Helping hand for independents

PGMA gives retailers tools to succeed

BUYING group PGMA aims to help retailers keep the passion for their truly independent stores through its proposition.

The business, owned by the Scottish Grocers’ Federation, is on an expansion drive at present.

It has recently launched a new website – www.pgma.co.uk – making it clearer and easier for independent retailers to join and understand the benefits PGMA membership brings.

Commercial manager Martin Devlin said: “Bringing the very best in convenience to independent retail stores is what PGMA has always strived to deliver since being established in Scotland in 1970.

“And this key pillar of success has been brought front and centre with the brand’s refresh and launch of its new recruitment website.”

Devlin explained that PGMA can help independent retailers navigate the challenges brought about by the cost-ofliving crisis by giving them all the benefits of being in a symbol group without requiring inhibitive layers of compliance.

Trading via Costcutter, PGMA gives shopkeepers access to what Devlin claims is “one of the biggest ranges in convenience”.

With 14,000 lines available and tapping into the Co-op own-label ranges – including an extensive fresh offering, as well as ambient, household, alcohol and frozen –PGMA provides everything independents need in one place.

Devlin added: “There’s a massive choice across all categories – it’s a supermarket range, not a convenience one.”

He said PGMA operated Costcutter’s ordering system, including an easily accessible mobile app, with flexibility over the frequency of delivery direct to store, with manageable order quantities. And retailers also enjoy the added convenience of one consolidated weekly invoice.

PGMA members can also access Mace branding should they wish to have an instantly recognisable kerbside identity. Other benefits include promotional and seasonal planning and activities that retailers can choose to take up, as well as SGF membership.

Devlin explained: “What we offer helps cut costs and saves time for retailers, so they can concentrate on engaging with their customers and developing their stores.

“With PGMA, you can be your own retailer and operate in a way that suits your community – and that works especially well in rural areas.”

PGMA, which currently charges a small weekly admin fee, is actively seeking to attract independent retailers who are involved in their communities, want to develop their ranges but want help to get some time back.