TalkingShop October 2023

Talking Shop ISSUE 126 – October 2023

The magazine for Premier retailers

PLUS

Make Merry

Get set for sparkling sales with Premier’s festive ranges

Value and quality

Chilled champions

Barry’s Halton Moor boasts Premier’s first ever Soft Drinks Cave

The Jack’s brand has you covered this Christmas

Talking Shop | October 2023

Welcome Talking Shop ISSUE xx – October

A very warm welcome to this, your October issue of Talking Shop, as we begin gearing up in earnest for what I hope will be an exceptional festive period this year.

As always, Premier has created an outstanding selection of festive promotions and deals to help you maximise footfall, sales and profits during this critical trading period.

In this issue we share some of the great Christmas confectionery and drinks deals we have on offer this year, with plenty to help you and your shoppers get into the festive spirit.

We also bring you the latest additions to our everexpanding Jack’s own-brand range as Jack’s continues to cement its position as the perfect brand for the challenging times that shoppers find themselves in at the moment. Quality and value have never been more important.

Sustainability is never far from our thoughts at Premier, as we continue to help you build ever more sustainable businesses. In this issue you’ll find some important updates on the fantastic progress we are making on our journey together.

You’ll also find some great advice and tips inside on ways to drive efficiencies in your business, save money and grow profits through initiatives like our SocioConnect digital solution, our Central Billing platform and our freeto-use ATM deal.

It’s an exciting time of year and I wish you all the very best of trading over the next few months.

2023

The magazine

for Premier retail

ers

PLUS

Make Merry

Get set sparkling sales for with Premier’s festiv e ranges

Chilled champions

Value and quality

The Jack’s bran has you cove d red this Christmas

Barry’s Halto n Moor boasts Premier’s first ever Soft Drin ks Cave

Barry’s Halton Moor has a revolutionary new offer including Premier’s first Soft Drinks Cave.

THE THREE BIG STORIES 19 BOOKER’S BIKE BONANZA Booker has helped to raise more than £416,000 for GroceryAid 44 SWEET OPPORTUNITY Bag sweeter sales with Premier’s Christmas confectionery range 52 FESTIVE VALUE Jacks has what it takes to spice up your festive offer

Share your shop news

If you’ve got news, tips or feature ideas, please get in touch with Talking Shop: EMAIL:

talkingshop@booker.co.uk DISCLAIMER:

Martyn Parkinson, Sales Director – Booker Wholesale

4 TalkingShop October 2023

Prices are correct at time of going to press, but may be subject to change.

93

Help retain access to cash

88

Free-to-use ATM deal

38

20

19

7

RIA Awards success

32 Standing out

58 Drink to that

Premier retailers claim three

A state of the art refit has

Everything you need to

top awards.

given Premier Marseans

maximise Christmas drinks

bags of new USPs.

sales.

11 Community News The latest round-up of community news.

19 GroceryAid Update

38 Above and beyond Premier’s unique offer has

Some of the latest new

breathed new life into an old

products to hit the shelves.

Croydon store.

Booker colleagues help raise over £416,000.

20 Recipe for success Forward-thinking refit leaves

72 New products

44 Sweet opportunities

80 Sustainability update

Extensive range of

Booker continues to deliver

confectionery deals to boost

a Better Trolley for a Better

festive profits.

Planet.

shoppers hungry for more.

67 Cash in on Halloween

26 Local heroes Leeds community-minded store has a revolutionary

52 Jack’s update

85 Getting social 85

More new lines added to the

More than 100 retailers

outstanding Jack’s range.

already signed up for SocioConnect solution.

new offer.

October 2023 TalkingShop

5

*

STOCK BRITAIN’S

Most loved CRISPS

†

A DV E R T I S M E N T F E AT U R E F R O M WA L K E R S

BRITAIN’S MOST LOVED CRISPS

†

WE LOVE POTATOES, SO YOU CAN LOVE WALKERS! Walkers Senior Marketing Manager, Rachael Smith, says:

Great taste is what Brits look for when seeking their snack choices and we know that the best tasting crisps start with the best grown potatoes used to make them.

At Walkers our crisps are made with sustainably grown, 100% British potatoes*.

Our sustainable farming programme means our potatoes are grown and cared for on British potato farms around the country and our generations of farmers play a crucial role in helping to use sustainable farming methods to better protect the planet.

We ensure that love and care go into every pack of Walkers crisps right from the potato fields, to deliver Britain’s most loved crisps†.

With taste the number one driver for snacking purchases**, quality

STOCK UP ON WALKERS CRISPS TODAY

potatoes grown with love and care are crucial to delivering the great taste of Walkers crisps. Our latest campaign showcases the partnership we have with our farmers to source sustainably grown, 100% British potatoes* to make Britain’s most loved crisps† †For verification, see walkers.co.uk/mostloved *Walkers sources potatoes from British farms who are part of the PepsiCo Sustainable Farming Program.

For more info visit: www.walkers.co.uk/sustainability **Kantar Usage Panel Total IH+CO 52 W/e 9th July 2023 (Total snacking occasion).

A DV E R T I S M E N T F E AT U R E F R O M WA L K E R S

PremierNews NEWS, ACHIEVEMENTS AND OPINIONS FROM ACROSS PREMIER

Trio of successes at Retail Industry Awards Premier retailers once again shone brightly at this year’s Retail Industry Awards, claiming three top accolades.

RIA 2023 WINNERS INDEPENDENT RETAILER OF THE YEAR – 1,501SQ FT TO 3,000SQ FT Jaz’s Premier, Grangemouth, Stirling MOST SUSTAINABLE RETAILER INITIATIVE OF THE YEAR – INDEPENDENT Premier Talbot Village, Bournemouth, Dorset FOOD-TO-GO RETAILER OF THE YEAR – INDEPENDENT UP TO 3,000SQ FT Premier Heyside, Oldham, Greater Manchester

It was another hugely successful night for

challenging location, he is delivering a rare

are a long-term solution and will no doubt

Premier at the recent Retail Industry Awards

ray of excellence to his community and is

reduce energy consumption considerably.

2023, with Premier retailers claiming three of

quite rightly proud of what he has achieved. A

These changes show a model in line with the

the most important awards.

highly impressive store.”

added emphasis on sustainability in business operations across the board.”

Jaz’s Premier in Grangemouth, Stirlingshire

Meanwhile Premier Talbot Village in

was named Independent Retailer of the Year

Bournemouth claimed the Most Sustainable

Finally, Premier Heyside in Oldham won

in the 1,501sq ft to 3,000sq ft category

Retailer Initiative of the Year award in

the Food-to-Go Retailer of the Year award in

following a major conversion of the site from

the Independent category for a store-wide

the Independent up to 3,000sq ft category.

a former pub into a state-of-the-art Premier

commitment to sustainability.

Owned by independent retailer Mos Patel,

The store features digital shelf edge labels,

the store’s extensive hot and chilled food-to-

Owner Shajaz Ali told Talking Shop: “We

digital leaflets accessed by a QR code,

go offer has helped to turbocharge store sales

were absolutely thrilled to win the award and

full recycling solutions and low-energy

and profits.

it means so much to the team at the store. It

refrigeration and lighting.

convenience store last year.

The judges commented: “This was a

was a huge project for us, but the store turned

The judges said: “We were impressed with

brilliant open offer within a great-looking

out exactly as we wanted it and we’re already

the store’s great combination of initiatives

store. Well managed and promoted, resulting

trading 52% up this year.”

aimed at reducing waste, increasing energy

in impressive sales after its menu underwent

The judges commented: “This is an

efficiency and reducing plastic. The refill

a streamlining process, reducing waste and

extremely well-run store with excellent

station is an excellent initiative for offering

overhead costs while maintaining a diverse

standards

overall

shoppers a chance to try a new way of doing

range of food options to cater to shopper

in

things sustainably while the solar panels

preferences.”

of

merchandising.

fit-out, Despite

fill

and

trading

a

October 2023 TalkingShop

7

LOCAL SHOPS IN LABOUR SPOTLIGHT The Association of Convenience Stores (ACS) presented at

Justin back in the fast lane with Heineken!

Premier retailer Justin Whittaker won the trip of a lifetime to see the Italian Grand Prix in September after winning a Booker-exclusive competition with Heineken.

the recent Labour Party Conference to highlight the vital role that local shops play in communities across the UK. The event, ‘High Streets: Heart of the Everyday Economy,’ looked to explore and examine the important role that businesses play in people’s lives and

Justin Whittaker of MJ’s Premier

entered into the competition and

what policymakers can

in Royton, Oldham won the prize

self-confessed ‘petrolhead’ Justin

do to support them.

of a lifetime recently through a

won the top prize.

Panellists included

Booker-exclusive

Justin

competition

told

and the Grand Prix on Sunday.

“We even got into the Paddock Club which was just sensational

Talking

Shop:

because we were right in the

Sarah Owen MP, Shadow

organised by Heineken, which

“Honestly, if ever there was a

thick of everything. I’d like to say

Minister for Levelling Up,

offered

at

prize with my name on it, it was

thank you so much to Heineken

Housing, Communities

the Italian Grand Prix on 3

this one! It honestly was the trip

for taking such good care of

and Local Government;

September.

VIP

experiences

of a lifetime and I’ll never forget

me. I’m mad about cars and it’s

Paddy Lillis, General

Retailers who bought 35 cases

it. They flew us out there and put

something I’ve always wanted to

Secretary, Usdaw; and

from across the Heineken range in

us up in a lovely hotel and we got

do, so it genuinely was a dream

James Lowman, Chief

June and July were automatically

to see both the Saturday sessions

come true.”

Executive, ACS.

Booker expands colleague networks colleague

part of a community, with all

the launch of two more colleague

networks are Race & Ethnicity at

colleagues being invited to join

networks as it continues to

Booker and LGBTQ+ at Booker

any networks, as ‘Everyone is

embrace

Welcome’ at Booker.

The

Booker Group has announced

new

build

and help the company to stay

inclusion. The announcement was

true to its core purpose of serving

The groups were launched with

made during the recent National

customers, communities and the

three virtual calls with over 300

Inclusion Week and followed the

planet a little better every day.

colleagues joining, who learnt

diversity

and

have

been

created

about the aims of the networks,

advocate

and

support

how they can get involved and the

They

introduction of the Women at

8 TalkingShop October 2023

two

Booker colleague network earlier

to

this year.

colleagues

who

identify

as

importance of being an ally.

Premier stores sweep the board at SLR Awards Premier stores stole the show at the recent SLR Awards claiming the top prize as well as winning more awards than any other group.

ALL THE WINNERS

SCOTTISH LOCAL RETAILER OF THE YEAR Billy Gatt, Premier Whitehills SPECIAL RECOGNITION AWARD Premier Broadway, Edinburgh NEW STORE OF THE YEAR Premier Whitehills SUSTAINABILITY RETAILER OF THE YEAR Premier Dundee University Students Association

Premier retailers took the recent Scottish Local

and Sophie Williams of Premier Broadway in

Retailer of the Year Awards by storm claiming no

Edinburgh. As well as winning the Community

COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT

fewer than nine awards on the night, more than any

Retailer of the Year Award for 2023, they also

RETAILER OF THE YEAR

other symbol group.

picked up a Special Recognition Award for 40 years

Premier Broadway,

Premier recently hit the 500 stores mark in Scotland and the success of Premier stores at

of unbroken service to their local community.

Linda told Talking Shop: “It’s hard to believe

the SLR Awards shows the high standards being

we’ve been here for four decades but it’s been

achieved by Premier retailers.

a privilege to play our part in this fantastic

As well as being named New Store of the Year, Premier retailer Billy Gatt also secured the coveted Scottish Local Retailer of the Year Award for his stunning new-build store in Whitehills on the North Aberdeenshire coast.

community.”

The judges described the family’s commitment to

FORECOURT RETAILER OF THE YEAR Premier Racetrack Bearsden

community engagement as “awe-inspiring”.

Not to be outdone, Girish Jeeva’s Premier Girish’s@Barmulloch also claimed two awards

The judges hailed Whitehills as “possibly the

– Soft Drinks Retailer of the Year and Team

most impressive new-build convenience store”

of the Year – while Moira Dean of Premier

they had ever encountered in 21 years of the SLR

Dundee University Students Association won the

Awards.

Sustainability Retailer of the Year award.

Billy told Talking Shop: “I’m truly humbled to

Edinburgh

Ian Smith of Premier Turriff once again collected

NEWSTRADE RETAILER OF THE YEAR Premier Turriff SOFT DRINKS RETAILER OF THE YEAR Premier Girish’s@

have my store named the best in Scotland and to

the Newstrade Retailer of the Year Award while

be recognised by my peers. With standards so high

Shamly Sud and family won the Forecourt Retailer

in independent retailing these days, this is a true

of the Year award for their stunning Premier

TEAM OF THE YEAR

honour for me, my family and my team.”

Racetrack forecourt store in Bearsden, just north of

Premier Girish’s@

Also claiming two awards were Dennis, Linda

Glasgow.

Barmulloch

Barmulloch October 2023 TalkingShop

9

Stock up now!

M280342

M280329

Always keep out of reach of children. ©A.I.S.E. www.keepcapsfromkids.eu

CommunityNews NEWS, ACHIEVEMENTS AND OPINIONS FROM ACROSS PREMIER

Orpington community heroes invited to Parliament Retailers from Premier Orpington have been invited to Westminster to recognise and reward their incredible efforts to support their local community during the pandemic.

COFFEE MORNING Denmore Premier Food Store in Rhyl, North Wales, has raised £253 by holding a Macmillan Coffee Morning.

The event proved so successful the store kept its collection open for

Retailers Raju Patel, Anita Nye and Kai Nye of

several days.

Premier Eldred Drive Stores have been invited

Retailer Angela Sykes

to Parliament in recognition of their incredible

said: “Wow! Many thanks

efforts to support the Orpington community during

to all who supported

Covid-19.

us at Denmore Premier

Orpington MP Gareth Bacon held a campaign to

Food Store for our

ensure his constituents that stepped up and placed

Macmillan Coffee

others before themselves during the pandemic

Morning.

were not only acknowledged but valued across the

“It was lovely seeing

constituency.

our customers enjoying

Raju, Anita and Kai donated daily to the Help

their Lavazza hot drinks

Orpington NHS free shop, close to the Princess

and the delicious cakes

Royal University Hospital, to help NHS staff easily

supplied by our very

access shopping during the peak of the crisis.

Their efforts helped to support more than 5,000

kind suppliers – Henllan

“We also discussed contemporary challenges

Bakery, Gwynedd Tea

facing many businesses, such as antisocial

and Coffee Supplies,

behaviour, the cost of processing card transactions,

Bobby's Foods, Parfetts

to offer them a tour of the Palace of Westminster

ensuring a strong local police presence and the

Cash & Carry, and

and hear about their exemplary efforts in their own

impact of the ULEZ expansion. Orpington owes

Cotteswold Dairy. Even

words.

you a great deal of thanks.”

our staff's parents made

workers.

Bacon said: “I very much enjoyed being able

some scrumptious

Free fruit for local children

cakes.”

Premier Heysham – Tarnbrook Stores in Lancashire is offering free fruit to children.

Between 7am and 9am each weekday morning, children can now help themselves to one free piece of fruit to help towards their five a day.

James Brown, Owner of Premier Heysham – Tarnbrook Stores, said: “At Premier Heysham we want to promote healthy eating habits for kids. That's why we're introducing a free Fruit for Kids initiative.”

Local Mossgate Primary School said: “A fantastic scheme. Well done Tarnbrook

TALKING TACTICS What are you doing in-store to stand out in your local market? Share it with us and your Premier retailer colleagues at talkingshop@booker.co.uk

Stores.”

October 2023 TalkingShop

11

380ml Price Mark: M275007

380ml Price Mark: M275006

IndustryNews A DIGEST OF NEWS FROM THE INDEPENDENT RETAILING INDUSTRY

Food and drink spend ’up 7%’ in September The latest Barclays data shows that shopper spending on food and drink in retail grew by 7% in September, a further increase on the previous month’s growth levels.

Key Stats l

Food and drink spend up 7% YOY in September

l

Total card spend up 4.2% YOY in September

l

70% of shoppers trying to reduce the cost of their weekly shop

l

49% of these doing so by choosing own-brand products

l

l

52% taking advantage

WALES PLASTICS BAN The Welsh Government has confirmed that the upcoming ban on singleuse plastics will go live on 30 October 2023.

From this date, retailers in Wales must stop the sale and supply of the following singleuse plastic products: plates, cutlery, drinks

of multibuy or bulk

stirrers, polystyrene cups

purchases to cut costs

and takeaway food

44% cutting back on

containers, drinking

eating out to save

straws, balloon sticks and

money for Christmas

plastic-stemmed cotton buds.

The law makes it illegal to sell or give for free any of the products listed above to shoppers in Wales.

Shopper spending on food and drink grew by 7.0%

previous month.

YOY in September, ahead of inflation, following

The recent shopper trend towards buying more

YOY growth of 4.5% in August, according to the

own-brand products to help them manage their

latest data from Barclays which combines hundreds

budgets is still in evidence, says the report, with

of millions of shopper transactions with shopper

almost half (49%) of shoppers who are seeking to

research to provide an in-depth view of UK spending.

reduce their spending doing so by choosing own-

Total shopper card spending grew by 4.2% YOY, behind the inflation rate of 6.3%, but significantly up on August’s growth figure of 2.8%.

Barclays says the increases were driven in large part by the extended period of late summer sunshine and warmer weather.

Fuel prices continue to recover, down just 10.9% YOY in September compared to a drop of 20.1% the

brand products.

A further 52% of shoppers say they are taking

TALKING TACTICS

advantage of multibuy deals, bundle offers and

What are you doing in-store

buying items in bulk to reduce costs.

to stand out in your local

A significant 44% of shoppers also indicate that they are planning to reduce discretionary spend on items like eating in restaurants to save money for the

market? Share it with us and your Premier retailer colleagues at talkingshop@booker.co.uk

upcoming festive period.

October 2023 TalkingShop

13

ACS calls on Chancellor to back convenience sector The ACS is calling on Chancellor Jeremy Hunt to give independent retailers the incentives necessary to invest in the safety, security, and long-term future of their businesses.

RETAILERS ‘INVEST £646M’ Convenience retailers have invested a huge £646m in their businesses over the past year, according to The ACS

l Introduce a mechanism to pause uplifts in National Living Wage if rates have

2023 Local Shop Report.

The top areas of

a detrimental impact on employment

investment were

opportunities and investment.

reported as refrigeration

l Deliver on the Khan Review recommendations

(56%), shelving (39%),

for a £15m boost to enforcement against the

store signage (33%), in-

illicit tobacco and vaping market.

store lighting (32%), and technology (29%).

Responding to the statement, ACS Chief Executive

The report also

James Lowman said: “Independent store retailers

shows convenience

have faced incredible challenges over the last year,

stores employ more

dealing with enormous energy bills, inflationary

than 437,000 people

pressures in all areas of their businesses, and the

and generated over

The Association of Convenience Stores (ACS)

all-too-regular threat of theft and other serious

£47.1bn in sales over

has called on Chancellor Jeremy Hunt to support

crime.

the past year, with that

independent retailers with stability on business

“We are calling on the Chancellor to give this

figure set to grow to

rates, pragmatism on future wage increases, and

essential sector a much-needed boost, to help them

over £50.9bn by 2026.

a commitment to tackling crime in communities

invest more on crime prevention and detection

Some 70% of stores in

across the UK.

measures, to invest in energy efficient refrigeration

the convenience sector

and lighting to reduce their costs in the long

are run by independent

taking place on 22 November, ACS has

term, and to introduce more EV charging options

retailers and 79% of

recommended the following key measures:

for customers. By supporting the convenience

independent retailers

l Introduce tax incentives to help small

In its submission to the Autumn Statement,

sector, the Chancellor will make it clear that this

engaged in some form

businesses invest in tackling crime and anti-

government supports local jobs, local services and

of community activity

social behaviour.

local investment.”

over the past year.

MUP hike consultation A proposal to increase the Minimum Unit Price (MUP) of alcohol by 15p per unit to 65p is included in a new consultation on the future of public health policy issued by the Scottish Government.

Holyrood says it is seeking views on whether to continue the MUP legislation beyond the current term, which ends next April, and the level at which it should be set.

Drugs and Alcohol Policy Minister Elena Whitham said: “We believe the proposals set out in this consultation strike a reasonable balance between public health benefits and any effects on the alcoholic drinks market and subsequent impact on consumers.”

October 2023 TalkingShop

15

THE UK’S NO.1 CHILLED COFFEE *

Starbucks growing

+12% YoY*

in convenience adding £7.6m to the category

*Nielsen 15/07/23

Starbucks worth £130m, growing

+11% YoY val*

Stock up now

Impulse pick up results in an over index in convenience Starbucks is 50% of RTD coffee sales in convenience stores

‘Proper lead times required’ for major recycling projects Major waste and packaging reforms ‘should not be rushed’, government committee inquiry told.

PREMIER RETAILER MAKES FINAL OF AGGARWAL TROPHY Sophie Williams of Premier Broadway Convenience Store, in

The Association of Convenience Stores (ACS)

the Oxgangs area of

provided evidence for the Public Accounts

Edinburgh, has been

Committee’s inquiry as it prepared to question Defra

named as a finalist for

officials on whether the government had effective

the 2023 Raj Aggarwal

plans in place to meet its waste and recycling

Trophy.

ambitions, and if Defra is on track to deliver on packaging reforms.

Measures under scrutiny by the inquiry include

The trophy, which marks the legacy of independent retailer

the introduction of a UK-wide DRS scheme and

and community

extended producer responsibility, both of which

champion Raj Aggarwal,

have been pushed back to 2025, after the next

is awarded annually

General Election.

to retailers who

In its evidence, ACS called on the government

have demonstrated

to ensure that enough time is given to legislators,

an exceptional

producers and retailers to adapt.

commitment to

ACS Chief Executive James Lowman said: “The

community retailing over

government is taking the right steps toward ensuring

the past year, supporting

a more sustainable future, but it’s absolutely essential

their colleagues,

A major government committee inquiry has been

that significant changes and new infrastructure like

customers and fellow

told that there “needs to be proper lead times and

that which will be needed under a DRS are given

retailers.

planning” when making major changes like the

enough time and scrutiny to get the details right.

introduction of Deposit Return Schemes (DRS),

We cannot risk rushing out half-baked policies that

voted on by retailers and

extended producer responsibility, and single-use

could end up harming retailers, consumers, the

suppliers.

plastic bans.

industry and ultimately the environment.”

The winner will be

New National Lottery online portal goes live Allwyn, the incoming operator of The National Lottery, has confirmed that its new online retailer portal has gone live.

The company is urging retailers to log on via TNLpartners.co.uk or by scanning a QR code

Lottery service.

All independent retailers are receiving communications outlining what they need to do to complete this.

Camelot Retail Sales Executives – working on

featured on the communications they’ve been sent.

behalf of Allwyn – will be visiting retailers over

Camelot says retailers will need to log on and

the next few months to talk them through the key

electronically transfer their existing Retailer

changes and to answer any questions that they

Agreement from Camelot to Allwyn by 18

might have.

December 2023 at the latest to ensure retailers don’t experience an interruption to their National

Alternatively, retailers can call the free hotline on 0800 8 40 50 60 if they need any help.

October 2023 TalkingShop

17

UP TO

700 PUFFS*

REDESIGNED FOR ULTIMATE PERFORMANCE NEWAND IMPROVED VUSE GO 700 Vuse e-cigarettes contain nicotine which is addictive.

Dispose of responsibly.

This product should not be discarded in household waste but in the nearest WEEE collection bin. *Based on laboratory testing of newly manufactured product and may vary depending on individuals usage behaviour. For tobacco trade use only. Not to be left in the sight of consumers.

Booker helps GroceryAid cycle to £416,000 in donations Booker was among the sponsors of this year’s two main GroceryAid cycle challenges, with colleagues from across the business helping to raise more than £416,000 for the charity.

In July, the Coast to Coast Cycle saw 70 riders cycle their way from

Booker played a major role in supporting industry charity GroceryAid’s two important cycling challenges this year, helping to

Whitehaven to Harrogate and on to the seaside resort of Whitby. They

raise an amazing £416,000 in donations that will be used to provide

raised more than £189,000 for GroceryAid.

practical, emotional and financial support to industry colleagues in the

The London to Brussels Cycle took place in September, with 152 riders spending three days pedalling to Brussels for the first time,

independent retailing and grocery channels.

More than 220 cyclists from across the industry took part, including

raising more than £226,000 for GroceryAid.

many from Booker. Together they cycled over 777km through some

Jonny McQuarrie, Booker Chief Operating Officer and Coast to

of Europe’s most stunning locations as part of GroceryAid’s Coast to

Coast Committee chair, said: “The Coast to Coast Cycle is a fantastic

Coast Cycle and London to Brussels challenges.

opportunity to raise vital funds and awareness of our industry charity

In addition, Booker was among the official sponsors for the rides.

whilst forming lifelong connections.”

BOOKER DRAGON BOAT RACE UNVEILED! GroceryAid has announced an exciting new addition to the GroceryAid 2024 fundraising calendar: the Booker Dragon Boat Race, taking place on the River Thames on 6 June 2024.

The event will bring together over 40 teams, all racing to be crowned Dragon Boat champion, with many Booker colleagues participating as drummers on each boat.

October 2023 TalkingShop

19

CUSTOMER PROFILE | Rassau Stores, Ebbw Vale

Recipe for success

A forward-thinking refit of Premier Rassau Stores has left shoppers hungry for more.

20 TalkingShop October 2023

What are your views? Email talkingshop@booker.co.uk

Turnover has doubled to more than £30,000 a week since the refit

W

ith six successful

and profit-driving machines including Tango

Premier stores

Ice Blast, Coca Cola Frozen, Thick Fresh

in his portfolio,

Shakes, Jolly Rancher Slush, Hershey’s and

independent

Reese’s Freeze, plus Costa Coffee.

retailer Jenarthen

“I have six other Premier stores but this

Saravanamuthu is well-versed in the recipe

is my first to feature the Refresh@Premier

for retail success. However, even he has been

concept and I’ve been blown away with the

surprised by the delicious results of a refit of

results since re-opening,” Jenarthen explains.

his seventh Premier store in the Welsh town

Following Premier’s advice we also fitted

of Ebbw Vale.

a Beer Cave which is another first for me

The 1,800sq ft store was turning over

and a concept I will certainly be investing in

around £12,000 a week when Jenarthen

going forward with my other sites,” he adds.

bought it in October 2022.

However, despite its “dated” interior and range, Jenarthen could see the potential simmering just below the surface.

A top-to-bottom refit began on 15 January

“Operationally the Beer Cave makes filling the shelves so much easier and saves lots of time for staff.”

With its arresting ‘blue sky’ light panels, brick effect walls and innovative double-

2023. Three weeks later, Premier Rassau

sided chiller walls, shoppers are equally

Stores re-opened with a fresh-new offer that

enamoured.

local shoppers were hungry to taste.

Playing a starring role in the store’s new

“The Beer Cave has led to a significant jump in alcohol sales. Not only do we stock

offer is an attention-grabbing Refresh@

more wine and beer lines than before, but

Premier bar featuring an array of footfall

they are all chilled, even the multi-packs.

October 2023 TalkingShop

21

Stock No.1 Stock theNo.1 the * * Pet Food Brand Pet Food Brand

“The Beer Cave really came into its own over the summer with big sporting events such as the FIFA Women’s World Cup and the Men’s Rugby Union World Cup. We’re especially looking forward to the key seasonal opportunities of Halloween, Bonfire Night and Christmas as we are sure to unlock truly great sales this year,” Jenarthen says.

The store’s fresh and chilled offer was also enhanced as part of the refit, growing from just 2.5 metres of refrigeration to more than 20 metres.

“We now have 8 bays for chilled foods and two bays of fresh produce. It’s a huge difference. We also have 4 chiller doors dedicated exclusively to chilled food to go.

“I was a little worried about wastage initially but I needn’t have been. Shoppers have reacted so positively to the change and are buying into the new ranges with gusto, especially the fantastic Jack’s lines including fresh meats and ready meals.

“We’re also using the Olio app to help reduce food waste further and it’s great to know that any short-dated products are being redistributed to those who need it.”

Incredibly, a third of the new-look store’s total sales are now accounted for by fresh and chilled produce.

However, as Jenarthen explains, “despite the massive increase in refrigeration, our

A third of the store’s sales are now accounted for by fresh and chilled produce

energy bills are actually lower now than they were when we took over the store.

“The old store’s chillers were very inefficient whereas now all the chillers feature energy saving doors. There was also an old walk-in fridge at the back which wasted a huge amount of energy and money.”

“By comparison, the Beer Cave is a very efficient way of chilling down drinks and all the other new chillers now feature energy saving doors.”

Soft drinks are also housed in a smart bank of 11 door chillers.

There’s also a new chilled display cabinet sited at the store’s counter which is filled with indulgent locally-produced fresh cream October 2023 TalkingShop

23

Buy ANY 2 cases from Booker FOR A CHANCE

to win £500 TEXT ROCKSTAR TO 60777 TO ENTER

M286917

M286916

What are your views? Email talkingshop@booker.co.uk

{

The Beer Cave has led to a significant jump in alcohol sales. Not only do we stock more wine and beer lines than before but they are all chilled, even the multi-packs.

Jenarthen Saravanamuthu

}

cake slices.

“At £3.40 per slice, the local cakes are quite pricey but sales are soaring. That small chilled cabinet alone is already making well over £500 a week now! My Premier RDM urged me to try the concept and I’m so glad I did.”

Local cakes aren’t the only Welsh products on display.

“I’m a big supporter of local enterprise and the store now sells goods from six different local suppliers. We have Indian ready meals from Easy Thali, fresh sandwiches and rolls from Celtic Sandwiches and cakes and biscuits from Ruby’s among others. The ranges are all well supported by in-store POS which helps to attract attention and encourages impulse purchases.”

The store’s support of local also extends to its netball and football teams, both of which it sponsors.

“This is a lovely village and it’s important and very rewarding to be involved in the community,” Jenarthen says. “Local people know that they can depend on us to support them with their needs, and we always strive to help with sponsorship and donations where we can.”

Since the re-launch, sales at Premier Rassau stores have climbed from around £12,000 a week to more than £30,000 and growing.

“We’re now a true one stop shop for the village. New ranges such as fresh, chilled and food and drinks to go are bringing in new shoppers and leading to bigger baskets.

“The reaction so far has been wonderful and I’m excited to see what the coming months bring.”

Store Profile

Name: Premier Rassau Stores, Ebbw Vale Retailer: Jenarthen Saravanamuthu Size: 1,800sq ft Staff: 8 Services: Post Office, Snappy Shopper, National Lottery Opening Hours: 6am-10pm Mon to Sat 9am-10pm Sunday

October 2023 TalkingShop

25

CUSTOMER PROFILE | Barry's, Halton Moor

Local heroes Barry’s Halton Moor is a true community-minded store with a revolutionary new offer.

T

hanks to its awe-inspiring compendium of community support, shoppers in the Leeds district of Halton Moor have long-since considered Barry’s Premier to be a true local jewel – and now thanks to an astounding storedevelopment, it’s become even more precious.

Owned by life-long retailer Kevin Wilson and managed by his son

Samuel, the 2,000sq ft store is located in the heart of a residential estate and ringed by five schools.

The store, as Kevin explains, played a life-line roll during the challenging pandemic period, when Kevin went above and beyond to ensure that local people and especially the elderly and disadvantaged, had access to essential products and services at value for money prices - even making up special food parcels containing bacon, eggs, bread and potatoes for just £2.

“We did things right by local shoppers and we went a number

26 TalkingShop October 2023

What are your views? Email talkingshop@booker.co.uk

In a first for Premier, the store features a 198sq ft ‘Soft Drinks Cave.’

of extra miles to support the local community as best as we could through those dark days,” he explains.

can have a new TV for Christmas,” Kevin explains.

Given its community focus, it’s little wonder that Premier Barry’s

And those community efforts certainly don’t stop there. This

Halton Moor is so greatly appreciated by local shoppers - and now,

year, the store’s heroic fundraising efforts generated £3,000 for

thanks to an innovation-packed redevelopment, it holds an even

Meadowfield Primary School – a feat which enabled school staff to

bigger place in local hearts.

take year 5 pupils on a memorable trip to Whitby, which otherwise would not have been possible.

Fundraising efforts to raise cash for the 2024 trip are already underway, with Kevin having raffled off a BBQ in September, with more initiatives to come.

Carried out in July 2023, the re-development was designed to revolutionise the store’s offer, giving shoppers a show-stopping range of new products and services - and an experience to match.

Following Premier’s guidance, the store’s interior was opened up to create a far more open and user-friendly space.

The store also donates £50 a week towards the running of Corpus

All of the store’s “tired, old” fridges and freezers were also

Christie School’s boxing club and donates product once a week to the

replaced with brand new energy- efficient versions, with its fresh

local convent and the local food bank.

and chilled range tripled in size to offer shoppers a vast new range of

It’s also currently running a ‘like and share’ promotion on Facebook offering shoppers the chance to win a 50-inch TV, “so that one family

chilled choice.

Frozen was also been expanded by 50% to include four-double October 2023 TalkingShop

27

PLEASE ENJOY RESPONSIBLY

M135232

What are your views? Email talkingshop@booker.co.uk

door freezers.

A brand new 268sq ft Beer Cave was also created, a feat which has enabled the store to more than double its alcohol range with 32 bays for chilled wine, beers, ciders and RTDs. In a first for Premier, the store has also been invested with a revolutionary 198 sq ft ‘Soft Drinks Cave.’

“The soft drinks cave has been a gamechanger,” Kevin explains. “Soft drinks have always been one of our biggest selling categories. With five local schools around us, the store gets flooded with kids twice a day and we sell well over 1,600 individual soft drinks a day, including 2L bottles.”

“Just like the beer cave, the soft drinks cave enables us to keep even more of our soft drinks stock chilled

Store profile

Name: Barry’s Halton Moor Established: 2018 Retailer: Kevin and Samuel Wilson Size: 2,000sq ft Staff: 22 Services: Post Office, Paypoint, home delivery, deli counter

and drives key operational efficiencies for staff. With the numbers we do, we have dedicated member of staff responsible for filling it all day. The whole cave is virtually emptied after the 8am rush and it has to be entirely refilled in time for the 3pm rush and then again after that.

“It’s got an insulated roof and floor and only one motor is needed to run the whole thing, so the cave also means that we are also making huge energy-efficiency gains compared to a traditional multi-deck chiller.”

Kevin is certainly sold on his new “pop cave” and so too are his younger shoppers. “When the school kids first saw the cave, their reaction was priceless,” Kevin laughs.

“They all said: ‘this is sick! Which I believe is a good thing!”

Complementing the new soft drinks cave is also a striking new Refesh@Premier bar including: Jolly Rancher Slush, Tango Ice Blast, Think Fresh Shakes, Hershey’s and Reese’s Freeze and Frappina iced coffee, plus a bean to cup coffee offer. Shoppers who buy a coffee can get a muffin or a Jack’s flapjack for just 25p.

The store’s existing deli serve over counter has also been enhanced with two new units for hot and chilled food to go products, all of which are sourced from local bakery Ortons. The quality range includes popular favourites such as sausage rolls and pasties, all of which

Total sales are up more than 30% since the refit.

October 2023 TalkingShop

29

IT’S NOT SO BLACK AND WHITE ANYMORE. STO C K

UP NO W

BOOST YOUR PROFIT WITH BREWDOG BLACKHEART.

What are your views? Email talkingshop@booker.co.uk

{

The Soft Drinks Cave has been a gamechanger.

We sell well over 1,600 individual soft drinks a day, including 2L bottles.

Kevin Wilson

are sold at value for money prices. Kevin

‘Barry’s Brings’ is also generating more than

even offers a school kids a special deal on

£7,000 a week and growing so fast that Kevin

fresh hot sausage sandwiches for just £1.50.

is just about to take delivery of his second

“The reaction to all the changes has just been phenomenal, Kevin says.

In total, total store sales have risen more

van.

Helping Kevin and Samuel to meet the store’s ever-growing demand are 22

than 30% since the refit, with sales growing

members of staff who between them strive to

week on week.

maintain outstanding availability and service,

Fresh and chilled produce, sales of which

including manning its four busy till points.

were previously “negligible” now account

“We are all so proud of what we’ve done

for more than 12% of total sales, while best-

here and what we will continue to do.” Kevin

selling categories alcohol and soft drinks are

adds.

in double digit growth.

The new local pastry offer is also generating almost £3,000 a week.

}

“We’ve now got a truly fantastic store that’s in the perfect shape to support this community for many years to come.”

A new store-run home delivery service October 2023 TalkingShop

31

CUSTOMER PROFILE | Marseans, Dartford

Out standing Premier’s unique offer has given Marseans convenience store bags of new USPs.

I

n today’s competitive retail landscape,

Dartford, the prime corner unit is surrounded

did was to open it all up to make one large

the need to stand out from the crowd

by residential housing and other store and

shoppable space,” he explains.

has perhaps never been so important.

catering outlets, including a Co-operative

And if, like independent retailer

Tharan Ketheswarasarma, your store

Food store directly in-front.

“Despite the competition I knew that this

“The store had traded as Marseans for a number of years, so I decided to keep the name as it was well-known locally.

is located directly opposite a well-known

store could offer a fantastic opportunity if

“However, I also knew from the start that I

symbol competitor, the need to stand out is

we presented local shoppers with something

would turn it into a Premier. I needed a brand

even more pertinent.

truly different and unique,” he explains.

that was universally known and trusted by

This was precisely the thought that ran

Upon purchase, Tharan immediately closed

shoppers and a brand that offered something

through Tharan’s mind when he purchased

the store down to enable a comprehensive

different from the common high-street offer -

Marseans – a 1,300sq ft unaffiliated “paper-

re-structure and refit to take place.

and Premier does exactly that.”

shop” back in late 2021.

Located on the busy Chastilian Road in

32 TalkingShop October 2023

“The old store had lots of narrow areas

“There’s a Co-op Food Store just opposite

and odd spaces inside so the first thing we

but I knew that the Premier range, prices and

{

I needed a brand that was universally known and trusted by shoppers and a brand that offered something different from the common high-street offer and Premier does exactly that.

promotions would really stand up and stand

Tharan Ketheswarasarma a wide variety of different needs.

}

and the quality is fantastic. The price points

The store now features 3.75 metres of

are also exceptionally competitive, especially

Tharan says that one of the biggest changes

refrigeration for fresh and chilled produce, 3

the ‘Fresh 4’ promotions which always drive

to the old store’s offer has been the expansion

metres for dairy, 5 metres for soft drinks and

sales.

of fresh and chilled.

7.5 metres for alcohol.

out.”

“Another big success for us are the Jack’s

“Prior to the refit, the store only had a

“This has been a significant change and

chilled ready meals. We receive consistently

minimal amount of refrigeration - just one

local shoppers are delighted, especially the

good feedback on these and shoppers can’t

Coca Cola fridge for soft drinks and a small

elderly,” Tharan explains.

believe the value: ‘2 for £6’ is outstanding.”

3-door open-deck chiller for chilled foods dairy and produce.

“The Jack’s brand is playing a starring role

The store also features a new frozen

and Jack’s fruit and vegetables in particular

section including a 6-door freezer for frozen

“With Premier’s help we came up with a

have been one of the biggest success stories

foods and two doors dedicated to ice creams

plan to significantly enhance the fresh and

so far. The pack sizes are very convenient

and frozen desserts.

chilled offer enabling local shoppers to meet

for smaller households and those on a budget

“Frozen food is a key category now,” October 2023 TalkingShop

33

BEST TASTE 70%

OF THE UK PREFER THE TASTE OF PEPSI MAX*

NO COMPROMISE STOCK UP NOW

MAXIMUM TASTE NO SUGAR

*24,296 of 34,322 people in the UK preferred the taste of Pepsi MAX to the UK’s biggest selling full sugar cola (blind sampling between 03.08.22 and 02.10.22). Visit www.pepsi.co.uk/faq)

What are your views? Email talkingshop@booker.co.uk

{

The ‘Refresh@Premier bar has been a game-changer.

There’s nothing quite like it locally and sales have grown and grown, especially over the summer months. The Costa Coffee machine has also helped us to harness a new morning trade.

}

Tharan Ketheswarasarma

Another of the store’s standout points is its

devices. “In this area there is still local

tapping into the frozen food category more

eye-catching Refresh@Premier bar featuring

demand for liquids so we’ve become

enthusiastically than before due to its cost

Tango Ice Blast, Think Fresh Shakes and a

a destination for those, in addition to

and convenience credentials. For us, frozen is

Costa Coffee Machine.

disposables.” He adds.

Tharan says. “Shoppers are definitely

also another point of difference from the Co-

“The Refresh proposition has been a game-

Another key change was the re-

changer,” Tharan says. “There’s nothing

introduction of Post Office services. “The

Within the bakery aisles, a number of new

quite like it locally and sales have grown and

store had once had a Post Office many years

local lines offer a further point of difference

grown, especially over the summer months.

ago but it had been given up by the previous

and complement Jack’s and branded lines.

The Costa Coffee machine has also helped us

owners, leaving local people without access

to harness a new morning trade.”

to key services,” Tharan explains.

op, which has a far smaller range,” he adds.

“Shoppers really like the new local bread offer. It comes from a bakery in Orpington and is delivered fresh to us every morning.

The fresh French sticks in particular are very popular,” Tharan says.

There’s also a dedicated Vape Station bay on the shop-floor, plus a large CDU. Tharan’s vape range also includes around 50 lines of e-liquids for use in refillable

“It was really important to me to bring it back for them. Access to cash and Post Office services is vital for local shoppers, especially the elderly and we wanted to make this store October 2023 TalkingShop

35

*

HARIBO Share Bags were the No.1 selling Halloween sweets in 2022** Halloween themed HARIBO share bags grew 137% in 2022 in value sales YoY** M288952 M288953

HARIBO Monsters Z!ng 12x140g PM £1.25 HARIBO Sour Skeletons 12x140g PM £1.25

Stock up noooow!

*Relating to HARIBO products only - Source: IRI / Total Symbols & Independents / MAT data to 26th March 2023. **IRI Marketplace Value & Unit sales for Total Sweets. 2021 data 4w/e data to 7th Nov 2021, 2022 data 4w/e data to 6th November 2022

The No.1 sweet maker*

What are your views? Email talkingshop@booker.co.uk

into a place they could rely on to meet a wide range of needs.”

With footfall and sales continuing to climb month on month those needs are now clearly being met.

“Shoppers are very pleased with what we’ve done,” Tharan says. “They love the broad range that we now offer and how competitive we are on price.

“They also love all the additional services that we now offer, including the drinks to go, Post Office and Parcel collections.

“I couldn’t be happier with the store’s overall performance. Sales are growing and our margins are very pleasing.

“None of this would have been possible without the support of Premier and my fantastic in-store team though. The whole thing has been a great team effort and I think that helps us to stand out even more.”

Store Profile

Name: Premier Marseans, Dartford Retailer: Tharan Ketheswarasarma Manager: Kethis Waran Size: 1,300 sq ft Staff: 4 Opening Hours:6am-10pm Services: Post Office, ATM, Paypoint, National Lottery, printing services, In Post Lockers, Refresh@ Premier

October 2023 TalkingShop

37

CUSTOMER PROFILE | Kaneera, Beddington

Above and beyond Theepan Poopalachandran’s uplifting approach to retail is resulting in sky-high sales.

H

aving worked as a Tesco store manager for more than 14 years prior to establishing his own business, Kartheepan

Poopalachandran’s unique fusion of corporate disciplines and personal flair is crafting a store that’s winning hearts, minds and spend in South East London.

Theepan, as he’s known for short, managed four Tesco stores in and around London before establishing his first Premier store in Herne Bay four years ago.

38 TalkingShop October 2023

Average basket spend £10 and growing

In April 2023 he took on his second site,

“It’s not a large store so we knew we had

There’s also a brand new four door soft

a 700sq ft former Wavy Line Food Store in

to make the best possible use of space,”

drinks chiller, a four-door alcohol chiller and

Beddinton, on the outskirts of Croydon.

Theepan explains. The new raised ceilings

a three-door freezer.

Despite its prime location on the busy

allowed us to install tall shelves around the

The store’s compact counter area also

Croydon Road, Theepan explains that the site

exterior and a 1.9m high central gondola that

packs a punch, featuring a chilled display

was run down and need of a total re-think

runs the length of the store that allows us

cabinet for local cream cakes, plus a hot Bake

when he first got the keys.

to offer our shoppers a comprehensive new

& Bite cabinet for freshly-baked sausage

range.”

rolls and pies.

“We closed immediately for a total overhaul,” he says. “The whole store was

“One of the most common things shoppers

Space has even been made for a neat

stripped back to the bare walls, the ceiling

say to me since the re-launch is: ‘I can’t

self-scan till to the side of the counter, which

was opened up to its full height and all the

believe the range and variety that you offer

Theepan says “really comes into its own”

floors were ripped out – we pulled up about

here now!’”

during the morning and evening rushes,

five layers of old flooring so that we could start again from scratch.”

That range also includes a substantially enlarged chilled range, thanks to the

when speed of service is key for time-pressed shoppers.

installation of a new four-door chiller for

“Self-scan works really well, it’s a very

the store re-opened its doors in June 2023,

dairy products, deli items, food to go, Jack’s

user-friendly system and local shoppers use it

ahead of a ‘Grand Opening Day in August.

ready meals and more.

very efficiently,” he says.

Following a two-month re-build and fit out,

{

I’m here for the long-term and I want this to store to become a hub, a place that local people can trust, rely on and love.

Kartheepan Poopalachandran

}

October 2023 TalkingShop

39

M284064

M284068

M284063

THE NO.1

STOCK UP BACK ON TV FROM LATE OCTOBER

COOKIE BRAND

1

+17.1% VALUE SALES YOY IN THE IMPULSE CHANNEL2 1. Nielsen IQ, Total Coverage (52 w/e 18.03.2023) 2. NIQ – Total Impulse, 52 we 17.06.23

What are your views? Email talkingshop@booker.co.uk

A footfall-driving Refresh@Premier bar featuring the terrific trio of Tango Ice Blast, Thick Fresh Shakes and Costa Coffee has also been created at the front of the store.

Before launching the new coffee offer, Theepan carried out a Facebook poll to determine which coffee brand shoppers would most like to see in store. Costa emerged as the clear front-runner, with 90% of votes.

“Coffee is already proving to be a huge hit,” Theepan explains “within just a few days of opening, we were selling well over 20 cups a day and numbers are continuing to climb as we head through the autumn.”

Average basket spend is now at £10 and growing, fuelled by sales of alcohol, soft drinks, confectionary and vape, with fresh and chilled are also showing encouraging growth.

Vape - the store’s second fastest selling category behind confectionary, is duel sited with disposable products housed in a smart shop-floor bay as-well-as on a large CDU. “Premier’s support when it came to planning and merchandising the

Store profile

Name: Premier Kaneera, Beddington Retailer: Theepan Poopalachandran Size: 700sq ft Staff: 9 Services: Cash machine, Paypoint, Payzone, National Lottery, Just Eat Opening hours: 6am-10pm

store has been incredible and that help is ongoing,” Theepan adds.

“My RDM Matthew Knight is always on the other end of the line and in-fact he’s just put me in touch with a wonderful local supplier called The South East Bakery who will soon start to supply us with fresh bakery products.

“Premier also supported us with our Grand Opening Day on 21 August, providing us with goody bags for local children which went

Takings in August were up more than 40% on forecasts

down a treat!

“The whole day was a great success and a fantastic opportunity to showcase our amazing new range and show people what we are all about.

“We gave away free slushies and shakes all day to promote our Refresh@Premier offer and the goody bags contained a number of Jack’s products. It was a great way of introducing the brand to shoppers who might not have come across it before.”

“So many shoppers came, the reaction was overwhelmingly positive and momentum has continued to build ever since,” Theepan adds.

And the store’s bold new range and look are far from the only strings to its bow, with Theepan also striving to make the store a true community hub.

“Positive engagement with the local community is a big thing for me,” says Theepan, “and from the start I’ve been looking for ways to create an impact.

“I’m here for the long-term and I want this to store to become a hub, a place that local people can trust, rely on and love.

“I also learned a lot from my time at Tesco and I employ a lot of those learnings here, especially when it comes to retail standards.

“I have sky-high standards when it comes to presentation and cleanliness but also shopper engagement, although I like to think I’m October 2023 TalkingShop

41

STOCK UP NOW

© 2013 - 2023 Costa Limited. All rights reserved. COSTA, COSTA COFFEE and the 3 Bean Logo are registered trade marks of Costa Limited.

adding quite a few unique touches here!” he adds.

Shoppers at Premier Kaneera’s are lucky to be able to take advantage of an evolving cycle of innovative promotions and ‘like and share’ competitions, all of which are heavily advertised on its social pages and in-store with eye-catching POS. When Talking Shop visited the store in September, some of the attention-grabbing competitions on offer included ‘Win a Basket Dash,’ ‘Win £50 worth of shopping’ and a ‘PlayStation giveaway’.

The store was also offering its shoppers a ‘Free Jack’s Flapjack with every Costa Coffee.’

Premier Kaneera also offers a free piece of fresh fruit to all of its school-aged shoppers every single day.

The store also strives to thrill its shoppers with its sky-high levels of customer service, delivered by Theepan himself and his loyal team of nine.

“I’m so lucky to have the support of a wonderful team,” Theepan says. “The majority are part time, including local mums

“Shoppers really trust us and that’s what

and students, and they work short four-hour

it’s all about. We’re a really welcoming store.

shifts.

We’ve got a particularly good relationship

“The short shift structure means that the

with the local school children and their

in-store vibe changes throughout the day and

parents. We know almost all the kids by name

that shoppers who visit multiple times will

and there’s already a very strong foundation

experience a fresh set of faces and a different

of trust and respect there.

energy throughout the day.”

“We’ve only been open a few months but already we’ve built up such a strong and loyal customer base.

“This is more than just a business to me, it’s a passion and I think people can see that.”

Sales have so far exceeded even Theepan’s wildest expectations, with takings in August up more than 40% on where he had forecast them to be.

“Shoppers tell me they love what we’re doing here,” Theepan says. “Many of them have known this store since they were kids and they love how it has evolved.

“I want to be here for a long time and I want to make a positive impact on this community in as many ways as possible.”

He certainly seems well on way to achieving that.

October 2023 TalkingShop

43

FEATURE | Christmas Confectionery

Sweet opportunities

RETAILER VIEW

Confectionary is one of the festive season’s leading lights and this year Premier has a line-up that is sure to help retailers' sales shine even more brightly.

S

hopper budgets might be tight

The confectionery category performed

but Christmas 2023 is still

strongly over last year’s festive period, with

promising to provide a Santa

sales worth more than £2bn racked up over

sack worth of opportunities for

Christmas 2022 according to IRI Unify data.

retailers to unwrap additional

This was up 5.2% year-on-year, with

footfall, sales and profits.

Viewed as an affordable indulgence by

many shoppers, confectionary is a star performer throughout the year but when the festive season hits, it takes centre-stage.

44 TalkingShop October 2023

shoppers continuing to turn to chocolate and sweets to share and gift with friends and family - and to treat themselves.

In fact, 97% of UK households purchased confectionery in the run up to Christmas

KARTHEEPAN POOPALACHANDRAN

Premier Kaneera, Beddington

“Confectionary is our fastest-selling line and something we’ve become well-known for locally. We’ve got a really strong range of sharing items and singles for shoppers to treat themselves and others, including a lot of innovative American lines which really drive footfall. This will be our first Christmas trading this store and I’m really excited about the opportunity. We’ll be getting behind confectionary in an especially big way, with lots of novelty items, including calendars, as well as gifting and sharing formats.”

What are your views? Email talkingshop@booker.co.uk

GROUP EXCLUSIVE

Terry’s Chocolate Ball Mint Pack size: 12x145g Promotional WSP: £12.75 Deal: Any 2 for £3 RSP: £2.49 POR: 15%

Countdown to Christmas Novelty items such as Advent Calanders offer a great opportunity for retailers to drive seasonal excitement in-store and Premier offers a winning selection.

This season Premier retailers will be able to offer families two Cadbury Dairy Milk Advent Calendars for just £5. Retailers will be able to buy the calendars in 12x90g packs for a promotional WSP of £20 offering them a POR of 20%.

2022, spending on average of £55 per

that’s well-worth spending your sweet time

person over the season, according to Kantar

focusing on.

Worldpanel data for the 12 weeks to 25 December.

Retailers keen to build on 2022’s festive successes will certainly have plenty of

These figures clearly highlight the sweet

opportunities to do so thanks an especially

opportunity that retailers have to drive sales

tasty Christmas confectionary offer from

in the lead up to the big day itself, especially

Premier.

when it comes to key categories such as

Pocket-friendly novelty items are sure to

sharing and gifting formats and seasonal

score with shoppers and drive key impulse

novelty items including figurines, advent

purchases over the coming weeks.

calendars and selection packs.

This year’s festive line-up includes great

Chocolate treats traditionally dominate

deals on top-selling novelty products such as

confectionery sales in the run up to Christmas

Cadbury Puds, Kit Kat Santas and Maltesers

Day, with chocolate confectionery sales

Reindeer singles. The latter, which are also

worth more than £1.65bn over Christmas

available in an on-trend mint variant are

2022 – up 4.8% on the previous year.

available in 32x29g packs for £11.69. With

And despite chocolate’s overall

an RSP of 0.79p individually and available

dominance, sugar confectionery should

on a ‘Any 3 for £1.50’ deal, these festive

certainly not be overlooked.

favourites offer a POR of 23%.

The sugar confectionery category was

Shoppers after a taste of the US this festive

worth more than £400m over Christmas 2022

season can also pick up individual packs of

and actually grew faster than chocolate, up

Reese’s Peanut Butter Trees for just £1.49

6.8% year-on-year according to IRI Unify.

offering a POR of 22%. Packs are also

Given those facts, it’s abundantly clear that Christmas confectionary is one category

available on a 2 for £2.50 deal.

CHRISTMAS UNWRAPPED l

Christmas confectionery was worth over £2bn in 2022.

l

This was up 5.2% year-on-year, with shoppers continuing to turn to chocolate and sweets to share and gift with friends and family - and to treat themselves (IRI Unify data)

l

In fact, 97% of UK households purchased confectionery in the run up to Christmas, spending on average of £55 per person over the season.

(Kantar Worldpanel 12 weeks 25 December)

A cheery range of sharing and gifting October 2023 TalkingShop

45

FERRERO ROCHER IS WORTH

£43.7M IN TERMS OF VALUE SALES*

DISPLAY UNITS AVAILABLE TO ORDER THORNTONS NARROW FSDU H:1410MM W:405MM D:410MM FERRERO NARROW FSDU H:1350MM W:345MM D:410MM

4

1

3 2

5

M CODE

DESCRIPTION

1

123437

FERRERO ROCHER T24 - 300G

2

604587

FERRERO ROCHER T16 - 200G

3

146343

FERRERO COLLECTION T15

4

250329

THORNTON’S CLASSIC - 262G

5

200149

KINDER JOY EGG T32 - 20G

PLEASE ORDER YOUR CHRISTMAS POS ONLINE VIA OUR TRADE WEBSITE WWW.YOURPERFECTSTORE.CO.UK Source: Neilsen boxed database 18 weeks to xmas 2022, total coverage

What are your views? Email talkingshop@booker.co.uk

GROUP EXCLUSIVE WHEN IT’S GONE IT’S GONE! Bounty Centrepiece Pack size: 6x350g Promo WSP: £19.95 Deal: £5 POR: 20.2%

CHOCOLATE TREATS TRADITIONALLY DOMINATE CONFECTIONERY SALES IN THE RUN UP TO CHRISTMAS DAY, WITH CHOCOLATE CONFECTIONERY SALES WORTH MORE THAN £1.65BN OVER CHRISTMAS 2022 – UP 4.8% ON THE PREVIOUS YEAR. (IRI Unify)

Sugar Sugar Sugar confectionery was worth more than £400m over Christmas 2022 and Premier is offering a range of fantastic deals on key sugar confectionary lines to help retailers make even sweeter sales in 2023.

PRODUCT

PACK SIZE

PROMO WSP

DEAL

RSP

POR

Maynards Bassetts Frosted Merry Mix

10X130g

£8.75

Any 2 for £2.50

£1.49

16%

Rowntrees Festive Friends Bag

10x130g

£7.50

Any 2 for £2.50

£1.49

28%

Sweet Shop Favourites Tub

1x650g

£3.43

Any 2 for £11

£9.99

25.2%

Haribo Giant Trees (from Np9)

12x140g

£8.09

£1.25

£1.25

35.3%

October 2023 TalkingShop

47

DRIVE YOUR SEASONAL CONFECTIONERY SALES TO A WINNING CHRISTMAS IN 2 KEY PHASES Christmas ranges and decorations in store are the signifier for shoppers that Christmas is coming; many are shopping earlier this year to negate pricing worries**

FAST START

49% of shoppers have started their Christmas shopping in September***

FANFARE FINISH

Seasonal Confectionery is a footfall driver. Over a third of confectionery shoppers cited this as a motivator to visit a store during the Christmas Season of 2022****

NO.2

NO.1

CHRISTMAS NOVS (& SELF EAT NOVS) +19.6% GROWTH*

ADVENT CALENDAR*

M270519 M030270

M279263

SEASONAL SHARE GREW 51.2% IN X22*

NO.1 SHARING NOVS*

NO.1

EVERYDAY GIFT BRAND*

M270552

NO.1 SELECTION +26% GROWTH*

M250315

M270896

*Nielsen, Indies & Symbols, Total Christmas, 20 weeks to we 24.12.22 vs YA **Source: Statista Christmas Survey, 2017, Insites Consulting SnackChat Community Christmas Survey Dec ’22, Streetbees Deck the Halls How Shopping Habits are Evolving, October 2022. ***Source to: Kantar Worldpanel LinkQ Survey, Christmas Intentions Survey, November 22, 3000 panellists interviewed.

What are your views? Email talkingshop@booker.co.uk

WHEN IT’S GONE IT’S GONE!

Maltesers Reindeer Single and Maltesers Mint Reindeer Single Pack size: 32x29g Promotional WSP: £10.25 Deal: Any 3 for £1.50 RSP: 0.79p POR: 23.1%

Golden gifting formats PRODUCT

PACK SIZE

PROMO WSP

DEAL

RSP

POR

Quality Street Carton

6x220g

£10.50

Any 2 for £6

£4.49

30%

After Eight Carton

18x300g

£33.49

Any 2 for £6

£4.49

25.6%

Dairy Box Small

8x162g

£14.95

Any 2 for £6

£4.49

25.3%

Smarties Giant Tube

20x120g

£16.65

‘Any 2 for £2.50’

£1.69

20.1%

Lindor Assorted Carton (from NP9)

8x200g

£23.75

£4.75

£4.75

25%

products is also on offer in the run up to

doesn’t just offer retailers the chance to make

Christmas, including Cadbury Mini Snowballs

merrier sales and profits.

sharing bags which are on offer at just £4 –

With their bright, joyful packaging, Christmas

down from £4.99 offering retailers a POR of

products also lend themselves perfectly to the

23.3%

creation of eye-catching in-store theatre that

Shoppers can also stock up on sharing tubs of

will help to spread even further festive cheer.

Cadbury Roses, Heros and Mars Celebrations,

Premier retailers also have access to a

all of which will be available on a special ‘Any

bumper pack of uplifting seasonal point of

2 for £11’ deal.

sale materials, including festive themed header

The sharing and gifting line up also includes

cards, shelf cards, cheerful bunting and posters

some great Group Exclusives, such as 200g

which are sure to help their displays shine even

packs of Malteser Mint Truffles, which will be

brighter and drive further impulse sales.

on promotion for just £4.50 in NP9, offering retailers a POR of 25.1%.

And of course, Christmas confectionary

With well under than 100 days to go before the main event, the countdown is now well and truly on!

October 2023 TalkingShop

49

DRIVE SALES

WITH A STYLISH NEW LOOK FROM PIZZA RISTORANTE

NO. 1 THIN & CRISPY FROZEN PIZZA BRAND IN C&I CODE

PRODUCT DESCRIPTION

SIZE

ITEMS

M276422

Dr. Oetker Ristorante Mozzarella

335g

7

M289904

Dr. Oetker Ristorante Peppperoni Mozzarella Pesto

365g

7

AND INTRODUCING OUR DELICIOUS NEW PEPPERONI MOZZARELLA PESTO ALL SUPPORTED BY £2.5m RELAUNCH MULTIMEDIA CAMPAIGN Circana Frozen Pizza in Symbols & Independents 52 w/e 9th September

FEATURE | Jack's Update

Back Jack’s for festive sales

NEW LINES!

Jack’s Mince Pies

The outstanding Jack’s own-brand range continues to expand with more new products and promotional mechanics to help you grow footfall, sales and profits this festive period.

52 TalkingShop October 2023

What are your views? Email talkingshop@booker.co.uk

A

fter a long and often

much be on the search for value when

challenging year for

it comes to everyday purchases – and

shoppers with the cost

that’s precisely where the increasingly

of living remaining front

comprehensive Jack’s own-brand range

of mind throughout, the

comes into its own.

The Jack’s range is now firmly established

prospect of the festive season should help lift the spirits and, hopefully, loosen the purse

in Premier stores with both retailers and

strings.

shoppers, who recognise that critical blend of

While that might mean that many shoppers

quality and value.

may trade up on premium or luxury items

“Jack’s is a very powerful brand and it’s

like bottles of spirits or cases of beer, the

being very well received by local shoppers,”

strong likelihood is that they will still very

says Kartheepan Poopalachandran of Premier

Get social!

Social media offers a fantastically effective way of communicating

RETAILER VIEW

new Jack’s lines to shoppers and driving trial and repeat purchase.

KARTHEEPAN POOPALACHANDRAN Premier Kaneera, Beddington

You can use key social

“Jack’s is a very powerful brand and it’s being very well received by local shoppers. There’s a lot of faith in the brand thanks to the ‘Part of The Tesco Family’ messaging, which is reinforced when they try the products.

"I get particularly good feedback about the fresh fruit and vegetables.

Shoppers tell me that products are consistently high quality.

"On our Grand Opening Day we gave a way lots of free Jack’s products in our Goody Bags. It was a great way to introduce the brand to shoppers who had not trialled it before and the reaction was overwhelmingly positive.”

platforms such as Facebook, Instagram and TikTok to highlight Jack’s promotions and flag up new products.

Booker offers a professional suite of social media assets that you can easily use to showcase your Jack’s range, helping you to create engaging posts in just a few simple clicks.

The new Jack’s lines lend themselves well to social media and are sure to help drive footfall, sales and profits in store.

JACK’S RAINBOW COOKIE Case size: 12x60g WSP: £6.35 RSP: £0.79p PM POR: 33.0%

JACK’S TRIPLE CHOCOLATE CHIP COOKIE Case Size: 12x55g WSP: £6.35 RSP: £0.79p PM POR: 33.0%

JACK’S CHOCOLATEY CORNFLAKE CAKE

JACK’S CHOCOLATEY CRISPY CAKE

Case Size: 12x70g

Case size: 12x53g

WSP: £6.35

WSP: £6.35

RSP: £0.79p PM

RSP: £0.79PM

POR: 33.0%

POR: 33.0%

October 2023 TalkingShop

53

FOR YOUR CHANCE

TO WIN £100

SUBMIT YOUR IN-STORE POS PHOTO

1 SCAN QR CODE TO CLAIM YOUR FREE POS KIT 2 ACTIVATE POS KIT INSTORE! 3 SUBMIT PHOTO TO YOURPOS@BRITVIC.COM 4 50 WINNERS TO BE CHOSEN

STOCK UP TODAY!

AVAILABLE IN PMP

18+ Booker store owners residing in UK only. Promo Period 12:00 04.10.23 – 23:59 31.10.23. No purchase necessary. Internet access required. To enter prize draw, display supplied Pepsi EA Games promotional marketing in your store, scan the QR code or go to the link displayed on promotional marketing to visit ww.atyourconvenience.com, activate your kit and send a photo through email to yourpos@britvic.com. Max 1 entry per person and per store. Max 1 prize per store. Prizes: 1 x £100 paid via BACS to entrant. 100 prizes in total. Draw 7 working days after promotional end date. Prizes must be claimed in 7 working days from initial winner notification. Exclusions apply.

Full T&Cs: www.atyourconvenience.com/terms-conditions/ Promoter: Britvic Soft Drinks Ltd.

What are your views? Email talkingshop@booker.co.uk

RETAILER VIEW THARAN KETHESWARASARMA

Premier Marseans, Dartford

“The Jack’s brand is playing a starring role and Jack’s fruit and vegetables in particular have been one of the biggest success stories so far. The pack sizes are very convenient for smaller households and those on a budget, and the quality is fantastic. The price points are also exceptionally competitive, especially the ‘Fresh 4’ promotions which always drive sales.

“Another big success for us are the Jack’s chilled ready meals.

We receive consistently good feedback on these and shoppers can’t believe the value: ‘2 for £6’ is outstanding.”

“The Jack’s brand also looks great on shelf, the packaging is very bold and eye-catching.”

Kaneera in Beddington. “There’s a lot of

Among the most recent developments are

Mince Pies have recently been made

faith in the brand thanks to the ‘Part of The

a packaging refresh of four key cake and

Tesco Family’ messaging, which is reinforced

cookie products. Jack’s Rainbow Cookies,

Mince pies are a classic staple of the great

when they try the products.

Triple Chocolate Chip Cookies, Chocolatey

British Christmas and the new Jack’s Mince

Cornflake Cakes and Chocolatey Crispy

Pies will deliver a delicious, high-quality

fresh fruit and vegetables. Shoppers tell me

Cakes are all now price marked at just

option but will also deliver the fantastic value

that products are consistently high quality.”

79p and included in Jack's popular '2 for'

that Jack’s has become famous for.

"I get particularly good feedback about the

COOKIE CASH With trust in the brand now well established,

promotional mechanic, allowing shoppers to mix and match across the range.

Created specifically to offer shoppers great

available for the first time.

Suitable for vegetarians, the Jack’s Mince Pies will be available in boxes of six and feature a delicious shortcrust pastry case

the opportunity exists for retailers to leverage

value options in very popular formats and

filled with moist, juicy mincemeat, all topped

the power of Jack’s to grow footfall, sales

flavours, the range will help grow basket

with a pastry lid and dusted with sugar.

and profits in the run up to the critically

spend and drive impulse sales, particularly

important festive sales period.

around the important lunchtime occasion. All

RANGE FINDER

four products also deliver PORs of 33%.

Also launched in time for Christmas is Jack’s

To help them do just that, Booker has continued to expand the Jack’s range and

Grated Mozzarella - perfect for topping

deliver sales-driving promotional mechanics

FESTIVE FAVOURITE

to ensure retailers squeeze every penny of

Christmas wouldn’t be complete, of course,

The Grated Mozzarella is price marked

profit out of the brand.

without a mince pie and fortunately, Jack’s

at £2.49 and is part of the ‘2 for £4’ range,

canapés and stirring into sauces.

October 2023 TalkingShop

55

JACK’S GRATED MOZZARELLA Case size: 10x180g WSP: £15.99 RSP: £2.49PM/2 for £4.00 POR: 35.8%

FROZEN GEMS JACK’S HASH BROWNS Case size: 10x700g WSP: £13.19 RSP: £1.89PM POR: 30.2%

JACK’S GARDEN PEAS Case size: 10x500g WSP: £6.49 RSP: £1.00PM POR: 35.1%

making it a great value option for shoppers this Christmas. The pre-grated cheese couldn’t be easier for shoppers to use and, just as importantly, delivers a tasty POR of 35.8% for retailers.

Jack’s great value frozen line-up has also been boosted with Jack's Hash Browns and Jack’s Garden Peas - with Jack's Skin on Fries set to launch soon too.

As the perfect partners to a variety of different meals, from breakfast to lunch and dinner, Jack's Hash Brows can also help to boost basket spend. Price marked at just £1.89, they also deliver a POR of 30.2%.

Last but not least are frozen Jack’s Garden Peas. These British favourites are price marked at just £1 and deliver a POR of

RETAILER VIEW KEVIN WILSON

Barry’s Halton Moor

“Value for money is exceptionally important to my shoppers and they know they can rely on us to provide them with quality products at great price points. The Jack’s brand has really helped us to reinforce this message and build even further trust.

"Sales of Jack’s-branded products are growing month on month, especially on produce, ambient groceries and snacks, and I think the new Feed the Family initiative is fantastic. I’m expecting it to be very popular. People are more price conscious than ever.”

35.1% for retailers.

October 2023 TalkingShop

57

FEATURE | Christmas Drinks

Get into the spirit!

Christmas is coming and Premier’s festive drinks range is guaranteed to help retailers get the party started.

B

ringing friends and family

drink demands is Premier, which is offering

together and spreading joy

an outstanding range of choice, show-

to innovative ageing and infusing techniques,

up and down the country,

stopping deals and Group Exclusive products

the last year has seen a number of exciting

Christmas is THE retail event

for Christmas 2023.

new launches into the whiskey category

of the year – and treasured by

retailers and shoppers alike.

After a year of big-ticket celebrations,

including the King’s Coronation, the Women’s World Cup and other key sporting

From new flavoured and spiced varieties

Live in-store from 1 of November, the

helping it to appeal to an increasingly broad

coming NP10 period features an upweighted

range of shoppers from whiskey connoisseurs

alcohol offer to help retailers to help retailers

to novices.

uncork additional sales and profits.

With many shoppers expected to trade

To capitalise on the whiskey gifting opportunity, why not try inspiring shoppers

events, the nation is well-used to donning

up as they seek to treat themselves and

by cross-merchandising whiskies with high-

its glad rags - and as we approach the end of

others, the Premier range includes a fantastic

quality confectionary, snacks or mixers?

2023, shoppers are once again getting into

selection of top-quality premium lines,

the celebratory spirit as they start to stock up

including sparkling options, premium spirits,

their shoppers some great deals on classic

for Santa season.

RTDs and beers.

whiskey brands including Jamesons Irish

Traditionally one of the biggest-selling

Premier retailers will also be able to offer

Whiskey for just £20.99 per 70cl bottle,

categories over the Christmas period,

WIN WITH WHISKY

alcoholic drinks look set to once again play

According to Diageo, whisky is the number

a starring role in shoppers’ baskets over

one category for gifting between October

CREATIVE COCKTAILS

the coming weeks as the party season gets

and December, having enjoyed 30% share of

The trend towards at-home mixology has

underway.

‘spirits bought as a gift’ last year according to

continued to soar over the past months as

the MMR Spirit Gifting tracker for Dec 2022.

Brits continue to embrace new ingredients

Helping shoppers to meet their festive

58 TalkingShop October 2023

down from £27.49.

What are your views? Email talkingshop@booker.co.uk

Perfect POS Premier retailers also have access to a bumper pack of uplifting seasonal POS to help them create standout displays and drive awareness of key ranges and deals this in the lead up to the big day.

POS packs include festive themed header cards, shelf cards, cheerful bunting and store and door posters.

Posters, shelf cards and header cards feature festive red and green colourways and cheerful illustrations including penguin and reindeer friends.

They have also been designed to highlight Premier’s strong ‘Christmas Value’ proposition over the period.

WE ARE OPEN Christmas Eve Christmas Day Boxing Day New Years Eve New Years Day January 2nd

THIS WAY SCOT

115522 - Premier Christmas 2023 - Store Front Posters.indd 2

18/09/2023 16:03

and the creation of exciting flavour

most frequently made by consumers at home

combinations at home.

according to Bacardi’s 2022 Consumer

In-fact according to the Bacardi Cocktail Trends Report 2023, 30% of Brits made

Survey.

Flavoured vodkas play perfectly to the

more mixed drinks at home in 2022 than they

trend towards sweet and fruity creations

did in 2020 and this trend is only expected

and this festive season Premier retailers

to gather even more pace in the lead up to

can take advantage of a range of deals on

the 2023 festive season as shoppers look to

key flavoured vodka lines such as Absolute

treat friends, families and themselves, with

Vodka Citron, Mango, Raspberry, Vanilla,

innovative and indulgent cocktail creations.

Passionfruit and Wild Berri - all of which

Fruity and sweet flavours continue to drive

will be available in cases of 6x70cl for a

demand, while savoury and spicy flavours are

promotional WSP of £77.89. Shoppers will

also in growth, leading to growing demand

be able to bag a bottle for just £17.99 offering

for bolder tequila and vodka-based drinks

a POR of 13.4%.

paired with ingredients such as jalapeños, and tabasco.

As such, Daiquiris, Margaritas and Bloody Marys are currently ranked as the cocktails

Premium spirits are another must stock in the run up to and during the festive season as shoppers seek out products that lend themselves to gifting or celebrating.

October 2023 TalkingShop

59

What are your views? Email talkingshop@booker.co.uk

Secondary siting Investing in secondary displays to really help drive sales over the festive season is also key. Lumina Intelligence research reveals that after the main alcohol chiller, which typically drives around 30% of alcoholic sales, till displays are the next most important distribution point, responsible for just over a quarter of sales.

If space allows, why not try stacking multipacks of great ‘Christmas Value’ beers and ciders at your till point?

You could also post a picture of your displays on social media to drive further awareness and festive footfall.

MEGA DEALS

Winning wines PRODUCT

CASE SIZE

PROMO WSP

SHOPPER DEAL

POR

Hardy’s VR Shiraz

6x75cl

£24.69

£6.99 ‘Any 2 for £12’

17.7%

Hardy’s VR Pinot Grigio

6x75cl

£24.69

£6.99 ‘Any 2 for £12’

17.7%

Hardy’s Merlot

6x75cl

£24.69

£6.99 ‘Any 2 for £12’

17.7%

Hardy’s Sauvignon Blanc

6x75cl

£24.69

£6.99 ‘Any 2 for £12’

17.7%

Hardy’s Chardonnay

6x75cl

£24.69

£6.99 ‘Any 2 for £12’

17.7%

RETAILER VIEW PREMIER MBROS, SWINDON Premier MBROS, Swindon

“Alcohol is one of our top selling categories all year round but especially in the run up to and during the festive season.

*E&I

Last year, super-premium vodkas, including brands like Cîroc, accounted for 51% of super-premium spirits sales in impulse between October and December according to Nielsen scantrack data.

Gin is another category not to be overlooked as we head towards the festive

I’ve worked hard to develop a large and unique spirits offering. It’s yet another area where we are setting ourselves apart from the competition and really plays well into the current cocktail making trend.

season.

I have pretty much every flavour of gin and vodka under the sun and a number of premium products.

data, stocking a wide range of premium gins

“We also offer a fantastic range of deals on wine and beer from our Beer Cave.

help retailers plug in to the electric festive

“Promotions and deals play a significant role in our business and we work hard to ensure that all special offers stand out and have maximum impact by making the most of all the Premier POS and highlighting offers on social media.

is another must stock for the festive season

“A good deal advertised well on Facebook, TikTok or Instagram and signposted clearly in-store will certainly drive footfall and sales.”

With more than 11 million shoppers enjoying gin in the UK according to Kantar with different flavour variants is also key to opportunity.

As a base for numerous cocktails, rum and again, Premier offers a stirring choice of rums, including 70cl bottles of both classic and strawberry Malibu, both of which will be on offer at just £13.49.

Why not try inspiring shoppers with onOctober 2023 TalkingShop

61

sIGN up to Our Cool

NewsLetter

To hEar AbouT thE laTest News & offErs From walL’s

What are your views? Email talkingshop@booker.co.uk

Alcohol-free With nearly half of UK adults switching between alcohol and low and alcohol-free drinks at the same occasion and 40% of adults saying they want to moderate their drinking according to Kantar Alcovision Data from May 2023, retailers would also do well to stock up on low to no alcohol products this festive season.

Premier also offers a winning selection of low to no alcohol options from key brands including Nozeco which can help them to meet demand.

Marvelous Multi-packs Large pack formats of key beer and cider brands are also key over the festive period as shoppers stock up for big social occasions. Premier’s range of great value multi-packs includes a number of fantastic deals on key brands including

shelf cocktail recipe cards and engaging posts

mixed into cocktails and coffees or drizzled

on social media?

over desserts.

In fact, top-selling cream liqueur

Kronenbourg 1664, Heineken, Peroni, Stella Artois and more.

Bud Light and Carlsberg Pilsner are both starring in Wow Deals with Bud

IN THE CAN

brand Baileys was bought by one in four

Light available in cases of 10x440ml

For shoppers looking to enjoy the ultimate

households last Christmas according to

for a promotional WSP of £5.29 with a

in cocktail making convenience, ready to

Kantar data.

drink (RTD) formats are also playing and

Fortunately, Premier retailers will be able

increasingly important role in retailers

to offer their shoppers 70cl bottles of Baileys

alcohol ranges.

Irish Cream for a Mega Deal price of just

In fact, in Great Britain's convenience market, the alcoholic RTD category is “already a powerhouse,” worth nearly £168m

£12.99, down from the standard RSP of £17.99. individually, or in cases of 6x70cl for a

sales in double digit growth.

promotional WSP of £60.99.

Available in a wide range of innovative

Why not try to inspire impulse purchases

flavours and formats, the RTD category is

among your shoppers with delicious recipe

sure to help drive footfall, sales and profits

suggestions - such as dashing into hot

for retailers over the coming months.

chocolate, pouring over pancakes, topping

Offering multiple ways in which to

Premier’s Group Exclusive deals also include an offer on multipacks of Thatchers Apple & Blackcurrant cider.

Retailers can stock up on cases of 6x4x400ml for a promotional WSP of £24.49 earning them a POR of 21.6%.

Bottles are available for retailers to buy

in 2022 according to Nielsen data - with

CREAM LIQUEURS

promotional RSP of just £7.99.

trifles or even as a dipping sauce for toasted marshmallows?

enjoy them, cream-based liqueurs are also

With all this excitement to come, Premier

traditionally big sellers over the Christmas

retailers certainly have plenty of reasons to

period, with shoppers drinking them over ice,

raise a glass or two to this festive season.

October 2023 TalkingShop

63

DON’T MISS OUT ON THE GIFT OF CHRISTMAS STOCK UP TODAY WITH THE TOP GIFTING WHISKY AND GIN CATEGORIES FROM THE MAKERS OF THE WORLD’S MOST AWARDED SINGLE MALT WHISKY AND NUMBER 1 PREMIUM PLUS GIN TOP GIFTING CATEGORIES IN THE UK ARE WHISKEY AND GIN* 42%

24%

12%

12%

GIFT PURCHASES DEMONSTRATE A MIX OF BOTH PLANNED AND UNPLANNED PURCHASE BEHAVIOUR* PLANNED

WHISKEY

GIN

VODKA

BRANDY/ COGNAC

NOT PLANNED

43% 57%

85% OF SHOPPERS SELECT GIFTS BASED ON WHETHER THE GIFT WOULD BE MEANINGFUL TO THE RECIPIENT. ONLY 12% BUY A GIFT SOLEY BASED ON ITS PRICE.**

Source: * Demand Sensing 2022. Base: Premium Spirits 16,346 everyone consumed at least 1 premium spirit in P3M **Redbubble Gift Industry Trends 2022

ALLOW YOUR CUSTOMERS TO CHOOSE THE PERFECT GIFT, BY STOCKING PREMIUM SPIRITS TO ELEVATE SHOPPERS EVERYDAY CHOICES FROM THEIR DEFAULT WINE, BEER OR FLOWERS

1020649 1020652 Via Booker Market Place

M818360 M818370

M141346 M142756

M196510 M196542

1019456 1020524 Via Booker Market Place

Halloween | FEATURE

Boost your spooky sales!

Halloween offers a great opportunity to drive spend and profits – and Premier has a host of spooky WIGIG and MEGA DEALS to cash in on.

MEGA DEALS – WINE! Premier is running a huge series of MEGA DEALS for Halloween this year with some outstanding deals on a range of big-selling Casillero Del Diablo wines.

CASILLERO DEL DIABLO SAUVIGNON BLANC Case size: 6x75cl Standard WSP: £37.49 Promo WSP: £30.49 Standard RSP: £9.49 Consumer Deal: £7.49 POR: 18.6%

CASILLERO DEL DIABLO MERLOT Case size: 6x75cl Standard WSP: £37.49 Promo WSP: £30.49 Standard RSP: £9.49 Consumer Deal: £7.49 POR: 18.6%

CASILLERO DEL DIABLO CHARDONNAY

A

Case size: 6x75cl Standard WSP: £37.49 Promo WSP: £30.49 Standard RSP: £9.49 Consumer Deal: £7.49

s we draw ever closer to

flying start by effectively tacking an extra

POR: 18.6%

the critical festive period,

day’s upweighted trading to the traditional

Halloween offers a great

weekend spike.

CASILLERO DEL DIABLO MALBEC

opportunity to launch into Christmas with an early

sales and profit boost.

MEGA MONSTROUS As all retailers know, nothing gets sales going

Over the years Halloween has grown in

quite like Premier’s famous MEGA DEALS.

importance in the UK and these days is a

In time for Halloween, Premier has unveiled

major event for both adults and children,

no fewer than seven Halloween-themed

keen to don their spookiest outfits and have

MEGA DEALS.

some fun as the winter season truly kicks in.

Six of these are across the hugely popular

To help Premier retailers make the most

Casillero Del Diablo range of wines and

of the scary season, Booker has put together

offer retailers a whopping £7 off cases of

a fantastic programme of extra special deals

six different red and white wines across the

that will help drive footfall, sales and profits

range, including firm favourites like Casillero

as 31 October approaches.

Del Diablo Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot,

Falling on a Thursday this year, Halloween helps retailers get the weekend off to a

Malbec, Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio and Chardonnay.

Case size: 6x75cl Standard WSP: £37.49 Promo WSP: £30.49 Standard RSP: £9.49 Consumer Deal: £7.49 POR: 18.6%

CASILLERO DEL DIABLO PINOT GRIGIO Case size: 6x75cl Standard WSP: £37.49 Promo WSP: £30.49 Standard RSP: £9.49 Consumer Deal: £7.49 POR: 18.6%

October 2023 TalkingShop

67

OCK UP T S THIS HALLOWEEN

THIS HALLOWEEN

What are your views? Email talkingshop@booker.co.uk

SPOOKY WIGIG DEALS! To help retailers make the most of Halloween, Premier is running a series of WIGIG deals on Halloween-specific products, including:

MCVITIES JAFFAWEEN ORANGE CAKE BARS 5PK Case size: 12x5pk Standard WSP: £11.49 Promo WSP: £10.99

CADBURY FAMILY TREATSIZE MULTIPACK MEGA DEAL Case size: 14x216g

Standard RSP: £1.49 Consumer Deal: Any 2 for £2.50 POR: 26.7%

Standard WSP: £19.65 Promo WSP: £17.35 Standard RSP: £3.50 Consumer Deal: BOGOF POR: 15.0%

HARIBO SOUR SKELETONS PM125 Case size: 12x140g Standard WSP: £8.49 Promo WSP: £8.09

SOREEN TOFFEE APPLE HALLOWEEN MINI LOAVES Case size: 8x150g

Consumer Deal: £1.25PM POR: 35.3%

MARGIN BOOSTER

Standard WSP: £9.25 Promo WSP: £8.79 Standard RSP: £1.79 Consumer Deal: Any 2 for £3 POR: 26.8%

SOREEN CHERRY JELLIES HALLOWEEN MINI LOAVES

HARIBO MONSTERS Z!NG PM125

Case size: 8x150g

Case size: 12x140g

Standard WSP: £9.25

Standard WSP: £8.49

Promo WSP: £8.79

Promo WSP: £8.09

Standard RSP: £1.79

Consumer Deal: £1.25PM

Consumer Deal: Any 2 for £3 POR: 26.8%

MCVITIE'S JAFFAWEEN CAKE BARS 5PK Case size: 12x5pk

POR: 35.3%

MARGIN BOOSTER

Standard WSP: £11.49 Promo WSP: £10.99 Standard RSP: £1.49 Consumer Deal: Any 2 for £2.50 POR: 26.7%

October 2023 TalkingShop

69

STOCK UP NOW!

WSP

£8.99 © 2023 The Coca Cola Company.

All rights reserved.

M288214

What are your views? Email talkingshop@booker.co.uk

The deals take the WSP down to just

some great options to drive sales and profits.

£30.49 a case and allow retailers to offer

The Soreen deals see WSPs cut to just

shoppers a bottle for just £7.49. That’s a deal

£8.79 and shopper deals offering ‘any 2 for

that’s sure to prove popular with shoppers

£3’ while WSPs on the McVitie’s products

this Halloween – and with PORs of 18.6%, it

have been cut to £10.99 on a shopper deal

will be just as popular with retailers.

that offers ‘any 2 for £2.50’. Retailer PORs

SWEET TREATS

Similarly, Premier is offering retailers some margin-boosting deals on Haribo Sour

outstanding BOGOF deal on Cadbury Family

Skeletons and Haribo Monsters. Both lines,

Treatsize Multipacks – perfect for shoppers

price marked at £1.25, have had their WSPs

for handing out to trick or treaters who come

cut to just £8.09, boosting PORs to 35.3%.

Available on a WIGIG basis, the deal sees

JACK’S RED APPLES Case size: 8x4pk Standard WSP: £10.64 Promo WSP: £8.24 Standard RSP: £1.79 Consumer Deal: £1.29

DUNKING DEALS

the WSP slashed by £2.35 to just £17.35

Finally, what would Halloween be without

while retailers receive a POR of 15.0%.

some family fun dunking for apples? To

As well as this exceptional range of MEGA

Halloween wouldn’t be Halloween without some dunking for apples so, to help, Premier is offering some great deals on red apples:

on all four products are almost 27%.

The final Halloween MEGA DEAL is an

knocking on the night itself.

Apple Deals!

help retailers provide what shoppers will be

POR: 20.2%

JACK’S RED APPLES Case size: 1x4pk

DEALS, Premier is also offering retailers a

looking for, Premier is offering a special deal

great range of WIGIG deals on Halloween-

on Jack’s Red Apples. Available in 8x4-packs

Promo WSP: £1.03

themed mini loaves and cake bars.

or 1x4-packs, the WSP on both has been

Standard RSP: £1.79

From Soreen Toffee Apple Halloween Mini

reduced significantly. This allows retailers to

Loaves and Cherry Jellies Mini Loaves to

offer the 4-packs for sale at just £1.29 against

McVitie’s Jaffaween 5-pack Cake Bars and

a standard RSP of £1.79, while still making a

Jaffaween Orange 5-pack Cake Bars there are

POR of 20.2%.

Standard WSP: £1.33

Consumer Deal: £1.29 POR: 20.2%

October 2023 TalkingShop

71

New Products WALKERS MAX PIZZA HUT

RED BULL WINTER EDITION

Case Size: 9x140g WSP: £10.49 RSP: £1.75 POR: 20.1%

Case Size: 12x250ml WSP: £7.99 RSP: £1.45 – Any 3 for £3 POR: 20.1%

BOË VODKA WHITE CHOCOLATE & RASPBERRY CREAM LIQUEUR Case Size: 6x70cl WSP: £77.89 RSP: £19.49 POR: 20%

McVITIE’S JAFFA JONUTS Case Size: 6x4packs WSP: £5.65 RSP: £1.39 POR: 32.3% 72 TalkingShop October 2023

WIGIG!

NEW LOWER WSP

JACK’S JUMBO KITCHEN TOWEL

EURO SHOPPER SINGLE KITCHEN TOWEL

Case Size: 6 WSP: £4.35 RSP: £1.29 POR: 32.6%

Case Size: 12 WSP: £5.89 RSP: £1.00 POR: 41.1%

AU VODKA COSMIC BERRIES Case Size: 6x70cl WSP: £142.69 RSP: £35.69 POR: 20%

HEETS Case Size: 10x20s WSP: £45.50 RSP: £6.00 POR: 9%

October 2023 TalkingShop

73

FOR A SATISFYING CRUNCH

STOCK UP NOW

1 # ’S R

UEKREAL BA C

+ 8.

9

E ALU V %

H WT O R G

SOURCE: *NIELSEN TOTAL COVERAGE: 52 WEEKS TO W/C 01.07.2023.

PricesDown New lower price on Müller milk

Booker is helping drive down the cost of everyday products with a new lower price on Müller milk.

W

MÜLLER WHOLE MILK

ith the

Case size: 4x2ltr

cost-ofliving continuing to be front

of mind for shoppers and retailers, Booker is helping retailers grow

20.16%

POR on whole and semiskimmed

22.58% POR on skimmed

WSP: £5.09 £4.95 Saving: £0.14 RSP: £1.55 POR: 20.16%

their profits by driving down the cost of everyday items through delivering a new, lower price for Müller milk.

The saving equates to 14p per case of whole or semi-

MÜLLER SEMI-SKIMMED MILK Case size: 4x2ltr WSP: £5.09 £4.95

skimmed milk and helps push

Saving: £0.14

the POR up to over 20%. On

RSP: £1.55

the skimmed variant, the POR

POR: 20.16%

reaches 22.58% under the new pricing.

On high volume, everyday

MÜLLER SKIMMED MILK

lines like milk from one of

Case size: 1x2ltr

the biggest brands in the

WSP: £1.27 £1.20

dairy category, these savings directly help retailers to grow their cash profits and drive footfall.

Saving: £0.07 RSP: £1.55 POR: 22.58%

POS IS AVAILABLE FROM YOUR RDM October 2023 TalkingShop

75

MEET THE TEAM | Keith Ashworth, HGV Driver

76 TalkingShop October 2023

What are your views? Email talkingshop@booker.co.uk

Meet the team:

Keith Ashworth

In this issue we catch up with Booker HGV driver Keith Ashworth who has recently beaten over 240,000 competitors in the UK to win the coveted Driver of the Year title!

ABOUT KEITH Keith Ashworth is an HGV Class 1 Driver and has been with Booker for more than 27 years.

He had his first job as an HGV driver back in March 1978 before joining Booker in 1996.

He proudly says he has “never once been late for work” in all those years and says he “loves his job as much as he always has”.

He is based in the Booker Regional Distribution Centre in Hatfield and typically covers over 50,000 miles every year, delivering to depots in Eastbourne and Gloucestershire.

Earlier his year he was named Driver of the Year, fending off competition from over 240,000 other drivers for the title!

KEITH, TELL US A LITTLE ABOUT YOURSELF...

then I come back. Then I do it all over again.

driver with Booker. I’m based at the Hatfield

WHAT TYPE OF STOCK ARE YOU TRANSPORTING?

Regional Distribution Centre and I’ve been

Everything. We have tri-temperature

with Booker for more than 27 years. I’ve

vehicles, so we’re moving frozen, chilled and

been an HGV driver since March 1978!

ambient stock all in the same delivery. The

I’m Keith Ashworth and I’m an HGV Class 1

HOW MANY MILES DO YOU COVER IN A YEAR?

front of the truck, nearest the cabin, is frozen then in the middle we have chilled then at the back we have ambient. It’s very efficient and

At the moment I do around 50,000 miles a

it means we can provide an excellent service

year but the total distance depends on the

for the branches.

runs that I’m on. At the moment I service used to do the Weymouth run and I did that

AND YOU ARE THE BEST HGV DRIVER IN THE UK?

for about six and a half years. I calculated

Apparently! I was named Overall Driver

that, in that time, I covered almost half a

of the Year this year’s Microlise Driver of

million miles!

the Year Awards, having also won the Long

mainly Eastbourne and Gloucestershire. I

SO YOU’RE DELIVERING STOCK TO BOOKER BRANCHES? Exactly. I leave Hatfield every morning with

Distance category earlier in the competition.

Everyone that won a category was eligible to win the big prize. I was lucky enough to come out on top!

a full load and I take it to a Booker branch, October 2023 TalkingShop

77

GIVES YOU WIIINGS. ALSO WITH THE TASTE OF SPICED PEAR.

NEW

Red Bull Energy 250ml £1.45 PMC M281549

NEW Red Bull Winter Edition 250ml £1.45 PMC M288593

What are your views? Email talkingshop@booker.co.uk

HOW ARE THE AWARDS JUDGED? Microlise, the company that organises the awards, is the company that makes the telematics software that Booker uses to track, monitor and analyse the performance of its vehicles and its drivers. It’s very sophisticated software and it measures everything: fuel consumption, braking patterns, acceleration trends, use of cruise control, you name it! This data is then analysed to draw up a list of 500 of the best drivers, according to their telematics data.

Then we moved onto the shortlist stage and then to the finals at The Ricoh Arena in Coventry. I won the Long Distance category on the night and went forward to the grand final the following day.

WERE YOU NERVOUS? Absolutely! Only category winners could attend the final day and there was only one award being handed out that day: the Overall Driver of the Year Award. We were all sitting looking at the trophy wondering if it could be us. It was an amazing feeling because winning that award would put you at the top of the pile of more than 240,000 drivers.

Then they read out my name and I just couldn’t believe it!

HOW DID YOU FEEL? It was an honour, it truly was. And it reminded me of sitting in the pub with my dad all those years ago. He had been a lorry driver and encouraged me to do my Class 1 test. I didn’t think I was up to it but he pushed me, so I went for it. It cost me £370, which was a lot of money at the time, but it’s the best investment I’ve ever made.

I’ve never been out of a job and I’ve loved every minute of it. I still love my job. I’m supported by an amazing team at Booker and I try to return that support by giving 100% every day. I know so many people rely on me so I’m passionate about making sure I never let them down.

October 2023 TalkingShop

79

BetterService IDEAS TO GIVE YOUR BUSINESS THE EDGE

Doing the right thing

Booker continues to make major strides forward in its sustainability and ethical retailing journey, benefitting Premier retailers along the way and building a better future for us all.

80 TalkingShop October 2023

S

ince the launch of its

Booker is also encouraging Premier retailers

£147,050 in what is known as ‘Fairtrade

groundbreaking Better Trolley

to work towards improving their own

Premium’ in the last year alone.

for a Better Planet set of

sustainability credentials and has put in place

The Fairtrade Premium is an extra sum of

commitments, Booker has

a number of programmes that make it quick

money paid to Fairtrade farmers and workers

continued to make huge strides

and easy for retailers to play their part in

that allows them to invest in projects of

forward driving the ethical retailing agenda

tackling key challenges like minimising food

their choice to help reach their goals such

and helping independent retailers embrace

waste, reducing energy usage and continuing

as improving their farming and income,

the challenge of making their businesses

to improve recycling rates.

investing in health and education for their

more sustainable.

Under Better Trolley, Booker has

FAIRTRADE PREMIUM

community or protecting the environment around them.

Booker Fairtrade Tea, for example,

committed to a series of important goals

A key element of Booker’s Better Trolley

that are already having a significant impact

initiative is working closely with Fairtrade,

supported some 61,259 farmers – who have,

across issues like waste, climate, diet and

and it has recently been announced that

on average, 43% of workers that are female.

community. To support those commitments,

Booker and its customers have raised

Rosine Bekoin of the CAYAT cocoa and coffee farming co-operative in the Ivory Coast said: “The Fairtrade Premium has enabled us to do many things, especially for women. It has enabled us to advance our children and we also use the Fairtrade Premium to build for the future.”

Catherine Marston, Sustainability Manager at Booker, added: “We are delighted to support Fairtrade. Despite the cost-of-living crisis, research shows that many shoppers are still making thoughtful choices while shopping and choosing products that align with their values. It is great to see the positive impact we are having, and I’d like to thank our customers for their support.”

HIVE OF ACTIVITY Closer to home, Booker is also helping drive sustainability by increasing the number of beehives filled with colonies at its Hatfield Distribution Centre.

As part of its Better Trolley commitment, Booker decided to start keeping bees and six willing volunteers jumped at the chance. That was almost five years ago and since then the success of the colonies has been phenomenal.

Booker Hatfield is now offering beginners beekeeping courses to colleagues. It is also in the process of purchasing another new ‘nuclear’ swarm of bees raised from an October 2023 TalkingShop

81

{

The Fairtrade Premium has enabled us to do many things, especially for women. It has enabled us to advance our children and we also use the Fairtrade Premium to build for the future.

Rosine Bekoin, CAYAT cocoa and coffee farming co-operative, Ivory Coast

}

existing hive, which will grow to another

distributed to all Premier retailers. Booker

along with your Booker customer number to

colony of up to 100,000 bees.

helped more than 600 independent retailers

claim discounted rates today!

This means that there will be four

redistribute over 220 tonnes of food in the

active occupied hives in the Hatfield

last year, supporting local communities

VAPE RECYCLING SERVICE

apiary - a move which will make a hugely

through a partnership with the Too Good To

Booker also works with Valpak to help

positive difference to the local and wider

Go solution.

Premier retailers comply with the recycling

In addition, Booker offers solutions to sell

legislation that applies to disposable vapes.

Bees play a crucial role in pollinating

short-dated food and recover costs (through

The legislation requires you to offer your

plants, which contributes to the production

too Good To Go), donate surplus food not

shoppers a free of charge, safe recycling

of foodstuffs that are essential in human and

sold to your local community, and save on

point.

animal diets. Bees regularly suffer habitat

food disposal costs (through OLIO).

environment.

loss from development, abandoned farms, and the lack of bee-friendly flowers, so it’s

Visit toogoodtogo.co.uk and olioex.com/ business to find out more.

important to protect and manage bee-friendly habitats.

Catherine Marston said: “This is a fantastic

To comply with the legislation, Premier retailers first have to calculate the value of vaping products they sell in their store each

WASTE MANAGEMENT

year. If that value is less than £100,000 you

Premier retailers can save 11% on their waste

can join the Distributor Take-back Scheme.

project and I’m proud of the beekeeping

management thanks to an exclusive deal with

If the value of products you sell is in

team at Hatfield. The volunteers work hard to

Booker’s partner ACM on the collection of

excess of £100,000 however, you are

keep the bees healthy, and it is great that we

general waste, recycling and more.

required to provide your shoppers with a free

are expanding. We are also looking for other

The service is available via a simple,

in-store take-back service that complies with

suitable sites across our estate and will offer

easy-to-use website – collectmywaste.com

WEEE regulations. This threshold is under

beekeeping training to interested colleagues

– which provides instant quotes showing

review by the Government, so watch out for

so we can continue to have a positive impact

the best prices for each service, including a

future updates.

on the environments we operate in.”

Booker Group exclusive discount.

PLAY YOUR PART

you will be kept up to date in real time on

is working with leading environmental

If you are keen to play your part in building

the progress of your collection, helping you

compliance business Valpak.

a more ethical, more sustainable future, there

organise your team and maximise efficiency.

Valpak can answer any questions you may

Collections are made by professional,

have and help you put in place the solutions

are a number of easy ways to do so, thanks

Simply choose the service you require, and

To help Premier retailers quickly and easily put the relevant solution in place, Booker

to the many support systems put in place for

friendly drivers

that you need to become

retailers by Booker.

who know their

fully compliant with the

way around and can

WEEE regulations.

FOOD WASTE

ensure fast, no-fuss

Visit recycle-more.

In the last year, Booker redistributed 91% of

pick-ups to let you

co.uk/vapes to find out

all surplus food, a 34% improvement on the

get back to the

more about Valpak’s

base year of 2015/16. Over five million meals

business of running

services.

were donated to the Fareshare charity by the

your store. Visit

Alternatively, you can

Group in the last 12 months.

collectmywaste.

email info@valpak.co.uk

com and quote

to discover more, or call

‘BOOKERWASTE’

03450 682 572.

To play your part, why not make use of the Fareshare donation boxes that were

October 2023 TalkingShop

83

P U K STOC !

NOW £1.39

Subject to availability from 4th October - 31st October

BetterService IDEAS TO GIVE YOUR BUSINESS THE EDGE

Premier retailers cash in on SocioConnect!

Over 100 Premier stores have already started making use of Booker’s exciting new free service which allows retailers to control their social media platforms in one app and post engaging content more regularly with a minimum of effort.

A

s retailers are already well

on in a busy store.

TikTok – SocioConnect lets you do it all in one single step.

aware, social media is

That’s why Booker launched a new

one of the most powerful

solution that can make posting regular,

tools available to help

high-quality content to multiple social media

download the SocioConnect app to your

drive footfall, reach new

networks quicker and easier than ever before

phone or, if you prefer, you can do it all from

– and it’s entirely free.

your desktop.

potential shoppers, highlight promotions and

All you have to do is register then

SocioConnect is an innovative solution

So, it’s easy to understand why more than

Finding the time, however, to manage

that lets retailers manage all of their social

100 Premier retailers have already signed up

social media channels, create regular posts

media content across all popular platforms

to use the completely free service and take

and answer any queries or comments from

all from a single, easy to use app. No more

their social media activity to an entirely new

shoppers can be difficult with so much going

logging into Facebook, then Instagram then

level.

engage with the local community.

{

Socio Connect relieves all of my headaches. It’s very easy to set up and it gives me peace of mind knowing that it is there. Even if I don’t do anything, posts are still going out on my social media. It’s brilliant!

Jalil Ali, AM2PM Premier, Liverpool

}

October 2023 TalkingShop

85

The UK’s #1 * Tampon brand

M284779

M284777

M284792

*Nielsen Value & Volume Sales 52 w/e September 9th 2023.

Once you’re registered and the app is installed, you are ready to start turbocharging

engagement.

On top of all that, the app allows you to

SocioConnect: the lowdown

your social media output, driving more

access Booker’s centrally produced posts and

footfall, attracting new shoppers and

then copy them across to your own social

engaging more effectively with your local

media pages in minutes with a minimum of

Sign up to use Booker’s centrally created posts then copy onto your social pages for FREE!

community. It’s that simple.

fuss. The solution provides you with a full

l

You can opt in to use Booker’s centrally produced posts on your own social pages – either all posts, or just cherry pick those that relate to your store.

l

Manage all your social platforms from one place – no more logging into separate networks.

Just connect your chosen networks and you’re done.

l

Track each post’s performance.

l

Message customers directly and respond to their messages.

l

Schedule promotional posts in advance or let the app do it for you.

l

Compatible with phone and/or desktop.

l

It’s super easy and it’s FREE!

The app even makes responding to

bank of easily accessible content that has

comments on your pages a piece of cake.

been professionally designed and will help

Again, you can do it all, across every

you enhance your own pages.

network, all from within the SocioConnect

A wide range of promotional posts are available and all you have to do is copy them

app.

Additionally, the app has some powerful functionality that allows retailers to track

to your pages and start reaping the benefit of increased footfall, sales and profits.

the performance of every post, helping them

The app allows retailers to schedule

work out which posts are most popular and

posts to ensure that they appear on the

allowing them to continually tailor their

network at exactly the right time. That

new posts to achieve maximum reach and

could be to coincide with the launch of a

{

We only had about 200 followers on Facebook and within 10 weeks we’re up to more than 1,200 and it’s growing all the time. I can thoroughly recommend it to other Premier retailers. SocioConnect is a game-changer!

Anila Alia, Premier Ali’s Convenience Store, Tranent

}

October 2023 TalkingShop

87

ShopMate Self-Serve Save time and money with ShopMate Self-Serve A convenient checkout experience for your customers to help reduce queues, drive increased sales and streamline your operations Get Ahead Get Self-Serve Contact ShopMate on 01780 480562 or email salessupport@retaildata.co.uk ShopMate is the Partner for

Free EPoS

add our own bespoke posts and I have to say

new promotional period, for instance, or to

As part of the re-opening, Anila was keen

highlight new products that are being listed

to improve her social media presence, as she

in-store.

explains: “Social media is really important

“We only had about 200 followers on

it has worked really well.

The SocioConnect solution was trialled in

for us but, as many retailers find, it can be

Facebook when we re-opened the store and

30 pilot stores over the last year and resulted

difficult to make time to manage our pages,

within 10 weeks we were up to more than

in a mammoth 180% increase in posts and a

create new posts regularly and respond to

1,200 and it’s growing all the time. We’re

300% increase in followers.

comments and questions.

seeing around 1,000 more customers coming

One retailer who has been thrilled with

“When we heard about SocioConnect we

to the store every week and a lot of that

the success of SocioConnect is Anila Ali,

were really keen to try it out – and it works

is down to our upweighted social media

who runs Premier Ali’s Convenience Store in

like a dream. It’s so easy to use and it saves

presence. I can thoroughly recommend it to

Tranent, just outside Edinburgh. Ali’s was the

so much time, it’s unbelievable. We re-share

other Premier retailers. It’s a game changer!”

500th Premier store to open in Scotland.

many of the Booker central posts and we also

How do I sign up?

1 2 3

Visit www.socioimplementation.com/premier-stores-signup and enter your email address and store number. You will then be sent an email to allow you to create a password.

Download the SocioConnect phone app and log in. Or you can use your desktop.

Link your social media pages to access branded content and scheduled posts from Booker. You’re good to go!

October 2023 TalkingShop

89

BetterService IDEAS TO GIVE YOUR BUSINESS THE EDGE

Save time and money with Central Billing

Booker’s Central Billing service allows retailers to gain access to centrally negotiated pricing and direct-to-store delivery from almost 100 suppliers while minimising paperwork with a single invoice.

The benefits l

EXCLUSIVE DEALS, RATES AND DISCOUNTS ON SELECTED SUPPLIERS

l

CENTRALLY NEGOTIATED PRICING AND LOW MINIMUM ORDER QUANTITIES

l

90 TalkingShop October 2023

REDUCED TIME-CONSUMING ADMINISTRATION

96

suppliers registered

Booker Exclusive deals available!

Across the board

T

Central Billing is available for suppliers

here are only two ways that

and much more, all of which are available

retailers can grow their profits,

at centrally negotiated prices and with low

by making more money or

minimum order quantities.

covering all of the main product categories, including: l

Food To Go

by saving money. Booker’s

Retailers can simply order what they

l

Fresh & Frozen

Central Billing offer provides

require, have it delivered direct to their

l

Bakery & Cake

the perfect way to do both at the same time,

stores, then receive a single invoice from

l

Grocery

ultimately boosting your bottom line profits.

Booker and clear the account every month

l

Health & Wellbeing

l

World Foods

Powered by the Booker Group’s substantial

with a single direct debit.

buying power, retailers who make use of

Costs are charged weekly, while one

Central Billing can both save more and

simple monthly direct debit helps to save on

l

Impulse & Soft Drinks

make more through an array of preferential

banking charges.

l

Beers, Wines & Spirits

l

Cigarettes & Vape

l

News & Magazines

l

Non-Food

and exclusive pricing and deals, as well

As well as being ideal for gaining access

as a major reduction in time-consuming

to a number of smaller local suppliers to

paperwork.

boost their local sourcing credentials, the

Available across almost 100 national and

Central Billing scheme also offers retailers

local direct-to-store suppliers, the Central

easy access to a wide range of innovative and

l

Car Care & Accessories

Billing scheme covers all key categories

in-demand food- and drink-to-go solutions

l

Greeting Cards

including chilled foods; beers, wines and

from key brands, including Frozen Brothers

l

In-Store Services

spirits; soft drinks; cakes; international foods;

(Tango Ice Blast), Country Choice, Rollover, October 2023 TalkingShop

91

CONVENIENCE FINANCE SPECIALISTS

Looking to grow your business

but want to protect cashflow?

Why not contact us to discuss a suitable Finance Solution

BENEFITS OF USING SATELLITE Partnerships with 40+ Financial Institutions allow us to source the cheapest money for you

Convenience Sector Experts Friendly, efficient and reliable

WHAT WE FINANCE

Any Purpose Business Loans i.e. for Stock / Cashflow / Purchasing next store, and much more.....much more…..

Lease or HP for ALL Equipment i.e.

REFRIGERATION / EPOS / CCTV / AIR CON / FULL REFIT including Shelving, Plus Vehicles and Commercial Mortgages Counter, Lighting, and much more… Plus Vehicles and Commercial Mortgages

RECENT CUSTOMER FEEDBACK I would like to commend the service I received from your organisation so far in all of my financial matters. I highly appreciate your customer service which was second to none. So many finance companies brought several types of deals for my financial needs, but on all 3 occasions, you managed to give me the best rate available in the market, which saved me a lot. The way you managed the link between me, my suppliers and your financial process meant I had a trouble free time and I am sure, my suppliers experienced the same. I will not hesitate to recommend your company. I thank you again for the professional service I received.

Tilak, Premier

Took finance for shop refitting through Satellite Finance, which is something I can proudly say one of my best decisions, as it doubled the sales within couple of months. Thanks to Michelle for excellent service you provided from the beginning to end to make this possible.

Not like any other finance company, Satellite Finance have very good approach on make things clear and find exactly what you need. I would highly recommend.

Tharmaseelan, Premier

Michelle Coombes: 07415 986545 01633 262722 michelle@satfinance.co.uk

Central Billing Suppliers

Booker’s vast rota of Central Billing suppliers includes almost 100 businesses large and small, including:

Celtic Frozen Drinks (Jolly Rancher and Hershey’s), FWIP, plus many others.

With the key festive sales opportunity fast approaching, these attention-grabbing food- and drink-to-go solutions can certainly help retailers create valuable unique selling points over their local competitors that help to boost footfall and sales.

So, if greater savings, bigger profits and less time-consuming administration sound like a good deal, why not explore the many benefits that Central Billing can serve up to you? Speak to your

l

Barr Soft Drinks

l

Americatessen

l

Bonds Confectionery

l

Card Connection

l

Celtic Frozen Drinks

l

Country Choice

l

Delice de France

l

Devon Cakes

l

Dr Oetker

l

Eden Farm – Hulleys

l

Emma’s Country Cakes

l

Epicurium

l

Fife Creamery

l

FIFO

l

F'real

l

Frozen Brothers (Tango Ice Blast)

l

FWIP

l

Ginsters

l

Golden Casket Group

l

HL Display

l

Lindt

l

Lomond Fine Foods

l

Manor Bakery

l

OTL

l

Polar Krush (NICC)

l

Real Trading (VapeStation)

l

Riverside Greetings

l

Rollover

l

Snowshock

l

Tchibo

l

The Lakes Distillery

l

Warburton's

l

West Country Milk

RDM or email centralbilling@booker.co.uk to find out more.

October 2023 TalkingShop

93

BetterService IDEAS TO GIVE YOUR BUSINESS THE EDGE

Drive footfall with a free-to-use ATM! Booker has secured a free to use ATM for retailers that can also help them to boost their commissions.

Access to cash According to the Association of Convenience Stores’ Local Shop Report, access to cash continues to be a challenge

I

for many shoppers:

n today’s increasingly contactless

l

world where more and more shoppers

convenience stores provide a free-to-use

are using credit cards, smartphones

ATM.

and watches to pay for the goods they

l

buy, it’s easy to lose sight of the fact

l

Thanks to a new agreement with PayPoint,

year*.

The pandemic drove a massive increase in

69% of shoppers consider cashback to be an

Booker has secured access to a free-to-use increase their commissions by up to £240 a

18% now provide a payto-use ATM.

that many shoppers still prefer to use cash.

ATM for retailers that can also help them

Only 44% of UK

important service.

Up to

£240

extra commission a year*

the use of contactless payment technology, but more and more shoppers are returning to using cash. In fact, new data recently released from financial industry analysts UK Finance has revealed that cash payments across the UK rose for the first time in a decade during 2022, with approximately one million people using it for the majority of their transactions.

driven by the cost-of-living crisis, with cash

NEW FRAMEWORK

The number of cash transactions increased

becoming more important to shoppers when

In response, the UK Treasury has published

it comes to managing their budgets.

a new framework to protect free access to

by 7% from 2021 to 2022, meaning 6.4 billion payments were made in physical cash.

A rise in the demand for cash has also been

This equals 14% of total payments, making

noted by The Post Office network which saw

shoppers and businesses are set to be

cash the second-most-popular payment

a huge increase in cash transactions in 2022,

no further than three miles away from

option behind debit cards.

continuing into this summer before peaking

withdrawing cash and shoppers should “be

in July and August this year.

able to expect to withdraw cash without

UK Finance says this trend has been

cash across the UK. Under the framework,

October 2023 TalkingShop

95

{

Under the new Treasury framework, shoppers and businesses are set to be no further than three miles away from withdrawing cash for free.

}

PAYPOINT ATMS: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW l

Self-fill ATMs which allow retailers to recycle their cash and reduce banking charges.

l

Provide a vital service to the local community.

l

Over 4,000 retailers currently have one.

incurring any fees”.

Free of charge, no hidden costs.

The government has outlined what it expects

retailers increase the commission they earn each

banks to do to protect services for shoppers and

year. Retailers already earn commission on every

businesses looking to withdraw and deposit cash.

transaction, including cash withdrawals and

The Financial Conduct Authority has been granted

balance enquiries but for retailers processing 650

new powers to protect access to cash services and

transactions a month, for instance, additional

if banks and building societies are not meeting the

commissions of £240 a year can be earned.

l l

Shopper spend on average 4.7% higher than external ATMs.

standards outlined, they can be fined.

RETAIL OPPORTUNITY

Additionally, the PayPoint ATMs can help

That’s in addition to the savings that retailers would make in terms of reducing significant banking fees for handling cash. The self-fill

Banks may be expected to play the leading role

PayPoint ATMs allow you to recycle your cash and

in ensuring access to cash for UK shoppers, but

cut costs.

retailers can also play their part while securing increased commissions into the bargain.

The new agreement between Booker and

PayPoint also says that shopper spend in-store is on average 4.7% higher on internal ATMs when compared to external units.

PayPoint gives retailers access to a free-to-use

To find out how you could benefit, please email

internal ATM for their store, allowing them to

bookeratm@paypoint.com or speak to your RDM.

ensure that the cash requirements of their local community are taken care of.

* Based on processing 650 transactions a month over a 12-month period.

For more information, speak to your RDM or email bookeratm@paypoint.com October 2023 TalkingShop

97

IT WOULDN'T BE

CHRISTMAS WITHOUT

WARNINKS WARNINKS IS A TOP 10 SELLING BRAND IN GROCERY LIQUEURS & SPECIALITY CATEGORY OUTSELLING SOUTHERN COMFORT, TIA MARIA & JAGERMEISTER IN THE LAST 12 WEEKS TO CHRISTMAS. DON’T MISS YOUR SALES OPPORTUNITY.

RANGING IN BRANCH

FROM OCTOBER ALSO AVAILABLE

ONLINE.

LOVINGLY MADE SINCE 1616

#MIXUPTRADITION

Source: Nielsen Total Grocery Value - MAT 09.09.23, 12W X-mas period 15.10.22-31.12.22w

M620906 / M620914

ACS Viewpoint | Local Shop Report

James Lowman discusses the key findings of the ACS 2023 Local Shop Report

IF YOU WOULD LIKE TOGET INVOLVED IN THE POLITICAL WORK OF ACS CALL

01252 515 001 OR LOG ON TO

www.acs.org.uk

Local shops keep evolving to stay ahead Local shops are ‘more vital than ever’ to the communities they serve, finds the ACS 2023 Local Shop Report.

R

ecently we launched our 2023 Local Shop Report

businesses over the last year to diversify and expand the services that

which takes a comprehensive look at the convenience

they can offer to their communities. Of those investing, the top areas

sector, looking at the people running and working in

of investment are refrigeration (56%), shelving (39%), store signage

the stores, retailers’ investment decisions, the products

(33%), in-store lighting (32%) and technology (29%).

and services being offered and the impact that local

shops have on the communities that they serve.

You will have heard us talk about the contribution that local shops

As well as investing financially, convenience retailers have continued to invest their time and energy into engaging with their customers. Findings from this year’s report have revealed significant

make to the economy and their communities, and one of the key

growth in the number of retailers that are using social media for their

ways that stores do this is by providing flexible, local and secure

businesses. With more products and stores going viral over the last

jobs to 437,000 people. As staff shortages ease, retailers are now

year, there has been a clear shift towards activity on platforms like

employing more people for more hours. Over the last year colleagues

Facebook, X (Twitter) and TikTok to engage with customers.

in the sector worked a combined 12.1 million hours a week, working

An interesting finding from this year’s report, which could

tirelessly to provide their communities with the products and services

explain the uptick in social media usage, is the changing profile of

that they need day to day.

convenience store owners, which is becoming younger, including

We know that our sector is incredibly agile and forward-thinking, and this has been demonstrated time and time again as convenience

more women, and more likely to include first-time investors coming into the sector, as well as established family businesses.

retailers have had to adapt their stores to meet the everchanging

The full report and panel session from our launch event can be

needs of their communities. Our research shows how committed

found on our Member Portal and as always, please get in touch if you

local shops are to their communities, investing around £646m in their

have any questions.

October 2023 TalkingShop

99