NEWS, AWARDS, INSIGHTS, INTERVIEWS, NEW PRODUCTS, PROMOTIONS AND MUCH MORE…
News
T DON’ .. . MISS
Making the most of social media Seasonal opportunities Flourishing flower sales Vol 35 Issue 1 February 2022
TRAIN WITH
REIGN
IN
LOS
ENTER ONLINE AT: REIGN
© 2021 Energy Beverages LLC. NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. Open to residents of GB aged 18 or over. Promotion managed and admin (between 01.09.22 and 30.11.22, exact dates to be determined by Reign in its absolute discretion) which shall consist of: a 4-night st For the avoidance of doubt, the particulars of the prize elements listed above shall be determined by Reign in its complete discretion,
STOCK UP
T O D AY
ANGELES
NBODYFUEL.COM/GB _LA A
M253932
nistered by: Energy Beverages Europe Limited. Closing date is 30.04.22. To enter, go to www.reignbodyfuel.com/gb_la and enter your details. 1 entry per person. 1 winner shall win a trip for 2 people to Los Angeles, USA for 4 nights tay in twin room accommodation for 2 people; return economy flights to Los Angeles, USA for 2 people as determined by Reign in its complete discretion; and participation in a workout with Reign athletes at Gold’s Gym, Venice Beach. subject to availability. Costs relating to the prize not listed above shall be borne by the winner. For entry, full prize details and terms and conditions see www.reignbodyfuel.com/gb_la.
STOCK UP SPIRITS BRAND ON THE MOST VALUABLE
IN THE WORLD*
PLEASE DRINK RESPONSIBLY. CASE CODES: JDTW 5CL M252558, JDTW 20CL M262994, JDTW 35CL M187063, JDTH 35CL M218932, JDTA 35CL M258184 JACK DANIEL’S, OLD NO.7, AND TENNESSEE HONEY ARE REGISTERED TRADEMARKS. ©2021 JACK DANIEL’S. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. * ISWR 2021 GLOBAL BRANDS RANKINGS
Contents
In this issue...
36 Fresh for 2022 Bracknell Londis retailers start
9
food to go.
Disposable vaping devices in strong growth.
90 Ahead of the game The Londis summer pre-sell helps you get ahead.
Festive food and drink sales approached £12bn.
92 Year of opportunity
13 Community News
2022 is packed with excellent sales opportunities.
A round-up of the latest community news from Londis retailers.
and a focus on bakery and
84 Disposable heroes
11 Christmas Crackers
2022 with a fresh new look
Meals for the needy Booker provides over one million meals for good causes.
17 Industry News Worker protection enhanced after new Bill passed.
Meat-free profits Growth in
101 Guest Column Taking your drinks offer to the next level.
103 ACS Viewpoint ‘Challenge 25’ back in focus.
vegan and
19 GroceryAid Top tips on looking after yourself and your staff in 2022.
21 Refreshed offer Gorefield Londis completes the latest in a series of mini refreshes.
meat-free lines presents new opportunities.
28 Too good to miss Fromebridge Service Station realises its potential.
96
42 Blooming marvelous New Londis Cannock store sees business bloom.
50 Social Climbing Social media is a fantastic way of growing your business.
Booker Retail Partners
56
Tel: 0870 050 0158 Opening hours: 8am–5:30pm Monday to Friday
62 Value matters Delivering outstanding value for your shoppers is critical.
Healthy focus Healthier products set to star for Londis retailers this year.
n i t e G ch Tou
68 Loving it Valentine’s Day offers Londis retailers a huge opportunity.
73 Top New Products A selection of the latest products to hit the shelves.
77 Meet The Buyer Londis flowers buyer in the spotlight.
IT and Customer Services Opening hours (Monday to Friday): For customer services: 6am–9pm For IT: 7am–9pm Email: For customer services: londis.claims@bookerretail.co.uk or enquiries@londis.co.uk
Helpdesk: 0800 298 0758 Londis News team: Email: londisnews@londis.co.uk
RSP £1.2
9/£1.45
m-code: M222896
m-code: M228472
m-code: M222952
m-code: M254053
stock up now
A year of
WELCOME
ndis News! Welcome to our February issue of Lo
opportunity A fresh new year opens up a world of opportunities for Londis retailers.
A very warm welcome to this first issue of Londis News of 2022 with another exciting and opportunity-filled year ahead of us. There is plenty to look forward to and I look forward to working with you all to make 2022 a successful and profitable year. In this issue, you will find news on a number of major initiatives that will help you grow your footfall, sales and
To help inspire you for the year ahead, why not check out
profits this year. With 2022 a year full of major events
our four store profiles in this issue where you can learn
and occasions, there are plenty of chances to grow your
how fellow Londis retailers are evolving and growing their
business and in this issue we take a look forward to the
businesses in new and creative ways, growing their footfall,
year, highlighting the major sales opportunities that exist.
sales and profits into the bargain. You’ll find some great
From Valentine’s, Mother’s Day and Easter to Wimbledon
ideas in those profiles and lots of lessons you can apply in
and the World Cup, this year promises a packed calendar
your own business.
that can help set the tills ringing all year long. With social media now a fundamental tool in the retailer’s One key focus worth highlighting in the early months of
armoury, we offer some advice and support in this issue to
every year is the increased shopper interest in eating and
help you make sure that you are leveraging the enormous
drinking more healthily. That, of course, means different
power of digital channels these days.
things to different shoppers but it’s a trend worth keeping an eye on and it’s certainly worth taking a fresh look at your
Plus there’s the usual mix of news, fantastic new products –
offer in-store to ensure you are reflecting this shift on your
including another Group Exclusive – and an inspiring Guest
shelves.
Column from on how to take your drinks offer to the next level.
Another key focus for shoppers over the next few months will be value for money. This is a trend that has been growing for years and looks set to remain at the front of many shoppers’ minds in 2022. In this issue you can read some great ideas on how to deliver fantastic value to your shoppers through the Londis promotional programme, Every Day Low Pricing and our Own Brand ranges.
Look forward to seeing you in-store! Stewart Fenn Sales Director, Booker Retail Partners
7
FRESHEN UP YOUR GUM RANGE IN 2022 COMING SOON
COMING SOON
M274279
M274454
FRUITY GUM HAS GROWN BY 15% IN THE LAST 12 MONTHS* © 2021 MARS OR AFFILIATES. SOURCE KANTAR WORLDPANEL MAT W/E 13TH JUNE 2021
YOUR LONDIS
Stories from around the Londis Family...
Booker provides one million meals for needy Booker has redistributed enough food to provide the equivalent of one million meals through FareShare’s network of charities. Working with FareShare, the UK’s biggest
Tessa Clarke, Co-founder & CEO at OLIO,
charity fighting hunger and food waste,
said: “This is such an incredible milestone,
Booker has redistributed enough food to
as one million meals is an enormous amount
provide the equivalent of one million meals
of food. We’re absolutely thrilled about
for communities across the UK.
the impact our partnership with Booker and FareShare is having - both on the local
Booker is the first wholesaler to redistribute
community and the climate - and we look
food
forward to saving many more millions of
directly
to
FareShare’s
network
of charities through the FareShare Go
meals together.”
programme and the free sharing app OLIO. Catherine Marston, Head of Sustainability ‘Food Waste Heroes’ collect food directly
at Booker said: “We are delighted that our
from Booker and Makro branches, which is
teams across the whole Booker business have
then added to its app for people in the local
worked so hard with their local partners to
area to collect.
reach this fantastic milestone. Not allowing any edible food go to waste is something
Through FareShare Go, Booker sites are
that everyone at Booker is passionate about
matched with charities and community
and we are proud to be the first wholesaler
groups in the local area that collect the items
to work in such a collaborative way with
and turn that into food parcels or hot meals
FareShare and OLIO.
for the people they support.
represents just 0.15% of total food handled
Our food waste
which is market-leading. We are off to a
Find us on
The food redistributed by Booker includes
great start with this partnership and I’m really
a range of large catering size packs,
looking forward to building on this success.”
vegetables, deli and sandwich fillings, as well as smaller packs of meats, fish and @myLondis
fruit. Lindsay
Boswell,
Chief
Executive
at
FareShare, said: “Thank you to Booker for working with FareShare and OLIO to @myLondis @LondisRetail
redistribute the equivalent of one million meals. This food is needed now more than ever and is making a huge difference to people in need across the country.
@myLondis
“We’ve received lots of positive feedback from our network of charities collecting food through Booker and the colleagues in Booker branches are building strong relationships with their local community thanks to this programme.”
COMMUNITY NEWS
Key issues of interest to you
Not bottled it Londis High Crompton in Oldham, Greater
She added: “I’m so grateful for this help
Manchester, has donated bottled water for
- many of those we help regularly are
people living homelessly in the local area.
resident at the night shelter, which means that they are out during the day and don’t
Pauline Town, who leads a community
have access to drinking water until they can
movement in the local area said “I need to
return in the evening.
say the hugest of thank yous to John and all his customers at Londis High Crompton
“Clean water to drink is something that
for the delivery again today of the bottled
most of us can take for granted, but trust
water for our homeless lads and lasses’
me when I say that it’s not just a necessity,
packed lunches.”
but actually a real luxury for some people.”
John Lawton from Londis High Crompton
Helping the homeless Wycombe Homeless Collection has thanked Chandarana family, owners of Tara’s Londis in Downley, Buckinghamshire, for helping to raise muchneeded funds. The charity aims to prevent homelessness before it starts, reduce harm for people who are homeless, help to house homeless and at-risk people in suitable accommodation, and defend the rights of homeless people. The charity said: “Dharmesh and Raaj had three collecting tins in the shop and have just handed them to us very full indeed and have taken some empty tins for filling. It’s this kind of support from our community that brings hope.”
11
M code: M268872
Festive fashion
Londis Grangeway, in Kettering, is
Newcastle, is dressing
housing a bleed kit in store to help
Kelley from the Londis in Kenton Park Shops, in up in a different festive
fight knife crime.
outfit every day up until
COMMUNITY NEWS
Fighting knife crime
Christmas to raise funds
Bleed kits are first aid style kits
for the Kenton Food
specifically for blood loss and bleed
Bank.
control and are life changing in the
She has already collected
event of a stabbing.
more than 1,000 from customers.
Janes Capps, from Off the Streets North Northants, said: “Hopefully it
Last year she raised more
will not need to be used but in the
than £800 for children’s
case of an emergency it’s available
toys for Christmas.
in Londis, call 999 they will talk you
can help save a life whilst waiting for
through how to use it and it really
the emergency services to arrive.”
Funding football Londis Bexley Park, in Kent, is sponsoring the under 10s boys football team at Hayden’s Youth Association, a voluntary organisation providing football for boys and girls starting from five-years-old.
School trip Londis Carstairs Junction, in South Lanarkshire, donated cases of water to its local primary
Feeding Friends
school.
Londis Highfields in Gateshead, Tyne & Wear, had
Retailer Harry Singh
Kitchen in Newcastle.
Hallen said the water
The donation will give eight people a dinner on
helped the children
the charity’s feed a friend for a fiver campaign,
of Carstairs Junction
which helps people experiencing difficulties enjoy a
Primary School go to
sustaining meal for free.
donated £40 from its charity box to the People’s
their pantomime.
13
HEALTH YOURSELF
LOW SUGAR • ONLY 35 CALORIES PER BOTTLE • 100% RDA 8 VITAMINS M219498
Vithit Lean & Green - Apple
500ml
M240292
VitHit Perform - Mango & Passionfruit
500ml
INDUSTRY NEWS
Key issues of interest to you
Peers agree protection of workers amendment House of Lords passes an important amendment that will add further protection for workers in independent convenience stores. The House of Lords has passed a new
The Government says it will reinforce in
protection of workers amendment to the
statute the seriousness with which the
Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Bill in
courts should treat these offences and
the House of Lords.
send a very strong signal to the public that assaults of this kind are totally
The amendment places in statute the
unacceptable. The new measure will be
aggravating factor applied by the courts
reviewed in 12 months.
in cases of assault where an offence is committed against those providing a
ACS Chief Executive, James Lowman,
public service, performing a public duty or
said: “After many years of campaigning
providing a service to the public.
we are please the government has introduced tougher penalties for attacks on shopworkers. This sends a much-needed signal to our colleagues that violence and abuse will not be tolerated. “We still need more resources for police forces to focus on neighbourhood policing and delivery of the drug rehabilitation strategy to reduce acquisitive crime that often leads to violence in local shops.”
Home entertaining now ‘key’ for retailers A new report has found that entertaining at home is a fundamentally important legacy of the last 18 months. A TWC survey in the run up to Christmas found that almost seven in 10 shoppers said they had entertained friends at home in the past month and plan to do so in the next month. This is a higher number than those that said they had met friends and family in a pub, and implies a significant opportunity for retailers. Sarah Coleman, TWC’s Director of Communications, said: “Retailers have an opportunity to target home entertaining occasions, to meet the needs of those that don’t want to go out, or indeed those who have enjoyed entertaining at home through the pandemic and wish to continue. If current concerns lead to further restrictions, retailers need to be prepared for an increase in at home occasions.” The report also suggested that home delivery can play an important role in helping retailers service shoppers entertaining at home, as well as allowing retailers to get closer to shoppers and understand their buying behaviours better through data collection and analysis.
15
WIN
1 of 4 Costa Coffee Kits Buy any case of Costa RTD in NP11 and enter online for a chance to win 1 of 4 Costa Coffee Kits
Scan QR Code to enter M267212
M250832
M250808
GB 16+ only. Purchase required. Promotion opens 00:01 on 27.12.2021 closes 23:59 on 26.01.2022. See costa-gift.co.uk/terms-and-conditions for prize description, entry routes and rules. Promoter: Coca-Cola Europacific Partners GB. © 2013 - 2021 Costa. All rights reserved.
Quarter of smokers to explore smoke-free products in 2022
Grocery sales reached
More than a quarter (26%) of adult smokers in
£31.7bn over the 12 weeks
the UK are likely to explore smoke-free products
to 26 December 2021 as
in 2022, an independent survey carried out by
shoppers made the most of
Lake Research on behalf of Philip Morris reveals.
INDUSTRY NEWS
Consumers seize the chance to enjoy Christmas Christmas festivities, new research reveals.
The research shows that 61% of smokers said they would feel comfortable asking their local
Data from Kantar shows that
retailer for advice on what smoke-free products
people seized the chance to
might be right for them in 2022. Meanwhile,
enjoy Christmas with friends
58% of respondents believed they hadn’t
and family after last year’s
yet found a satisfying alternative to cigarette
muted festivities, and grocery sales hit £11.7bn over the month
smoking to help them quit, and 32% wished
of December.
they knew about a better range of options available to them.
The data shows premium own-label sales broke records this Christmas and shoppers spent £627m on retailer’s own premium
The survey revealed several challenges local
lines over the four weeks to 26 December, an increase of 6.8%
retailers may need to consider to better support
versus 2020. The appetite to celebrate and splash out that little
adult smokers switch to alternative products.
bit more this year pushed sales of luxury own-brand products up
Only 17% of smokers were likely to ask retailers
across the board. Sparkling and still wine sales grew 22% and
what smoke-free products they stock and for
18% respectively, while crisps surged by 31%.
recommendations on what alternatives might be right for them. In addition, 65% of smokers were
In addition, sales of sweet treats reached £62m in December,
unlikely to ask which alternatives matched their
a jump of 7% on 2020. A similar amount, £61m, was spent on
preferences, such as taste and nicotine strength,
Christmas chocolates too, with sales soaring by 21%. It looks like
and for information they could take away from
people came prepared for indulgent celebrations and indigestion
the point of sale to find out more.
remedy sales also rose by 8%.
‘One in three’ go low or no UK consumers are increasingly choosing low and no alcohol products all year round and not just for Dry January, according to the fourth annual online study by drinks watchdog The Portman Group, carried out in December. Carried out by YouGov, the report found that almost one in three (32%) UK drinkers now ‘semi-regularly’ consume low and no alcohol products compared to one in four (25%) in 2020. A fifth (20%) of those
who have tried low and no alcohol say they are more likely to drink these products now compared to a year ago, almost double the number saying this in last year’s survey (11%). The most popular reason given is ‘being able to drive home from social events’ (33% of respondents) while healthier consumption concerns were cited
by 22% of consumers. More than one in 10 consumers (12%) said they currently alternate between low or no products and regular strength alcohol to moderate their overall consumption. However, well over half (58%) of non-drinkers have never even tried a low or no product and just 14% are semi-regular consumers.
17
A day for the industry to come together
GROCERYAID
Self care tips GroceryAid is reminding retailers to look after themselves during this period of disruption and stress
GroceryAid is asking people in the industry to save Tuesday
caused by the pandemic.
26 April 2022 for its next GroceryAid Day.
The charity says supporting others, while juggling
The theme for the day will be “Let’s Talk GroceryAid”. The
increasing workloads, can take its toll and has issued
charity’s goal is to raise awareness about its free welfare
some tips from its helpline partner Care First to help
services to even more people in the grocery industry to ensure
alleviate some stresses retailers might be facing.
those colleagues who need its support know how we can help.
The tips are: take regular breaks, stay active, learn
The charity said: “From factory and shop floors through to
to switch off, stick to a routine, plan your day, try to
head offices, we want everyone to get involved.”
avoid carrying emotions from work, don’t try to be all things to all people, prioritise your tasks, dedicate
Last year more than 200 companies in the trade took part in
time to yourself, and remember GroceryAid can
GroceryAid Day and the charity reached millions of people
support you too.
through company engagement.
The charity said: “You will often be the first point of
The charity has identified that colleagues often prefer to
contact for colleagues when it comes to work and
access its services for more personal problems, rather than
personal related issues which can take a toll on you
retailers’ own employee assistance programmes, and by
personally. Utilising the support available through
supporting the day you
GroceryAid to help can make a difference. Signpost
can let your staff know they
colleagues to the Helpline for support from a
have somewhere to turn
professionally trained counsellor.”
when life gets tough. Find out more at https://www.
GroceryAid’s free confidential helpline is available 24
groceryaid.org.uk/get-
hours a day, seven days a week, on 08088 021 122.
involved/groceryaid-day/
Diversity programme reaches milestone GroceryAId has celebrated more than 50 partners joining its Diversity & Inclusion in Grocery programme for 2022. The 12-month programme provides access to a packed annual agenda of Shared Learning, Mentoring and the annual D&I in Grocery LIVE! event. Programme Partners nominate candidates to be matched with someone who can support their career and personal aspirations. This 12-month process starts in January.
19
RETAILER PROFILE
Mini makeover
Refresh to
impress In today’s increasingly fast-paced world of convenience retailing, standing still is simply not an option.
Despite the challenges of recent times,
their businesses in 2020 with similarly
convenience retailers across the
impressive levels expected to have been
country have continued to invest in
spent in 2021.
their business with refits and in a bid to keep their offers relevant and
Among this group of retail investors is
appealing to both new and existing
Tony Patel, owner of Londis Gorefield,
shoppers.
a true community store at the heart of the picturesque village of Gorefield in
In-fact according to the Association
Wisbech, Cambridgeshire.
of Convenience Store’s (ACS) latest Local Shop Report,
Established 17 years ago by Tony and his
convenience retailers invested
wife after they relocated from London
more than £585m in improving
having sold their first Londis store, the
residential road and boasts its own private car park. The store has received a number of investments over the years, including a significant refit less than five years ago, however, with the pandemic having
RETAILER PROFILE
1,000 sq ft unit is located on a busy
prompted a further rise in footfall and sales, 2021 saw Tony invest in further works to enhance its offer yet further. “In this business you need to move forward all the time,” Tony says. “When sales are growing it can be tempting to sit back a little but actually that’s the time to push even harder. “Having owned this store for 17 years we have very close links with the community and know all of our local customers really well which gives us fantastic insights into their changing needs and how we can better meet them. “The team at Londis are also incredibly helpful and so when we combine our local knowledge with Londis’ understanding of national trends and expertise we can achieve a huge amount. “We’ve been with Londis for almost 35 years now and I actually started out working in a Londis store at the very beginning of my career, before later buying my first store in London.
21
GREAT
LIGHT LIFE.
TASTE.
ZERO’S
M000039
M913690
75%
will contribute
of sparkling soft drink growth IN NEXT 3 YEARS2 M341791
M144607
80% of consumers
are trying to LIMIT/AVOID
SUGARS1 © 2022 The Coca-Cola Company. All rights reserved. COCA-COLA ZERO, DIET COKE, FANTA, SPRITE and The CONTOUR BOTTLE are registered trade marks of The Coca-Cola Company. Source: TCCC Category Vision 2021, (1) IFIC Food & Health Survey, (2) Industry Estimates EU Top 10.
RETAILER PROFILE In this business you need to move forward all the time. When sales are growing it can be tempting to sit back a little but actually that’s the time to push even harder. Tony Patel, Londis Gorefield, Wisbech, Cambridgeshire
“For me there was never any question
refresh the whole store.
about joining the brand. I’d seen how it functioned from the ground level up
“Large-scale refits certainly make a
and it’s the perfect fit for our needs
big impact but supporting them with
and those of our local shoppers.
small, regular refreshes is also really powerful, especially in the current
“The store had been performing really
climate and certainly if your footfall is
well but we knew there was more
high.
we could do and some tweaks that we needed to make, so in 2021 we
“The busier your store is, the quicker
carried out yet another refit to just
certain aspects of it can age and start
23
that.” Londis Gorefield’s latest mini makeover saw the store graced with a fresh new fascia and exterior and interior signage. A number of fixtures and fittings were also updated, while key elements of the store’s
RETAILER PROFILE
to look tired, and you certainly don’t want
range were also remerchandised, as Tony explains. “I wasn’t entirely happy with the store’s entrance area, it was a bit tight and we had the crisps merchandised at the front which didn’t feel exactly right. As a result we relocated the crisps to be nearer to the off-licence zone and I’m really pleased with that. We’ve already noticed an uptick in sales as shoppers grab a bag on impulse along with their bottle of wine or beer.” “We also relocated all of the pet food from its previous position in our central aisle to the rear of the store by the newspapers, in order to giver better visibility to more profitable categories.
Top tips! ll and good but Major refits are all we t in a planned it’s also vital to inves eovers to keep schedule of mini mak interesting. your offer fresh and
1 2
l knowledge and Trust your unique loca at. What works tailor your offer to th necessarily well in one store won’t bear fruit in another.
“The team at Londis were so helpful, we had great advice and support every step of the way. “Shoppers are really impressed with what we’ve done and always very engaged with any changes that we make. It’s interesting for them, and in this industry, keeping your shoppers interested is key. “Many of our shoppers come in every day, sometimes twice a day which makes it even more important to keep the offer interesting. Board shoppers don’t browse or spend like engaged ones. That’s the way I look at it anyway.”
3
such as bread, Fresh local products particular seasonal fruits and in ive USPs. flowers create attract
A new Snow Shock machine introduced in the summer of 2021 certainly helped add a fresh pouring of interest, as has the store’s recently augmented range of
25
STOCK UP ON
Sqwituhaadsdhed VITAMINS
M268756
two most popular Squash flavours*
Std RSP £2.19 POR 31.5%
Purchase intention of 74% among GB consumers**
M268757 CAPRI-SUN© is a trade mark of the Capri-Sun group. Source: * Source: Nielsen, Grocery Multiples, MAT to 16.05.20 ** Quantitative concept test, March 2020, N = 200
And shoppers are clearly thrilled with their
disposable varieties such as Geek Bar.
newly made over store, with total sales having risen 12% since the mini makeover,
Local, seasonal products are also a
helping to push average basket spend up
fantastic source of added interest. “We do
to just over £9.
a lot of local bread and seasonal fruits – local strawberries for example, are a huge
“Customers are so thrilled with what
seller in the summer months. We also
we’ve done, they truly feel that this is their
source fresh flowers locally which gives us
community store and they appreciate all
a nice point of difference.”
investments that we make in it. It makes them feel valued and important, which of
“Our shoppers are at the heart of all our
course they very much are!”
ranging decisions and we engage closely
Large-scale refits certainly make a big impact but supporting them with small, regular refreshes is also really powerful, especially in the current climate and certainly if your footfall is high.
RETAILER PROFILE
disposable vapes which now includes
Tony Patel, Londis Gorefield, Wisbech, Cambridgeshire
with them both face to face and via social media when we introduce anything new,” Tony says. “For us, it’s all about offering a great quality range of everyday essentials in the smartest, friendliest and most convenient way possible. That’s what our shoppers want.”
STORE INFO
d l e fi e Gor
Store name: Londis Gorefield, Cambridgeshire Size: 1,000 sq ft Store type: Residential Key categories: BWS, grocery, chilled fruit and vegetables Opening Hours: 6.30am -7pm Mon-Sat/ 7am-1pm Sunday Staff: 2
27
RETAILER PROFILE
Supply and demand
An opportunity
too good to miss A true partnership approach is helping Rachael King and her team at John Stayte Services to realise the true potential of Fromebridge Service Station Londis Fromebridge is buzzing. From the hum of the pumps to the ring of
Gloucestershire region, first purchased the site.
the tills, the whirring of the coffee machine and the cheerful chatter
Forecourt manager Rachael King explains:
between staff and customers, this is
“At the time we already had two other
a busy, bustling, buzzing forecourt
forecourt sites and we had earmarked
store.
a bit of land at our site in Dursley to develop that further when we heard on
It’s also worlds apart from the
the grapevine that Fromebridge Service
store it was back in 2008 when
Station was about to go on the market.
John Stayte Services – a local Calor Gas distributor which now
“It was a fantastic site just a few miles
operates three forecourts in the
from our head office that we know
RETAILER PROFILE had significant potential. It was an
up, re-plenish and instillation of a
“We were also very fair with our
opportunity that was just too good to
smart new till system, the store and
pricing from the start and it wasn’t
miss and we knew we had to move
site was re-born.
long before we realised that the business was actually becoming bigger
fast.” “Even with what was initially not a
than the shop.
And move fast they did. Just a matter
huge amount of investment we could
of weeks later Rachael had the keys to
see just how successful this site could
“We were well aware of the site’s
Fromebridge Service Station: a prime
be,” Rachel says.
potential and we were clear that we needed a strong retail brand to front
forecourt site located on a busy stretch of the A38, just off junction 13 of the
“Sales started to grow almost straight
it. Londis was quite simply the perfect
M5.
away. Very quickly we realised that
fit.
local shoppers and passing trade alike, However, at that point the site’s
liked the site and wanted to use it.”
“From the very start it was clear that with Londis we would receive a true
“significant potential” far outweighed The site’s prime A38 location makes
partnership approach. We never once
it a key target for passing trade, while
felt like we were going out on a limb;
“The site itself was so run down when
its close proximity to the village of
the team at Londis were there for us
we bought it,” Rachel says, “the store
Whitminster also makes it a popular
every step of the way, particularly our
was totally depleted stock-wise, the
destination for local shoppers on a top
RDM Colin Walpole in whom we have
exterior was run down, fuel deliveries
up mission.
the upmost faith.
“Before, shoppers mainly came in for
And in 2020 the team at John Stayte
its actual performance.
were very low and it really wasn’t making much money at all.”
fuel and cigarettes or if they were on a
Services decided it was time to give
However, unphased by the sorry
distress-shopping mission but in just a
local shoppers and passing trade even
state of affairs, Rachal and her team
matter of months we turned that on its
more reasons to pull in; with plans for
ploughed ahead. Operation fuel
head and the store quickly became a
an audacious refit that would see the
Fromebridge was on and just a few
place that shoppers wanted to come.”
store transform from distress shop to
months later and following a spruce
destination store.
29
RETAILER PROFILE
Top tips! Trust your Regional Development Managers (RDM). They have a wealth of expert insight.
1 2
The importance of good merchandising cannot be overstated.
3
Involve your team in any changes that you implement and explain the insights behind the changes.
4
STORE INFO
ge d i r b e
From
Store name: Londis Fromebridge,
Gloucestershire
Size: 675 sq ft Store type: Forecourt
A regular schedule of cleaning and maintenance is key, especially on a forecourt.
Key categories: chilled, food to go,
BWS
Opening Hours: 6.15am-9pm Mon
to Sat – 8am-8.45pm Sunday
Staff: 20 “Initially we were planning to extend
work we just dabbled in chilled with a
forecourt for parking which shoppers
but Colin suggested that actually we
few sandwiches, milk, butter, and key
really appreciate too, especially young
didn’t need to do that, the store just
essentials. Following the refit, chilled
families.
needed to be totally revamped and
was elevated to become a major part
re-ranged,” Rachael adds.
of our offer and now includes a large
“Initially we were slightly apprehensive
array of chilled sandwiches supplied
about the suggestion to increase the
On Colin’s advice, every aspect of
by Londis as-well as two local suppliers
chilled space as much as we have,
the store’s range was analysed, with
one of which is the very well-known
especially because refrigeration isn’t
underselling lines cut back and new
Jane’s Pantry.”
exactly cheap. Our concerns were all for nothing though because the new
more profitable, footfall-driving lines added. The store interior was also totally
The new chilled range also includes
chilled range has become one of the
a tempting array of own label ready
store’s biggest success stories.
meals, deserts and essential groceries “Every suggestion that Londis and
overhauled and the range refocused to dial in on the chilled food to go and
“Passing trade is significant here but
Collin made was supported by solid
meal solution opportunity.
we also based a large amount of the
advice and expert insight which all
refit on the fact that we also attract
proved to be absolutely correct. That
“Chilled space was more than
lots of regular local shoppers. There’s
knowledge and support has simply
doubled,” Rachael says. “Prior to the
a large amount of space on the
been invaluable.”
31
RETAILER PROFILE From the very start it was clear that with Londis we would receive a true partnership approach. Rachel King, Londis Fromebridge
“The till point has now been transformed to showcase the store’s augmented premium spirits and vape range, it’s become a real feature,” Rachael adds.
The second big change was the
The move has also helped to attract
addition of a comprehensive hot
a whole new HGV driving customer
“Promotions also play an important
food and drinks to go offer plus the
base, further transforming the store’s
role, especially for our local shoppers.
addition of crowd-pleasing F’real and
fortunes.
Londis offers particularly good promotions on alcohol which have also
Tango Ice Blast machines. “Previously very few HGV drivers
become a real hit and something we
“The hot food to go offer is the perfect
stopped at the site but now we get
are now known for locally.”
complement to the chilled sandwich
drivers coming off the M5 to buy their
range and has totally transformed the
lunches and drinks with us as opposed
“All in all sales are up 40% since the
site,” Rachael adds.
to paying a price premium at the
refit. Now clearly much of that can be
motorway services,” Rachael says
attributed to the new categories that we’ve added, but a lot of it also comes
“We already had a Costa Coffee machine which always did very well
A new counter was also fitted to grace
down to the way in which those new
but sales have been set alight since
the till point with the cigarette gantry
categories, and the store as a whole,
the launch of the new bigger and
removed and tobacco relocated into
has been merchandised.
better food to go offer as almost
drawers in a bid to make way for an
everyone who buys hot food will now
eye-catching backlit LED display.
buy a hot coffee to go with it.”
“The importance of good merchandising simply can’t be
33
THE DOMINANT BRAND IN THE VEG SIDES CATEGORY Consistent Brand Growth in Booker Retail Over 5 Years – Average 26% P.A.
M246989
M205636
M216789
M214085
M216711
On Promotion - Londis NP12
RETAILER PROFILE Initially we were slightly apprehensive about the suggestion to increase the chilled space as much as we have but the new chilled range has become one of the store’s biggest success stories.
overstated,” Rachael adds. “However,
with us, watched the transformation
in a store as busy as this one has now
and seen how shoppers have reacted
become, sometimes that can be a
and they are inspired by it.
just help us to manage demand but
“Colin in particular is great with
Rachel King, Londis Fromebridge
also to help us re-stock the site more
things like this, he will personally
effectively.”
come to the store and talk through
challenge in itself! “When a change is made or a new “Sales are flying, the store is so
initiative is implemented, we don’t
busy and to be honest we’re getting
just do it, we explain all of the reasons
to the point where we are actually
for it and the insights behind it so that
considering opening 24 hours a day.
the team is truly a part of it.
The longer trading hours would not
all the reasons for a particular “Our team are so engaged and
change. It helps them to become
supportive of all the changes that
fully engaged with the process, they
we have made and plan to make
understand it fully and we all know
and I’m sure we wouldn’t be short of
that understanding helps to breed
volunteers.
embracement.”
“Teamwork and a true partnership
“I’m so proud of what we’ve built here
approach is another key cornerstone
together. This site has achieved so
of our success. Every opinion counts,
much already but we know there’s still
our team are truly valued and they
even more potential left to fulfil which
feel that. They’ve been on this journey
is truly exciting.”
35
RETAILER PROFILE
Fix up look sharp
Shape of
things to come Arjan and Lalita Mehr’s are anticipating fresh green growth in 2022 thanks to a lush new look and focus.
After more than thirty years of business,
years than I care to count,” says Arjan
Arjan and Lalita Mehr’s Londis store at
“and we’ve been with Londis from the
the heart of the Great Hollands estate in
start.
Bracknell, has laid down deep and solid “While we are at the heart of a residential
roots.
estate of around 3,000 homes, the socioHowever, like a fine topiary tree, the
economic demographic of our customer-
store’s visual appearance has undergone a
base has shifted over the years.
great many evolutions in that time, inline with the ever-changing seasons,
“More affluent shoppers have moved in,
tastes and times.
as-well-as more shoppers from Eastern Europe meaning that we have had
In its most recent re-shaping, the
to adapt our range in-line with those
3,000 sq ft community store has
changing needs. The store that you see
revealed a heightened focus on two
today is nothing like the one you would
of its best-performing categories:
have seen just a decade ago.
bakery and food to go, in direct response to shopper demand.
“The fact that we also have a large carpark outside the store, which offers easy
“We’ve owned this store for more
and free parking, has also seen us become
RETAILER PROFILE You want shoppers to behave differently in the fresh aisle and they need space, or at least the perception of space, to do that. It’s all about creating the right conditions for impulse to shine. Arjan Mehr, Londis Great Hollands
a key destination for tradesmen on
He’s also now able to offer a wider
And bakery wasn’t the only area to
food to go missions as well as parents
range of sweet morning goods
be granted a fresh focus. The store’s
on or after the school run and we’ve
plus filled baguettes, wraps and
highly successful food to go offer was
responded to that demand too.”
sandwiches, all of which are freshly
also given a little TLC in the form of
made in-store.
fresh menu boards and graphics while the in-store counter was also replaced
While recent years have seen the addition of key food to go beacons
“Our bakery offer has become
with a fresh new unit including a larger
(think Costa Coffee, F’wip, F’real,
increasingly successful over recent
display area.
Snow Shock) the store’s most recent
years and especially in the last year
investment included a significant
when more people than ever before
Chiller space was also increased to
refresh of its successful in-store bakery
started shopping locally.
allow for the store’s growing fresh participation, which now stands at
and food to go zone, including new
more than 50%.
ceilings, flooring and fixtures and
“Demand for our range of speciality
fittings including an artisan-style
breads, including Polish breads went
central display table for speciality
through the roof and we knew it was
“We do have a high fresh mix, more
breads and sweet treats.
time to make even more of it and truly
than the average Londis I would say,
allow the offer to shine,” Arjan adds.
but every store and customer-base is different and needs to respond in-
The size of the actual zone itself was also increased, allowing Arjan to
“With the help of Londis we were able
kind. In our case we are the only real
expand his range of speciality breads,
to create a nice plan that has really
fresh food shop on the estate, so we
including Eastern European products
elevated that offer and I’m thrilled with
have to cater to that need. There are
which he sources from a local supplier.
the results,” he adds.
supermarkets and discounters within a
37
RETAILER PROFILE couple of miles but local people would
“Low-level shelving is a key one
something that shoppers have on their
rather nip in here for their daily needs.
that can really help. Simply allowing
lists they will go and find it. However,
shoppers to see across the store
you want them to behave differently
“We had to cut back a little on grocery
instantly makes the space feel more
in the fresh aisle and they need space,
in order to glean the extra chilled
open, accessible and welcoming and
or at least the perception of space, to
space but were very careful about how
that counts for a lot.
do that. It’s all about creating the right conditions for impulse to shine.”
we went about that. Again, Londis’ insight was of real benefit here and
“It also means that shoppers can find
balanced perfectly with our own local
things more quickly, which is another
And shine it most certainly does,
knowledge of what our shoppers
key consideration. Being shopper-
especially in the mornings, when
want.”
friendly means so much more than
caffeine-hungry tradesmen and
simply enquiring after the health of
parents spill in to fill up.
“We also replaced all of our older
your shopper’s granny!” “We are a very busy store, especially
chest fridges and freezers with wallmounted units which helped to boost
Aisles in the store’s fresh zone were
in the mornings, averaging around
floor-space and crucially to improve
also widened ever so slightly, again to
10,500 customers a week”, Arjan says.
the overall sense of space and light
increase space and spend in this most
and make the store even more
important and lucrative of categories.
“On coffee alone, we do around 60 cups a day again, with most of those
shopper-friendly,” Arjan adds. “Zones such as fresh, food to go,
cups sold in the morning. Having a
“You can’t underestimate the
bakery, all benefit from a high volume
strong brand like Costa is definitely a
importance of giving shoppers space,
of impulse purchases meaning that
big pull and it does drive associated
especially these days. “It’s not always
giving shoppers more space here to
purchases like sandwiches and
an easy thing to do, especially in a
see, move and browse is crucial,”
morning goods.”
small store but there are clever visual
Arjan says. And, despite the freshness of the
tricks than you can employ to improve the feeling of space without actually
“You can hide soap powder right
store’s latest re-incarnation, Arjan is
moving any walls!
at the back of the store and if that’s
already making plans for its next one
39
“Customers are really impressed
“This is a high footfall store and most
offer with more space for fast-growing
with the results, for many of them
of our customers will come in every
vape brands.
the changes have come as an extra
single day, sometimes twice a day.
pleasant surprise because much of the “The success of the disposable vape
work, such as fitting the new ceilings
“Those kind of numbers and
category is just unbelievable. Less
and floors, was done after trading
behaviours make it even more
than two years ago there was barely a
hours and overnight to minimise
important to have regular mini-
market there for disposable products
disruption.
refreshes to keep the offer looking sharp, interesting and relevant. For my
and now we’re being asked about it every day so it’s definitely an area that
“It took a couple of weeks to complete
we plan to master and again Londis
the whole project, so each morning
will be of help to us here,” Arjan adds.
there would be some new change to
RETAILER PROFILE
which will include a strengthened vape
part, I’m thrilled with the latest result.”
surprise them with!
Top tips! 1
Don’t under-estimate the pull of bigname well-known brands such as Costa Coffee
2
If space allows, wider aisles in the fresh and chilled zones can help to encourage browsing
3 4
Invest in the right sort of USPs for your unique customer base. Heed the advice of your RDMs
STORE INFO
t Greands a H l
Store name: Londis Great Hollands Retailers: Arjan and Lalita Mehr Size: 3,000 sq ft Store type: Community Key categories: Food to go, bakery, fresh, drinks to go, particularly
coffee
Staff: 15
41
RETAILER PROFILE
Rich pickings
Blooming
marvellous
Haran Ponnampalam has transformed an old brick corner unit into a fresh-focused convenience store that’s already bearing fruitful sales. You reap what you sow – or so the
seen him open two Londis stores:
old adage goes - and for Londis
a forecourt in Edgbaston and a
retailer Aingharan Ponnampalam
brand new state-of-the-art Londis
(known as Haran) the seeds of his
store, on the outskirts of Cannock,
enterprise have sprouted into an
Staffordshire.
enviable convenience business that has very quickly become the talk
Despite trading for just three
of the town – and for all the right
months, the store has already
reasons.
become a firm favourite with local residents and especially its strong
Haran only arrived in the UK in 2002,
Millennial and older Gen Z customer-
but in that time his hard-work and
base – transforming what was a
natural born retailing nouse have
drab brick corner unit into a smart
“People living in the neighbouring
freshness and innovation.
flats and houses didn’t really have
RETAILER PROFILE
black and green beacon of quality,
anywhere within walking distance to “As soon as I saw the location I was
top on groceries and fresh produce,
hooked,” says Haran “and I just knew I
so it was clear from the start that a
had to get a store open there.
comprehensive fresh offer, supported with quality food and drinks to go,
“The store is positioned just off a big roundabout connecting five key commuter roads, one of which is the main road into the town centre, while the others lead to quite affluent residential housing. “There’s also a large free carpark to the rear of the store and incredibly, very little local convenience competition, aside from a couple off off-licences.
Opening a new store always comes with a certain amount of trepidation, even if you’re not a first-time retailer! Thankfully Londis has been such a support, especially with merchandising advice and the actual fit-out process. Haran Ponnampalam, Londis Cannock, Staffordshire
would prove really popular with
appeal to the store’s young adult
residents and busy tradesmen alike,”
shoppers will be central to hitting
Haran says.
that target, with Tango Ice Blast sales already cresting £250 a week in cold,
And with sales already totalling
wet December, while vape already
£11,000 a week and growing, it
accounts for 10% of total sales.
certainly seems that he’s been proved right.
“I think Tango Ice Blast could easily do more than £400 a week once the
“It’s still very early days but the
weather starts to warm up in the spring
figures are really encouraging and I’m
and summer months and I’m expecting
expecting that total to hit £20,000 a
really big things from vape going
week by the early summer, once we’ve
forward too.
bedded in,” he adds. “Our vape offer has already become Innovative categories that hold high
something of a runaway success, we
43
RETAILER PROFILE
Top tips! Vaping can offer lucrative profit opportunities but it’s vital to stay on track with changing consumer trends.
1 2
Disposable products are growing in popularity, especially among younger adult vapers, so be sure to stock disposables.
3
Well-known brands like Geek Bar offer a great way into this growing category.
4
Don’t overlook less-dynamic categories such as ambient grocery. Depending on your location and local competition, these can still act as lucrative footfall drivers.
have a standalone Vape Station unit
with the flavours, grab a vape on the
store’s layout which has been designed
on the shopfloor where customers can
go and never have to worry about
to make the store as shopper friendly
browse the offer at their leisure, as-
charging.”
as possible.
units. There’s no other offer like this in
The absence of local convenience
“We’ve tried really hard to keep the
the local vicinity so it’s a real USP.
competition has also helped sales of
aisles as wide as possible for easy
somewhat less dynamic categories,
access, while low- level shelving
“Disposables are by far the most
such as pet food and grocery, to get
combined with Londis’ crisp and
popular type of vape product that we
off to a strong start, while fresh and
clear in-store category signage really
sell, in fact I’m now doing more than
chilled meal solutions, especially
helps the products to stand out and
£600 a week on Geek Bar disposables
the pizzas and pasta options, are
improves the overall experience.”
alone, while the Elf Bar brand that
also proving to be star performers,
we also stock is not too much further
especially in the afternoons and
Despite its modest size, the clever use
behind.
evenings.
of different textures and colours also
well-as a couple of countertop display
helps to create clearly defined zones: “The disposable format just really
“Local shoppers love the fact they
clean white tiles for fresh and frozen,
appeals to that young adult vape
now have such a good range of fresh
black wooden boarding for tills and
demographic. They like the fact they
options on their doorstep and they
spirits, and warm red bricks for wine,
can be spontaneous, chop and change
also really seem to appreciate the
beer and cider.
45
RETAILER PROFILE As soon as I saw the location I was hooked. I just knew I had to get a store open there. Haran Ponnampalam, Londis Cannock, Staffordshire
Two large entrances and exits, one to the
“The store is busy throughout the day
front and one to the rear of the store, also
but it really comes alive first thing in the
help to dial up the sense of space and
morning when shoppers pop in for a
light inside, with the rear door providing
paper, freshly baked morning goods and
easy access to the store’s highly prized
coffee to go, and then after 4pm when
customer car-park.
parents, children and other local shoppers pop in for drinks, snacks and evening
The large automatic glass door at the back
meals.
also allows categories, such as ambient grocery and household, which traditionally
“We then get another rush between 6pm
tend to be consigned to darker rear zones,
and 8pm, when categories such as BWS,
to bask in the fresh light of day.
vape and tobacco shine,” Haran says.
47
k c o n Can STORE INFO Store name:
Londis Cannock, Staffordshire Retailer: Haran
Ponnampalam
The store has also recently partnered
and opening a new store always
with delivery app Uber Eats in a bid to
comes with a certain amount of
Size: 1,800 sq ft
grow sales yet further and especially
trepidation, even if you’re not a first-
Store type:
in the evenings, while in the coming
time retailer!
Residential
“Thankfully Londis has been such a
Key categories:
months Haran is also hoping to install a post office.
support, especially with merchandising Other key services already available
advice and the actual fit-out process
include a free cash point and a My
which took around six weeks to
Coffee Station offer.
complete. The first three months have
Vaping, drinks to go, fresh Opening Hours:
certainly been very encouraging and
7am -10pm
“Customers are so happy with the
I can’t wait to see where the next few
store which is just wonderful to see,”
take us.”
Staff: 3
Haran says. “It was a big investment
49
SOCIAL MEDIA
The big Opportunity
Social
climbing Social media can be a fantastic way of raising your store’s profile as well as growing footfall, sales and profits – and best of all, it can be entirely free.
Need help getting started? l Log on to Booker.co.uk –> Pages –> Londis –> Digital Marketing & Radio to see our Hints and Tips l Download FREE digital images supporting leaflet offers, provided for every promotion l Download FREE posting guides to help aid content and copy
Social media is one of those rare opportunities that can deliver huge benefits to retailers
The benefits of social media
l A great way of communicating with existing shoppers, as well as reaching a wider audience of potential new shoppers l Powerful local brand exposure l Totally free to use l Quick and easy to get started
for relatively little effort and absolutely no direct cost. In the UK there are tens of millions of customers who interact daily with key platforms such as Facebook, Twitter and Instagram – and that presents an enormous opportunity. Among those many millions are likely to be the majority of the people who live in your particular community, which offers you both a digital shopfront available to anyone with a smartphone as well as the perfect platform for engaging with your existing shoppers and for attracting new shoppers to your door. If you offer home delivery services, social media allows you to grow your shopper base to include everyone who lives within your delivery catchment area, even if they never actually physically visit your store. All that’s required is a little planning and a little focused effort and the rewards can be significant.
1
SOCIAL MEDIA
Top tips!
Post regularly to keep shoppers engaged.
2
l Set aside some time aside each day to update your page and respond to shopper queries.
3
l Remember that social media means you are opening up a channel for customer feedback, so monitor your page carefully and regularly.
4
l Everything you post and almost every interaction you have with consumers is in the public eye. The Londis social media channels focus on communicating our
5
l It can take time to build an audience so be patient or, if you are keen to grow your audience quickly, consider the various paid-for local advertising options available on social media to quickly extend your reach.
fantastic promotions and own brand products to existing and new shoppers as well as engaging with shoppers on a daily basis with a friendly, welcoming attitude. This complements your own social media activity and allows you to focus on posts specific to your store which could include everything from deals, new products and ‘like & share’ competitions to any community engagement work you’re doing or even simple reminders on your opening hours or home delivery service.
Maintaining your page It’s important to keep people engaged with your page. Think about: l Posting in-store offers and new products. l Highlight Group Exclusive products which invariably drive footfall. l Use photos of your store, themed displays and seasonal fun. l Highlight changes to your store such as new services and change of opening hours. l Put up posters around your store telling shoppers that you’re online. l Engage with other social pages in your community and show your support to your local shoppers and local community.
51
MORE CHOICES. MORE SALES.
COCONUT & BERRY 250ml
SUGARFREE 250ml
ZERO 250ml
ENERGY 250ml
GREEN 250ml
WATERMELON 250ml
TROPICAL 250ml
l On Facebook and Instagram, you should keep to 1:1 ratio (square) for images.
SOCIAL MEDIA
Posting pointers
l You should focus on what is seasonally relevant, new in store, local to you and what makes you stand out from your competitors l Head office branded social network accounts @mylondis have a constant stream of exciting material created for you to use and share to your own page.
When developing a successful social media presence it can be
Social Media & Covid-19 Social media is an effective way of communicating with your shoppers around all aspects of the developing situation around Covid-19. Make sure you communicate: l Changes to your opening hours l Social distancing and safety measures l Availability of essential products on a daily basis first thing in the morning or after your delivery l Availability of home delivery. l Job opportunities. l Any community or charity activity you are undertaking, for example volunteers required for deliveries to vulnerable people.
helpful to post relatively regularly - at least two or three posts a day – and to ensure that you monitor your social media channels to allow you to respond quickly to any feedback or comments you may get from shoppers. If it helps, you could think of social media as just an extension of the outstanding customer service Londis stores are already famous for: polite, friendly, helpful and prompt.
53
Designed for adult smokers.
WARNING: This product contains nicotine
JUUL is the #1 vaping product in the UK with 13.9% market share.*
Not for sale to minors. JUUL is an e-cigarette. This is an age-restricted product and age verification is required at sale. *IRi Total Market Value Sales by Brand 4 Weeks to 16th May 2021. Excludes IQOS Heets. TM and © 2021 JUUL Labs, Inc. All rights reserved.
which is a highly addictive substance.
CATEGORY CATCH-UP
Latest insights and news
Healthy profits Many shoppers resolve to eat and drink a little more healthily in the early part of the year, opening up fresh opportunities for Londis retailers. The early part of every year is traditionally
things to different shoppers: less meat,
a time when many shoppers will make a
more fresh produce, cooking from scratch,
mental note or commitment to being a
more low or zero sugar soft drinks, a little
little bit more careful about what they eat
less alcohol every week, the list goes on.
and drink. For the first few months of every
But whatever it means to them, Londis
year a whole set of new opportunities open
retailers are able to capitalise by ensuring
up for retailers who are able to offer these
that they offer these shoppers what they’re
health-conscious shoppers the types of
looking for.
products they are looking for.
LOW TO NO ALCOHOL How long into the year that commitment
The recent and increasingly popular Dry
lasts is another thing entirely, but 2021
January challenge sees more and more
research from IGD shows that UK shoppers
shoppers start each new year off with a
are increasingly looking to adopt more
focus on reduced alcohol consumption.
healthy and sustainable diets all year round,
While once this would have relied on
with 58% open to improving their eating
abstinence, these days this goal is often
habits (up slightly from 57% in 2020).
achieved with the help of low or no alcohol beers, ciders, wines and spirits.
Healthier eating, of course, means different
HAVE YOUR SAY… The need to offer a good range of affordably priced healthy food and drink options cannot be overlooked, especially at this time of year when sales do tend to peak. However, I would say that they are now a year-round strong-seller and will become increasingly so as we head towards the implementation of the HFSS regulations in October. Vegan products in particular have become increasingly important point of difference for us - so much so that we recently repositioned the range in a more prominent display at the front of the store.
Londis offers an extensive range of low
but equally interesting is the fact that a
and no alcohol alternatives across all of the
significant proportion of those that take
major alcohol drink product categories and
part say they intend to try to reduce their
it’s certainly worthwhile ensuring that you
alcohol consumption year-round.
have some low or no alcohol alternatives Almost one in three (32%) UK drinkers
available in-store for shoppers.
now ‘semi-regularly’ consume low and noWhy not go a step further and introduce
alcohol products compared to one in four
a dedicated low and no alcohol fixture in-
(25%) in 2020, a YouGov study has found.
store? This will really help highlight the fact
Furthermore, a fifth (20%) of those who
that you stock a good range and should
have tried low and no-alcohol say they are
help grow footfall, sales and profits.
more likely to drink these products now compared to a year ago, almost double
Booker offers a range of alcohol-free beers
the number saying this in last year’s survey
from big brands like San Miguel, Heineken,
(11%).
Peroni and Beck’s as well as an extensive selection of low and alcohol-free wines
MEAT FREE
from 5% ABV Peñasol Sangria and 6% ABV
For other shoppers, the desire to eat more
Lambrini to Distant Vines Light & Refreshing
healthily means cutting back on meat – a
and big brand name wines like Rawson’s
trend which is giving rise to significant
Retreat’s 0.5% ABV Semillon Chardonnay.
growth in the vegan and meat free market.
Reduced
isn’t
In-fact according to IGD research from July
restricted to January and February these
alcohol
consumption
2021, the number of shoppers who eat
days, however. Alcohol Change UK, the
meat only twice a week or less rose to 39%
charity behind Dry January, estimates that
in 2021 – up from 34% in 2020.
as many as one in seven adults in the UK now take part in the month-long festival
Sustainability concerns are also playing a
OPPORTUNITIES FOR RETAILERS
Mike Dorey Londis Eastcombe, Stroud
Highlight fruit, veg, grains and pulses with colourful signage Use health claims, roundels and nutrition information to drive spend Offer easy solutions for healthy, scratch cooking Challenge cost perception by using signage and promotions to show that healthy eating can be budgetfriendly
57
Little explains: “Not only are consumers increasingly willing to change their eating habits for health reasons, but they are also starting to better understand the connection between their diets, the environment and how changing what they eat could impact their own health, as well as the planet’s health.”
CATEGORY FOCUS
role, as IGD Director of Health and Sustainability Mark
IMMUNE SUPPORT With the cold winter months giving rise to a whole host of coughs, colds and various viruses, products which claim to help support shoppers’ immune systems are also likely to be given more space in their baskets.
Vegan and flexitarians on the rise The recent Veganuary festival once again helped refocus many consumers with more than two million people registered for last month’s event. The Veganuary charity says that a very large proportion of those who take part tend to continue with a vegan diet or significantly reduce their meat and animal product intake throughout the rest of the year. This represents a major opportunity for Londis retailers. Vegan meals now account for one in eight meals that shoppers prepare at home, Kantar’s usage panel found, equating to an additional 350 million plates of food that are now vegan-friendly, compared to five years ago. Crucially, Millennials are a key demographic when it comes to veganism, with 36% of vegans being aged 25-34 years old. Young females are another significant target group for veganism, as 38% of all vegans are females aged 16-44. Looking at products, Kantar says that soups are among the most popular choices for shoppers opting for plant -based meals, but world cuisines such as pizza, pasta and Indian dishes are also favoured.
59
LUCOZADE, LUCOZADE SPORT and the Arc Device are registered trade marks of Lucozade Ribena Suntory Ltd. © Lucozade Ribena Suntory Ltd. All rights reserved.
CATEGORY FOCUS
The Low Alcohol shopper Younger adults are more likely to drink low and no alcohol often, with semiregular consumers of low and noalcohol most likely to be aged between 35 and 44 years old according to a recent YouGov survey from 2021. In contrast, 31% of those aged over 55 reported never having tried a low and no alcohol product, slightly ahead of all other age groups. Amongst drinkers, semi-regular use of low and no alcohol and ever tried was highest in Scotland (27% and 80%), compared to England (25% and 68%) and Wales (22% and 61%). Around England, semi-regular use was highest in the West Midlands and South East (both 32%) and lowest in the North East (19%).
HEALTHY SNACKING While shoppers are often keen to eat and drink more healthily, it’s not a desire that comes at the expense of taste or flavour - meaning that products which pack a health punch as-well as a flavour kick can be key to winning sales. With their high protein, nutrients, fiber and mineral content nuts and cereals play well in this space.
MILK MATTERS
Plant based milks continue to attract an increasing number of shoppers. British shoppers spent a whopping £146 million on oat milk in 2020, up from £74 million in 2019, helping oat to overtake almond as the nation’s number one selling vegan milk, according to Mintel. A record one in three Brits now drink plant-based milk, with usage up from 25% in 2020 to 32% in 2021, and almost 44% of Brits aged 25-44 are plant-based milk users. Usage of standard cow’s milk continues to be lower amongst younger consumers, dropping to 84% of 16-24s compared to 96% of those aged 65+, Mintel found. What’s more, almost a quarter (23%) of adults agreed that plant-based milk was better for them than cow’s milk, while half (50%) of adults agreed people’s milk choices make a difference to the environment.
61
VALUE ACTIVITY
Value for money
Value matters
more than ever Delivering value for money has never been more important to shoppers.
Value for money has been among the
New data from Barclaycard suggests
defining trends in independent retail for
shoppers will “be more cautious with their
many years now and that trend shows no
discretionary spending” in the new year,
signs of relenting. In fact, the laser-like
with “43% expecting rising inflation to
focus on securing fantastic value for money
affect their household budgeting.”
is arguably more important than ever after a very challenging couple of years for many
IGD ShopperVista insights also suggest
shoppers.
that concerns over the rising cost of living will lead to “savvy shopping becoming
Value for money means different things to
increasingly prevalent in the new year, with
different shoppers but however shoppers
value top of mind.”
define it, great value continues to represent an
enormous
opportunity
for
Londis
retailers.
EDLP With value for money on or near the top of the priority list, how do Londis retailers
After the excesses of the festive period
respond?
and with concerns over everything from inflation rates to energy prices, shoppers
Perhaps the most important challenge is to
want to know that they are getting the best
understand what shoppers mean by value
value possible every time they visit your
for money – and then work out how to
store.
deliver it. For some shoppers value is all about Every Day Low Pricing (EDLP), particularly on staple lines they buy every day like bread, milk and bacon but also on popular lines that they buy frequently, even if it’s not every day. Londis’s EDLP range covers the vast majority of important, big-selling lines and allows you to guarantee great pricing on fast moving lines every day of the week, helping to drive regular footfall as well as sales and profits. A great example is the EDLP deal on key
VALUE ACTIVITY
VALUE TO BE ‘TOP OF MIND’ IN THE NEW YEAR “Despite the decision by the Bank of England not to raise interest rates at the moment, the media has focused heavily on the rising cost of living. We expect shoppers to increase their focus on saving money at the start of 2022, to make up for any overspending at Christmas and prepare for the energy price cap which could see household energy prices jump by more than 40%. Shoppers remain highly sensitive to price rises and news of any shortages, which in turn impacts on confidence. ‘Savvy shopping’ will become increasingly prevalent again in the new year and value will be top of mind.” Rhian Thomas Head of Insight at ShopperVista
Seasonal sales
confectionery lines featuring RSPs of just
to some shoppers, others are on the
£1 on multi-packs of many of the best-
look out for promotions. Again Londis’s
selling brands and products including
extensive rolling promotional programme
The many seasonal events and
Yorkie and Aero bars.
means you have a year-round supply of
occasions on the horizon also
fantastic deals to tempt your value-
provide retailers with great
hungry shoppers with.
opportunities to drive home their
Make sure you shout about these lines on external bread and milk posters, in-store
value messaging in-store and
and on social media. Make it easy for
As part of a bigger group, Londis now has
on social mediawith an array of
shoppers to choose your store for those
access to many outstanding promotions
attention-grabbing promotional
daily essentials.
across all categories, a hugely powerful
mechanics.
tool for generating new and additional
Promotions While it’s everyday value that says value
footfall to your store.
Valentines Day: 14 Feb This Valentines Day Londis will be running a host of heart-warming promotions on key themed lines including £3.49 on Lindor chocolate boxes and iHeart Prosecco for just £7.79.
Easter: 17 April Value-hungry shoppers will also be treated to some cracking Easter promotions across some of the season’s biggest brands including a 3 for £1.50 offer on the iconic Cadbury Crème Egg and Mini Eggs for just £1.
63
DRIVE ROS CONSUMER DAILY CASH PRIZE COMPETITION Stock Rockstar
Activate competition POS at chiller
Enjoy more money in your tills!
Rockstar Xdurance 500ml Rockstar Punched Guava 500ml Rockstar Juiced 500ml
Time to
M268734 M268735 M268733
VALUE ACTIVITY
Your regular promotional leaflet drop alongside a busy social media feed should help ensure maximum reach – and maximum footfall.
Own brand Another key focus for shoppers keen to secure the best possible value is own brand products. Booker’s own brand ranges are now well established with shoppers and have earned their trust with a winning combination of great quality and exceptional value.
Offering shoppers a value alternative to big brand equivalents in many categories can help drive sales – and for maximum impact, why not double face key own brand lines to make them unmissable in-store, all the while secure in the knowledge that you will secure fantastic PORs, often of 30% and above, while also delivering the value that your shoppers are seeking. Euro Shopper is a particularly effective range which offers a choice of more than 90 family favourites at permanently low-prices, Londis retailers now have access to a vast and ever-growing selection of quality own brand lines.
HAVE YOUR SAY… The way in which shoppers think about value has definitely changed in recent years. Shoppers are looking for competitive pricing across the board and not just the odd £1 promotion. Shoppers are also demanding greater quality when it comes to the value products that they buy. When they buy own brand products these days, they expect them to be great quality. Thankfully, the Booker own brand range is excellent quality and allows us to deliver quality as well as value every time for our shoppers.
These lines are being incredibly wellreceived, especially in the early part of the year when shoppers are extra-value conscious. The key battleground for value now is chilled. That’s where the shoppers are looking for it most. They are much less concerned about the price of a can of beans or a bag of crisps, it’s the price of the pizzas, the ready meals and the meats that they are most aware of. Arjan Mehr Londis Great Hollands Arjan Mehr Londis Great Hollands
65
PM N P
K W C E PA
Stock the No1 * Dry Cat Food
M272722
POR 36.1%
The choice of over 1 million households** *IRI Market Advantage, Total Petfood, IRI All Outlets UK, Dry Cat Food, Value Sales 52 w/e 27th March 2021, **Purina ONE Adult Chicken 800g is the #1 selling SKU in Grocery Dry Cat Source IRI MAT Pet Outlets & Ocado 20th April 2019 ®Reg. Trademark of Société des Produits Nestlé S.A.
Category focus While the search for value among shoppers affects every category, some categories are more important than others, according to Londis retailers. For Arjan Mehr of Londis Great Hollands, fresh and chilled foods are the new “big value battleground.” “Shopper are much less concerned about the price of a can of beans, a chocolate bar or a bag of crisps, it’s the price of the pizzas, the ready meals and the meats that they are most aware of.” Arjan will do doubt be pleased then to learn that Londis has secured cool promotions on a number of Gazebo Cuisine’s sizzling
opportunity to vape the equivalent of 40-
Chef’s Creations lines including its Indian
plus cigarettes for less than half the cost of
Meal Box featuring Chicken Tikka Masala,
a pack of 20.”
Bombay Potatoes, Pilau Rice, Onion Bhajis and Naan Bread on promotion for just £5.
Meanwhile for Tony Patel, owner of Londis Gorefield in Cambridgeshire, special deals
For Haran Ponnampalam of Londis in
on alcohol lines are helping to drive his
Cannock in Staffordshire, shoppers’ desire
sales.
to secure more bang for their buck is being “We take part in as many Londis promotions
evidenced by his climbing vape sales.
as we can and we support them with in“Value for money is increasingly important
store POS as-well as social media.
to our shoppers, many of whom are young adults or students with not a great deal of
“Posts about alcohol promotions do always
disposable income,” he says.
tend to get a positive response from shoppers and do help to drive footfall,
“The general need for greater value for
especially if there’s a giveaway attached,
money is a key driver behind the success of
such as free glass with each bottle
our new vape offer.
purchased or something like that.
“Disposable
vape
products
such
as
GeekBar for example offer adult vapers the
Simple ‘round pound deals’ are still one of the biggest winners though.”
67
CATEGORY CATCH-UP
Playing the game
Feeling
the l ve
With national lockdown restrictions having
And, with this Valentines Day falling on a
poured cold water on Valentines Day
Monday (14 February) the annual love-in
celebrations in 2021, loved-up shoppers
looks set to offer even more opportunities
are primed to set their hearts and wallets
for retailers to profit, with shoppers likely
racing in 2022.
to indulge themselves and their loved ones over the weekend as-well as on the big day
Move over virtual dates and lockdown
itself.
loneliness; Valentines Day 2022 looks set to offer convenience retailers a suite of stellar
Fortunately for Londis retailers, Booker has
sales opportunities as shoppers splash out
a host of attractive deals and promotions
on indulgent meals, fizz, and gifts.
sure to set pulses racing.
M268382
Smirnoff Mango* Promo WSP: £66.99 Promo RSP: £14.99 POR: 10.6% M272475
Home was where the heart was for Valentines
CATEGORY FOCUS
Trivento Malbec Rosé* Promo WSP: £27.95 Promo RSP: £6.99 POR: 20.03%
2021 spending stats Day 2021, with 51% of
Trivento Pinot Grigio* Promo WSP: £27.95 Promo RSP: £6.99 POR: 20.03%
shoppers who lived with their partners opting to have a home cooked meal according to
M250823
Mastercard Data, * Prices valid only for NP12.
A further 31% opted for a takeaway while 7% had This Valentine’s Day (14 February) Londis
convenient emulations of the going-out
retailers can benefit from deals on Lindor
experience and moments of excitement
chocolate boxes (£3.49 down from £5.99),
and indulgence.”
an “indoor picnic.” When it came to gifts and treats, men spent
iheart Prosecco and Italian Rosé (£7.79 down from £10.39 and £9.49 respectively),
Cocktail thirsty romantics in 2022 will be
more than women, with
and Trivento Malbec, Pinot Grigio and
able to shake things up with an array of
those celebrating forking
Malbec Rosé (£6.99 down from £8.79).
deals on key spirit brands at Londis stores
out 57% more on their
including Smirnoff Mango and Passionfruit
loved ones than women
Twist and Raspberry Crush for just £14.99.
according to Barclaycard
And while shoppers in 2022 will have the
data.
option to dine out, unlike in 2021, fears over the current variant and the fact that so many
Single shoppers not in a relationship have
have grown used to their home comforts,
certainly not been left out of the deal
In a clear sign of the
are likely to prompt many shoppers to stay
bonanza though with an equally heart-
times, the most popular
in and relax with an indulgent meal and
warming array of promos on indulgent self-
purchases were food
treats at home.
treat products such as ‘Any 2 for 1’ deals
for a special dinner at
on American confectionary bars such as
home (61%), followed
Those looking to re-create restaurant style
Hershy’s Cookies N Crème, Reeses Peanut
by more traditional gifts
experiences at home are likely to fuel
Butter Cups and Nutrageous bars.
of chocolates (38%) and alcohol, such as
increased demand for restaurant style meal kits and also cocktail ingredients – as was
Galaxy Smooth Milk, Smooth Caramel and
champagne (37%). Over
seen in 2021.
Salted Caramel bars (110, 135g) bars are
half of those questioned
also on offer at any ‘2 for £2.’
also purchased a card.
Sales of gin, Baileys, and other readyto-drink (RTD) beverages rose last year
Meanwhile, shoppers looking to treat their
as home-bound shoppers mixed it up
fury friends will also not be disappointed
themselves.
- with a deal on Winalot Meaty Chunks (12X100g) at £3.25, down from £3.75.
Commenting on the trend at the time Ryan
With all deals available from the 24
Whittaker said: “Many of the RTD and pre-
January, Londis retailers looking to spice
mixed alcoholic cocktail brands, as well as
up their footfall and sales would do well to
home delivery from local bars, facilitate
stock up.
GlobalData,
experiences
consumer
in
the
analyst
home,
providing
69
M099089
M099144
M074942
M074944
It pays to sell the wines your customers are already sold on.
M107142 / M257658
The season of love also provides a key opportunity
for
light-hearted
in-store
theatre and attractive shop-floor displays. The opportunity to inject a flash of colour and fun to stores was one that retailers jumped on in the gloomy winter of 2021.
CATEGORY FOCUS
Goodfellas WSP: £16.75 RSP: £3.50 POR: 31.63%
Overall, local retailers were the greatest winners from Valentine’s Day last year, as couples stayed at home and splashed
FRIENDLY GET TOGETHERS
Single shoppers looking to celebrate the season of love with friends will also not be left disappointed thanks to a host of deals on popular sharing items such as £1.25 on 150g bags of Kettle Chips and of course Londis’ Frozen Meal Deal which offers them ‘any 2 Goodfellas Thin Pizzas and a Tub of Carte Dor Ice Cream’ for just £5 – a saving of £4.85. Booker is also offering a ‘2 for £10’ deal on bottles of iheart Sauvignon Blanc, Rosé and Malbec.
out on food, according to the BRC-KPMG Retail Sales Monitor for February 2021. The event contributed to a 7.6% year-onyear growth in food sales last year and what’s more, PayPoint retailers recorded the highest sale volumes for both sparkling wine and champagne and wine categories on Valentine’s Day, up 54% and 16%, respectively, last year, underlining the importance of the day for local shops. Key brands such as Ferrero Rocher and Lindor boxes enjoyed a huge 1,133% and 333% increase in sales, respectively, on 14 February, compared to their daily average up until that point. Additional brands to see their highest sales of the year on Valentine’s Day
FLOWER POWER
Flowers can also offer a key opportunity to help your sales bloom. Booker’s cut flower range includes a variety of different bouquets at different price points ranging from an entry level £4 bouquet (its best seller) a seasonal bouquet priced at £5.50 and a premium gift bouquet at £8.50.
across the PayPoint network included Cadbury Roses Carton (+936%); Moet Brut Imperial NV (+414%); Oxford Landing Cabernet Sauvignon (+338%); Cadbury Milk Tray (+300%), Nestle Quality Street Carton (+300%) Martini Prosecco Brut Doc (+268%), Sharwood’s Lamb Biryani (+250%); Bollinger NV Brut Champagne (+150%); Babycham (+140%); and Nestle After 8 Mints (+127%).
For Valentines Day 2022 Booker has also created a bespoke ‘Valentines Roses’ bouquet of 12 roses.
71
TOP NEW PRODUCTS
Top new products Every issue we bring you the latest product launches from your favourite suppliers
Nestlé
Nestlé
KIT KAT BITES
AERO CHOCOLATE MELTS
Kit Kat Bites is among Nestlé’s most important
Nestlé has launched Aero Chocolate Melts giving Londis retailers another great chance
launches of 2022 – and the product (available 24
to grow the confectionery category, drive sales and cash in on PORs in excess of 20%.
January) will be a Group Exclusive for 11 weeks.
Feature within a sharing or larger format ‘big night in’ section, if you have one, to drive
Kit Kat is the number three confectionery brand
impulse sales and increase basket spend.
in the UK and is hugely popular, so the launch offers the chance to appeal to existing Kit Kat
RSP
£1.69 POR 22.9%
loyalists and other shoppers attracted by the new format. Stock on the main confectionery fixture and also on any sharing format section you may have.
Kit Kat Bites Milk Chocolate
Nestlé
KIT KAT ORANGE This new orange variant, available from 24 January, should prove a hit with fans of the
RSP
£1.69 POR 22.9%
brand. Orange, currently the number two flavour in the UK, is surging at +37% in the market. Furthermore, orange-flavoured products have increased their share of Total
Kit Kat Bites Chocolate Caramel
RSP
£1.69 POR 22.9%
Confectionery from 1.3% to 4.3% over the last three years.
RSP
75p POR 22.7%
73
We are Reducing Our Plastic Usage
Our delicious croissants are now packed in cardboard trays
New Packaging 85541510 All Butter Croissant 4 Pack www.delifrance.com/uk
TOP NEW PRODUCTS AB InBev
CORONA CERO 4X330ML Available from February, Corona Cero – that’s zero in English – is predominantly aimed at the 18-34 age bracket, which drives the majority of zero alcohol beer sales, but is expected to appeal to a wider audience thanks to the eye-catching packaging, the big brand name and the great
wicked foods
taste. Sales of zero alcohol beer have grown enormously, up 113.2% since
WICKED KITCHEN RANGE
2029 [Nielsen].
Looking to top up your instore vegan offering? Available now and exclusive to the group, is a range of high quality plant
RSP
£3.50 POR 28.6%
based meals from Wicked foods.
Peng Panang Tofu Curry
Kerry Group
RICHMOND MEAT FREE BACON 150G
RSP
£3 POR 25.0%
Bangin Biryani made with Beyond Meat
Available now in cases of eight packs, the latest addition to Richmond’s Meat Free range launches in time for Veganuary, the annual challenge to
RSP
£3 POR 25.0%
encourage people to follow a vegan lifestyle for a month. Vegans apart, it will appeal to flexitarian customers and the growing number of shoppers
Korean Inspired Bowl made
keen to incorporate more plant-based products into their diet.
with Beyond Meat
RSP
£2.50 POR 24.8%
RSP
£3 POR 25.0%
Very Berry Porridge
Kerry Group
RICHMOND MEAT FREE BURGERS 170G
RSP
£1.09 POR 25.6%
Spicy Coconut and Rice Noodles
Over half a million people registered for Veganuary last year and, with that number is set to grow in 2022, Richmond’s Meat Free Burgers launch at just
RSP
£1.59 POR 25.1%
the right time to capitalise. Available in cases of 6x2 burgers, the plantbased product will attract a broad range of customers including flexitarians
Spicy Smoky Dreamy Mac
who fancies a meat-free meal. RSP RSP
£2.00 POR 25.0%
£1.59 POR 25.1%
75
Plan your shelves the right way to increase SALES The recommended 1 shelf range for Mexican
M103774
M704163
Old El Paso is the
biggest brand in World Foods FOR
£1 spent in Mexican another
£3-4 are spent in other foods and drinks IGD FMCG 2020, Nielsen World Foods & Mexican 52we Nov. 2021
M218445
M197583 M232964 M145584
Fajita Kits are the
most popular products for the typical convenience shopper who wants a quick & easy meal solution
Tortillas & spice mixes
sell faster for the Mexican food lovers!
MEET THE BUYER
Say
‘hello’ to...
Shannon Element Category Manager – Produce and Flowers
Category: Produce, flowers and horticulture
Tell us a little about the key functions of your role. As Category Manager for Produce and Flowers I’m based out of our Watford Office but I do try to get into branch as often as I can. It’s an extremely varied role because it covers both BRP on the retail side as-well as Booker, the branches and Premier. I also look after a really wide range within the produce team which includes horticulture (horti) and flowers as-well-as top fruit, nuts, dried fruit, herbs and spices. On the BRP side I also look after a number of branded suppliers such as Del Monte, Mash Direct on prepared vegetables and Kestrel for prepared nuts. The breadth of the range I cover makes the role so interesting. No two days are ever the same which is something I love about it. One day I could spend a lot of time on horticulture and on another I’ll be looking at top fruit. Because each area is so different, the challenges that I face also vary significantly, as do the different ways in which we seek to grow each of the categories. It all makes for a very interesting working day! Each has its own unique approach. Horticulture is an area that I am developing a true passion though which is fortunate as it’s one that is growing so rapidly.
77
What factors are fuelling horticulture’s success? In the last two years horticulture has grown hugely. Covid-19 has had a significant impact on the category as shoppers have spent so much more time at home, investing in making their houses and gardens nicer, more attractive places to be. Things like bedding plants and compost, for example, have done really well as shoppers took to beautifying their back gardens or adding hanging baskets and containers and as such we have started to do a lot more seasonal activity in these areas. On cut flowers we’ve also seen huge success. During the months of lockdown and resultant move to home-working, more shoppers started buying flowers to have in the house on a more regular basis and it’s a trend which has stuck. The home has taken on a new level of importance since the pandemic, it’s become like a sanctuary and small things like a beautiful bouquet of fresh cut flowers really can do wonders to lift the spirits.
Tell us a little bit about the flower range?
The price is right
We aligned with Tesco’s flower range a couple of years ago and we now offer a really good high-quality range of six core SKUs which are growing year on year, with
Retailers can see the quality for
sales up every single week.
themselves when they come into branch and they are buying into the range in
The range features varying price points,
greater numbers and in greater quantities.
from our entry-level bouquet at £4, right up to our premium gift bouquet at
In fact, volume and value sales are both up
£8.50 at the top end. We also offer a £6
because retailers can see for themselves
bouquet, a seasonal bouquet for £5.50
that once in store, the flowers are selling
and a Rose and Lilly range for £7.
through. The POR’s are also really attractive at around 30% POR.
The £4 bouquet is just a really great price point that triggers a lot of impulse sales.
We also offer relatively small case sizes
Shoppers see the quality and price and
which helps allay any fears that retailers
just think: “yes I’ll grab those for the
might have over wastage. Our largest case
house.”
size is six on the £4 bouquet.
Make sure you clean the shelves regularly Booker’s cut flower range includes a variety of different bouquets at different price points ranging from an entry level £4 bouquet a seasonal bouquet priced at £5.50 and a premium gift bouquet at £8.50.
Top tips!
1 2
What impact does seasonality have on your role? The seasons and seasonal events have a huge impact. We’ve just done Christmas and now we are focusing on spring which is looking at all the compost, the
3 4
If possible try merchandise them out of a direct draught or in an area where they are likely to be knocked into.
5
Price points are important. It’s key to offer a range of varying price points so that your offer caters for every type of shopper and need.
6
Be sure to ensure great visibility of value price points, such as our £4 bouquet, as this can trigger great impulse sales.
7
Don’t be afraid to start small. Booker also offers small case sizes and attractive PORs of around 30% to help allay any waste fears.
help them get ready for this key planting season.
Valentines Day and Mothers’ Day 2022, these events really are major opportunities for flowers. Last year we experienced a veritable surge and we are expecting this year to be even better. Mother’s Day is the biggest of the two seasonal events for flowers
If an entrance display is not possible, citing flowers next to fresh fruit and vegetables or impulse categories can be effective. Ensure that flowers are well watered and looked after to maintain quality.
bedding plants and growing bags for the retailers to
We’re also gearing up for the two key events of
Merchandise flowers as close to the front of the store as possible to help create that ‘wow’ factor entrance.
MEET THE BUYER
Shannon’s
and this year we will be launching a bespoke range
79
DON’T MISS OUT ON YOUR EXTRA SALES OF THE NUMBER 1 INSTANT HOT SNACK BRAND*
NOW AVAILABLE TO ORDER IN THE POPULAR NEW PIRI PIRI FLAVOUR PMP SOLD HALF A MILLION UNITS SINCE LAUNCH!**
THE CENTER OF SEVERAL VIRAL CAMPAIGNS, INCLUDING THE PIRI PIRI BLACK CARD CAMPAIGN, WHICH REACHED 20 MILLION PEOPLE ON TWITTER
M271507
* Nielson Retail Measurement Service for the Mini-Meals Pot Segment. For the 52 week period ending 17.07.21. ** Nielson Retail Measurement Service for the Mini Meals Pot Segment. For the 52 week period ending 06.11.21.
the week before the big day itself. The
the week before both events. This year we
Valentines activity will be displayed at the
have created a bespoke ‘Valentines Roses’
front of branch and I’ve helped to create
bouquet of 12 roses. We have 38 pallets
some bespoke marketing and POS to
going out to 35 branches that we are
help retailers sell it through. There are
really excited about.
nice pictures of the bespoke bouquet and information on pricing to really catch the
What’s the best bit about your job?
eyes.
MEET THE BUYER
which we will be pre-selling to retailers
The variety is certainly a big draw! I also really love planning for the peaks such as Valentines Day and Mothers’ Day and deciding what range we are going to go with. This process has become especially exciting as we work closely with our supplier. They can sometimes give us insights into what’s working well which can be really helpful when working out what to do for our customers.
How often do you get into branch? As often as I can. I particularly love to go in around key times of year such as Valentines Day, Mothering Sunday and of course Christmas. Pre-Christmas I visited quite a few branches including Oxford and Swindon which was great, it’s always nice to interact with the retailers and see all the hard work we do throughout the year come to life. I can’t wait to see this year’s Valentines bouquets in branch and I plan to get in as much as possible
Diary Dates While flower sales may be blooming all year round, sales have two distinctive peaks twice a year for Valentines Day and Mothering Sunday. Retailers will be able to pre-order a bespoke range of Valentines Day and Mother’s Day bouquets this year don’t miss out this blooming opportunity. Valentines Day 2022: Monday 14 February Mothering Sunday: Sunday 27 March
81
CATEGORY CATCH-UP
Light up your sales
protagonist With the popularity of disposable vaping devices continuing to soar, Booker offers a strong range of products to help Londis retailers profit from the segment’s success with confidence.
The UK’s vape category enjoyed a buoyant 2021 with the proportion of UK adults using vaping devices having increased to 7.1%, according to a recent YouGov survey. And as the UK begins a new year with healthy resolutions riding high and the all-important vaping awareness month of April on the horizon, the vape category’s star looks set to keep on rising, as adult smokers increasingly turn to it as a way to quit tobacco. With around 30% of vape sales taking place via traditional retail stores (Imperial Tobacco estimate) the opportunity for Londis retailers to profit even more from the growing vape opportunity is clear to see. One of the key opportunities that exists
Established in 2015, the disposable vaping
is in easy-to-use disposable devices.
brand has been designed to appeal to
Many Londis retailers are already seeing
adult vapers “who desire to vape smarter”
significant demand for disposable devices,
the brand says.
which offer new and existing vapers an ultra-convenient vaping option and access
The Booker range includes five popular
to a myriad of exciting and on-trend
flavours, including GeekBar Classics
flavour combinations.
such as Sweet Strawberry, along with new flavours such as Blueberry and Sour
Fortunately for those retailers, Booker has
Raspberry.
recently expanded its range of disposable devices with the addition of GeekBar,
Each disposable “bar” comes fully
which is now available through Booker in a
charged and pre-filled with 20mg of
selection of fruity flavours.
nicotine salt e-liquid, for an RSP of £6.49.
profit on return, and another way to add a unique point of difference and interest to their overall offer.
DISPOSABLE GROWTH Long-standing Londis retailer Arjan Mehr, whose Londis store in Great Hollands has recently undergone a significant refresh of its bakery and food to go offer, is already planning his next investment project centring around vape. “Vape sales have been growing steadily in recent months and in response to that I plan to invest in strengthening our existing offer and giving much more space to fast-growing disposable brands,” he says.
UK VAPER PROFILE The peak ages for e-cigarette use in 2021 are among 35-44 year olds (10.1%) followed by 45-54 year olds (8.6%), and then 25-34 year olds (8.1%).
CATEGORY FOCUS
For retailers the range also offers 40.8%
The lowest vaping rates by age are 5% for young adults aged 18-24, followed by those over 55 at 5.4%. A slightly higher proportion of those identifying as male (8.1% ) say that they currently use e-cigarettes than those identifying as female (6.2%). Of the 3.6 million vapers in the UK in 2021, just under 2.4 million are ex-smokers; 1.1 million are current smokers; and just under 200,000 are never smokers. Nine out of ten ex-smokers who currently use e-cigarettes vape every day, with 97% vaping at least weekly. Satisfaction levels are growing, with 68% of vapers who no longer smoke now saying that they find vaping “more or equally” satisfying as smoking compared to 65% in 2020.
Source: YouGov
“The success of the disposable vape category is just unbelievable. Less than two years ago there was barely a market there for disposable products and now we’re being asked about it multiple times a day. It’s definitely an area well worth mastering, especially when you consider the lucrative profits to be made, and I know that the team at Londis will be on hand to help me invest in my range with confidence,” he adds. Another Londis retailer who is already reaping the rewards of a successful disposable vape offer is Haran Ponnampalam Cannock in Staffordshire.
85
Order Code – 92148616
This product contains nicotine. Nicotine is an addictive substance.
Excellent
*IRi Market Place, Volume Share, Nicotine Pouch Category, Total UK, YTD Sep-21. For more information or to verify comparison contact Nordic Spirit on Facebook or Instagram: @nordicspirit_uk or using our details at nordicspirit.co.uk/contact. **RRP effective as of 27/10/2021. You are, of course, at all times free to sell JTI’s products at whatever price you choose. [i] Trustpilot rating correct as of December 2021.
i
CATEGORY FOCUS Haran’s newly opened Londis store on
These devices also hold another key
Alternatively, Booker have an entry
the outskirts of Cannock town centre
appeal for new and existing vapers:
level price point offering in disposables
has already become a firm favourite with
flavour. Unlike many of the pre-filled pod
available under the Nic-Nac brand with an
locals, and especially Millennial and Older
devices currently on the market, which
RSP of £3.49 and a POR of 38.8%.
Gen Z shoppers, largely thanks to the
tend to major on menthol, tobacco and
creation of his innovative standalone vape
dark fruit flavours, disposable products
The Booker-supplied range also provides
unit.
offer a wider choice of innovative and
retailers with 100% confidence that they
unusual flavours that truly appeal to
are purchasing legal and crucially, EU
“Our vape offer has already become
modern vapers’ tastes in an ultra-
TPD-compliant, product.
something of a runaway success, we have
convenient format.
a standalone Vape Station unit on the
This assurance comes at a key time for
shopfloor where customers can browse the
In fact, the same YouGov survey clearly
the UK’s disposable vape category, which
offer at their leisure, as-well-as a couple of
highlights just how much vapers’ tastes
appears to be becoming a growing target
countertop display units. There’s no other
have changed in a comparatively short
for the illicit trade.
offer like this in the local vicinity so it’s a
space of time.
real USP.
Legitimate manufacturers have stepped In 2015, tobacco flavours were the most
up their efforts to stifle the problem with
“Disposables are by far the most popular
popular at 38% followed by fruit flavours
GeekBar, for example, working closely with
type of vape product that we sell, in fact
at 25% and menthol 19%. However, this
UK vaping and retail trade associations
I’m now doing more than £600 a week on
has changed dramatically in recent years
and regulators in a bid to check and seize
GeekBar disposables alone.
and in 2021 fruit flavours emerged as the
counterfeit products in the UK.
most popular choices at 35%, followed by “The disposable format just really appeals
menthol at 23% and tobacco at 20%.
to that young adult vape demographic.
The arrival of the new Geek Bar range through Booker will therefore
They like the fact they can be
With sweet fruity flavours such as
undoubtedly provide retailers keen to
spontaneous, chop and change with the
Passionfruit and Peach Ice, Booker’s
expand their disposable vape offer and
flavours, grab a vape on the go and never
new GeekBar range is sure to appeal
profit from the growing opportunity,
have to worry about charging.”
to adult vapers on the hunt for
with welcome confidence and
pocket-friendly disposable options.
excitement.
87
SUMMER PRE-SELL
Get set for the
Future planning
summer pre-sell With a host of great events planned for this summer – including the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee – now is the time to take advantage of the Londis summer pre-sell to ensure you get all the fantastic stock at great value prices you need to get the most out of these occasions.
With so much to take care of every day
early and have been built around the most
in your store, any opportunity you can
important sales opportunities of the year
find to reduce workloads and improve
including the obvious ones like Easter,
forward planning, availability and profits is
Halloween and Christmas, but also cover
worth grasping – which is why the Londis
other important periods like ‘Thank You
seasonal pre-sell programme is worth
Teacher’, picnics, Valentines and New Year.
a fresh look, if you don’t already take
0um%POR 2 im in
M re-sell on every p e n li
advantage of it.
This offers Londis retailers a great way of gaining priority access to extended
Londis pre-sells run three times a
ranges, brand new products and great
year in spring, summer and winter
quality POS to bring the offers to life in
and offer participating retailers
your store.
a huge selection of benefits for minimum effort.
Vitally, every single product featured in all three pre-sells delivers a minimum of 20%
The pre-sells let you get ahead of the
POR – with many lines offering far higher
game by getting your ordering sorted
PORs.
Why take advantage of the Summer pre-sell? There are many great reasons, such as: l Great opportunity to buy into extended ranges l Tailored products to leverage key seasonal events l All products have a guaranteed minimum POR of 20% l Exciting NPD l Booker Exclusive products l Prizes and Incentives l Bespoke POS to highlight products in store l Establish a real point of difference from the competition l Drive footfall and cash profit
Perfect for…
The Londis summer presells let you prepare early for vital opportunities such as: l The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee weekend
SUMMER PRE-SELL
THE BENEFITS OF PRE-SELL
l National BBQ Week l ‘Thank You Teacher’ l Picnics l Eid l Wimbledon l The Hundred l Champions League, FA and Scottish Cup Finals
you want to buy in advance and get
hard work out of getting ready for
your order in by the closing date. This
the hot weather and all the occasions
takes a lot of the stress involved in
associated with it. The Summer pre-
buying around key seasonal periods
sell also offers lots of chances to win a
and ensures that you have the right
host of great prizes.
range to make the most impact and the biggest sales during each
The pre-sell provide a fantastic
important period.
opportunity to make sure that you have ordered all the products and
By ordering in advance, you free
categories you’ll need to make a
yourself and your team up to focus
huge success of all key summer
The pre-sells also provide easy access
on serving shoppers and keeping the
opportunities – and will leave you to
to the Booker Group’s exclusive
store in top-top condition when those
look after your team, your store and
products which help drive footfall,
seasonal occasions roll around, safe
your shoppers.
sales and profits for Londis retailers,
in the knowledge that all those key
as well as giving them a vital point of
products and accompanying POS are
Your Summer pre-sell brochure
difference over the competition.
ordered and in the system.
should arrive in the post on or around 18 February. It covers categories
SUMMER’S COMING
What’s more, by buying into pre-sells,
including Summer Deals, Major Events,
The Summer 2022 pre-sell is
you also gain access to extended
BWS, Summer Gifting, Summer Treats,
approaching fast and looks to build on
credit and you are automatically
Soft Drinks, BBQ & Picnic, Holiday &
the huge success of last year’s event
eligible for a programme of pre-sell
Travel Essentials, Summer Car Care
which saw almost 145,000 cases sold
incentives such as free stock and
and Summer Food-to-go.
by retailers.
vouchers.
To get in on the action this year, all
The Summer pre-sell features a
any queries or need any help when
that you have to do is check out the
number of new products and a host
completing your pre-sell orders.
pre-sell documents, choose the lines
of exclusive lines that will take the
Speak to your RDM if you have
91
MARKETING CALENDAR
Save the date
Lots to look forward to in 2022! This year’s full calendar of sporting and social events – including the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee and a winter World Cup final – means there are plenty of opportunities for Londis retailers to increase sales. We’ve picked out the key dates, so you don’t have to.
R GET SET FO
SUMMER
It’s been a busy couple of years and
With a whole host of big events scheduled
2022 looks set to be another busy
on top of the regular seasonal favourites,
one for Londis retailers with plenty of
2022 is shaping up to be an exciting year.
fantastic opportunities to grow footfall,
Bearing that in mind, it’s important that
sales and profits. With the hustle, bustle
you make plans well ahead of time and
and excitement of the festive period
get your orders in early so that you and
behind us, it’s straight into another set of
your team can be free to focus on offering
opportunities in the form of Valentine’s,
the fantastic service that shoppers have
Mothers Day and Easter, all chock full of
come t expect when they visit their local
chances to grow your business.
Londis store.
The independent retailing sector has
Londis has taken the hard work out of
performed well over the last year or two
planning an events calendar for yourself
and that trend shows no sign of letting
with a carefully planned series of
up. Indeed, convenience stores are still
promotions and activities to help retailers
performing ahead of pre-pandemic levels
capitalise on all that 2022 has to offer and
and their year-on-year figures are also
grow footfall, sales and profits.
positive, according to recent figures from Epos provider The Retail Data Partnership,
So what exactly does the year have in
which are based on 320 million
store?
transactions from the last 12 months.
With so many exciting and profitable opportunities in 2022, one great way to get ahead of the game, reduce workloads for you and your team and improve forward planning is to take advantage of the Londis seasonal presell programmes. Pre-sells let you ensure availability and bigger profits throughout the year with three individual pre-sells in 2022: spring, summer and winter. By taking advantage and getting your orders in early, you can gain access to
February – June Valentine’s Day 14th February Pancake Day 1st March St. David’s Day 1st March St. Patrick’s Day 17th March
a wide range of benefits for minimum effort.
MARKETING CALENDAR
Get ahead of the game
Key dates in 2022
The pre-sells have been built around the most important sales opportunities like Easter, Halloween, Christmas, ‘Thank You Teacher’ and New Year. This offers Londis retailers a great way of gaining access to extended ranges, Group exclusive products, brand new products and great quality POS to bring the offers to life in your store. Every product featured in all three pre-sells delivers a minimum of 20% POR – with many lines offering far higher PORs. Speak to your RDM to find out more.
Mother’s Day 27th March Easter Sunday 17st April St. George’s Day 23rd April Eid al-Fitr 3rd May
Bring it to life! While the fantastic Londis marketing and promotional programme gives you everything you need to make more of key activities and events in 2022, a great way of building further growth is through in-store theatre and activity and creative, eye-catching merchandising. Why not encourage your team to wear the the football strip of their favourite team during the World Cup, or a scary outfit for Halloween? A little extra effort can help bring excitement and fun to key seasons events for your shoppers and can help drive footfall, sales and profits.
National Vegetarian Week starts 9th May FA Cup Final 14th May Scottish Cup Final 21st May Champions League Final 28th May National BBQ Week starts 30 May Queen’s Platinum Jubilee 2-3 June Father’s Day 19th June Wimbledon starts 27th June
Building attention-grabbing displays, floor stacks and aisle ends can also help get shoppers in the mood for key events so plan ahead and make your store stand out throughout the year.
93
DRIVE YOUR SALES WITH THE TOP TWO
BESTSELLING IN THE MARKET
BRANDED THIN SKUS *
Nielsen scan track value sales 52 w/e to 06.11.21
M107142
Another great way of driving footfall around major events like the Champions League Final, Wimbledon and the World Cup is by leveraging the power of social media. You could flag up the key matches, highlight the great promotions you have on offer and eve run raffles or competitions offering themed prizes. It all helps
MARKETING CALENDAR
Social focus
grow your social reach and will help bring shoppers to your door.
n pages posts to your ow ce fi of ad he e Shar There’s an action-packed sporting
worth doubling-down during National
calendar for starters. For rugby fans, Wales
BBQ week, which starts on 30 May.
is set to open its Six Nations title defence against Ireland on Saturday 5 February,
There are also several other lifestyle-
commencing the first of five weekends of
themed opportunities to grow sales
action.
throughout the year. These include National Vegetarian Week (9 to 15 May),
The football season reaches a climax in
World Vegan Month (November), Organic
May with the FA Cup, Scottish Cup and
September and International Coffee Day
Champions League finals all falling on
(1 October).
consecutive Saturdays. There’s also the World Cup to look forward to, which Qatar
They come on top of the perennial
is hosting. Due to the country’s baking-hot
confectionery-boosting events of
climate, the event won’t take place until
Valentine’s, Mother’s and Father’s Days
later in the year, with the final held a week
and Easter, which falls later than usual in
before Christmas Day.
2022, giving retailers an additional two weeks to capitalise.
That’s not to say the summer will be devoid of sport, with the usual annual buzz
At the other end of the scale, there is
around Wimbledon fortnight starting at
one event taking place this year which
the end of June. The Hundred tournament
can be genuinely described as “once in
commences around the same time, which
a lifetime”. Her Majesty the Queen will
should tide cricket fans over until the ICC
celebrate 70 years on the throne, and the
Men’s T20 World Cup in October.
Platinum Jubilee weekend (2 to 3 June) will doubtless see people up and down
Hopefully the summer won’t be short of
the country looking to stage a celebration
glorious weather, with higher temperatures
of some sort. This is bound to create some
prompting demand for soft drinks and
fantastic opportunities for retailers.
ice cream. Booker will help you prepare, with POS material to drive sales around
As you can see, there’s a lot to look
BBQ, Picnic and Hot Weather occasions.
forward to and, with some advance
Although any spell of sunshine brings
planning and Booker’s help, there’s every
with it the chance to sell more burgers,
reason why 2022 should be another
sausages and charcoal, it may well be
prosperous year for Londis retailers.
Key dates in 2022 July – December Eid 9-11th July Diwali 24th October Halloween 31st October Bonfire Night 5th November Remembrance Sunday 13th November World Cup starts 21st November St. Andrew’s Day 30th November World Cup final 18th December Christmas Day 25th December
95
VEGAN & FREE FROM
Grow your wsales
Plant power Sales of plant-based products smashed through the £1bn mark in 2020 as veganism and free-from products continue to grow in popularity with shoppers, an opportunity not to be missed.
Meat-free, plant-based products are taking
When it comes to the total free-from
the convenience industry by storm and
category, vegan products specifically
now thanks to the availability of Tesco’s
continue to demonstrate growing curve
Wicked Kitchen plant-based meal range to
appeal - as is evidenced by the rising
Londis stores, convenience retailers have
number of convenience retailers now
an even bigger opportunity to give their
actively introducing dedicated vegan bays
sales more crunch
across their stores.
While the shopper trend towards free-from
The Mintel data highlights, vegan and
and vegan foods has been simmering
plant-based products are certainly not the
for some years now, the category has
exclusive preserve of vegan shoppers. Far
experienced what could be described as
from it!
a sales supernova in recent times, having grown by 16% year on year in 2020,
In-fact, according to Mintel, the vast
sending its value through the £1bn ceiling.
majority of UK shoppers buying into the fast-growing vegan and plant-based
In fact, according to new Mintel data
market are so-called flexitarians: meat
published in 2021, almost half of all
eating and non-meat-eating shoppers
shoppers now regularly use and buy free-
who are choosing to dip in and out of the
from foods and drinks, with the trend most
market for a variety of different reasons,
prevalent among the under 25s.
including health, ethics and environmental concerns.
VEGAN & FREE FROM
Four in ten adults now regularly use and buy freefrom foods and drinks according to Mintel
Why shoppers buy free-from?
44%
of free-from shoppers said they bought free-from products because they tasted better than standard products
51%
of free-from shoppers said that free-from products were healthier than standard products
Environmental concerns in particular
combinations supported by cool, punchy
appear to be one of the most significant
new brands helped to change mindsets,
drivers for heightened plant-based
proving to shoppers that plant-based
consumption.
foods were anything but boring; in fact, they could be pretty darn exciting and
In fact, according to the Vegan Society,
well-worth a repeat purchase.
individuals who switch to a plant-based diet could reduce their food-related
And thanks to the raft of new product
carbon footprints by up to 50%.
developments and range extensions currently taking the category by storm,
The nation’s new-found love-affair with
shopper appetite for meat-free, plant-
vegan and plant-based food and drink
based products only looks set for further
has not solely been stoked by health and
rapid growth.
34%
said they bought freefrom products because they reduced their environmental footprint
29%
said they bought freefrom products because they were available in unique flavours
24%
said they bought freefrom products because they had a longer shelf-life compared to standard products.
environmental concerns. According to Mintel forecasts, the freeBold, innovative, flavour and texture
(Source Mintel Free-from Foods Report 2021)
from market as a whole is expected to
97
range also allows retailers who are looking
and 2025 to £1.58bn – presenting retailers
to make their first foray into the vegan
with a distinctly juicy opportunity to profit.
and meat free market, to do so with
VEGAN & FREE FROM
post a 44% value growth between 2020
confidence. Fortunately for those retailers, Booker has recently made a raft of Wicked Kitchen
With a profit on return of 25% and more to
plant-based meals available to Londis
be made on each item, it’s a move which
retailers.
could certainly open the door to bountiful opportunities.
Crafted by pioneering chef Derek Sarno, the Wicked Kitchen range has been designed to “unleash the mighty flavour of plants like never before,” to vegans and non-vegans alike.
The free-from market grew by 16.9% year on year in 2020 to break through the £1bn ceiling according to Mintel.
Specially curated to feature some of the brand’s most poular products, the new Wicked Kitchen range currently includes six products in the frozen and ambient categories. Featuring delectable delights such as Spicy Smoky Dreamy Mac (Macaroni in a “dreamy” smoky cheese flavour sauce with red pepper, spring onions and jalapeños) and ‘Bangin Biryani’ which features Beyond Meat, the new range is certain to complement existing vegan offers and be greatly received by the new wave of flavour-hungry shoppers out on a meat free mission. With all products in the range featuring favourable Use By dates thanks to their ambient and frozen credentials, the new
New Wicked Kitchen range Product code
Product description
Case size
WSP
RSP
POR
M274153
Peng Panang Tofu Curry
6X400g
£14.39 £3.00
25%
M274172
Bangin Biryani made with Beyond Meat
6X400g
£14.39 £3.00
25%
M274158
Korean Inspired Bowl made with Beyond Meat
6X400g
£14.39 £3.00
25%
M273747
Very Berry Porridge
8x70g
£8.49
£1.09
25.6%
M273647
Spicy Coconut and Rice Noodles
6x72g
£7.15
£1.59
25.1%
M273648
Spicy Smoky Dreamy Mac
6x80g
£7.15
£1.59
25.1%
99
BERRY
peacShoony Coming
Tango Sugar free range - worth over £18m RSV and HAS grown +14.6% in the last year Tango Berry Peachy- New for 2022- A great tasting, vibrant liquid with a bold, disruptive pack design Source: Nielsen, Total Coverage, Value Sales MAT to 20.11.21
Time to
GUEST COLUMN
Direct delivered
Let Booker
deliver for you Booker Group Drinks Development Controller Jason Kelk highlights how Booker’s Direct Delivered service can help you grow footfall, sales and profits. If you are looking to add interest by extending
website – just look out for the ‘Direct
your range of more unusual drinks products,
Delivered’ blue flash.
it’s as easy as looking for the blue ‘Direct Delivered’ tab on the Booker website. The
For example, gin continues to be a huge
service is available via web to all retailers, but
category and Booker branches stocks a great
requires credit card payment.
range of the biggest selling lines: big name brands, speciality craft gins and great value
The Direct range features premium spirits,
own-brand options, many available in 1.5l
miniature spirits, more choice in flavoured/
format. But if you are keen to add some more
quirky, craft beer cans, and premium canned
unusual craft gins, then Direct Delivered is a
sodas.
great option. Deliveries are free on all orders over £75.
The drinks market is continually evolving and presenting fresh opportunities for retailers to
As well as an additional range don’t forget to
grow their businesses by offering customers
search ‘bundle’ on the website and you will
on-trend, high quality, great value drinks.
see Booker’s latest deals and bundle deals complete with high-quality POS that help
The
latest
market
data
indicates
that
bring your offer to life.
premiumisation and increased choice are important to lots of consumers – but don’t
The direct delivery service is great for
forget that lots of your shoppers are still
ensuring regular supply and for emergency
looking for the leading brands that they trust
top-ups.
and enjoy, alongside new products.
EXCLUSIVE OPTIONS
LOOK OUT FOR THE ‘DIRECT DELIVERED’ BLUE FLASH. AT BOOKER.CO.UK
Booker stocks the best-selling brands in all
Another way to set your offering apart from
major drinks categories with completely
the competition is with Booker’s own brand
transparent pricing. The price you see on the
and Group exclusive lines; Alfred Button,
web is the price you will pay, but the service
Vodka, Vanilla Vodka, Passion Fruit Liqueur
requires credit card payment.
and London dry Gin. Offering a unique range can help grow footfall and spend as well as
DIRECT DELIVERED
profits.
But if you are looking to add interest and excitement to your range, then the Booker
To help you plan ahead and guarantee your
Direct Delivered service is a fantastic way to
profits, Booker has also secured the pricing
gain access to a hugely extended range of
on many big lines. You’ll find details on those,
premium and specialist drinks.
as well as new products and profitable serve ideas, on the Booker website.
Direct Delivered offers hundreds of products that you won’t find in a Booker branch, but
For further information contact your local
which you can order through the Booker
Retail Development Manager.
101
W IN
A NINTENDO SWITCH AND THE NEW POKÉMON™ LEGENDS: ARCEUS
5 TO BE WON!
When you purchase a minimum of 4 cases, of different varieties, across the range below in one order during 13.12.2021 – 08.03.2022 you will be automatically entered into a prize draw to win a Nintendo Switch and the new Pokémon Legends: Arceus game. Entrants must be 18 or over. One entry per transaction. One prize per retailer. Full terms and conditions apply, see
www.grocerypartners.co.uk/whats-new/ batchelors-gaming-brp-2022
EXCLUSIVE ON PACK CONSUMER PROMOTION FOR BOOKER GROUP
BATCHELORS ARE THE PERFECT MEAL FOR GAMERS ON A BREAK Case & Pack Size
Price Marked Sale Price
Retailer purchase price per pack
Consumer Deal
Single Consumer Deal
Promotion POR%
Midas Product code
BATCHELORS SUPER NOODLES CHICKEN POT PMP £1.20
8 x 75g
£1.20
£4.50
2 for £1.50
75p
25%
M248838
BATCHELORS SUPER NOODLES CHICKEN BLOCK PMP £1.09
8 x 90g
£1.09
£4.50
2 for £1.50
75p
25%
M249556
BATCHELORS PASTA N SAUCE POT CHEESE & BROCCOLI PMP £1.20
6 x 65g
£1.20
£3.45
2 for £1.50
75p
23.33%
M248847
BATCHELORS SUPER NOODLES BBQ BLOCK
8 x 90g
N/A
£4.50
2 for £1.50
75p
25%
M250426
BATCHELORS SUPER NOODLES CHICKEN BLOCK
8 x 90g
N/A
£4.50
2 for £1.50
75p
25%
M250428
BATCHELORS SUPER NOODLES MILD CURRY BLOCK
8 x 90g
N/A
£4.50
2 for £1.50
75p
25%
M250443
BATCHELORS PASTA N SAUCE CHEESE & BROCCOLI
7 x 99g
N/A
£3.99
2 for £1.50
75p
24%
M250452
BATCHELORS PASTA N SAUCE CHICKEN & MUSHROOM
7 x 99g
N/A
£3.99
2 for £1.50
75p
24%
M250478
BATCHELORS PASTA N SAUCE CHEESE, LEEK & HAM
7 x 99g
N/A
£3.99
2 for £1.50
75p
24%
M250453
Product Description
*Price marked packs.
©2022 Pokémon / Nintendo / Creatures / GAME FREAK. Prize draw open to residents of Great Britain, who own a Budgens store or Londis store and who have an account with Booker Limited (“Eligible Retailer”). Promotion Period: 13/12/21 – 08/03/22. To enter, purchase a minimum of four (4) cases, of different varieties, across the range above qualifying Batchelors products (the “Qualifying Purchase”) during the Promotion Period and you will automatically be entered into the prize draw. A Qualifying Purchase must be placed in a single order to qualify for entry. You will receive an entry into the prize draw for each Qualifying Purchase made. Batchelors products that are considered a Qualifying Purchase are subject to availability. Please retain proof of purchase. Five (5) winners will be selected at random from all valid entries received into the prize draw during the Promotion Period and will each win x1 physical copy of the Pokémon Legends: Arceus game and x1 Nintendo Switch with Neon Blue / Neon Red Joy-Con Controllers (the “Prize”). Only one Prize will be awarded per Eligible Retailer. Entrant’s personal data held by Booker Limited shall be used by Booker Limited, the Promoter or the Promoter’s agents, for the purpose of administering this prize draw. Full T&Cs apply, see www.grocerypartners.co.uk/whats-new/batchelors-gaming-brp-2022. Promoter: Premier Foods Group Ltd, Premier House, Centrium Business Park, Griffiths Way, St Albans, AL1 2RE.
VIEWPOINT: ACS
Make your voice heard
Putting
‘Challenge 25’
in the spotlight ‘Challenge 25’ is a key policy in helping retailers avoid in-store problems when it comes to age-restricted sales, yet shopper awareness is only at 70%. Working as a retailer in the convenience sector, it is inevitable that you will encounter a number of products which are subject to age restrictions on a daily basis and its important that you feel confident in your store’s procedures in the sale of these products. One of the key policies in relation to the sale of age restricted products is ‘Challenge 25’ which is a retailing strategy which encourages customers who is over the age of 18 but looks under 25 to carry identification if they wish to buy age restricted products.
James Lowman ACS Chief Executive At the end of 2021, we launched consumer polling to determine current awareness
in their shopping journey as well as digital
levels of Challenge 25 and we found
materials that you can use to tell your
that around 70% of customers were
customers on social media so that they are
aware of the policy. While this is a good
aware before they even step foot in your
level of awareness, there is still room for
store.
improvement and that’s why we’re launching a campaign to promote the use of Challenge
We know from our 2021 Crime Report that
25 in our sector.
enforcing age restricted sales policies is one of the top triggers for violence and abuse
Last month we launched a campaign which
against shopworkers. This is an important
will run throughout the year to promote the
campaign to raise awareness amongst
use of Challenge 25 in stores and to raise
consumers so that they understand why they
awareness amongst consumers, reminding
are being asked for proof of age and that
them that they will be asked for proof of age
our colleagues are following procedure to
if they want to purchase a product which has
minimise the risk of selling age restricted
an age restriction.
products to those who are underage.
As part of the campaign, we’re launching
If you have any questions about the
new materials for you to use in store to
campaign, please get in touch via Edward.
remind customers about the policy earlier
woodall@acs.org.uk
103
LET'S CELEBRATE
with our new members and longstanding partners
New stores Downham Way Bromley, Kent
London, Greater London
Worthing West Sussex
Wirral Way Birkenhead, Merseyside
Fortune
Marston Mortaine
Londis Earlsdon
Greenock Inverclyde, Lanarkshire
Bedford, Bedfordshire
Coventry, Warwickshire
Blakelands
Prestatyn
Park Wines Uk Ltd Aldershot, Hampshire
Milton Keynes, Buckinghamshire
Prestatyn, Clwyd
Rhymney Service Station Tredegar, Caerphilly
Leadenhall
Carlton, Nottinghamshire
Dale Valley Stores Southampton, Hampshire
Broadmead Folkestone, Kent
Londis Carlton
Milton Keynes, Buckinghamshire
Londis Astwood Bank
Londis - Brackley
Londis Kingsweston
Astwood Bank, Worcestershire
Londis Bournmoor Houghton Le Spring, County Durham
Bedford, Bedfordshire
Londis Moulsford Wallingford, Oxfordshire
Londis Riverside
Upminster Upminster, Essex
Londis Chester Road
Hillington Park Estate, Lanarkshire
Stanley, County Durham
Redbourn
Londis Wharley End
Londis Commercial Road Bournemouth, Dorset Londis Wexham Service Station Wexham Road, Berkshire
Londis Golden Crown
Rontec Snd Bristol Bristol, Avon
Moulton, Northamptonshire
Sutton Elms Leicester, Leicestershire Kingsbury Road Birmingham, West Midlands Londis Coombe Hill Coombe Hill, Gloucestershire Londis Blackhill Consett, County Durham Eagle Rochdale, Lancashire Whitmore Park Coventry, West Midlands Towcester Towcester, Northamptonshire Londis Nantymoel Stores Nr Bridgend, Mid Glamorgan Londis Penwerris Post Office Falmouth, Cornwall
Fulham London, Greater London
Yiewsley West Drayton, Greater London
Weston Park
104
Bedfordshire
Londis Blofield Norwich, Norfolk Belper, Derbyshire
St Albans, Hertfordshire Tonyrefail, Mid Glamorgan
Vsa Moulton Local
Bristol, Avon
Londis Castlemilk Strathclyde, Lanarkshire
Londis Ghsl Hillington
Wharley End, Buckinghamshire
Willesden London, Greater London
Londis Texaco Pensaurn Newcastle Emlyn, Carmarthenshire
Londis Westley Rocks Stoke On Trent, Staffordshire
Londis Lower Wortley Convenience
Londis Walcote
Londis Coach House
Nr Market, Harborough Leicestershire
Londis Saltney Chester, Cheshire
Londis Illogan Post Office Redruth, Cornwall
Leeds, West Yorkshire Petersfield, Hampshire
Londis Central Glasgow, Lanarkshire
Londis Crossways General Store Newquay, Cornwall
Londis Strawberry Express
Londis Hughenden Road
Newport Pagnell, Buckinghamshire
Londis Abbey Street
Londis Llandudno Llandudno, Conwy
Londis Rackheath Norwich, Norfolk
Londis East End Service Station Cheltenham, Gloucestershire
Weddington Nuneaton, Warwickshire
Worthing
Hasting, East Sussex Nuneaton, West Midlands
Londis Stourbridge Stourbridge, West Midlands
Buckhurst Hill Buckhurst Hill, Essex
Gayton Wirral, Merseyside
Londis Nuthurst Road Birmingham, West Midlands
Many happy returns to all those celebrating their time with us. More than just a brand, Londis is a family of like-minded convenience retailers whose focus is to provide a much-needed service to their local community
5
1
YEARS
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
10
YEARS
Cryers Hill Post Office And Stores High Wycombe, Buckinghamshire
20
21
22
Noak Bridge Basildon, Essex
23
Bryn Aber P.O Nr Corwen, Clwyd Londis Ellistown Coalville, Leicestershire
20
YEARS
Londis Erith, Kent
24
30
YEARS
25
Watcombe Post Office Torquay, Devon Londis New Broughton, Wrexham Milton Stores Maidstone, Kent
35
26
YEARS
Burnham Market Stores Burnham Market, Norfolk Tottenham Road Garage Darwen, Lancashire Londis Romford, Essex Londis Rainham, Kent Probus School Filling Station Truro, Cornwall Chatters Food & Drink Milton, Hampshire Londis Sunbury On Thames, Middlesex
Broomhill Road Londis Farnborough, Hampshire Londis Guildford, Surrey Beeford Post Office & Stores Beeford, Driffield, East Riding
13
Londis Watton At Stone, Hertfordshire
14
Bushey Local Limited Bushey, Hertfordshire
15
101 Cooper Lane Bradford, West Yorkshire
16
Londis - Castle Donington Derby, Derbyshire
17
Londis Nr Robertsbridge, East Sussex
18
Londis Bricket Wood, Hertfordshire
19
Londis Holmfirth, West Yorkshire
YEARS
15
Colinsburgh Filling Station Colinsburgh, Fife
LONDIS BIRTHDAYS
Londis birthdays
Canford Heath
105
DIGIT AL AD S& SOCIA L MED IA TO SU PPOR T THE C AMPA IGN THRO UGHO UT
2022
*For more information please visit www.shebahopegrows.com/uk/home
©2021 Mars or Affiliates.
s i d n o L the m u r o F l Retai
NATALIE LIGHTFOOT
Londis, Lanarkshire, Glasgow Tel: 0141 7710490 Mobile: 07915 059101 Email: londis.solo@hotmail.com
LONDIS RETAIL FORUM
r... e h t e g o t g in k r Wo
JAMIE WOOD
St. Michael’s Services, Dumfries Tel: 01387 254304 Mobile: 07759 260621 Email: stmichaelsservicesltd@gmail.com
TERRY CATON
Londis, Chesterfield, Derbyshire Tel: 01246 208565 Mobile: 07769 644853 Email: tcaton.londis@gmail.com
BEN SIMONS
Londis, Lechlade, Gloucestershire Tel: 01367 252202 Mobile: 07901 711659 Email: ben@oxringltd.com
ROGER PERRY
Londis, East Riding, Yorkshire Tel: 01964 544200 Mobile: 07786 330164 Email: perryroger9@aol.com
ASHTON GARDNER
Gardner Garages, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire Mobile: 07826 857797 Email: ashton@gardnergarages.co.uk
ALPESH PATEL Londis, London N4
SARAH COPE
Londis, Lynton, Devon Tel: 01598 753326 Mobile: 07808 831379 Email: scope71@hotmail.co.uk
Tel: 020 8340 1919 Mobile: 07939 944557 Email: alpeshspatel@hotmail.com
ARJAN MEHR
Londis, Bracknell, Berkshire Tel: 01344 425565 Mobile: 07710 567008 Email: arjanmehr@aol.com
STEVE BASSETT
Londis, Weymouth, Dorset Mobile: 07875 286657 Email: steedthrust@googlemail.com
Supporting the Londis retail family!
RAMESH SHINGADIA
Londis, Caterways, West Sussex Tel: 01403 265949 Mobile: 07885 625376 Email: rameshshingadia@aol.com
We are always happy to hear from you, so please give us a call or send us a message on our contact details above…
107
NEW
STOCK UP
NOW!
M271115
UNLEASH
YOUR
SALES
Now available in the UK
M2711
13