TalkingShop Jan/Feb 2024

Talking Shop ISSUE 128 – January/February 2024

The magazine for Premier retailers

PLUS

Mission accomplished

Brunton Park’s shoppers can meet so many new missions in their new Premier store

Bags of opportunity

Crowning glory Win this spring

Boost profits with Jack’s revamped confectionery range

Premier Kings Road is fit for the future

Scratch2Win returns with £1.2m of prizes

Talking Shop | January/February 2024

Welcome

Talking Shop ISSUE 128 – January/F

ebruary 2024

The magazine

A very warm welcome to your first issue of Talking Shop in 2024, and I hope you are all energised and excited about the many opportunities that lie before us in the coming year. A new year always brings fresh excitement and energy, even after what was undoubtedly a challenging 2023 in many ways for independent retailing.

To help kick 2024 off with a bang, Booker invested more than £5m in a huge array of fantastic promotions including no fewer than 20 Mega Deals. January can be a tough month, so we hope that this investment by Booker clearly demonstrates our commitment to both you and your shoppers and I really hope that the promotions helped drive additional footfall, spend and profit for your business.

With a series of great seasonal opportunities on the horizon, there will be plenty more opportunities to help boost your business and, as usual, Premier has put together an exceptional promotional programme to help you make the very most of the spring.

We have also refreshed the Jack’s confectionery range, which you can read about inside, and we’ve done it to ensure that the POR retailers make on each line has been increased to 35%. Not only that, we’ve also brought back a ‘2 for’ pricing mechanic to boost basket spend as well as updating pack designs and further improving the quality of many of the products themselves to help you maximise sales and profits.

With costs still a major challenge to retailers, we’ve taken the opportunity in this issue to remind you of the ways Booker can help you cut your energy bills and reduce waste through our associations with key partners.

Every penny saved in cost is a penny that falls to the bottom line.

I wish you all fantastic trading through this important spring period.

for Premier retail

ers

PLUS

Mission accomplishe d

Crowning glory

Premier King s Road is fit for the futur e

Brunton Park ’s can meet so shoppers man missions in theiry new new Premier store

Bags of opportunity

Boost profits with Jack’s revamped conf ectionery range

Win this spring Scratch2Win returns with £1.2m of prize s

COVER STORY Ramalingam Thangavelu’s brand new Premier store is helping local shoppers to meet a wide variety of daily needs and missions.

THE THREE BIG STORIES 7 Booker invests in value Booker has invested more than £5m in a new value campaign 17 Pushing the boat out Booker to raise significant funds for GroceryAid 49 Jack’s Update Jack’s confectionery range has been relaunched to deliver better sales and profits 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

2 TalkingShop January/February 2024

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

22

Dilip Khunti's Premier store is fit for the future

47

Grow your sales and profits with the latest Jack's update

34

Footfall and sales are on the up in Grindon

53

28

The top new products to set your sales alight

7

8

Booker invests in value

Shoppers' needs are being met like never before

22 Planning for profit

47 Jack’s update

Booker has invested more than £5m

Dilip Khunti has invested in a

Bag additional sales and profits

in a new value campaign.

future-proofing refit of his Suffolk

with Jack’s updated confectionery

convenience store.

range.

Sales soar in December Shoppers supported their local stores in the run up to Christmas.

11 Community News The latest round up of community news from Premier stores.

15 GroceryAid update

28 Talk of the town

Booker has a package of support to

the pull of new Premier store.

give your business the edge.

34 Flying high

Say hello to Booker's Head of

the all-new Gleneagles Superstore in

Transport Maria Chittenden.

Grindon.

42 Spring fling The Premier Scratch2Win promotion

16 Winning formula

58 Meet the team

Footfall and sales are on the up at

Booker will lead a unique Dragon Boat Race this summer.

56 Better Service

Brunton Park’s shoppers can’t resist

63 ACS Viewpoint What will a general election mean for independent retailers?

returns with £1.2m worth of prizes!

Premier RK Winnerz is scoring with shoppers in Liverpool.

January/February 2024 TalkingShop

3

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PremierNews NEWS, ACHIEVEMENTS AND OPINIONS FROM ACROSS PREMIER

Booker invests over £5m into its January value campaign to offer shoppers 'Amazing Value'

INBRIEF

Booker has invested in a huge value campaign to drive footfall, sales and profits in stores.

Post offices saw the

POST OFFICES SAW RECORD CASH WITHDRAWALS AHEAD OF CHRISTMAS

highest amount of cash withdrawn over the counter in the run-up to Christmas on record,

Deals include: l

20

9 roll Velvet Toilet Tissue – Better than Half Price £3.19 (Save £3.30)

l

Jack’s Baby Potatoes 750g

December, personal

12

customers withdrew

Tetley Tea Bags 80s – Buy 1 Get

Jack’s Kitchen Towel – Buy 1

Half-Price Deals

exceeds the previous

3

record by more than

Frozen Meal Deals

Get 1 Free (PM£1.79) l

Wisemans 2ltr Milk – Any 2 for £3

amount ever withdrawn on a single day and

1 Free (PM£2.89) l

£62.4m - the highest

5

(Save £0.60) l

On Friday 22

Mega Deals

BOGOF Deals

– Better than Half Price £0.59

new data reveals.

£10m.

On Christmas Day itself, around 1,500 branches, predominantly operated

After another challenging year in 2023, Booker has

promotions, including a 750g bag of Jack’s Baby

by independent

given retailers a huge boost in January – typically

Potatoes better than half price at 0.59p.

postmasters and located

The campaign ran all the way to the 30th of

in convenience stores,

– by investing more than £5m in a huge value

January and shoppers were unable to miss the deals

served customers. The

campaign to drive footfall, sales and profits.

with eye-catching POS offered free of charge to all

data shows £3m in cash

retailers.

was deposited and

one of the quietest months of the year for retailers

With many shoppers tightening their belts after the festive season, the amazing value promotional

In addition to the promotion, Booker is

withdrawn over the

campaign was created to drive some fresh life and

supporting shoppers even further with over 100

counter on Christmas

impetus into January for retailers across the UK.

fresh and frozen everyday low prices and over 200

Day, compared to £2.3m

This campaign featured more than 20 Mega

everyday low prices across alcohol across January

on Christmas Day 2022.

Deals including 12 ‘Buy One Get One Free’ and five ‘Half Price’ Deals, as well as a number of eye-

and February.

Colm Johnson, Managing Director – Retail, said:

catching Jack’s own brand promotions. Alongside

“It is essential that retailers can rely on Booker

TALKING TACTICS

this, there were three Frozen Meal Deals including

to deliver the best choice, price, and service for

What are you doing in-store

buy a Birds Eye Crispy Chicken for £2.89 and get

them, while still delivering high margins. This

to stand out in your local

Jack’s chips worth £1.69 for free.

strong value offering through a usually quiet month

market? Share it with us

There was also improved pricing on fresh

shows we will continue to be committed and offer

everyday essentials such as bread, milk and eggs as

excellent value for not only the shoppers but also

well as savings of over 30% on produce ‘Fresh 4’

our retailers.”

and your Premier retailer colleagues at talkingshop@booker.co.uk

January/February 2024 TalkingShop

5

GOVERNMENT TO HELP CLEAR HORIZON RETAILER VICTIMS The government is to introduce new legislation to make sure that those convicted as a result of the Post Office’s faulty

December spend up 5.1% as shoppers chose to ‘support local businesses’ Independent food and drink stores saw sales shoot up 5.1% year-on-year in December as shoppers ‘chose to support their local businesses in the run-up to Christmas.’

Horizon IT system are swiftly “exonerated and compensated”.

Between 1999 and 2015, the Post Office prosecuted 736 subpostmasters and mistresses based on Horizon. More than 700 branch managers were given criminal convictions – only 93 of these convictions have been overturned.

The government

The latest Consumer Spending Report from

On 22 December Barclays set an all-time record

has now committed

Barclays shows that food and drink specialist

for the number of transactions processed per second

to making sure

stores, including independent convenience

and the day proved to be the busiest day of the

these convictions

operators, “saw a notable uptick in spending of

entire year.

are overturned later

5.1% year-on-year (YOY) in December as shoppers

The report also took a look at shoppers’ plans

this year. Once the

chose to support their local businesses in the run up

for 2024 with nearly one in five (18%) saying they

convictions have been

to Christmas”.

were planning to take part in Dry January to ‘be

quashed, individuals will

The report combines hundreds of millions of

be entitled to at least

customer transactions with shopper research to

£600k in compensation.

provide an in-depth view of UK spending.

healthier’ (50%), save money (42%), or just to drink less alcohol (30%).

Longer term, nearly half of shoppers (48%) want

Former Post Office

Growth in independent retail significantly

to save more money this year and nearly nine in

Chief Executive Paula

outstripped growth in grocery retail in December

10 (87%) are concerned about the impact of rising

Vennells has handed

which grew by only 3.1% YOY, driven by the

household bills on their personal finances.

back her CBE after a

deceleration of food price inflation. Total card

petition calling on her

spend in December grew 2.3% which is less than

feeling confident about both their household

to do so attracted 1.2

the inflation rate at the time of 4.2%, and is also

finances (67% – the highest figure since August

million signatures.

less than the November growth figure of 2.9%.

2023) and their ability to live within their means

Spending on essential items rose 1.8%, compared

6 TalkingShop January/February 2024

Reassuringly, however, more consumers are

each month (73% – the highest since November

to 3.3% in November, as falling petrol prices

2021), likely as a result of falling inflation and

continued to impact fuel spending (-12.5%).

mortgage rates.

Food inflation falls for eighth consecutive month Food inflation decelerated to 6.7% in December, down from 7.7% in November, new data reveals.

Black Friday ‘broke parcels record’ New data from Collect+,

The latest BRC-NielsenIQ

the in-store parcel service

Shop Price Index for the period

from PayPoint, has revealed

December 2023 reveals that food

that more than three million

prices decelerated for the eighth

parcels (3,178,906) were

consecutive month and inflation

processed over the Black

is at its lowest since June 2022.

Friday period (24 November

Fresh Food inflation slowed

to 3 December), a 45%

further in December, to 5.4%,

year-on-year increase in UK

down from 6.7% in November,

parcel traffic.

to reach its lowest level since

With an additional

May 2022.

million parcels processed

Ambient Food inflation

(1,169,096) compared

decelerated to 8.4% in

to Black Friday 2022, the

December, down from 9.2% in

increase reflects a growing

June 2022.

November, and is the lowest

season. But there was a lot of

since August 2022.

pressure on discretionary spend

Helen Dickinson, Chief

to take advantage of big

number of shoppers looking

Mike Watkins, Head of

and price discounting was deeper

Executive of the British Retail

deal days and make the

Retailer and Business Insight

and began earlier in food retail,

Consortium, said: “Overall shop

most of discounts on offer.

at NielsenIQ, said: “Low price,

where promos got back to a four-

price inflation remained steady

Nick Williams, Director of

quality, and availability were

year high at the end of the year.”

in December. Households did

Parcel Services at PayPoint,

the top factors for shoppers

Meanwhile, overall shop price

have a reason to celebrate as

said: “It’s testament to our

when planning where to do their

annual inflation was unchanged

food inflation fell for the eighth

retail partners who have

main Christmas grocery shop

at 4.3% in December 2023,

consecutive month thanks

gone above and beyond in

this year, so the further fall in

below the three-month average

to retailers’ efforts to bring

processing record numbers

shop prices will have helped

rate of 4.6%. Shop price growth

down prices in the run up to

of both parcel collections

shoppers celebrate the festive

remained at its lowest level since

Christmas.”

and returns.”

Scottish ‘health supplement’ set to cost retailers The Scottish government is preparing to

David Lonsdale, Director of the Scottish Retail

reintroduce its ‘public health supplement’ which

Consortium, said: “A new levy on grocers smacks

forces larger retailers to pay extra if they sell

of incoherent policymaking within government.

alcohol and tobacco.

It’s a bizarre way to behave when other ministers

Set to come into force at the end of the year,

are looking to retailers for help to implement new

retailers selling alcohol and tobacco from premises

regulatory measures including in-store restrictions

with a rateable value of more than £300,000 have

on alcohol marketing, curbs on selling products

to pay an extra tax. The supplement was first

high in salt and sugar, and a likely rise in alcohol

introduced in 2012 before being scrapped in 2015.

minimum unit pricing.”

January/February 2024 TalkingShop

7

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CommunityNews NEWS, ACHIEVEMENTS AND OPINIONS FROM ACROSS PREMIER

Local heroes recognised Newcastle Premier scoops three community, environmental and ethical awards.

BIRTHDAY BONANZA Jaz's Premier Grangemouth has celebrated its first birthday with an in-store bash for loyal local shoppers.

The 2,000sq ft store, which features a custombuilt Beer Cave, put on heaps of extra special offers and incredible giveaways to mark the special occasion in December.

P

A number of goodie bags were also up for

remier Westerhope Convenience Store

thank our loyal, valued and much-loved customers

grabs, along with free

in Newcastle has claimed two high

for their continued support so that we can continue

cakes for kids.

profile accolades at Newcastle City

doing what we do best, which is of course serving

Retailer Jaz Ali said

Council’s People’s Choice Awards.

the community and help supporting people of

he was thrilled with the

The store won the Favourite Small

Westerhope and surrounding areas best we can.”

store’s first year and

Ethical and Environmental Business Award 2023

The store regularly donates free bread and key

and was named Runner Up for the Favourite Small

essentials to hard-up local shoppers. In December

for their “amazing”

Community Business Award.

2023 it gave away 400 loaves to local people and

support.

Store owner Sheraz Awan said: “We would like to

donated products to the local foodbank.

thanked local shoppers

Premier Grangemouth also scooped the Highly

Boxing clever

Commended award at the Scottish Asian & Business Awards held in December 2023.

Premier Broadway Supermarket in Blyth, Northumberland has announced a high profile sponsorship deal with professional boxer Cameron Vuong.

Commenting on the deal, store owner Peter Saleem said: “It's a real

TALKING TACTICS What are you doing in-store

honour and a privilege for Premier Broadway Supermarket to have the

to stand out in your local

opportunity to sponsor Cameron Vuong – a local Blyth lad!

market? Share it with us

“Cameron has a huge future ahead of him and Broadway Premier is honoured to be a part of his journey and wish him every success.”

and your Premier retailer colleagues at talkingshop@booker.co.uk

The highly-rated 20-year-old boxer is tipped for big success in 2024.

January/February 2024 TalkingShop

9

IndustryNews A DIGEST OF NEWS FROM THE INDEPENDENT RETAILING INDUSTRY

Businesses could get free advice for settling energy supplier disputes Ofgem unveils plans to offer free support to more retailers to help settles disputes with their energy suppliers without the need for a trip to court.

RETAILERS URGED TO ‘BE VAPE VIGILANT’ The UK Vaping Industry Association (UKVIA) has launched a UK-wide initiative to identify and report rogue traders

customer service issues.

Currently, this support is only available to businesses of up to 10 employees, and households.

The move follows a survey conducted by

Energy regulator Ofgem has unveiled plans to

suspected of selling vapes to minors or stocking illicit goods.

The ‘Be Vape Vigilant’

regulator Ofgem, which found that 94% of the

initiative, supported

total respondents – which included business

by trading standards

organisations, consumer groups, and suppliers –

and the Association of

said they would welcome this move.

Convenience Stores

Minister for Energy Consumers and Affordability

(ACS) has been created

expand existing rules on Standards of Conduct

Amanda Solloway said: “We want to ensure that

to mobilise retailers and

to all businesses, increasing transparency for

businesses are getting proper support and service in

the public to turn in retail

businesses when using brokers and expanding who

dealing with energy suppliers.

outlets and wholesale

“That’s why we’re proposing expanding the

operations that are

reach of the Energy Ombudsman to cover an extra

selling vapes to under

employees would qualify for support from the

200,000 businesses, allowing them to access free,

18s, or supplying illicit

Energy Ombudsman with issues ranging from

impartial advice and resolve issues with their

vapes.

disputes over bills and energy supply, to how an

supplier without the need for an expensive trip to

energy product or service has been sold, or wider

court.”

can access the Energy Ombudsman.

Under the proposals, companies with up to 50

James Lowman, ACS Chief Executive, said: “The reporting protocols

FCA proposes new rules to protect access to cash

in this campaign will

The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) has proposed new rules to protect access to cash for businesses

businesses and allow

and consumers across the UK. The FCA has launched a consultation on a new regulatory regime, which

trading standards officers

would require banks and building societies, designated by the government, to assess and address gaps, or

to focus their resources

potential gaps, in cash access provision in local communities.

on them.”

help identify irresponsible

Under the proposals, designated firms will be required to undertake cash access assessments and respond to requests from local residents, community organisations and representatives to consider, assess and plug gaps as well as ensuring they do not close cash facilities until any additional cash services identified are

TALKING TACTICS

available.

What are you doing in-store

ACS Chief Executive James Lowman said: “We welcome the FCA’s proposals to ensure that banks

to stand out in your local

and building societies have regard for reasonable access to cash services, but it is important to note that

market? Share it with us

further measures will be needed to protect this vital payment method. The government needs to review ATM interchange fees to ensure that they rise to a level which properly covers the cost of providing and

and your Premier retailer colleagues at talkingshop@booker.co.uk

managing the long-term future of the UK’s free-to-use ATM network.”

January/February 2024 TalkingShop

11

GET READY

IndustryNews A DIGEST OF NEWS FROM THE INDEPENDENT RETAILING INDUSTRY

Retail ‘leads the way’ in cutting carbon emissions New research shows that the UK retail sector leads the way in reducing energy consumption and cutting carbon emissions.

FOOD SALES ‘UP 8.1%’ IN 2023 The latest BRC-KPMG Retail Sales Monitor for

The UK retail sector is leading the way in reducing

December 2023 shows

carbon emissions, ahead of every other sector.

that food sales grew by

The retail real estate sector saw the biggest fall

8.1% in 2023, ahead of

– 17.6% average per site in 2023 – in its carbon

total retail sales which

emissions while other sectors, such as hotels and

were up 3.6%.

hospitality, actually saw rises in emissions when

Food sales increased

compared to the previous year.

by 6.8% in the final

Carried out by environmental, social and

quarter of 2023 and sales

governance data intelligence business Deepki, the

were in year-on-year

research also shows that energy consumption per

growth in December

site in the retail sector fell by 13.2% on average,

itself.

significantly ahead of the total UK industry

findings show that key channels across commercial

Helen Dickinson OBE,

reductions of 2.86%.

real estate in the UK are embracing the path to net

Chief Executive of BRC,

zero and moving in the right direction."

said: “2024 looks to be

Commenting on the findings, Lindsay Taylor, Head of UK Delivery at Deepki, said: “The

another challenging year for retailers and

ACS calls for shop theft to be prioritised

their shoppers, and spending will continue to be constrained by

The Association of Convenience Stores (ACS)

Northumbria and Dorset have engaged with the

high living costs. Retailers

has reiterated its calls to all Police and Crime

campaign, submitting vital information for retailers

will also have to juggle

Commissioners (PCCs) to prioritise shop theft as

trading in those areas.

various cost pressures,

more Commissioners continue to outline their plans

ACS Chief Executive James Lowman said: “We are delighted to see more Police & Crime

to tackle crime in their local areas.

ACS has been campaigning for more action on

Commissioners

across

England

and

including the rise to business rates this April.”

Wales

shop theft from local forces throughout the last

prioritising retail crime and making it clear that shop

year and has recently launched the Stop Shop Theft

theft and violence against shopworkers will not be

TALKING TACTICS

Campaign which calls on all Police and Crime

tolerated. Partnership working and information

What are you doing in-store

Commissioners to deliver the new National Retail

sharing are the keys to making the implementation

to stand out in your local

Crime Action Plan locally, tell retailers how to

of the Retail Crime Action Plan work, and we want

market? Share it with us

report shop theft offences and provide a single point

all retailers to engage with the police, report all

of contact for businesses in their policing area.

crime and act together to identify and apprehend the

Most

recently,

PCCs

in

Bedfordshire,

and your Premier retailer colleagues at talkingshop@booker.co.uk

prolific repeat offenders who blight communities.”

January/February 2024 TalkingShop

13

SHINE BRIGHT INTO THE NEW YEAR WITH A HOUSE THAT’S SPARKLING CLEAN

M284494

M284424

M284423

M284409

M260188

Pushing the boat out!

Booker will be leading a unique Dragon Boat event this summer which hopes to raise over £150k for GroceryAid to support industry colleagues in need of a little help.

in support of

HOW WILL IT WORK? l 10 rowers and one

Booker is set to lead an exciting and innovative

Dragon Boat champions as they row to the beat of

drummer per Dragon

new event in 2024 to help raise significant

the drum.

Boat

Thursday 6th June 2024

additional funds for GroceryAid, the industry

A host of entertainment including a celebratory

charity that provides practical, emotional and

BBQ and music will help ensure the day is a

financial support to industry colleagues.

fantastic experience for everyone getting involved.

l Over 40 teams l A Booker colleague in every boat

Bisham Abbey, Marlow Road, Bisham, Marlow, SL7 1RR

The Booker Charity Dragon Boat event will

Teams will enjoy a day of thrilling but friendly

l 200m race course

take place on 6 June at a private event space on the

competition, as well as networking with industry

l Three heats for each

River Thames at Bisham Abbey in Marlow, with

colleagues.

easy access from the M4 and M40. Dragon Boat

A number of sponsored supplier activations

racing is one of the most exciting and inclusive

are also being sold with extensive sponsorship

water sports in the UK today, with Chinese origins

opportunities available. Ultimately, it is hoped

dating back over 2,000 years.

that the day will raise an amazing £150k for

COSTS new addition to the GroceryAid 2024 fundraising

GroceryAid.

The Booker Dragon Boat Race is an exciting

boat

l Two semi-finals l One final

WANT TO GET INVOLVED?

Booker CEO Andrew Yaxley said: “The

Each Dragon Boat takes 10

calendar, and the charity’s first-ever partnership

Booker Dragon Boat Race is a brand-new event

people and can either be

event with Booker.

in support of our charity partners GroceryAid. I

purchased as two teams

would encourage everyone to join us for a fantastic

of five or one team of 10.

boat entered followed by two semi-finals and a

day of friendly competition, entertainment and

Participants can also host

final race to decide the winners. The event will

networking, while raising vital funds for such

a Booker colleague in their

bring together over 40 teams, racing to be crowned

important causes.”

boat for the day.

Team of 5 - £5,000 + VAT (shared boat) 6 June, 2024 £150k fundraising target Boat of 10 - £10,000 + VAT

The day will feature three 200m heats for each

l Team of 5: £5k l Team of 20: £10k

To find out more, visit groceryaid.org.uk/events/booker-dragon-boat-race

(All teams will include the option to have a Booker rower)

January/February 2024 TalkingShop

15

CUSTOMER PROFILE | Premier RK Winnerz

Winning formula Premier RK Winnerz is scoring success in Liverpool.

A

natural-born efficiency

really let my ambition fly,” says Rajit.

for

“In my time working in Tesco stores I’ve

sky-high

been a bakery manager and a stock control

“I wanted a store that would offer market-

talent and

have

manager, team leader and then a deputy

leading ‘wow’ factor features and it was

earned former Tesco store

manager. I’ve always had a passion for fast,

during the process of researching new ideas

employee Rajit Khandia a

efficient, high-quality work and I love to lead

that I came across Premier’s new store

by example.

concept,” he explains.

retail

standards

sterling reputation.

In fact, Rajit’s enthusiastic and hard-

“I’d always get our deliveries put away in

“I went to visit Singh’s Premier in Sheffield

grafting persona saw him earn a number of

super-fast time so that’s where the nickname

and was blown away. It was exactly the type

positive nicknames during his time at Tesco

‘winner’ comes from.”

of concept that I was after.”

– ‘Duracell’ being one and ‘winner’ being another.

“I worked in a Tesco store in London

It was a nickname that inspired the name for

In late 2021 Rajit’s dream started to take

Rajit’s very first store: Winnerz Minimart in

shape when he purchased a large vacant pub

Sefton, that he established in 2017.

site, less than half a mile away from Liverpool FC’s Anfield stadium.

between 2011 and 2013 before moving up to

“It’s an incredibly busy store that does very

Liverpool and taking up a new post in a Tesco

well but I’d always had a dream of opening

After a lengthy planning process, work to

store there,” he explains.

a large showstopper of a store where I could

convert the former pub into a cutting-edge

Average basket spend is £15 and growing

Premier concept store began in April 2023

range of special offers and promotions which

“It’s a large site with a striking curved

we promote heavily in-store, on-line and via

frontage and is located on a busy junction that

physical leaflets which I personally distribute

leads up towards Anfield stadium – perfect for

in the local area.”

all the futuristic new concepts that I wanted to bring in such as a Beer Cave, Soft Drinks Cave, drinks to go and much more,” Rajit says.

After a six-month build, which saw the

Yet a custom-made beer cave is far from the store’s only standout feature.

Shoppers are also invited to “pop in” to a dedicated Soft Drinks Cave fronted by a fourdoor chiller wall.

old pub stripped back to a bare shell, the fit-

“The soft drinks cave is a real winner, jaws

out of the new 2,100sq ft shop floor began in

drop when shoppers see it,” Rajit adds. “Most

October 2023.

shoppers have never come across one before,

The Grand Opening of Premier RK

so it’s a real surprise and a big footfall driver.”

Winnerz took place on 12 November – much

Other surprises include a dedicated ‘Big

to the delight of local shoppers and football

Night In Zone,’ an ‘American’ zone, plus a

fans who have not stopped raving about its hot

striking Refresh@Premier bar featuring Costa

new offer ever since.

Coffee, Jolly Rancher slush, Hershey’s and

Inside, shoppers are met with a striking Beer Cave that houses a vast range of bestselling beers, ciders, wines and RTDs including large multi-pack formats.

Reese’s Freeze, Tango Ice Blast and Coca Cola Frozen.

The store also boasts a chilled Cossiga unit close to the tills, which houses fresh cakes and

“The Beer Cave is also a great showcase

pastries from local producers Cottom Bros

of our exceptional value-for-money offer,”

– as well as individual cheesecake portions

Rajit explains. “We offer a market-leading

from Booker.

January/February 2024 TalkingShop

17

NEW

LUCOZADE SPORT SUGAR

ZERO

Orange & Peach M292349

Raspberry & Passion Fruit M292352

VıTAMıN B3 HELPS REDUCE TIREDNESS VITAMIN TıREDNESS

*(Nielsen Scantrack, Latest 52 weeks, 30.09.22). **NIELSEN, VALUE SALES, TOTAL MARKET, LOW/NO CAL SPORTS & ENERGY, LATEST 52 WEEKS, 30.10.22 LUCOZADE, LUCOZADE SPORT and the Arc Device are registered trade marks of Lucozade Ribena Suntory Ltd.©Lucozade Ribena Suntory Ltd. All rights reserved.

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

{

The soft drinks cave is a real winner, jaws drop when shoppers see it. Most shoppers have never come across one before so it’s a real surprise and a big footfall driver.

“We buy the cheesecakes in frozen from

Rajit Khandia

‘Part of the Tesco’ family messaging.

Booker and we defrost them for sale. Shoppers

“The value for money that Jack’s offers is

love them, they’ve been a very popular

fantastic, especially the ‘Fresh Four’ produce

addition to the range,” Rajit says.

promotions.”

}

out in the local area which is exactly what I hoped for.

“In just a few short weeks we’ve already built up a strong local trade which is great considering this is a totally new store but on

Shoppers’ chilled food needs are met by a

Rajit says work to engage with local

smart 10-door zone for fresh meat and fish,

shoppers is ongoing. “We’ve been working

dairy, ready meals and food-to-go products –

really hard to get their feedback on the store

December 2023 saw footfall and sales surge

supplemented by an aisle-end chiller for fresh

and find out what else they might like to see,”

when the nearby Anfield stadium played host

fruit and vegetables where Jack’s branded

he says.

to three key matches between Liverpool and

produce is displayed in attractive wicker baskets.

“We’ve also done a lot of sampling of things

match days sales really fly.”

Manchester United, West Ham and Arsenal.

like the slush and the milkshakes to help drive

“Match days are incredible,” Rajit says.

“The Jack’s brand is another major USP for

awareness of the offer, which has gone down

“Both tills are fully manned and we employ

us and key driver of footfall and sales,” Rajit

really well,” he adds. “We’re also sponsoring

dedicated members of staff to help direct

adds.

a local football team and have invited all the

shoppers around the store and ensure that they

players to the store for some freebies.

find everything they need.

“Shoppers love the quality, and they have a great deal of trust in the brand thanks to the

“With all this innovation we really do stand

“Stocking up is also a near constant process.

January/February 2024 TalkingShop

19

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It’s intense but it’s everything that I hoped for.

“While many new stores can take a few months to hit their stride we were up and running immediately. Sales are already exceeding expectations and we’re still seeing lots of new faces every day, which is fantastic.

“Our average basket spend is £15 and growing, with nearly every shopper that comes in using a basket and a large-sized carrier bag.”

Sales look set to hit even loftier heights in the new year when the store starts opening two hours earlier at 6am – a move which Rajit says will help him to harness the early morning coffee, breakfast and paper trade.

“I’m so proud of what we’ve achieved and all the great things that are still to come. The next few months will no doubt be very busy but I’m ready for them,” Rajit concludes.

Store profile

Name: Premier RK Winnerz Retailer: Rajit Khandia (Raj) Size: 2,100sq ft Opening hours: Mon-Sun 8am-11pm Services: National Lottery, PayPoint, E-Top Up, Just Eat Staff: 5

January/February 2024 TalkingShop

21

CUSTOMER PROFILE | Kings Road

Planning for profit Premier retailer Dilip Khunti has invested in a future-proofing refit of his Suffolk convenience store.

W

hen

it

comes

to

the

fast-

paced world of convenience retail,

staying

ahead of the game is often the name of the game. As most successful convenience retailers will attest, forward-planning is the key to success and to unlocking greater footfall, sales and profits.

One retailer who is certainly reaping the rewards of his forward planning forte is Dilip Khunti, owner of Premier Kings Road in Leiston Suffolk.

Dilip bought the existing Premier store back in 2015, successfully building the business up even further over the years with targeted improvements to its range

And, as he explains, that community is

imagined both inside and out.

poised to get a whole lot larger in the years

“We literally replaced everything,” Dilip

However, in March 2023 Dilip decided the

to come, with Leiston located just two miles

says. “Everything is new, from the floor to

time was right to invest in a future-proofing

away from the coastal hamlet of Sizewell,

the ceiling, lighting and all the fixtures and

refit that would transform the store’s fortunes

where construction of a new nuclear power

fittings.”

now and prime it for further profit in the years

station is expected to commence in 2024.

and offer.

to come.

The store’s layout has also been re-designed

Construction of the new Sizewell C

with the counter moved to improve shopper

“We wanted to be able to offer our loyal

nuclear power station is expected to create

flow and space created for new standout

local shoppers a much greater variety of fresh

up to 25,000 jobs and 1,000 apprenticeships,

features.

and chilled produce, drinks-to-go products

bringing swathes of new shoppers to the area.

Chief among these is a custom-made beer

and an offer that would totally set us apart and

Dilip traded throughout the month-long

cave. Featuring striking blue sky light panels,

get the local community talking,” says Dilip.

store refit, which saw the store totally re-

the 300sq ft beer cave is accessed via smart

22 TalkingShop January/February 2024

automatic doors.

Store sales are up by 40% since the refit

of

profit-powering

is making a massive difference to footfall

as

and sales. There’s nowhere else around here

from

for shoppers to buy a cup of Costa Coffee,

beers, ciders, wines and

Tango Ice Blast, and on-

shoppers would have to travel to a big town

more, including large formats

trend American brands Jolly

Inside, is a footfalldriving range of chilled

Dilip to create high-impact displays that make the most of Premier’s promotional muscle.

premium

such slush

Rancher, Hershey’s and Reese’s

and multipacks.

The generous space has also allowed

machines,

such as Ipswich to get it.”

While the store doesn’t currently offer hot

Freeze.

food to go, Dilip has also invested in a new

Shoppers’ caffeine needs are being met by a

Cossiga chilled display unit which houses

new counter-top Costa Coffee machine.

a tasty selection of fresh local pastries and baked goods.

In another first for the store and the local

“The Refresh zone has been an incredible

area, Premier Kings Road also features a

hit with shoppers,” Dilip says. “It’s totally

The store’s fresh and chilled offer has also

Refresh@Premier bar, offering a selection

unique in the local area. Costa Coffee alone

been enhanced with a brand new four-door January/February 2024 TalkingShop

23

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

chiller, allowing Dilip to offer shoppers a broader range of fresh and chilled goods, including ready meals, deli and dairy items and fresh produce, with fresh and chilled sales having increased by 23% since the refit, as a result.

The store’s old and impractical chest freezers have also been replaced with a smart bank of energy efficient upright units which showcase its enhanced frozen food range.

“We now have six metres of frozen which is more than double what we had before and shoppers are buying into it, especially Premier’s frozen meal deal,” Dilip adds.

“Premier’s support has been fantastic throughout the planning and refit process and that support is ongoing.”

Outside the store, Premier has also supported Dilip with a brand-new fascia and graphics.

The store’s old and unwieldly doors have also been replaced with smart new automatic doors, in a bid to improve accessibility.

Overall, sales are up by 40% since the refit and Dilip says he’s been “blown away” by

Store profile

Name: Premier Kings Road, Leiston Suffolk Retailer: Dilip Khunti Size: 1,000sq ft Services: National Lottery, Payzone, Beer Cave, Refresh@Premier Staff: 3 Opening Hours: Mon-Sat 6am10.30pm, Sun 7am-10pm

January/February 2024 TalkingShop

25

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

{

As a retailer you constantly have to be thinking about your next step. Thanks to our refit and my future plans, I’m feeling very confident about the shape of things to come.

Dilip Khunti

}

the positive reaction from local shoppers and

such as “We love this shop” and “This shop

passers by.

has everything and such lovely stuff now.”

“It’s been five months since the refit but not

“I’m so pleased that we can now offer local

a day goes by where we don’t get at least a

shoppers this fabulous new store which can

couple of positive comments about how great

now meet a vast range of local needs and

the store looks and the great range that we

attract shoppers from further afield too,” Dilip

now offer,” he says.

says.

“Young shoppers are particularly vocal

Still looking ahead, Dilip also plans to add

about how much they love the store, especially

an extra 100sq ft of space to the shop floor

on social media where they post pictures of

later in 2024.

the Refresh@Premier bar and our American

“As a convenience retailer you constantly

Sweets. The Beer Cave also gets a lot of

have to be thinking about your next step,” he

hype.”

concludes.

A look at the store’s social pages

“Thanks to our amzing new refit and my

reveals scores of positive comments and

future plans, I’m feeling very confident about

encouragement from local people with posts

the shape of things to come.”

January/February 2024 TalkingShop

27

CUSTOMER PROFILE | Harshi Convenience Store

Talk of the town Brunton Park’s shoppers can’t resist the pull of their new Premier store.

F

eaturing a thriving deli, café, high-end butcher, and an

down at the start of 2023,” Ram explains. “I knew the area well and the

array of independent stores, the shopping parade in the

potential was clear for me to see.

heart of Newcastle’s desirable Brunton Park district was already something of a footfall magnet for residents.

And now, thanks to the opening of a showstopping new

concept Premier store, the parade’s pulling power has been taken to the max.

Slotting in like that final crucial piece of a jigsaw, the new store

“Brunton Park is a fairly affluent residential area and the parade is a major focal point for the community, yet there were no other shops offering a comprehensive convenience range.”

After acquiring the unit in August 2023, Ram had a new roof fitted overhead, while inside, internal walls and structures were demolished to make way for a new 1,000sq ft shop floor.

offers Brunton Park’s shoppers a prized convenience proposition,

“I wasn’t initially planning such a major internal build, but after

including high-quality fresh, chilled and frozen goods, plus an array of

visiting Barry’s Premier in Halton Moor and seeing its amazing beer

jaw-dropping new concepts totally unique to the local area.

and soft drinks caves, I was set on introducing those features here too,”

Owned by forward-thinking convenience retailer Ram Thangavelu and named after his niece Harshi, the new store opened its doors on 15 December 2023, after a substantial internal rebuild and fit-out.

“The unit was empty when I bought it, the old store having closed

28 TalkingShop January/February 2024

Ram says.

A 100sq ft beer cave and smaller 60sq ft ‘pop cave’ were built at the side of the store, offering shoppers access to an unrivalled range of leading brands and formats – all chilled to perfection.

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

{

It’s only been a few weeks since opening but the community has embraced us with open arms. We’re really looking forward to growing our community bonds going forward.

}

Ram Thangavelu

“We made a big effort to engage local shoppers from the very

that, our coffee-to-go offer is performing strongly, driven by the early

start,” Ram explains. “We established a Facebook page for the store

morning trade before the coffee shop and deli open,” Ram explains.

well ahead of the opening so that we could show them updates on the

Also performing strongly is the store’s brand-new fresh and chilled

development and what the new store would be bringing to the area.

offer. “We have 7.5 metres of fresh and chilled produce including fresh

There was a lot of excitement about the beer and soft drinks caves.

fruits, vegetables, meats, ready meals and dairy products and shoppers

“Shoppers are naturally inquisitive, so getting your Facebook page up and running as early as possible and updating it regularly with news and pictures of the build process and refit can be really beneficial.

“Shoppers love to see all the work that goes on behind the scenes and get ‘sneak peeks’. We found that doing so really helped to drive a lot of interest and footfall upon opening.”

are thrilled,” Ram says.

“No other store on the parade offers a range like this, so shoppers see it as a huge benefit.

“One key learning that we have made since opening is that shoppers here prefer premium products, and they also favour local goods.”

Working with his Premier RDM Vicky Chapman, Ram has introduced

The store was also fitted out with a footfall-driving Refesh@Premier

a number of new premium chilled lines from Booker since the store’s

bar featuring Tango Ice Blast, Think Fresh Shakes, Jolly Rancher Slush

launch, including higher-end cheeses such as Stilton and Camembert.

and a coffee-to-go offer courtesy of a Douwe Egberts Vitro S1 machine.

He’s also in the process of introducing more local cheeses, and

“There’s a coffee shop and a deli on the parade both but despite

additional local fruit and vegetable lines, in response to demand.

January/February 2024 TalkingShop

29

Email talkingshop@booker.co.uk

Store profile

Name: Premier Brunton Park – Harshi Convenience Store Retailer: Ramalingam Thangavelu Size: 1,000sq ft Opening hours: Mon-Sun 6.30am-10pm Services: tbc Staff: 2 plus family members

The store’s local bakery offer is also proving to be “a major hit”.

“Our core bread and bakery offer is also complemented by a wonderful range from local supplier Geordie Bakers, who supply us with a great range of bread and bakery products, including fresh sandwiches, pies and pasties,” Ram explains.

“Geordie Bakers also supply us with a fantastic range of freshly made traybakes and boxed cakes which we keep chilled in a Cossiga display cabinet by the counter.

Traybakes include indulgent options such as Salted Caramel Brownies and Malteser Tiffins which have been selling strongly since launch.”

Ram is also currently in talks with the local butcher about introducing an exclusive range of local pre-packed meats which would give him a further USP.

{

Shoppers are naturally inquisitive, so getting your Facebook page up and running as early as possible and updating it regularly with news and pictures of the build process and refit can be really beneficial.

Ram Thangavelu

}

January/February 2024 TalkingShop

31

NEW

M291186

CHILLED MEAT SNACKS BRAND

*

*Nielsen MAT October 2023

“With no other store on the parade selling fresh and chilled produce, the store has been welcomed with open arms by local shoppers, with fresh and chilled produce currently leading sales,” he adds.

The store’s grocery offer is also contributing admirably, as is BWS, with sales driven by real ales.

“Real ales are a huge seller in this store and over the Christmas period, demand for IPAs went through the roof,” Ram explains.

Responding to local demand, Ram is also currently looking to expand the store’s real ale offer even further and is currently in talks with a local brewery about introducing a new range of craft beers.

When it comes to wine, sales are also being driven by premium-priced brands. “Shoppers here are picking up bottles priced £10 and up. They are very discerning when it comes to their alcohol choices and very complimentary about the wide range of choice that we offer,” Ram says.

“We’ve only been open a matter of weeks but so far the feedback has been fantastic and we’re already starting to feel like a real part of this lovely community.”

An engaging launch package featuring attentiongrabbing prizes and special offers has also helped the store to ingratiate itself further in the hearts and minds of local shoppers.

A prize draw saw five shoppers each win £50 worth of shopping and the store also held a basket dash, both of which were well received and caused great excitement among customers.

“The young lad who won the basket dash was like Linford Christie, he got round so fast!” laughs Ram. “We also had an iPad giveaway which generated a huge amount of interest and fun. There’s no doubt that a launch package like that is so beneficial when opening a new store.

“It’s only been a few weeks since opening but the community has embraced us with open arms. We’ve even had a visit from the local pre-school who brought in a welcome card, handmade by the children, which was incredibly touching. We’re really looking forward to growing our community bonds going forward.”

And it’s not just community goodwill that’s on the up, sales are also performing ahead of expectations, with average basket spend currently sitting at £10 and growing.

“The business has started very well. There’s so much promise here and I can’t wait to see what the year ahead has in store,” Ram concludes.

January/February 2024 TalkingShop

33

CUSTOMER PROFILE | Gleneagles Superstore

Flying high Footfall and sales are on the up at new concept Gleneagles Superstore in Grindon.

A

change

is

as

good

as a rest – or so they

could meet all of their daily needs under

interior was gutted to make way for new

one roof.

flooring, ceilings and all-new fixtures and

say. First-time retailer

“There’s quite a few other convenience

and former chartered

stores in the area but none that were

accountant

offering a full convenience solution.

Kalaruban

fittings.

Shoppers were kept informed of progress throughout the development via

Thanayasalam made a fairly major

“My friend recommended the Premier

a stream of engaging social media posts

change in May 2023 when he bought his

brand and when I learned about Premier’s

featuring “behind the scenes” images and

first convenience store in the Sunderland

new store concept, I knew it would be the

"sneak peek" videos.

suburb of Grindon.

perfect fit.”

On 7 December the store was re-opened

six-figure

However, as Kalaruban explains, work

with a brand-new name: Gleneagles

redevelopment project having followed,

to develop the store didn’t begin straight

Superstore and a brand-new look and

the past few months have been anything

away.

offer to match.

However,

with

a

“It was important for me to build up

One of the first things that shoppers now

a

stock levels first and to forge new and

see when they step through the inviting

background in accountancy and I later

positive relationships with local people

and much more accessible doorway, is

worked for the Ministry of Justice but I

so that we could truly understand their

a showstopping Refresh@Premier bar,

wanted a change and I was drawn to the

needs.”

featuring Skwishee slush, Snow Shock

but restful!

Kalaruban

explains:

“I

have

convenience industry. A good friend of

Work began around six months later

mine is an existing Premier retailer and in

in November 2023, when the old store’s

May 2023, with his help, I came across this store.”

Located on Gleneagles Road at the heart of a residential estate, ‘Grindon Village Store’ as it was formerly known, was in a run-down state when Kalaruban first viewed it.

“The store had not had any significant investment made to it since 1998 and it looked very tired, but despite that, I could see a clear opportunity,” he says.

“The store is surrounded by residential housing, with lots of families and a high proportion of elderly shoppers, all of whom were crying out for a place that

34 TalkingShop January/February 2024

slush, Think Fresh shakes and a tempting Lavazza coffee offer.

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

{

A Soft Drinks Cave is such a great concept. It’s allowed us to offer a vast range of soft drinks all chilled – even large 2l bottles and multi-packs. It’s a massive point of difference and shoppers love the experience.

Kalaruban Thanayasalam

}

“The Refresh zone looks fantastic, local shoppers had never had anything like this before, it’s a huge talking point and footfall driver,” Kalaruban says.

Fresh and chilled has been another major area of development. A smart bank of 10-door chillers runs down the store’s left-hand side, boasting a wide range of chilled food to go, meat products, ready meals and dairy. There’s also a dedicated 800 x 470mm cabinet for ambient produce and eggs.

“The old store hardly sold any chilled produce so shoppers are thrilled with the range that they now have,” Kalaruban says.

“Shoppers can now get everything that they need under one roof.

January/February 2024 TalkingShop

35

S E L A S R E T MONS

.

G N I Y L F E R A Y A D O T P U K STOC RE VALUE DRIVE MONSTER WITH MOCKS MULTIPA

H £55.2M T R O W W O S ARE N ER MULTIPACMK PULSE & THE MONSTIN SALES, IN TOTAL I S DELIVERED £13.6M BRAND HAAT +22.9%* G R OW I N G

M286739

M293014

M293013

TO FIND OUT MORE CALL 0808 1000 000 OR EMAIL CONNECT@CCEP.COM ©2024 Monster Energy Company. All rights Reserved. MONSTER ENERGY®, ®, MONSTER ENERGY ULTRA® are all registered trademarks of Monster Energy Company. Source: *Total Impulse Nielsen MAT Value Sales w/e 25.11.2023

M286738

“Sales have picked up really well

"The old store hardly had any frozen

since we opened and are growing week

range. We now have a smart bank of

on week. The Premier Meal Deal on

Arneg freezers with six doors.

food to go is a big driver of sales as are

"Jack’s-branded

frozen

products

the Jack’s ‘2 for’ offers on chilled ready

are selling really well, shoppers love

meals.”

the quality of the products and the

Towards the back of the store are two more major footfall drivers, a Beer Cave and a Soft Drinks Cave.

affordable price points.”

Two striking Big Night In bays also add to the excitement – offering

“A soft drinks cave is such a great

shoppers a tasty selection of sharing

concept. It’s allowed us to offer a vast

snacks from nachos to candyfloss and

range of soft drinks all chilled – even

popcorn.

large 2l bottles and multi-packs. It’s a

The store is also home to a new

massive point of difference and shoppers

Cossiga chilled unit which displays a

love the experience,” Kalaruban says.

range of local cakes, sandwiches and

At around 160sq ft, the beer cave also boasts ample room for a comprehensive

pastry products, all of which are proving popular sellers with local shoppers.

range of canned and bottled beers and

“Vape is also a new addition to the

ciders, plus wines and RTDs. There’s

store and we have a smart shop-floor

also plenty of space for bulk stacks.

display unit next to the counter. As a

“Frozen was a big area of development

category it is already doing really well,”

too," Kalaruban adds.

Kalaruban explains.

January/February 2024 TalkingShop

37

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

“We’ve also opened with a strong promotional stance and are doing full A-Z promotions to ensure that we build a very strong reputation for value from day one.

“Services are also key, and we’ve introduced a lot of new ones including a free cash machine and parcel services, which are further key footfall drivers.”

However, despite all the new additions, Kalaruban and the Premier planning team have managed to retain a “great sense of space” in the store.

“The old shop was very congested, so another key aim of this development was to improve access for shoppers with mobility aids and prams. We did that by creating a wider entrance and aisles,” Kalaruban says.

“There’s a great sense of space all around the store and particularly at the entrance. Elderly shoppers are particularly appreciative of this.

“The feedback that we have received from shoppers about the new store has been nothing but positive and their comments are wonderful to hear.”

Local shoppers’ appreciation of their new store is particularly clear to see on Facebook where Gleneagles Superstore’s page is packed with positive comments from grateful customers.

“Posts asking what else shoppers would like to see have also elicited a great response with lots of brilliant ideas that we can take forward,” Kalaruban says.

“I’m very proud of what we’ve done and I’m thoroughly enjoying this new experience.

“It’s so rewarding to see all the hard work paying off.

Sales are growing day by day as is our margin, which is all very encouraging.”

{

It’s so rewarding to see all the hard work paying off. Sales are growing day by day as is our margin, which is all very encouraging.

Kalaruban Thanayasalam

}

Store profile

Name: Gleneagles Superstore, Grindon, Tyne & Wear Retailer: Kalaruban Thanayasalam Size: 2,300sq ft Staff: 4 Services: National Lottery, free ATM, PayPoint, Payzone, parcel collection Opening hours: 7am-10pm

January/February 2024 TalkingShop

39

FEATURE | Seasonal Focus: Spring

Time to Spring into action PERIOD 13

MEGA DEALS As well as an array of promotions, Premier will also be communicating the Amazing Value that Premier stores offer through 10 Mega Deals throughout February and into March. These include: I Heart wine only £5.99 each Nomadic Yoghurts Buy 1 Get 1 Free Buy any Felix As Good As It Looks and get any Felix goody bag free Cadbury's 360g Dairymilk and Caramilk only £4.25 each Andrex 9 roll only £4.50 Starbucks chilled drinks only £1.25 each Bachelors Super Noodles and Pasta 'N' Sauce Any 3 for £2.50 Walkers 20 pack only £4.50 each Doritos and Dip Any 2 for £3.50 Buy Birds Eye Chicken Dippers and get Jack's Chips & Peas free

42 TalkingShop January/February 2024

T

he Spring months are packed full of opportunities for Premier retailers as they start to build momentum – as well as footfall, sales and profits – ahead of the

key summer sales period.

Booker has already helped Premier retailers

get 2024 off to a flyer with a massive £5m invested in a huge January promotional package. Including 20 Mega Deals, the activity was designed help get tills ringing in what can be a quieter month of the year.

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

FREE Stock for Scratch2Win promotion

Premier has a host of fantastic promotions and activity planned for the Spring season to help stores build momentum ahead of the key summer trading period.

Every Premier retailer will receive the following free stock, worth £291 at RSP, as part of their Period 13 allocations. This stock will be used as the prizes for shoppers with a winning scratchcard, to be redeemed there and then in-store.

+ FOR A SPEND £10 TH OUR N WI CHANCE TO WI ARD

HC FREE SCRATC

1 IN 4 CHANCE TO

WIN!

ENTRY

118172.02

Premier P13

Scratch2Win

705x495mm

Poster.indd

necessary.

No purchase Northern Ireland). on 05/03/2024.

23.59 Only (Excludes T&C’s: 18+. GB 00:01 on 31/01/2024 until prize per winner. dpromotion2024 One Entry period: p.co.uk/scratchcar person, per day.

One entry per https://thedeltagrou s available at: Terms & Condition AGREES TO full

04/01/2024

14:21

PACK SIZE

RSP

Knorr Gravy Pot Onion 4s 28g

8x112g

£2.25

Bakers Sizzlers Bacon PM139

6x90g

£1.39

Coca Cola Zero Cherry PM120

12x500ml

£1.20

Relentless R/Bry Zero PM119

12x500ml

£1.19

Oasis Exotic Frts Zero PM130

12x500ml

£1.30

ES Isotonic Trpbry Sprt PM69

12x500ml

£0.89

ES Isotonic Orange SportPM69

12x500ml

£0.89

Tango Apple SF PM125

12x500ml

£1.25

Tango Orange PM125 PET 500ml

12x500ml

£1.25

RubRaw Enrgy Orng/Mngo PM139

12x500ml

£1.39

Ribena Blackcurrant PM139

12x1ltr

£1.39

Lucozade Alert Zero Mango Peachade PM100

12x500ml

£1.00

Quavers Cheese

32x20g

£0.85

Walkers Crisp Salt & Vinegar

32x32.5g

£0.85

Popchips Sr Crm On PM125

16x50g

£1.25

KP Amat Thai Chilli PM125

16x55g

£1.25

Walkers Quavers BBQ PM125

15x54g

£1.25

Frijj Chocolate Milk PM130

12x330ml

£1.30

1

SCRATCH2WIN POS KIT

The free POS kit includes:

Scratch2Win – How Does It Work?

l 1,000 scratch cards l Window Vinyl

l Every Premier store will receive 1,000 scratchcards and 18 cases of free stock to use as prizes. A full POS kit will also be provided.

l Poster l Banner

l Shoppers spend £10 or more (excluding tobacco and services) to claim a scratchcard.

l Hanging Panel

l One in four scratchcards is a winner.

l Bunting SPEND £10+ £10 FOR A CHANCE TO WIN WITH OUR FREE SCRATCHCARD 118172 Premier P13 Scratch2Win Banner 2438x610mm.indd 1

PRODUCT

l Prizes include free stock, electrical items and one top prize of a brand new Mini car. l Shoppers that win the electrical goods can email ScratchCardWin@superior.co.uk to claim their prize.

1 IN 4 CHANCE TO

WIN!

l The promotion runs throughout Period 13 (31 Jan to 5 Mar) 21/12/2023 12:05

January/February 2024 TalkingShop

43

M284462

M284464

M284465

CARDBOARD BOX Let’s reduce plastic!*

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

*the box contains maximum 5% plastic, designed to preserve your PODS® †IRI Total UK Laundry Detergents Value Share P12M to Sept 2022

£1.19/£1.69/ £4.69

£2.75/£2.99

403g/500g/750g

Varieties as stocked 150g/180g/280g/300g

£6

ANY 3 FOR

ONLY

£8.49

9 Roll

326g

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

ONLY

£4.50

£2.50

£1.25

£1.25

PM £1.45/£1.69

£2.29/ £2.39

£2.20

each

£5.99

each

Varieties as stocked 75g/90g/99g

20 Pack

ONLY

EVERYDAY ESSENTIALS

each

Varieties as stocked 200ml/220ml

1.25L

ONLY

ANY 2 FOR

ONLY

£2.19

£3

ONLY

£2.50

each

£1.50

each

ONLY

Offers available £1 31/01/24 to 05/03/24 www.premier-stores.co.uk £1.39 800g ONLY

£1.79

£2.85

£3.50 400g ONLY

£1.95 6 Pack ONLY

each

each

BUY 1 GET 1 £4.25 ONLYbanner, a hanging £10 ONLY to bring 1,000 scratch cards, as well as a full panel and bunting, In £5.99 the wake of that, however, an array of receive ONLY FREE FREE in yourpstore.

Every Day Low Pricing throughout February set of POS to p 69 make the promotion unmissable99thisp amazing promotion to life99 2L

FRESH 4

BUY 300g ANY FELIX AS GOOD AS IT LOOKS FOR & GET ANY FELIX GOODY BAG

each

ONLY will continue to communicate that vital value

89

£7.79

p EACH

Varietiesto shoppers who are £1.75 message no doubt still as stocked

recovering from the expense 169g of the festive 75cl

£1.19 period.

250g

in-store and onPM social media.

Incl.

AMAZING VALUE £10.99/

£1.39/£5.25 Every retailer will also receive 18 cases of £5.99

Varieties as stocked

In addition to £11/ the £12.49 Scratch2Win promotion, 10x440ml

free stock60g/12 as partPack of their Period 13 allocations 360g

99pthe prizes which can be redeemed £1.49Premier will also be delivering a£1.39 to use for fantastic set 100g 4 Pack 4 Pack

BUY BIRDS EYE ONLY in FebruaryVALENTINES instantaneously in-store. ToONLY put that into of wider promotions ButCHICKEN with DIPPERS a host of seasonal events ANY from 2 FOR toDAYhelp you TH GET JACKS ONLY 14 FEB ONLY ONLY ONLY ONLY ONLY ONLY perspective, the value of free stock provided keep building that momentum and Valentine’s growing CHIPS &Day PEAS and St Patrick’s Day to

£4.50 £5 £2.75 to each Premier retailer is £291 at RSP! £2.50 those footfall,£1.50 sales and profits. £1.50 80 £3.50 £1

FREE69

p Easter itself, pthere’s Mother’s Day and even

a world of opportunity out there waiting to be

Incl. PM unlocked.

£2.50/ simply £2.75/£2.99

£1.19/£1.69/ £4.69

NP06 ENG NP13

EACH

email

The promotions include 10 Mega Deals,

NEW ScratchCardWin@superior.

co.uk to claim their prize.

Varieties as stocked 150g/180g/280g/300g

403g/500g/750g WIN A MINI

EACH

Shoppers that win the electrical goods can

delivering attention-grabbing value that will bring new£8.49 shoppers to your door.

£6

9 Roll

From 326g huge savings on bottles of I Heart

To help retailers unlock those opportunities, BASKET BOOSTER 400g 400g 350g 185g 400g ONLY ONLY Premier is once more bringing backANY its 3 FOR The Scratch2Win is a proven success when it

Wines, Cadbury’s chocolate and Starbucks 400gONLY 65g Chilled Coffees, to BOGOFs on the Nomadic

popular Scratch2Win promotion. This year the

comes to growing footfall and profits and has

promotioneach will offer an unbelievable £1.3m in

been hugely effective in encouraging each shoppers

range and great deals on Super Noodles the17:01 21/12/2023

prizes, including the star prize, a brand-new

to build bigger baskets of more than £10 to

£4.50

£1.25

£2.50

118393 - Premier NP13 - ENG Leaflet.indd 1

Mini car.

£1.25

vast array of deals eachare sure to appeal to a wide range of shoppers.

Additionally, the Every Day Essentials

ensure they get a scratchcard.

PM £1.45/£1.69 £2.29/

£2.20

£2.39 The£5.99 promotion will run all the way Varieties throughas stocked To make it as effective as possible in your 20 Pack

75g/90g/99g

as stocked deals onVarieties items like bread, milk eggs and

1.25L

200ml/220ml

Period 13 (31 Jan to 5 Mar) and, as well as the

store, be sure to make use of the full POS kit

sausages will help communicate reliable

Mini, prizes will include premium electrical

ANY 2 FOR

provided free of charge and ONLY also shout about

everyday Fresh 4 ONLYvalue, while the Jack’s ONLY

the promotion on your social media channels.

promotion helps offer great quality fresh

EVERYDAY ESSENTIALS

items and free stock. All that shoppers have

£2.19

£3

And you never know, the winner of the Mini

tobacco and services) to receive a free scratch ONLY

could be one of your shoppers!

£1

As well as your 1,000 scratch cards, the

contain a prize and every Premier retailer will

kit also contains a window vinyl, a poster, a

£1.79

800g

£2.85

2L

FRESH 4

300g

ONLY

ONLY

89p £1.19 250g

69

p

ONLY

80

p

Premier is giving you the tools you need to turn that potential into reality in the till.

£3.50

£1.95 6 Pack

400g

ONLY

ONLY

69p

99p

99p

99p

£1.49

£1.39

100g

ONLY

£1.50

each

produce at exceptional prices.

Spring is packed with opportunity and

card. One in four of the scratch cards will

£1.39

£2.50

each

to do is spend a minimum of £10 (excluding

ONLY

£2.75

4 Pack

ONLY

£1

ONLY

£2.50 EACH

4 Pack

ONLY

£1.50

ONLY

£1.50 45

January/February 2024 TalkingShop EACH

Jack’s Update | FEATURE

More deals, more profit with Jack’s

The Jack’s range of confectionery has been relaunched to deliver increased profits for retailers and to drive bigger basket spends with the return of the ‘2-for’ multibuy promotion.

T

he hugely popular Jack’s

and all available on a new ‘2-for-£2’ deal to

confectionery range has been

shoppers.

fully relaunched to deliver

The increased price mark means that the

improved PORs for retailers

POR retailers achieve for every individual

and drive bigger sales and

product sold has increased from 32.7% to

basket spend thanks to the return of the ‘2-

35.0% and it also means that even products

for’ promotional pricing mechanic.

sold on the multibuy deal deliver PORs of

The new and improved range features 23

25%.

23

lines in the confectionery range

2-for-£2

deal across the range

35%

increased POR on single lines

individual products, all price-marked at £1.15 January/February 2024 TalkingShop

47

FEATURE | Jack’s Update

RETAILER VIEW GIRISH JEEVA Premier Girish’s Barmulloch

“The Jack’s hanging bag and confectionery range has always been fantastically popular with shoppers. It gives them great quality treats but at a sensible price they can afford. It’s brilliant to see the range being relaunched with improved quality and packaging and it’s also very welcome news that PORs have been improved for retailers and that the ‘2-for’ pricing mechanic is back. That really helps boost basket spend.”

Product

Case Size

WSP

RSP

POR

Jack’s Strawberry Pencils

10

£6.25

£1.15PM/2-for-£2

35.0%

Jack’s Apple Pencils

10

£6.25

£1.15PM/2-for-£2

35.0%

Jack’s Rainbow Belts

10

£6.25

£1.15PM/2-for-£2

35.0%

Jack’s Tangy Mix

10

£6.25

£1.15PM/2-for-£2

35.0%

Jack’s Fizzy Cola Bottles

10

£6.25

£1.15PM/2-for-£2

35.0%

Jack’s Gummy Mix

10

£6.25

£1.15PM/2-for-£2

35.0%

Jack’s Jelly Beans

10

£6.25

£1.15PM/2-for-£2

35.0%

Jack’s Giant Strawberries

10

£6.25

£1.15PM/2-for-£2

35.0%

Jack’s Sour Snakes

10

£6.25

£1.15PM/2-for-£2

35.0%

Jack’s Fizzy Tropical Slices

10

£6.25

£1.15PM/2-for-£2

35.0%

Jack’s Chocolate Peanuts

12

£7.49

£1.15PM/2-for-£2

35.0%

Jack’s Chocolate Raisins

12

£7.49

£1.15PM/2-for-£2

35.0%

Jack’s Chocolate Mini Eggs

12

£7.49

£1.15PM/2-for-£2

35.0%

Jack’s Mint Imperials

12

£7.49

£1.15PM/2-for-£2

35.0%

Jack’s Chocolate Honeycomb

12

£7.49

£1.15PM/2-for-£2

35.0%

Jack’s Jelly Babies

12

£7.49

£1.15PM/2-for-£2

35.0%

Jack’s Assorted Mints

12

£7.49

£1.15PM/2-for-£2

35.0%

Jack’s Wine Gums

12

£7.49

£1.15PM/2-for-£2

35.0%

Jack’s Fruit Pastilles

12

£7.49

£1.15PM/2-for-£2

35.0%

Jack’s Assorted Toffees

12

£7.49

£1.15PM/2-for-£2

35.0%

Jack’s Giant Chocolate Buttons

12

£7.49

£1.15PM/2-for-£2

35.0%

Jack’s Mini Gems

12

£7.49

£1.15PM/2-for-£2

35.0%

Jack’s White Chocolate Buttons

12

£7.49

£1.15PM/2-for-£2

35.0%

48 TalkingShop January/February 2024

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

BETTER THAN EVER

help maximise impact and ensure that the

The relaunch follows a full review of

range is unmissable to shoppers in your store.

The fantastic, improved quality of many

Booker’s supplier base to deliver improved commercials and even better-quality

of the products will then help drive those

products, all of which will help drive footfall,

all-important repeat purchases and, most

sales and profits for retailers.

importantly of all, deliver increased profits for retailers.

Many of the products also benefit from bigger packs and different pack weights to help retailers communicate the value message

FROZEN HEROES

that is so important to today’s shoppers.

Another great initiative from Jack’s is a new multibuy deal that offers shoppers a pack

COMPREHENSIVE RANGE

of 12 Jack’s Yorkshire Puddings free when

The new Jack’s confectionery range includes

they buy a pack of Jack’s Carrots, Brussels

an array of popular candy and chocolate

Sprouts and Roast Potatoes. In other words,

products with consistently designed, high-

everything they need to accompany a perfect

quality packaging to help retailers create eye-

roast.

The promotion helps shoppers enjoy their

catching fixtures that will generate additional

traditional Sunday roast while also securing

impulse sales.

fantastic value for money and great-quality

Booker recommends that retailers create

products.

dedicated fixtures for the range, doublefacing each product where space permits, to

THE PERFECT ROAST

A new Jack’s promotion offers shoppers a free pack of Jack’s Yorkshire Puddings when they buy a pack of Jack’s Carrots, Brussels Sprouts and Roast Potatoes. That’s the Sunday roast sorted!

PRODUCT

CASE SIZE

RSP

POR

Jack’s Baby Carrots

8x500g

£1.19

49.58%

Jack’s Brussels Sprouts

8x500g

£1.19

49.58%

Jack’s Roast Potatoes

8x750g

£1.69

40.83%

Jack’s Roast Potatoes

8x750g

£1.69

35.25%

Jack’s 12 Yorkshire Puddings

12x185g

£1.39

31.07%

January/February 2024 TalkingShop

49

500ml to replace 380ml NEW 500ML PRICE MARK PACKS: ORANGE: M291814 ORIGINAL: M291816 CHERRY: M291812 APPLE: M291778 CARIBBEAN CRUSH: M291779 ZERO PINK LEMONADE: M291813

Poonami-Proof nights with the Stop & Protect Pocket Available from Sizes 3 to 6

M281224

M281225

M281227

M281269

M281226

M254345

Wishing you a Poonami-Proof 2024

New Products XIX VODKA Case Size: 1x70cl WSP: £17.99 RSP: £29.99 POR: 28%

BIN 161 Case Size: 6x75cl WSP: £25.49 RSP: £6.99 POR: 27%

ESTRELLA DAMM Case Size: 1x12x330ml WSP: £9.29 RSP: £13 POR: 14%

Group Exclusive

BARNSTORMER BLACK Case Size: 6x4x500ml WSP: £13.99 RSP: £3.99 POR: 30%

CAPTAIN MORGAN BLACK SPICED Case Size: 6x70cl WSP: £99.99 RSP: £24.99 POR: 20% January/February 2024 TalkingShop

53

New Products NYCOFFEE 3 IN 1 ORIGINAL AND SALTED CARAMEL

GRAHAM NORTON SAUVIGNON BLANC 750ML

Case size: 10x14g WSP: £8.69 RSP: £1.09 POR: 20.3%

Case Size: 6x75cl WSP: £38.99 RSP: £9.99 POR: 21.9%

Group Exclusive

SNACKSTERS DELI MEATBALL MARINARA

SNACKSTERS DELI FOUR CHEESE PANINI

Case Size: 6x218g WSP: £13.44 RSP: £2.99 POR: 25.1%

Case Size: 6x180g WSP: £12.99 RSP: £2.99 POR: 27.6%

January/February 2024 TalkingShop

55

BetterService IDEAS TO GIVE YOUR BUSINESS THE EDGE

Cut costs, boost profits Saving money on energy and water bills has never been more critical for retailers, which is why so many of them have turned to approved Booker partners Saffron Business Solutions and Hawley Energy for expert, experienced support.

W

ith the energy supply market still in a state

SAFFRON MODEL

of immense flux, securing the best possible

So what does all of this look like in practice? Saffron specialises in four

deals on electricity, gas and water is more

distinct areas where it can bring its expertise and experience to bear:

mission-critical than it has ever been.

l Energy (electricity and gas)

However, trying to find and secure the

l Water

best deal can be a daunting task, which is why it is so important to

l Telephone and Broadband

work with an expert in the field - an expert such as Saffron Business

l Merchant Terminals

Solutions, that has worked with thousands of Booker customers over the years.

Saffron Director David Hawarth says: “Many of our Booker retailers

When retailers approach Saffron to ask them to find them the best deals available, the process involves four distinct steps:

have been working with us for years and years and that’s because we have consistently delivered unbeatable prices and service. In fact, our

1

annual retention rate is over 84% which is unheard of in the energy

l Saffron gathers information on your existing supply to present

brokering market.”

REFERRAL FOCUS

to suppliers, including half hourly data squares and any non-half hourly meter information. l Full analysis of your existing supply contract is carried out to pinpoint any areas of concern.

Another factor that sets Saffron apart, is the way the business finds new clients, as Hawarth explains: “Very unusually in this industry, we

l A Notice of Termination is provided for your existing contract to ensure freedom of choice.

do not have an outbound call desk and we have never cold called a retailers. Every new client we get comes through as a referral, either

ANALYSIS

l As your renewal window approaches, Saffron will be in touch up to six months before your contract expires.

from another satisfied retailer or from Booker themselves. ” Once potential new clients get in touch, Saffron adopts a completely transparent and open approach. Hawarth comments: "Saffron is proud

2

and open about the fact that it does not have preferred or favoured

l Saffron will obtain prices tailored to your business needs from

suppliers in any of the markets in which it operates.

“We have no formal allegiance with any electricity, gas or water

PRICE their range of selected suppliers.

l Saffron will present those prices to you with like-for-like

supplier. Once we have understood the specific needs of the retailer, we

comparisons against your current supplier or offers received

will reach out to the entire market to find the best deal and it’s entirely

elsewhere with no obligation to proceed.

the retailer’s decision which option he or she wants to go for. We apply absolutely no pressure.”

Saffron receives its fee direct from the supplier or service provider that you choose, which means that retailers will never receive a bill from Saffron.

56 TalkingShop January/February 2024

l Saffron will also ensure that you are presented with the right contract with the right supplier and at the right price. l Saffron will also continue to review the market and update their ‘best’ quotes up until the point where your decision is being made. l As standard, Saffron provides Fully Fixed and Inclusive contracts.

Saffron Business Solutions’ Offer

3

SWITCHING

l Saffron will provide you with contract documents and all other relevant

l

Free advice on current supply

l

No obligation price comparison against your current supply

l

Single point of contact for all your requirements

l

Saffron handles all supplier switches with no disruption to your business

l

Lifetime support whether you sign with Saffron or elsewhere

is successful, and will resolve any

details regarding, site, billing, payment,

objections to the switch.

metering, or any other matters relating to the site’s supply or account.

l They will be in touch on the day your

documents on the agreed offer. These

contract goes live to remind you to take

l They will also assist with any queries

can be signed via e-mail, post or

a meter read. This will avoid any excess

or issues raised, whether contracting

electronically.

charges. This will be logged with your

through Saffron or not, helping to push suppliers to resolution.

old and new supplier.

l They will ensure your preferred payment

l Saffron operates a formal complaints

terms are implemented with your

procedure as part of the Energy

supplier, including help in getting any

4

VAT reduction that may be due.

l Saffron will analyse your first invoice to

SUPPORT

Ombudsman.

ensure all is as expected, and every three

l Saffron will correspond with your current

To find out how Saffron Business Solutions

months thereafter.

and future supplier in the matter of

l Throughout the duration of your supply

could help save you money and time, contact

They have access to the national database

contract, they will support with the

them now by phone, email or via the Saffron

which ensures your switch of supplier

amendment of any supply or account

website.

release and registration of your meter.

T: 03448 222 802

E: INFO@SB-SOLUTIONS.CO.UK

W: SB-SOLUTIONS.CO.UK

Hawley Energy Also on hand to help is Hawley Energy, another approved Booker added value partner. Their Business Energy Savings Team can offer effective energy saving solutions at a time when it’s never been more important to cut energy costs.

Hawley’s services include:

Energy Review l

l

l

l

saving opportunities. l

Generate your own energy and save money with solar panels.

l

Benefit from reduced costs as part of a larger group of Booker customers.

T: 0333 80000 771

Potential to change energy suppliers to one of Hawley’s partners to receive a special feed-in tariff

EV Car Charging

A review, or a full energy audit of your business, to identify money

Solar Panels

Install a 4kW solar panel array for as little as £5,800 and produce up to 3,400 kWh of electricity annually

EV charge points compatible with Booker chargers, installed from £1,950. A £350 grant per socket is available through the Workplace Charging scheme.

l

Enjoy cheaper running costs with an electric vehicle.

l

Benefit from low vehicle tax.

l Reduce your carbon footprint.

E: BEST@HAWLEYENERGY.CO.UK

W: HAWLEYENERGY.CO.UK

Modernised heating l

Removing gas fired heat will reduce your standing charges and welldesigned heat pump systems are often cheaper to run.

RETAILER VIEW BILLY GATT Premier Whitehills, Banff

“Energy costs are a huge concern these days and especially in a store such as ours that has such a large amount of refrigeration and an in-store kitchen and café. When we built the new store, we endeavoured to install the most efficient equipment and fitted technology, such as solar panels, which would help us to operate more sustainably. Understanding the energy market and taking the time to ensure that you are on the right contract is also key. We are currently on a three-year deal at a tariff that that I’m happy with, which gives me peace of mind.”

January/February 2024 TalkingShop

57

MEET THE TEAM | Maria Chittenden

About Maria Maria Chittenden is Head of Transport at Booker, a role she has held since February 2023.

She has been with Booker for more than 20 years, having joined the company in 2003 as part of the logistics graduate programme after graduating from University.

Since joining Booker, she has worked in various roles across distribution within Booker, bringing that knowledge to the role that she holds today.

Maria is also Co-Chair of the Women@Booker Network. She launched the internal colleague network alongside Chair Abbie Hackwell in March last year. The Women@Booker Network continues to flourish and engage with more and more colleagues and has held a number of face-to-face and virtual events including a panel event focusing on allyship and spotlighting men’s mental health on International Men’s Day. 58 TalkingShop January/February 2024

Meet the Team:

Maria Chittenden In this first issue of 2024, we catch up with Head of Transport Maria Chittenden to find out about the vital role she and her team play in keeping Booker customers stocked up and ready to trade.

MARIA, TELL US A LITTLE ABOUT YOURSELF… I’m Maria, I work in our Distribution function and I’m Head of Transport. This was a new role following a restructure to bring together our Wholesale and Retail divisions into one Distribution team. I’ve spent the vast majority of my career in distribution and logistics with Booker, working across a number of business areas.

I’m Co-Chair and a founding member of the Women@Booker Network along with my colleague Abbie Hackwell. I’m also a mum of three - which is most definitely my favourite job! – I have 2 sons aged 11 and 13 and a daughter who is 8.

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

WHEN DID YOU JOIN BOOKER?

Booker we are massively focused on service,

initiative and we’ve been really busy since

I joined in 2003 as part of the logistics

we understand how important it is to our

launch, setting our objectives, recruiting a

graduate programme after graduating from

customers and aim to deliver outstanding

committee of both women and men, and

the University of Swansea with a BSc in

service every day.

organising a number of events. We’ve already

European Business Studies and Spanish. My

had two face-to-face events and one virtual

graduating and joining Booker I spent about 18

ARE YOU ENJOYING YOUR ROLE AS HEAD OF TRANSPORT?

months temping with Associated Newspapers

Yes, I am. When I saw the role advertised, I felt

and inspiring colleagues across the business

in London but I saw an ad for the logistics

ready to really get on and step up so I applied.

through the network.

graduate programme and it really interested

The teams across the whole of Distribution are

me because I felt that logistics touched every

exceptional and we all work well together. It’s

part of the business spectrum and it would be

only a year in, so still lots that we are working

IS THE NETWORK OPEN TO ALL YOUR COLLEAGUES?

an interesting role.

on to improve and build on, but as I say a great

Absolutely, it’s about empowering women

team and a great business, so I’m relishing the

first and foremost but ultimately, it’s about

challenge.

empowering everyone. Recently, for example,

secret superpower is that I’m bilingual, mainly because my mum is Spanish! In between

AND PRESUMABLY IT WAS? Well, I’m still here and I enjoy every day with

event. We hosted a large allyship day in November which was really successful. It’s such an honour to be helping, supporting

we celebrated International Men’s Day and

run an efficient and effective distribution

HOW HAVE RECENT YEARS BEEN?

function. I have a fantastic team around me

Really busy! With the pandemic we all had

We’re trying to break down barriers and

and that’s absolutely critical when you’re

to find new ways to work safely and the

stereotypes and basically help everyone at

running a division of the company that is so

Distribution and Transport teams really rose

Booker be who they want to be and achieve

complex and multi-faceted and full-on!

to the challenge and ensured we safely got

their goals both in their work lives and their

the cases out the door and delivered. Since

personal lives. Through Distribution we’ve

then, certainly within Transport we have

been able to extend that support further by

all the challenges that are involved in helping

HOW FULL-ON IS THE TRANSPORT DIVISION?

held a virtual event with Andy’s Man Club, a fantastic suicide prevention charity for men.

been impacted by a number of factors, not

getting some of the vehicles liveried up with

Let’s just say that every day is a school day

least the driver shortages, but we have a

the AMC logo.

but Distribution is a huge operation. We have

successful Driver Academy that has enabled

10 distribution centres across the country,

us to overcome this particular challenge and

we make around 10,000 deliveries a week

also train and develop those colleagues who

to 190 branches and to over 5,000 Booker

wanted to become drivers. Our drivers and

Retail Partners independent retail customers.

Transport teams are pivotal to the business,

HOW DO YOU BALANCE SUCH A SENIOR ROLE WITH YOUR OTHER INTERESTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES?

It’s a 24-7 operation and pretty full-on- it

delivering the final piece of the supply chain

Firstly, my husband and I make a good team,

never stops and every part of the company

and it’s important that we recognise that.

so that makes sure the home logistics is

relies on us, which is a daunting, but exciting

covered! I have a very demanding job but it’s

at the right time, so it’s a critical part of the

TELL US ABOUT THE BOOKER WOMEN’S COLLEAGUE NETWORK

Booker business. If we don’t do our job

That’s my other job! I’m really proud to be

grow their sales and profits. Equally, I am

well, everything else falls down. Fortunately

a part of something so inspiring and exciting

honoured to be a part of the Booker Women’s

I’m surrounded by a talented, experienced

and new! We launched the Women@Booker

Network because I feel like we are helping

and passionate team and I like to think that

network on International Women’s Day 2023

our colleagues in new and exciting ways. But

we do a fantastic job for our customers. At

and what a year it’s been! It’s a fantastic

there’s lots more still to do!

responsibility when you think about it. It’s our job to get the right stock to our customers

also very rewarding and enjoyable. I get a kick out of doing a good job and delivering great service to our customers and helping them

January/February 2024 TalkingShop

59

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ACS Viewpoint | Election Year

James Lowman considers what an election year might mean for independent retailers across the country

How will election fever affect retail?

2024 is very likely to feature a General Election – but what will this mean for independent retailers and what opportunities exist in this potentially dramatic year?

W

e’re almost certainly into an election year

working in convenience provides not just important flexibility for

now, with reports of both spring and autumn

colleagues with other life commitments, but it’s also a very secure

elections circling and an uncharacteristically

job. The majority of people working in the sector live very close to

early Budget adding fuel to the idea that

the store where they work, which also helps to keep the cost of travel

we’ll be going to the polls sooner rather

to work down and improve the perception of the job as a whole.

than later, so it’s likely that retailers across the UK will shortly be

We’re also big local investors, especially for stores that have

getting visits from prospective parliamentary candidates asking you

had major refits over the last year. As a sector we invest over half a

for their support and wanting to hear about the issues that affect your

billion pounds a year in ways to make our stores more appealing to

business.

customers, more energy efficient and more sustainable in the long

With plenty of constituency seats set to change hands in the

term. Thousands of retailers are also investing in services that would

next election (all but guaranteed due to the number of current MPs

otherwise be lost to towns and villages, like pharmacies, bakery

standing down at the end of this parliament), the coming months are

counters, butchers and others.

a perfect opportunity to build relationships with new candidates that

The third positive story, and perhaps the most important for our

will be able to fight your corner in Westminster. There’s no doubt

sector is the story of our impact on the communities in which we

that key issues like shop theft and abuse, product regulation issues,

serve. For several years, convenience stores have been consistently

recycling regulations and business rates will be high on the agenda

ranked in the top three services in a local area that have both a

for discussions with prospective candidates, but it’s important to

positive impact and are essential to local people. This often-intangible

remember that we’ve got a positive story to tell about our sector as

benefit cannot be overstated when talking to prospective candidates,

well.

as it is this that solidifies our place at the heart of the community.

As a sector, we are prolific employers of local people, but where convenience store jobs differ from those in lots of other sectors is that

If you’d like to speak to us about hosting local candidates in your store, get in touch via email to willem.vandeven@acs.org.uk.

January/February 2024 TalkingShop

63

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