CATEGORY ADVICE ST PATRICK’S DAY BESTSELLING LINES

FOR Pratik Patel, of Jay’s Budgens in London, his bestselling lines at St Patrick’s Day include Guinness Original and Draught 440ml, Jameson Whiskey 70cl, as well as nonalcoholic options.

“We also sell premium snacks and price-marked packs,” he says. “We also get posters from the reps and Booker sends promotional material, and creates a dedicated area with some green colour, so people notice what’s happening.”

Diageo’s Lauren Priestley says inclusivity in a drinks range is more important than ever, so including low- and noalcohol options is key. “Two in five shoppers are looking to moderate,” she says. “To help customers navigate your lowand no-alcohol range, stock non-alcoholic options from established and trusted bands.”

Retailer View

Anita Nye, Premier Eldred Drive Stores, Orpington, Kent

“ST PATRICK’S Day isn’t that big here. Our customers are more interested in St George’s Day. A few shoppers buy Guinness and Irish whiskey, and we’ll be stocking the normal amount of products for them. We’ll have shamrocks and balloons, as we also have a party shop.

“I think the cost-of-living crisis will affect celebrations. People aren’t going out, and cinemas are near empty on films’ opening nights.

“Things may pick up by March, but people will have more bills to pay. Saying that, we took more than ever on Christmas Eve, and we’ve not gone into recession yet, so anything’s possible.”