime Achievement Award for his ‘unwavering 40-year commitment to Pilgrim Foodservice and our industry ’ . In addition, several awards were given to suppliers in celebration of excellent performances over the previous 12 months:

Most Innovative Product

Norseland for Applewood Vegan Slices Marketing Excellence

La Lorraine for Donut Worry Be Happy Sustainability Champion

Tilda for its responsible sourcing and work to tackle poverty Best Service Levels d’Arta

Mullineux gave an example of the impact of a product price rise: “A 25p per portion increase to Caterforce impacts the menu to our customers at 63p. That moves the price for a slice of cake at a coffee shop up from £3.50 to over £4. At what point does the customer say ‘I’m going to go without?’ That ’s why we need to look at what we’re doing in terms of our products, because at some point, customers are going to go without unless we box clever to support the independent market.”

In addition to Mullineux’s report on Caterforce’s progress and priorities, the conference included a ‘meet the member ’ networking session and presentations from senior members of the group on marketing initiatives, sustainability and regional specialisms.

“ The conference was a huge success,” said Mullineux, adding: “ We are focused on delivering the best commercials for our wholesalers. The next 12 months are going to be a real challenge, and we need suppliers to invest in our initiatives to help our members and customers thrive.”

Caterforce continues to strengthen its position in the foodservice market and there is more growth to come, according to MD Gary Mullineux

L to r: Gary Mullineux, Philip Parker, Caterforce chairman Stephen Carr.

Top performers recognised

officer Andrew Selley: “ This year ’ s winner of the Outstanding Contribution Gold Medal is an industry icon.

Wholesalers and suppliers joined together at the FWD Gold Medal Awards last month to celebrate the top talent, new products and new ideas in the industry.

The event, which was held at Old Billingsgate in London, was hosted by comedian Al Murray.

The winners included Andy Kemp MBE, executive director of Bidcorp UK, whose myriad achievements were highlighted by Bidcorp UK’s chief executive

“He has worked in the foodservice and wholesale industries for over 45 years and has worked his way up from being a sales rep pounding the streets of Torquay to being one of the most respected and recognised figures in the industry.

“He has achieved great personal and team success in his senior roles in the industry, especially as group sales & marketing director, but his character has always been to look after the interests of others. He is a trustee and board member of the charity Springboard, he worked with Hospitality Action for 15 years, and he is still working part-time pursuing his passion for, among other things, championing the cause of free school meals for all schoolchildren.”

2022 FWD Gold Medal winners

Retail Brand

Monster, Coca- Cola Europacific Partners

Licensed Brand

Madrí Excepcional, Molson Coors Brewing Company

Foodservice Brand

Bisto, Premier Foods

Use of Data and Insight

Coca- Cola Europacific Partners Service to Wholesale

Britvic

New Retail Product

Madrí Excepcional, Molson Coors Brewing Company

New Foodservice Product

Radnor 125ml Tetra Pak, Radnor Hills Process Innovation

Britvic

Digital Innovation

Britvic

Green Supplier

Coca- Cola Europacific Partners

Emerging Talent

Amy Beirne, Halewood Artisanal Spirits

there is still plenty to applaud in the channel.

Faílte’s Jim Cummiskey collects the Smaller Wholesaler accolade.

Andy Kemp is recognised for his Outstanding Contribution to the trade.

Nasar Khan of Bestway accepts the Retail Wholesaler award.

Andrew Selley is presented with the Out of Home Wholesaler award.

Laura Schofield,

purchasing manager, Fairway Foodservice

What is your favourite film, book and song/piece of music?

I was brought up in a music-loving family listening to Queen, The Rolling Stones, and Joni Mitchell, so it really is hard for me to chose just one! But Massive Attack ’s Unfinished Sympathy has to be my all-time best-loved song.

I enjoy a Tarantino film, and True Romance is one of my favourites. As Good As It Gets and Groundhog Day are both true feel-good films, and I also love the cult classic The Breakfast Club – I recently introduced my girls to it.

My favourite author of all time is Marian Keyes and I especially adore The Other Side of the Story.

What would people be surprised to know about you?

‘Family life is busy!’

What have been your biggest achievements in work and outside work?

The birth of my identical twin girls Emilia and Isobel. After being born eight weeks early and a tiny three pounds each, it was a tough start for everyone. But they are now 12 years old and making me unbelievably proud every single day.

As well as achieving a First Class degree in International Marketing, in my third year I undertook a placement as a trainee buyer at Primark. What an eye opener, but one that kick-started my love for all things buying. I never looked back!

I will always remember working with Emma Bunton (The Spice Girls) to produce a capsule maternity range whilst a fashion buyer at Mamas and Papas. She was one of the many strong women I have been lucky enough to encounter and inspire me throughout my career.

Who has been the biggest inspiration to you?

This is hard as I have been influenced by so many inspiring people. My sister and mum are incredibly inspiring. Both nurses and working mums, they showed me that dedication and hard work really does pay off.

I am also lucky to have strong male role models. My dad is a civil engineer and the kindest family man who has maintained a positive outlook whilst overcoming personal challenges. My fiancé is an ex professional footballer. His dedication and determination to succeed have seen him obtain a First Class degree whilst working full time, and putting up with five strong women at home!

What approach do you take in business (and in life)?

Planning and organisation are key to keeping the wheels turning, and integrity and trust are critical as the foundation of any relationship, personal or professional.

What are your interests outside work?

I have two children and my fiancé also has two girls, so my family life is extremely busy. I love spending time with them, whether that ’s going for meals, watching a film, or attending one of their many drama shows.

I am also studying for a Masters in Nutritional Science and Practice, and planning a wedding, so it ’s all go!

To manage my stress levels I love to cook or swim. I also write lots of lists!

I am a qualified PADI scuba diver and I have been lucky enough to dive in the Dominican Republic, the Maldives and Mexico. I have always had a passion for water – for many years I competed as a synchronised swimmer for the City of Bradford Synchronettes. CCM

Switch in studies

At 18, Laura Schofield went to Edinburgh University to study Dietetics but decided it was not the right fit for her, so left and worked in marketing for a year. She then went on to study International Marketing at Manchester Metropolitan University and subsequently joined the graduate scheme at Next as a trainee buyer, quickly progressing to assistant buyer. Schofield later worked at Mamas and Papas in fashion and was promoted to a buyer. Driven by a passion for food, she started at Asda in 2011, where she was a buying manager for six years. She then worked in a senior buying role at Hallmark. Missing the food industry, Schofield joined Fairway Foodservice in August 2021 in her current role as purchasing manager for frozen food.

An extra-special year

For a business to not only survive but also thrive for decades is a huge achievement, but add in the past few years of turbulence with Brexit and the Covid pandemic, and a firm’s longevity is even more impressive.

Cash & Carry Management spoke to three businesses that have celebrated milestone anniversaries this year to find out how they have stood the test of time and what have been the most memorable moments along the way.

The non-food sales, marketing and distribution agency Robinson Young, still remains 100% privately owned after 50 years. It is run by managing director Michael Robinson – son of the founder –who joined the business in 1985.

He comments: “ Whilst it has been terrific for the whole business to be celebrating 50 years, at the same time it has been probably one of the most difficult in our history to navigate through successfully. All the economic and political turmoil has caused many different issues around operating cost increases, product cost increases, supply chain issues and in some cases recruitment. This has meant that most of the team

have been working harder than ever to try to work through these challenges.

“Having said all that, we had a fantastic response to our 50th birthday party where we invited many former employees, all of whom were very happy to be able to attend and had very fun memories of working with us.

“ We like to think that if you spend much time at Robinson Young you become a part of the family, and that stays with you throughout the rest of your career.

“In addition we have had many congratulations and kind words about our achievement from suppliers and customers alike, and I’m both proud and pleased that it seems we are held in good regard by most.”

There have been many memorable moments over the years, he adds, including securing new contracts to represent big-name brands and manufacturers, doubling the size of the warehouse in 1986, and winning numerous industry awards.

Robinson says: “Clearly one of the huge highlights is that we are celebrating 50 years in business – I doubt my father would have expected that.

“For me personally, being promoted to managing director in 1995 is a highlight and it means that I have now not only been in the business longer than my father, but I have also been leading it for longer as well. He did a fantastic job in setting up the business and developing it and I’d like to think that he would be proud that I have been able to build on his legacy.”

The buying group Confex also celebrated its 50th anniversary this year. Director Jess Douglas, whose grandfather Julian Loffet established the business and whose mum Nicky Whyte was formerly Confex’s MD, says: “Our 50th year has been eventful! It has been full of the challenges in wholesale for 2022 but we have been astounded by our members’ performance – year to date, Confex is up by 72% value and 78% in volume, which shows the resilience of our membership and industry.

“ We started the year with a recordbreaking attendance trade show,” she continues. “ We had our first Foodservice Fair in June, followed by a 50th birthday celebration in the Cotswolds. And we recently held our belated conference in Croatia which was a huge success.”

Douglas highlights several big milestones for Confex: 100 members (circa 1990), £1 billion collective member turnover (circa 2002), £2 billion turnover (circa 2013), £3 billion turnover (2022)

CORE own-brand launch (2021).

and

Left to right: Keith Nash, Robinson Young’s longest serving employee with 36 years of service; MD Michael Robinson; the company ’s newest recruit Chloe Hutchins. They are pictured with some of the brands supported by Robinson Young.

Several wholesalers and suppliers, including Robinson Young, Country Range Group, and Confex, have had a great number of reasons to celebrate this year.

“Our own brand CORE is still going from strength to strength,” she says.

“

Launched in May 2021 with a range of 300 SKUs across ambient, chilled, frozen and non-food, projected sales are for £5 million this year, which is amazing considering we launched during a pandemic. We are also focusing on the Confex Data Insight Programme for 2023 and beyond.”

Elsewhere, Country Range Group has celebrated its 30th anniversary. “It ’s been a momentous anniversary year, with a key focus on giving back and thanking the people, companies, groups, organisations and communities that have been pivotal to the group’s success in the last 30 years,” says chief executive Martin Ward.

“The celebrations and fundraising have been potent catalysts in bringing our incredible members, their customers and our suppliers even closer together. There have been charity quiz nights, golf days, gin nights, a sponsored leg wax, a tattoo auction, a parachute jump, sponsored walks, cycles and climbs, lotteries and raffles, football tournaments, abseil challenges, Halloween fancy dress competitions, bake off activities and even a Jail Break contest!

“Each and every activity has created laughter and memories and strengthened bonds within the group and it ’s fantastic to have surpassed our £100,000 target, with the money being split between Hospitality Action and local causes aligned with our members.”

From a commercial perspective, 2022 has also been incredibly positive for Country Range, says Ward, especially considering the previous two pandemic years and the current economic challenges being faced.

“Our first face -to -face events since the pandemic have been hugely successful in supporting customers and providing solutions to meet the trends and economic challenges being faced. Our members continue to raise the bar when it comes to customer service; the Country Range own-brand portfolio has been further strengthened; and we can be very proud of the opportunities the group continues to give to smaller food

“ We’re on course for group turnover to hit the £750 million mark this financial year and I’m confident we have the members, resources, portfolio and most importantly people to help us continue to grow and push for that £1 billion target.”

In terms of defining moments for the group, Ward picks three:

• The group’s true beginnings can be traced back to 1992 when three independent, family-run foodservice wholesale business owners – Colin Birchall, Mike Watson and Chris Creed – got together to form CDA (Caterers Distribution Alliance). The company merged with Countrywide Catering Group in 1997, which was when the first seeds for the Country Range Group were sown.

• In 2000, the company was relaunched under the Country Range Group name, and it has built the brand, reputation and a clear identity ever since. The year also signified the launch of the first Country Range own-brand products, which continue to be pivotal to the group’s growth and reach.

• The first ‘An Evening with the Country Range Group’ event was held in London in 2013. This has now become the highlight of the group’s year where members get together to celebrate the people, businesses and brands that have been key to success. It is fitting that, earlier this month, Country Range held an anniversary party to remember (see page 6) at the iconic venue of St s Cathedral in London.

The first Country Range own-brand products were introduced in 2000.

Julien Loffet (centre), grandfather of Jess Douglas and Tom Gittins, identified a need for a collaborative approach to wholesaling and went into partnership with Birmingham wholesaler Sidney Lumley (left) to establish Confex in July 1972.

Search for value continues

Manufacturers

The value of tobacco in the UK totalled £15.2 billion in the last year (IRI), with the ready-made cigarette market accounting for £10.7 billion.

The future of the tobacco industry lies very much within the value of the product as consumers seek out ways to save money, maintains Tom Gully, head of consumer marketing UK&I at Imperial Tobacco.

“If wholesalers and retailers are to successfully cater to the needs of today ’s customer and increase sales, then ensuring they are stocking a wide range of value tobacco products is crucial,” he says.

“Given the growing cost- of-living crisis and rising energy costs, this shift towards value tobacco products is a trend that is likely to continue for some time and one that retailers should not ignore,” he adds. “ Tobacco shoppers spend more, visit more and have a higher basket spend than other shoppers (Lumina) so are key shoppers to attract.”

With household costs and inflation soaring, shoppers are now even more aware of how much they are spending, Gully points out. “As a result, we’re seeing a move towards low priced propositions across the entire category, resulting in the lower priced tiered products making up a majority of tobacco sales.

“

In fact, the sub - economy segment now makes up 63% of factory-made cigarette sales, while the economy segment accounts for 56% of RYO, with these value segments growing at an impressive 3% and 5% year on year (ITUK).”

Imperial Tobacco has introduced two new limited- edition products to help independent retailers deliver added convenience to adult smokers and respond to the rising demand for value that is dominating shopping habits this year.

The independent- exclusive range of 21s packs, which was first launched in March this year, has returned. It features some of Imperial’s best- selling brands including Richmond 21s at an rsp of £10.65, plus Players JPS and L&B Blue 21s, both at an rsp of £10.90.

In addition, Imperial has introduced 32g packs of rolling tobacco for Riverstone and Players JPS Easy Rolling tobacco – its fastest growing brand nationwide. Both brands have an rsp of £14.55 for the new format.

Gully comments: “ With demand for value shaping purchasing habits across the tobacco category, these two added convenience formats, developed exclusively for independents, will be sure to be popular with customers.”

Imperial has also unveiled a new look for roll-your- own

brand Riverstone. As part of the brand refresh, the Riverstone trade outers benefit from a new design that focuses on the ‘true pleasure of rolling, whilst giving a subtle nod to its heritage with eye - catching imagery of mountains’

The Riverstone range has been created to offer a high- quality roll-your- own tobacco blend that is soft and easy to handle, and although the packaging has been updated, the blend remains the same. Riverstone performs exceptionally well on taste, with 70% of consumers buying it again and again after experiencing the taste, reports Imperial Tobacco.

With an rsp of £13.65 for the 30g pack and £22.35 for the 50g format, Riverstone is positioned to tap into the rising demand for value -focused roll-your- own tobacco.

When wholesalers and retailers review their range, it is important to remember that value means different things to different people, says Gully. “Some customers might be focused on the lowest price point, while others may be looking for added-value formats like Players JPS Easy Rolling Tobacco which offers filters and papers in one pack,” he explains. “ Therefore ensuring that retailers stock a range that caters for these different value needs is vital in order to effectively cater for their customer base.”

As consumers become increasingly price conscious, this will affect cigars just as much as any other category, points out Alastair Williams, country director at Scandinavian Tobacco Group UK (STG UK). “Having said that, the search for value has been a trend in cigars for some time now, evidenced by the success of our Moments Blue brand, which offers a quality smoke at a low price,” he says.

One of the UK’s biggest ever illegal tobacco factories has been dismantled after a raid in Leicester.

The state - of-the -art factory, which was capable of producing more than seven million cigarettes a week, was uncovered in an operation by HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) with support from law enforcement partners in Poland.

The sophisticated set-up included professional extraction systems, insulation to hide noise, expensive machinery and accommodation for staff.

It is estimated the two - storey factory would have cost more than £1 million to set up and would have led to lost tax revenues totalling more than £130 million per year.

More than 8.5 tonnes of tobacco was also recovered from the site, worth £3.3 million in unpaid duty.

Nine men were arrested and investigations are ongoing.

are focusing on offering value to price - conscious consumers while also innovating to meet the requirements of smokers looking for alternative nicotine solutions.

CLEAR OUTSIDE SAME PACK INSIDE

As part of our ongoing vision for a Better Tomorrow we are changing the wrapping of Dunhill International from printed film to clear cellophane. However, rest assured, the contents of the BAT outers – whether packs of Dunhill or other BAT brands – remain completely unchanged and are just as authentic as before

If you have any questions or concerns about our new cellophane wrapping, please contact BAT customer service, your Account Manager or local rep

It’s an offence to sell tobacco to person under 18 years of age. For tobacco trade use only. Not to be left within sight of consumers.

Moments is now the sixth best- selling cigar brand in the UK in value terms, but most of its sales go through the multiple grocery channel, suggesting that independent retailers and cash & carries might be missing out by not stocking it.

“ With the current cost- of-living crisis only likely to get worse, it ’s sensible to assume that value products will only increase in importance across the store, and that will certainly include cigars so cash & carries who don’t currently stock Moments should absolutely do so,” says Williams.

JTI calls for stronger powers for Trading Standards

JTI has called for stronger powers and additional funding for Trading Standards to tackle the illegal tobacco and vape trade. The supplier also stood in parliament in November to highlight the scale of the illegal activity.

Test purchasing recently undertaken for JTI gathered evidence on 95 stores in north-west England selling illegal cigarettes, hand-rolling tobacco and vapes.

Counterfeit versions of a JTI hand-rolling tobacco brand were found for £4, compared to a retail price of £29 – each pack sold saw the Government lose out on approximately £20 in taxes.

Since 2000, HMRC estimates that illicit activity on tobacco and vape has resulted in a tax revenue loss of £51.3 billion. In the last month alone, over a third of smokers have bought tobacco products that were not in the plain packs legally required in the UK (Kantar).

Ian Howell, fiscal & regulatory affairs manager at JTI, comments: “ While Border Force prevents the smuggling of illicit tobacco into the country and HMRC conducts large - scale operations that can lead to the uncovering of major illegal manufacturing sites, it is Trading Standards that undertakes the lion’s share of enforcement action on the UK’s high streets.

“Unfortunately, despite efforts such as Operation CeCe or the Keep It Out campaign, Trading Standards is overwhelmed by the scale of the problem. They do not have access to easy to apply, hard-hitting financial sanctions that would help tackle the persistent actions of rogue retailers who are currently undeterred.”

Using the framework of tobacco ‘track & trace’, the Finance Act 2022 gave HMRC the ability to issue on-thespot fines of up to £10,000 and suspend any required registration in the event of wrongdoing.

“During the consultation process, HMRC promised that these powers would be extended to Trading Standards, but the method and timeframe to accomplish this have not yet appeared. Without this, the criminals selling illegal tobacco will simply carry on regardless,” says Howell.

“JTI is calling for HMRC to extend these powers to Trading Standards, and for the Treasury to allow Trading Standards to retain the money raised through these penalties to reinvest in their services. Criminals should be made to pay the price for their criminal activity.”

Cash & carries are advised not to tie up their cashflow with slow -moving cigar brands as the top 10 account for over 90% of sales. Miniatures remain the engine room of the cigar category, so it is important to get this segment right, and the biggest brand is STG’s Signature.

The cigarillos category now makes up over 46% of the total volume in the cigars market and generates just under £100 million in sales (IRI). STG reports that its Signature Action brand is growing in popularity and a good option for adult smokers who like the peppermint flavour.

Cash & carries should also consider brands in both the small and the medium/large segments. STG’ s Henri Wintermans Half Corona accounts for over 72% of sales in the medium/large segment, so is a must- stock, particularly at this time of year since it is a ‘real festive favourite’

Accessories

Sales of tobacco accessories in the UK are valued at £330 million and showing year- on-year growth of 4.5% (IRI), providing an opportunity for cash & carries to build a range that drives profit.

Against the backdrop of rising costs of living, roll-yourown products offer better value than traditional factory-made cigarettes, driving many shoppers to make the switch, reports Republic Technologies UK. This generates opportunities for cash & carries to encourage sales of tobaccorelated accessories, such as filters, papers and lighters.

“ With impressive margins and many options for incremental sales, tobacco accessories can be a valuable profit driver for cash & carries,” says Gavin Anderson, sales & marketing director at Republic Technologies UK.

“ The right range of brands and products, highlighted with effective PoS, gives retailers the potential to make sure their store stands out,” he adds.

Rolling papers is currently the second highest value sector within tobacco accessories, worth £97 million and growing by 4.3% year on year (IRI). OCB is the UK’s fastest growing mainstream paper brand (IRI).

With increasing demand for premium paper formats, the slim & tips sub - category is up by 29.5% year on year (IRI). OCB Virgin, Premium and Organic Hemp are all available in a slim & tips format, making the brand a must stock for cash & carries looking to tap into these valuable

As well as offering better value for shoppers, OCB is consistently working on developing the highest quality papers that also give the best natural experience to the user. OCB Virgin and Organic Hemp unbleached paper ranges are 100% vegan, made using acacia gum and sustainable fibres, and presented in sleek packaging using vegetable ink.

“Product development is always at the heart of our approach to the development of the category, ” says Anderson. “ We regularly review consumer needs, market trends and purchasing habits to help retailers make the most of this growing category.

“ We encourage our customers to stock a range of tobacco accessories in different formats to maximise category sales. RYO shoppers tend to be repeat purchasers, so having a good variety of products, with a fully stocked display, will bring consumers back.

“Compact displays, like our branded countertop units, highlight bestselling product lines and NPD, driving increased shopper interest and encouraging impulse sales,” he adds.

Republic Technologies’ brands, which include Swan, ZigZag and OCB, have considerable history in the market and are positioned to offer quality and value for money. “ This, combined with our team’s valuable expertise in the category, means that we are well placed to add real value to cash & carries,” says Anderson.

Vaping & next-generation products

The number of vapers in the UK has grown by 3% over the last year to 3.6 million (ECigIntelligence) as more consumers seek out alternative nicotine solutions.

In the UK, vape is now worth around £1.2 billion and is expected to reach £1.47 billion in the next three years. Around 35% of current vaping volume sales take place in the convenience channel (ECigIntelligence).

“

To tap into this rising trend, wholesalers and retailers need to ensure they are dedicating sufficient space in store for vaping products and stocking the right range for their customer base,” says Tom Gully, head of consumer marketing UK&I at Imperial Tobacco.

Both closed pod systems and basic open systems remain popular choices for vapers, accounting for 70% of the total UK vaping market size in 2022 (equal shares). There is also significant growth in the disposables category, which is currently worth around £132 million (ECigIntelligence).

Imperial recently announced its entrance into the disposables market with the blu bar vape range. This comprises disposable and ready-touse vape products with a compact pocket size design. Each blu bar device contains 20mg of nicotine in 2ml of liquid, providing up to 600 puffs, and features an LED indicator that lights up when in use.

The new blu bar range has an rsp of £5.99 per device and comprises six flavours: Kiwi Passionfruit, Mango Ice, Banana Ice, Peach Ice, Watermelon Ice and Strawberry Ice. Each blu bar features bursts of colour, both on the device and on the pack, to create stand- out on the shelf and help with range navigation.

He joins PML after seven years at Imperial Brands, where he was corporate affairs director. He also previously worked at defence and security company Lockheed Martin and spent seven years as a diplomat in the Foreign and Commonwealth Office.

Cunningham’s new role at PML involves working across government and the full range of stakeholders to stimulate the adoption of harm reduction policies as the country moves towards a smokefree future.

Commenting on his appointment, he said: “Increased use of e - cigarettes as an alternative to cigarettes has had a significant impact on reducing smoking prevalence in the UK, but more needs to be done.

“ The opportunity exists to take advantage of technological innovation to help the UK become a world leader in tobacco harm reduction. We hope the Government will support adult smokers that don’t quit, by improving access to, and awareness of, the full range of less harmful alternatives.”

Gully comments: “Disposables are taking over the vape category, with the segment seeing rapid growth in the last year. In fact, recent figures show they now account for 70% of vape sales (ITUK). We’re really excited to be joining this flourishing market with our new blu bar range, offering a great quality product from the well-known blu brand that consumers know and trust.”

Imperial will be supporting the launch of blu bar with a profit on return deal of up to 43% at wholesalers, as well as through a new dedicated blu bar trade microsite.

Disposable vape manufacturer Elfbar recently launched Cigalike, a vape product designed to look like a conventional cigarette. Its introduction during October coincided with the Stoptober campaign aimed at encouraging people to give up smoking.

Approved by the Medicines Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA), Cigalike provides around 400 puffs per device.

Philip Morris Ltd (PML), the UK and Ireland affiliate of Philip Morris International (PMI), has appointed Duncan Cunningham (below) as external affairs director.

Duncan Cunningham joins PML Duncan joins PML

To encourage trial, the company teamed up with 20 retail outlets across the UK to launch a challenge among smokers to lay down the equivalent of 50,000 cigarettes during Stoptober. In addition, Elfbar gave samples of Cigalike to 1,000 smokers who committed to handing in their conventional cigarettes in October.

Victor Xiao, chief executive of Elfbar, describes Stoptober as a great campaign to raise awareness of vaping as a “considerably less harmful and expensive option than smoking”

He adds: “According to the NHS, vaping is one of the best ways to quit smoking. Brands and the retail sector have an important role to play in getting this message out to adult smokers by working closer together.”

It is predicted that the heated tobacco category will be worth £250 million by 2025, with 66% of consumers buying through traditional retail (IRI). The category is already worth £91 million in traditional retail, with growth of 14.9% year on year (IRI).

“ There is a huge opportunity in the market, so there really was no better time for JTI to expand and upgrade its portfolio with Ploom X – a new and improved device with upgraded technology designed to deliver a truly unique experience for customers,” explains Mark McGuinness, marketing director of JTI UK.

Ploom X offers an ‘alternative but familiar tobacco experience’ by heating tobacco instead of burning it. Compared to its predecessor, Ploom X is more compact and has a more consistent nicotine delivery and an enhanced flavour sensation. It also has a longer session time of up to five minutes and the ability to use more EVO Tobacco Sticks per charge. One heating mode makes the device easy for customers to use.

McGuinness comments: “ The Ploom brand has gone from strength to strength over the past few years. Building on our growing presence in the evolving heated tobacco category, the launch of Ploom X offers a truly unique experience for customers.”

Ploom X is available in selected retailers within the Greater London area and on ploom.co.uk. The device can be used exclusively with EVO Tobacco Sticks which are available to wholesalers serving retailers within the M25.

Philip Morris Ltd (PML) has commenced the roll- out of IQOS Originals Duo, a revamped and renamed version of IQOS 3 Duo, to indirect retail channels in the UK.

IQOS Originals Duo combines revamped design features with Philip Morris International’s Heatcontrol technology. This uses a flat wide ceramic blade to heat tobacco from the inside, delivering ‘a real tobacco taste and satisfaction’ backed by six years of scientific research and development.

Fully compatible with existing HEETS tobacco sticks, IQOS Originals Duo is replacing IQOS 3 Duo, with no buyback or product swapping necessary. The new stock will filter through naturally.

With an rsp of £39, IQOS Originals Duo is sold as a kit, consisting of the two -piece device – with a compact and lightweight holder – and two packs of HEETS.

Kate O’Dowd, head of commercial planning at PML in the UK and Ireland, believes that IQOS Originals Duo arrives at a time when adult smokers are increasingly on the look- out for an alternative product that is satisfying, less harmful and affordable.

“Affordability is a growing concern among many adult smokers in the UK. The best option for anyone is to quit tobacco and nicotine products completely. If they don’t, then switching to IQOS Originals Duo could work out far cheaper in the long run, with 20 HEETS costing £5 rsp – less than half the average price of a pack of 20 cigarettes.”

First launched in the UK in 2016, IQOS is the UK’s number one heat-not-burn product (Nielsen), and there are 10 HEETS variants, ranging from menthol to traditional tobacco.

Commenting on the expansion of the heated tobacco category, O’Dowd says: “ There is no doubt that competition in the smoke -free category is heating up. The real upshot of increased competition is not so much pitting products against each other, but rather providing smokers with a greater choice of alternatives that enables them to switch away from cigarettes, if they can’t or won’t quit completely.”

To illustrate how competition is being set aside to achieve this smoke -free goal, PML commissioned a study last year of around 1,400 convenience retailers which found that over two -thirds would look beyond local competition and work together to help their community go smoke -free.

“ With manufacturers bringing better products to market and more retailers than ever before broadening their smokefree offering, I truly believe we can help millions of adult smokers make a better choice,” says O’Dowd.

STG recently entered the fast-growing nicotine pouch category with the introduction of its first non-tobacco product. Originating from Sweden, the home of most nicotine pouches, STRÖM (which is Swedish for stream/flow) is a premium nicotine pouch.

Offered in three flavours (Fresh Mint, Minty Orange and Juicy Berry), STRÖM is initially available to retailers across Manchester for a six-month trial period to March, before being rolled out to other UK cities.