Your Budgens May-June 2026

In this issue…

The

round up of inspiring stories from Budgens

the

Sustained small efforts are adding up to mighty rewards at Raven’s Budgens Abridge.

St John’s Budgens in Kenilworth stands out for all the right reasons.

The Booker Retail Trade Shows 2026 allowed retailers to bag unrivalled choice, price and service.

As the FIFA World Cup 2026 kicks off, Budgens has everything you need to score.

A wave of enhancements delivers even more reasons to sign up to Scoot.

Beer & Cider Category Manager Ailbe Heffernan talks us though this summer’s hottest opportunities.

An inspiring update from the Women at Booker Colleague Network.

celebrates 25 million meals after five years of partnership with FareShare.

Since acquiring the store in 2009, dynamic husband and wife duo Avtar (Sid) and Sukhi Sidhu have transformed St John’s Budgens into a true focal point and destination - not just for shoppers in Kenilworth, but from across Warwickshire.

Welcome: Stewart Fenn and Martyn Parkinson

GET SET TO SCORE THIS summer!

The summer season is almost upon us and promising a sizzling set of opportunities for retailers to net additional footfall, sales and profits.

A very warm welcome to the latest packed issue of Your Budgens as we head into the all-important summer season – and what a season of opportunity it promises to be!

Kicking off in early June, the FIFA World Cup 2026 is sure to prove a sizzling highlight.

Taking place over three countries and featuring a record number of teams from across the globe, the tournament looks set to provide a hat-trick of opportunities for retailers to score additional footfall, sales and profits as shoppers stock up to enjoy the sporting spectacle with friends and family.

In this issue you’ll also find an insight-packed interview with Booker’s Beer & Cider Category Manager Ailbe Heffernan, including a lowdown on the many striking deals, bundle promotions and NPD that Booker has in its kitbag to help support you this summer.

And that’s far from all. As the home delivery opportunity continues to grow, so does the number of reasons to sign up to Scoot – Booker’s exclusive low-cost delivery solution.

Well over 400 retailers now use Scoot and that number is set to keep climbing over the summer months, thanks to a wave of new improvements and enhancements recently made in direct response to retailer feedback. Check out our Scoot Update feature to get the full development details.

We also look back at our recent hugely successful Retail Trade Shows at Sandown and Doncaster.

Retailers from across the country flocked to both shows to stock up on key insights, news, products and prices. It was wonderful to see so many of you there!

This issue also features a moving update from the Women at Booker Colleague Network as it enters its fourth year and an important transition – with new leadership and a new name: The Gender Equality Network.

And of course, this issue also provides the usual fantastic mix of inspiring retailer profiles, innovative new products and helpful advice.

It’s certainly set to be a cracking summer for Budgens retailers, and we wish you all the very best of trading over the next couple of months – and the best of luck to England and Scotland at FIFA World Cup 2026.

Stewart Fenn, Director of Retail Customer Proposition & Forecourt Sales

Martyn Parkinson, Director of Retail Sales

Industry News

The ACS has launched a new in-depth guide on how the coming Deposit Return Scheme (DRS) will impact on retailers.

ACS launches new DRS Guide for retailers

The guide details the operation of the scheme and the things that retailers need to consider when deciding whether to operate a manual return point, install a Reverse Vending Machine (RVM) or seek an exemption.

The UK Government is introducing a DRS in October 2027, which will operate in England, Scotland and Northern Ireland.

The Welsh Government intend to introduce a DRS by October 2027 that also includes glass, but glass containers will not have a deposit applied until 2031, but must still be accepted.

Customers will pay a deposit when purchasing a drink in a single-use container and receive the deposit back when they return the empty container to a return point operator.

Single use containers in scope include PET plastic bottles and metal cans (volume between 150ml and 3 litres).

If you sell drinks in single-use containers, you are obligated to:

l Register your store with Exchange for Change.

l Pay the deposit back to consumers at the point of return (payment methods are to be determined by Exchange for Change).

l Ensure that customers can redeem their deposit through a voucher at the checkout.

l Display information so customers know how the scheme works.

You can apply for an exemption from operating a return point. However, every store must charge a deposit on containers, even if they are exempt from hosting a return point.

For more info, visit www.acs.org.uk/advice/deposit-returnscheme-guide-retailers

Booker celebrates meal milestone

Booker has celebrated a major sustainability milestone after providing the equivalent of 25 million meals to families and individuals facing food insecurity over the last five years.

The achievement is thanks to Booker’s long-standing partnership with the UK’s leading food redistribution charity FareShare.

The 25 million meal milestone highlights the scale and impact of the partnership, which sees surplus food from across Booker’s estate redistributed to charities and community groups nationwide - helping to support the families and individuals who need it most - and preventing good food from going to waste.

For more information on the successful scheme, check out the full feature on page 60.

ACS flags up retailers’ rising costs to Low Pay Commission

The ACS has urged the Low Pay Commission to consider the rising operating costs and financial pressures on local shops, as a consultation on the future minimum wage rates for April 2027 is launched.

From 1 April 2026, the National Living Wage increased by 4.1% to £12.71 for workers aged 21 and over.

The Low Pay Commission’s consultation on the 2027 rates sets out an indicative National Living Wage range of £13.02 to £13.34, with a central estimate of £13.18.

ACS will be submitting evidence to the Commission, highlighting the impact that rising labour costs are having on retailers and the difficult decisions that many businesses are already making as a result of the increases taking effect from April 2026. The consultation also comes as retailers prepare for further changes arising from the Employment Rights Act, including reforms to Statutory Sick Pay.

ACS is urging the Government to ensure that these measures are implemented in a way that is proportionate, workable and

does not place further unnecessary burdens on local shops.

ACS chief executive Ed Woodall said: “Local shops are facing multiple increases in operating costs, alongside new regulatory requirements, which are having a material impact on their hiring and investment decisions in their businesses.

“We want the Low Pay Commission to understand the challenges facing local shops when forming its recommendations for 2027 wages. Convenience stores play a vital role in communities and want to invest in their people, but achieving this depends on having greater stability and certainty around the costs they face.”

ACS’ forthcoming Employment Survey will gather further evidence from retailers on the effect that recent wage increases and food inflation are having on their businesses.

Fed members voice employment law concerns

The Fed’s National President Hetal Patel has written to business secretary Peter Kyle calling for the government to implement the Employment Rights Act carefully and communicate clearly with independent retailers so they can prepare.

In the letter, Mr Patel wrote: “Fed members are responsible employers and value a positive working relationship with their staff members, so we fully understand the measures in the Act and their positive intentions.

“However, we continue to have concerns that the Act will have the unintended consequence of making recruitment of staff less flexible, ultimately adding to unemployment, which is not in the interests of anyone.”

The letter comes at a time of unemployment rising to 5.3 per cent, and youth unemployment now at 16.1 per cent among 16–24-year-olds.

It also comes as new BRC data highlights how important flexibility at work is for younger workers especially, which could be more challenging by measures in the Act, including reasonable notice of a shift change.

Spending on crime prevention tech sees shop theft fall

Retailers

are spending more than ever before on crime prevention and detection measures, the ACS says.

Record investment by local shops in crime prevention and detection measures has led to a year-on-year fall in the number of shop theft incidents recorded in the UK convenience sector, according to The Association of Convenience Stores’ (ACS) Annual Crime Report.

Over the last year there have been 5.8 million incidents of shop theft recorded by retailers, down 6% from 6.2 million last year.

Meanwhile, verbal abuse incidents have dropped by 20.5% from over 1.2 million incidents to 954,000+.

The fall in shop theft and verbal abuse incidents comes as convenience retailers spent a record £313m on crime prevention and detection measures, such as CCTV, security tagging, protective screens, facial recognition and AI monitoring.

ACS also observed more reporting of crime, with 64% of retailers stating they are reporting more crime to the police than last year.

Worryingly, the number of violent incidents has increased by 13.6% from 59,000+ to 67,000+, while 61% of retailers believe that anti-social behaviour in or around their store has increased over the past year.

Thankfully, incidents of robbery have decreased significantly, down 36% from an estimated 9,200+ incidents to 5,900+.

The 2026 ACS Crime Report also reveals that, taken together, the cost of crime and the cost of investing in crime prevention amounts to an 11p ‘crime tax’ on every transaction that takes place in the UK’s local shops.

Retailers crack Easter 2026 with dynamic new approaches

Easter has evolved “far beyond” chocolate, with many stores displaying a “broader, more dynamic approach to seasonal retail,” IGD said. From Easter crackers to floral wreaths, toys and even festive trees, alongside a renewed focus on the Easter roast, many retailers turned the occasion into “a multi-category celebration”.

According to IGD’s ShopperVista research, 61% of UK shoppers intended to celebrate Easter in 2026, making it the fourth most widely celebrated occasion.

Local spending ‘holds strong’

Local spending is holding strong in the current economic climate, with repeat customers anchoring local economies despite squeezed budgets, new data from global technology company Square has revealed.

According to the research, 70% of UK shoppers shop locally every week.

What’s more, 80% of shoppers said their relationship with their favourite local business was more than transactional.

The research found that 40% described the relationship as familiar – while another 29% said they felt connected by a personal bond with staff.

Loyal regulars also generate up to five times more annual revenue for British local businesses as they typically return to a business 11 times throughout the year.

Fruity cider? Stock up now

Biggest

Dancing the day away

St John’s Budgens in Kenilworth has held a pop-tastic in-store disco for its local shoppers.

The fun-filled in-store activation was organised in partnership with KP Snacks in homage to some of its key heritage brands including Discos, Skips and Nik Naks.

Everyone who came down enjoyed a dance and chance to bag some great prizes and freebies, and sample two brand new flavours of Skips and Nik Naks.

Store owner Sid Sidhu said the activation was a great way to engage with the local community and spread some fun.

Sales bloom at Budgens Walkern

Budgens of Walkern in Stevenage has been brightening shoppers’ days with its beautiful displays of fresh spring flowers.

From bedding to borders, the store meets a budding range of horticultural needs.

The range also included a spectacular display of Mother’s Day bouquets from local florist Suzzies ranging in price from between £12 to £40.

Fraser’s Budgens makes sweet handover

Fraser’s Budgens in Yarnton has donated a selection of Cadbury Crème Eggs to Sobell House Hospice in support of a new creative fundraising idea.

Volunteers at the hospice have spent weeks knitting colourful little coats for each chocolate egg, which, once dressed, were sold to raise vital funds for patient care and family support.

Commenting on the “eggciting donation,” a spokesman for Frasers Budgens said: “The project has already brought plenty of smiles, and we’re proud to play a small part in helping this much-loved local charity continue its important work in the community.”

Pedal the Borders – for GroceryAid!

A contingent of Booker colleagues is joining industry charity GroceryAid’s annual three-day cycle challenge this year with a ride across the Scottish Borders.

Industry charity GroceryAid has chosen the beautiful Scottish Borders as the location for its annual three-day cycling challenge this year with a strong contingent from Booker taking part in the fundraising challenge.

The ride will take place from Wednesday 15 – Friday 17 July with two stunning routes planned for intermediate and advanced riders to test endurance while celebrating Scotland’s most beautiful landscapes, all in support of your industry charity.

Last year’s ride raised more than £190k and the charity

hopes to top that figure in 2026. The event presents a unique opportunity to network and host key contacts in a memorable setting.

With a full support crew, organised training rides, and a celebratory dinner to round off the experience, this challenge offers an exceptional experience for cyclists.

So if you would like to get involved and helped raise muchneeded funds for GroceryAid, please contact: felicity. patterson@groceryaid.org.uk.

Small efforts, seismic results

After almost 100 years, Goran Raven’s family business remains at the heart of local life in Abridge – its continued success fuelled by Goran’s belief that small efforts add up to big rewards.

FACTFILE

Store name: Raven’s Budgens Abridge

Store size: 2,950sq ft

Retailer: Goran Raven

Staff: 30

Services: Scoot, food to go, parcel collection, National Lottery, ATM, fuel, jet wash

Opening hours: 6.30am-10pm

“Success is the sum of small efforts, repeated day in and day out” – so the 20th-century author Robert Collier said.

One man who certainly lives and breathes Collier’s philosophy is Goran Raven, the fourth-generation custodian of the RJ Raven family business.

While its location at the heart of the Essex village of Abridge remains unchanged, the business itself has metamorphosed since its founding just shy of a century ago – into an award-winning Budgens-branded forecourt store that’s at the heart of local life.

And its success, as Goran explains, is largely down to his belief that long-term success is built through small, consistent, incremental actions – rather than sporadic big-ticket investments.

“I’ve got this thing about trying to improve 1% a day,” Goran says.

“Aiming for a 1% increase each day is much more attainable and, in the long run, can have a much more powerful impact. If you’re constantly improving by 1% a day, by the end of the year you’re in a much better place than if you’d tried to do two or three big things and not quite pulled them off.”

So how does he do it and what kind of tiny tweaks does Goran suggest?

“The easiest way is to view your business as a customer and be brutally honest with yourself,” he says.

“When I walk onto site – I don’t walk on as the store owner, or even as a retailer. I walk on as a customer and I try to see everything from a customer’s point of view.

“If there was litter blowing around outside, gaps on the shelves and dirty toilets, then as a customer I would immediately start to question what the rest of the business was like. Those first impressions, no matter how small, all add up.

“It’s not always easy, though, and sometimes you’re forced to ask yourself questions that you don’t want to hear the answers to – but you must, because not doing something because it’s tricky isn’t good enough these days.

“I also try to emulate other businesses – and not necessarily businesses in this industry. Take an Apple store, for example: you walk into one of those and almost immediately one of their employees will approach you, greet you and move you through the store to get you what you need. You feel valued, and making your customers feel valued is another key.

“A customer makes a decision on a business within 20 seconds of setting foot inside a store, and that’s what we’ve got to do.”

As such, Goran and his team place a lot of focus on the store’s entrance zone. “We’re incredibly critical of it,” he says. “It has to look spotlessly neat, welcoming, and ultimately wow the shopper at all times – so that they feel compelled to venture further in and explore the rest of the store.

“As a Budgens we pride ourselves on our outstanding fresh offer and we really trumpet it at the front of the store – we have a lot of fantastic fresh products, including flowers and locally sourced meats, right at the entrance.”

Goran’s approach to fresh, which accounts for well over a quarter of total sales, also plays a key hand in the store’s overall success.

“If you’re constantly improving by 1% a day, by the end of the year you’re in a much better place than if you’d tried to do two or three big things and not quite pulled them off.”

Goran Raven

“We have a fantastic fresh range from Budgens which we further enhance with products from local suppliers, and we are always on the lookout for new local businesses to work with.

“We work very closely with a local butcher and having that unique protein offer for our customers is a major USP. Local products have an enormously positive knock-on effect too, because when a customer picks up one of our wonderful packs of fresh beef or pork steaks, they will invariably pick up a few other things to have on the side, such as some fresh vegetables, breads and a bottle of wine – so it’s a big booster of basket spend.”

Goran’s approach to bakery is also paying dividends.

“We now have a whole bakery team dedicated to keeping our bakery fixture fully stocked throughout the day. They get in for 5.30am and are still cooking right through till 7pm every night – a fact which has earned us a sterling reputation for great-quality bakery products constantly available.

“We’ve become a destination for bakery because of it.

Shoppers know that they can walk in here at any time and find croissants so fresh that, most of the time, they are still warm from the oven. Now if that’s not a footfall driver, I don’t know what is!”

The in-store bakery team have also recently started producing a new filled baguette range via Country Choice, with Goran currently mulling a small expansion of its current hot food-to-go offer with the addition of pizzas and chicken bites.

Another small but mighty recent addition to the store’s range has been the introduction of frozen Field Fare products –complementing its existing Cook offer and fresh range.

“We introduced the new range in February and it’s beaten all our expectations, so we are extraordinarily happy with it,” Goran says.

Other new additions have included a small pick-and-mix station in the impulse aisles and a free-to-use car mat cleaner on the forecourt which – while not generating direct sales – has certainly generated engagement, especially

online – another area where Goran has been working his magic.

“Social media is an incredibly powerful tool for driving engagement, loyalty, footfall and sales,” he says.

“When I first started out on Facebook, I did what 90% of other stores do and just focused on deals, but I’ve taken a totally different approach now because I’ve learned that those types of posts don’t really drive engagement.

“You want to see comments, likes and shares. The clue’s in the name – it’s ‘social media’ – and your posts need to give shoppers a reason to engage with them.”

And from informative posts about new local suppliers, to open and honest posts about fuel prices and funny posts about toilet roll, the store’s posts certainly do that.

“Our approach has helped us to grow our audience organically and we now have more than 4,600 followers,” he says.

Scoot also features in its posts, with Raven’s Budgens Abridge holding the accolade of having been the first store to launch the new home delivery service last year.

“I’m very pleased with Scoot,” Goran says. “It all comes back to that flip between seeing things as a retailer and seeing things as a customer and, when I learned about the Scoot model, I immediately said ‘yep, I’m in.’ It’s wonderful – a great thing to have.”

Goran’s hands-on approach also has a hand in the store’s success.

“I’m very in touch with the store and the team,” he says. “I really believe that if you want to build a strong and motivated team you’ve got to be there daily. Having boots on the ground is key. You can only do so much via email and WhatsApp.”

And he’s just as hands-on when it comes to the local community.

“We’ve been in the village for 97 years now and we’re deeply embedded in the local community,” he says.

From local teams to dog shows and races, the store sponsors and supports a vast number of local groups and events.

“Community is one of those things that I don’t think you can do enough of,” Goran says. “It does good on so many levels.”

The same can certainly be said for Goran’s overall approach.

“I’m delighted to say that the business is growing successfully. Year-on-year our shop sales are increasing, our fuel sales are increasing, and local goodwill also continues to increase too.”

Proof, if you still needed it, that the sum of small things really does add up to big results.

Retailer Profile: St John’s Budgens

Centre of attention

An innovative range, exciting in-store activations and community care have made Budgens retailers Avtar and Sukhi Sidhu the centre of attention in Kenilworth and beyond.

The beats are thumping, the lights are flashing – and overhead, disco balls are throwing rainbows over shoppers as they dance among the aisles.

It’s just a standard Thursday morning at St John’s Budgens in Kenilworth, the store whose owners have made it their business to be “the centre of attention” in their local community.

But they’ve done more than that. Since acquiring the store in 2009, dynamic husband-and-wife duo Avtar (Sid) and Sukhi Sidhu have transformed St John’s Budgens into a true focal point and destination – not just for shoppers in Kenilworth, but from across Warwickshire.

On the day that Your Budgens spoke to the pair, they were gearing up for an in-store disco as part of a high-energy instore activation with KP Snacks.

“We do so many in-store activations these days, we’ve literally got something happening in the store every single week – it’s just one of the ways we live our ideology of being the centre of attention,” Sid explains.

“As an independent retailer, no matter where you operate, you have to flex your store, your space and your relationship with your local community. That’s how you stand out.

“It’s all about creating that buzz, fun and excitement.

“We’ve got a calendar for events and right now we are booked up for the next four months. We’ll work with all kinds of people, not just national suppliers but also local groups and businesses.”

Thanks to a large forecourt at the front of the store, St John’s Budgens has also started hosting local food trucks on Friday and Saturday nights.

Retailer Profile: St John’s Budgens

FACTFILE

Store name: St John’s Budgens, Kenilworth

Retailers: Sid and Sukhi Sidhu

Size: 2,000sq ft

Staff: 10

Opening hours: 6.30-9.30pm

Best-performing categories: soft drinks, fresh & chilled, food to go, vape

“As an independent retailer, no matter where you operate, you have to flex your store, your space and your relationship with your local community. That’s how you stand out.”

From Gurkha street food to wood-fired pizzas, Louisiana-style po’ boys and Jamaican jerk grills, the store has become a destination for innovative evening meal solutions.

“The food truck concept has been a phenomenal success,” Sid adds. “And there are multiple benefits to doing it.”

“Firstly, hosting the trucks allows us to support local food traders, something which has always been important to us as independent retailers. We don’t charge them for the pitch, and we let them plug into our electricity. All we ask is that our team get to enjoy some of their delicious food for free.

“The community loves the concept, because it means that every week there’s an exciting

new food truck offer to get their teeth into.”

And of course, people trekking to the trucks are also shopping from the store.

“The trucks are a massive footfall and sales driver,” Sid says.

“They obviously bring in locals, but also new shoppers – people who don’t live around here and so might not have come across us before, who have travelled here for the truck.

“While their food is being prepared, they come in and explore the store. So often people will say to me: ‘Wow, I didn’t know you sold this!’ or ‘What an amazing store –I’ll definitely come here again!’”

Many of the food truck vendors also buy from the store, stocking up on fresh salads veggies and condiments when they arrive, rather than bringing their own.

Range is another stand-out feature. “We’ve worked hard to create a truly unique range – one that aims to excite, inspire and set us even further apart,” Sid says.

Sid and Sukhi’s innovative approach to range is certainly well-documented. Their store was one of the first indies to launch a ‘shop within a shop’ for vape products way back in 2019 – and they have numerous exclusive arrangements with local suppliers, plus speciality products, such as fresh handmade chocolates, samosas, onion bhajis, artisan breads and more.

“The samosas are a huge USP and massive footfall driver. We have three different types available from our deli counter, along with fresh

dips and other accompaniments. They are made locally and have become so popular that we have to top them up four and often five times a day! It’s not uncommon for shoppers to come in and buy 30 in one go for parties and things.”

Recent weeks have also seen Sid and Sukhi expand the store’s Cook frozen food offer with the addition of a fifth freezer for indulgent frozen desserts.

“Our sales on Cook are currently up 57% year on year! The missing piece was desserts and so we can now offer shoppers a complete frozen meal solution,” Sid says.

The store’s range also includes some more unusual products for a convenience store, such as perfumes and toys.

“We launched perfumes a few years ago and have been blown away by their success,” Sid adds.

“We now stock around 100 different Yodeyma perfumes from a dedicated kiosk at the front of the store. It’s a great partnership.

“We are also the exclusive suppliers of TY Toys in the whole of Kenilworth – another major USP. TY Toys is such a wellknown brand with a lot of legacy, and the margins are great too, so it’s a triple win!”

Another hero category for the store is bakery and hot food to go – with shoppers flocking to the store throughout the day to grab a bite of its freshly baked baguettes and pastries, which can be washed down with a delicious hot coffee to go.

“We have lots of hot food going on. Our baker arrives an hour before the store opens to fire up the ovens and keeps on baking throughout the day. We’ve become well known for the quality of our range,” Sid says.

As you’d expect from a Budgens, fresh and chilled is another key sales category, with shoppers at St John’s Budgens able to bag a marvellous mix, including great-value Jack’s lines, along with unique local products, plus a local butchery offer.

But it’s not just what Sid and Sukhi sell that makes them the centre of attention – it’s also how they sell it. “We make sure

NEW CLUSTERS

the execution is second to none and really bring each and every category to life,” Sid says.

The rapport they have with their customers is also standout. “As independent retailers, we have a unique ability to engage with our customers and earn a special place in their hearts.”

And Sid and Sukhi have certainly done that, having built meaningful relationships with countless local shoppers.

In fact, St John’s Budgens has earned such a special place in local hearts that last year, one local couple chose to celebrate their wedding in-store – after they fell in love across the aisles.

“We closed the store early so that they could hold a special photoshoot on the shopfloor – it was so wonderful to play

Retailer Profile: St John’s Budgens

such a big part in their special day,” Sid says.

Convenient services are another USP and St John’s Budgens has just added to its line-up, with the launch of Scoot.

“We’re using Just Eat to carry out our Scoot deliveries, and so far it’s doing very well,” Sid says.

“Booker, Budgens and Scoot have given us a great support package and there are some fantastic exclusive deals available, which shoppers love.

“It’s yet another string to our bow – another thing that helps us stand out.”

Another reason why this store remains the centre of attention – and will for a long time to come.

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Racing ahead

The Booker Retail Shows 2026 helped retailers get off to a racing start this spring.

Forget hooves, it was the thunder of footsteps pounding the ground at Sandown and Doncaster racecourses on 5 and 12 March 2026 as retailers from across the country galloped to Booker’s Retail Trade Shows – champing at the bit to take stock of innovative new products, exclusive deals and spectacular new services and support.

NEW PRODUCTS

The shows were the perfect platform on which to showcase Booker’s fresh flush of innovation, with the unveiling of its Spring 2026 New Product Development (NPD) Guide.

Featuring more than 130 new lines, including over 16 Group Exclusives, both shows brought the guide to life – with bold stands showcasing its innovation-packed offering, which also includes nine First To Market products designed to help retailers drive footfall and sales this spring season.

From handheld ice creams to canned wines and chilled meal kits, many of the innovative products have been designed to tap into the spring trend towards lighter flavours and on-the-go formats.

New own-brand products, including Jack’s Snacks and Crisps Variety Packs, also played a starring role.

CHILLED RANGE

Both shows also allowed retailers to see Booker’s chilled range in all its glory, via a prominent bank of chillers featuring fresh produce, meats, ready meals, dairy and a dedicated fridge for Booker’s £4.50 meal deal.

Booker’s fresh and frozen range includes more than 1,800 lines across key categories, including over 300 own-brand lines, helping retailers to take a sizeable bite out of the lucrative market.

HOME DELIVERY

With the home delivery opportunity continuing to gather pace, retailers were also inspired to join the 400-plus stores which are already part of the Scoot family.

The vibrant and interactive stands were a hive of activity at both Sandown and Doncaster alike – constantly buzzing with retailers keen to find out how they could make more and save more with Booker’s home delivery service.

Retailers attending the shows were also able to learn about a number of new updates to the Scoot service, including the new and improved vouchering system with analytics, driver-tracking capabilities and handheld terminal (HHT) functionality upgrades – including better pricing, promotion and reporting management.

Stores that sign up to Scoot receive dedicated Business Development Manager and RDM support to help them navigate set-up and beyond – including product-file set-up, training, live support and a customised growth plan.

Retailers visiting the trade shows could also see the vast range of app-only Scoot Star Deals on offer, including a show-stopping ‘All 3 for £6’ bundle deal on Birds Eye Chicken Dippers, Potato Waffles and Mixed Vegetables.

SUPPORT

From staff training to store development and social media, both shows also laid out the sizeable package of support available to Booker retailers.

The shows’ training stands showcased the impressive spread of free online training courses specifically designed to help keep stores and staff compliant.

Powered by CPL Learning, retailers can access 11 endorsed courses covering essential topics such as Health & Safety, Food Safety, and Age Verification.

A number of new and updated courses are now also available, including Natasha’s Law, Slips, Trips & Falls, and Working at Height Awareness.

All courses are free and can be completed online via a web browser or through dedicated mobile apps, with access provided 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

The social media stands, meanwhile, allowed retailers to soak up the swathe of digital support designed to help them boost engagement and reach, including Booker’s recently released Social Media Training Guide.

They could also learn more about the cache of free content available to them and the many benefits of Booker’s dedicated WhatsApp channel.

Booker’s army of Added Value Services was also brought to life on an inspiring stand which showcased the many ways in which Booker’s business-enabling partners could help them to ‘Make More and Save More’ – with exclusive rates and discounts across a vast range of products and services, from security to shelf-edge labels, sustainability and much more.

FORECOURT ZONE

New for 2026 was a large Forecourt Zone designed to showcase Booker’s forecourt expertise – highlighting its forecourt-focused range, dedicated account management team and store development and planogram support.

More than 2,000 forecourt stores are now part of the Booker family, including a number of award winners.

DEALS

Both shows also allowed retailers to take advantage of jaw -dropping Wow Deals and Exclusive Trade Show Prices such as ‘Save £6’ on cases of AU Vodka Cherryade, Blue Raspberry, Lemonade, Black Grape and Juicy Peach, and savings of £1.50 on cases of key soft drinks lines such as Coke Zero, Diet Coke and Coca-Cola Cherry.

NETWORKING

And of course, both shows also offered retailers an unrivalled opportunity to catch up with key suppliers and see, taste and learn about their new products and brand plans for 2026.

The shows also provided the perfect platform for retailers to meet new suppliers as well as network with fellow store owners, trade associations and key members of the Booker team.

“The show is always such a great opportunity to see all the key suppliers under one roof as well as meet some new ones. It’s also fantastic to be able to see all the new and exciting products that we could introduce.

In our stores, the ready‑to‑drink (RTD) category is continuing to show good growth – so it’s been great to see so many quality RTD brands here – especially as we head into the summer months. As ever, it’s also a fantastic networking opportunity too!”

Aaron Hauge, Lawrences Garages, Norfolk

Get set to score with the FIFA World Cup 2026!

Budgens has everything you need to get your store match fit in time for kick off – and net striking sales and profits.

Whether it’s parents cheering from the sidelines, friends sharing strawberries over the tennis, cyclists saddling up for a ride or retirees roving out for a ramble, sport has always had a wonderful way of bringing people together.

And this summer is set to host the mother of all sporting events when the FIFA World Cup 2026 kicks off on Thursday 11 June.

Taking place over three countries, with a record number of teams from across the globe competing (48, to be precise!), the FIFA World Cup 2026 will be the biggest ever – providing an unrivalled opportunity for people to unite in anticipation and celebration.

As with any large scale sporting event, this year’s football fiesta is sure to prompt a surge in at home entertaining and match night socialising, as friends, families and whole communities come together around the telly to toast their teams.

According to shopper panel research by marketing agency Savvy, 58% of UK shoppers say that they are “quite” or “highly likely” to get involved in the tournament, with interest spanning a range of ages and demographics, and with the highest intent among families.

In fact, the sporting spectacle’s pulling power is so strong that even the 47% of shoppers who don’t usually describe themselves as “football fans” say they will still tune in to watch their country play – highlighting the tournament’s unique power to capture attention well beyond the core football crowd.

The stats are clear – the biggest-ever FIFA World Cup looks set to create equally big moments – both on the pitch and in the aisles.

And retailers with a match fit offer will have a striking opportunity to turn every kick off into a kick start for sales.

FOOTY FACT

56% OF SHOPPERS PLAN TO WATCH WORLD CUP GAMES FROM THEIR OWN LIVING ROOMS, WITH MANY PLANNING TO INVITE OTHERS OVER.

[SAVVY SHOPPER PANEL DATA FEBRUARY 2026]

Kopparberg Berry Variety Pack

Case size: 10x330ml cans

RSP: £10

POR: 15.4%

Cadbury Dairy Milk Biscoff & More

Case size: 15x195g

RSP: £2.50

POR: 20.03% NEW GROUP EXCLUSIVE PACKAGING!

Case size: 10x440ml

RSP: E/W/I £10, SC £12.87

POR: 10.01%

Budweiser Limited Edition Cans

Don’t get red carded

CRISP AND SNACK DEALS

SPARKLING SOFT DRINKS DEALS

Remember! Regulations are now in place to restrict the location and promotion of products that are high in fat, salt or sugar (HFSS). If your store is in scope, you cannot run volume promotions on HFSS products in store or online. You also cannot display HFSS products within certain distances of checkouts, queuing areas, aisle ends and entrances. For more information speak to your RDM or visit acs.org.uk/advice/hfss regulations/.

FOOTY FACT

62% OF SHOPPERS

SAY

FOOTBALL IS MORE ENJOYABLE WHEN WATCHED IN A GROUP.

[SAVVY SHOPPER PANEL DATA FEBRUARY 2026]

The fact that games will be taking place across three different countries and time zones means that many of England’s and Scotland’s games will kick off in the evenings – in most cases post 9pm – setting the scene for extended Big Night In occasions across a range of categories, including BWS, soft drinks, crisps, snacks and chilled foods such as pizzas.

Key games and weekend matches will prompt shoppers to plan ahead, buy for groups and look to recreate the match day atmosphere at home.

And Budgens has just the offer to help retailers make the very most of the opportunity.

When it comes to beer and cider, new and Group Exclusive products such as limited edition World Cup themed host country cans of Budweiser are sure to score with shoppers looking to share in the excitement.

Each 10x440ml multipack contains a selection of limited edition cans displaying World Cup host country logos from across the ages, with 11 in total to collect.

The launch will also meet demand for larger take home formats and multipacks, as shoppers look to cater for groups.

As such, new and Group Exclusive Kopparberg Berry Variety Packs also look set to help stores net sales.

With an RSP of £10, each 10x330ml multipack includes two cans of Raspberry, Mixed Fruit and Cherry flavoured cider – along with four cans of Kopparberg’s new limited edition Blueberry and Raspberry variant.

Away from beer and cider, Budgens retailers will also be able to offer their shoppers some corking deals on leading wine brands, including sparkling varieties such as ‘Any 2 for £12’ on 75cl bottles of Canti Asti, which is also a new wholesale exclusive. Scottish retailers will be able to sell the bottles for

£6 each.

Budgens retailers can help their shoppers get into the celebratory spirit with I Heart Prosecco and I Heart Prosecco Rosé for £8.49 each.

A ‘2 for £12’ deal will also apply to rosé varieties of La P’tite Pierre, Hardys Bin 161 Shiraz and Pinot Grigio.

Meanwhile, shoppers will be able to buy bestselling bottles of McGuigan Black Label Shiraz, Chardonnay and Red for £6.99, and Jam Shed Rosé, Casillero del Diablo Sauvignon Blanc and Casillero del Diablo Malbec for £7.49.

SOFT DRINKS

With the World Cup set to capture interest across a wide range of ages – especially families – soft drinks are also expected to shine, with multipacks and larger 2L sharing formats set to sparkle in particular.

The NP4 promotional period will allow Budgens retailers to offer an ‘Any 2 for £3’ deal on Diet Coke, Coca Cola Zero, Cherry and Coca Cola Zero Cherry Float.

Budgens retailers will also be able to offer shoppers a variety of great value prices on leading crisp and snack brands.

A new tie up between the Pringles and Burger King brands also looks set to raise a cheer from shoppers.

Brand new Pringles x Burger King Bacon Double Cheese XL Flavour and Pringles x Burger King Chicken Royale Flavour

Signage to score by

The FIFA World Cup 2026 will provide retailers with a striking opportunity to create compelling displays and in store theatre.

Budgens retailers will have access to a striking range of POS including including ‘Bring On The Football’ shelf strips and football shaped barker ears.

Stores in England will also be able to offer shoppers a chance to win a personalised England football shirt as part of a competition with Lucozade.

© 2026

The Coca-Cola Company. Powerade is a registered trademark of The Coca-Cola Company. Carbohydrate-electrolyte solutions enhance the absorption of water during physical exercise. Pantothenic acid (vit. B5) contributes to the reduction of tiredness and fatigue. Consume as part of a varied and balanced diet and healthy lifestyle.

have been designed to bring a taste of two “fan favourite burgers” to the snack aisle – and tap into the summer sharing opportunity.

Budgens retailers will be able to offer the limited edition tubes to shoppers for an RSP of £2.

CHILLED CHAMPIONS

And of course, with most games set to take place later in the evenings, this summer’s World Cup also looks set to create a meaty opportunity for retailers to drive fresh and chilled sales – with convenient, crowd pleasing evening meal solutions expected to win big.

The FIFA World Cup 2026 fast facts

l The FIFA World Cup 2026 will be co hosted by three countries: the United States, Canada and Mexico.

l Sixteen cities will host games: eleven in the United States, three in Mexico and two in Canada.

l There are three FIFA World Cup 2026 mascots – one representing each host nation: Maple the Moose (Canada), Zayu the Jaguar (Mexico) and Clutch the Bald Eagle (USA).

l The opening match will take place on 11 June 2026 in Mexico City, with the final set for 19 July in New Jersey.

l The tournament is being expanded to include 48 teams for the first time in its history.

l Its new larger format will see it last for a record 39 days.

l The new format will also feature twelve four team groups and an extra knockout round.

l England have been drawn in Group L alongside Croatia, Ghana and Panama and will begin their campaign in Dallas on Wednesday 17 June against Croatia. The game will kick off at 9pm UK time.

l Scotland are in Group C along with Haiti, Morocco and Brazil. Their first match will be against Haiti in Boston on Sunday 14 June, kicking off at 2am UK time.

Pizza has to weigh in as one of the ultimate crowd pleasing sharing foods and Budgens retailers can offer shoppers a delectable range of the doughy delights including greatvalue Jack’s pizzas in the chilled aisles.

Iced delights can also be found in the freezers thanks to a frozen pizza deal of ‘Buy 2 Goodfella’s pizzas and get a tub of Cadbury Caramel, Dairy Milk, Brownie or Oreo Ice Cream for £6.99’.

Shoppers will also be able to take advantage of a Mega Deal on packs of Chicken Shop Ultimate Burgers or Salt & Pepper Goujons and get a 356g pack of McVitie’s Vibes for free!

BIG BREAKFAST

Shoppers hungry for a post match night fry up will also be able to rely on their local Budgens to deliver a fantastic serving of brunch essentials, including twelve packs of Jack’s Medium and Large free range eggs for an RSP of £3.50 and Jack’s Smoked and Unsmoked Back Bacon for £2.19.

Also available are 410g packs of Richmond Sausages, which during NP4 will be backed by a tasty ‘Any 2 for £4’ deal, and 800g Hovis Simple White and Wholemeal loaves which boast an RSP of just £1.

Hot drink lovers can also enjoy an indulgent coffee on the side thanks to brand new and exclusive £1.49 price marked packs of Nescafé Latte Barista and Barista Caramel – both of which are available on a delicious ‘Any 2 for £2’ deal.

STRIKING IN STORE THEATRE

And of course, getting your offer match fit is about more than just products and prices – presentation is also key.

The FIFA World Cup 2026 will also provide retailers with a powerful opportunity to create engaging in store theatre that can excite shoppers and encourage incremental spend.

Budgens retailers will also have a wide range of professional POS in their kitbags to help create excitement on the shelves and in the aisles.

So, while which team lifts the trophy remains to be seen, there’s little doubt that convenience retailers are on the cusp of a winning opportunity to score golden sales and profits.

KOPPARBERG SWEET VINTAGE MIXED FRUIT

*Source: Circana, Water Category, value and volume sales in the UK for 52 w/e 8th November 2025 Subject to availability

STARBUCKS FRAPPUCCINO CARAMEL BROWNIE

RIBENA SUMMER FRUITS NO ADDED SUGAR

KITKAT F1 CHOCOLATE

MONSTER ENERGY VIKING BERRY

Scoot delivers even more reasons to get on board

Well over 400 retailers now use Scoot, Booker’s exclusive rapid grocery ordering platform, and that number is set to keep growing thanks to a wave of improvements and enhancements to the solution in direct response to retailer feedback.

Why Scoot?

l Fully flexible model

l Make an estimated £34,000 additional profit per year (based on weekly app sales of £2,500 at 26% gross margin)

l ZERO commission once you reach £5,000 of weekly sales on the app

l ZERO consumer charges –giving you the ability to offer the service for free

l 0.7% average card transaction fee

l Save up to £16,000 per year with Scoot vs other rapid delivery platforms based on weekly sales of £4,999

l Want to get to the next band of Spend and Save? – Scoot can help you

l Dedicated onboarding and setup support, including PoS package

There aren’t many options out there for retailers keen to grow their weekly sales by thousands of pounds in very short order, but home delivery is certainly one of them – and there’s no better way of taking advantage of that opportunity than with Scoot.

Booker’s exclusive rapid grocery delivery platform is so simple to implement and so cost-effective that well over 400 retailers are already making use of it to grow their sales and profits – and that number is rising on a weekly basis.

Before Scoot, implementing a home delivery service was perceived by many retailers as a daunting, complex and expensive task. Scoot was designed by retailers to overcome those challenges and was created with one simple goal in mind: to help retailers make more and save more.

How much more? Booker calculates that there’s £34,000 more profit available each year to retailers using Scoot, based on weekly sales of just £2,500 at 26% gross margin.

With only 1% commission charged up to £4,999 of weekly in-app sales – and zero commission once you hit £5,000 a week – Scoot delivers an outstanding low-cost app that facilitates home deliveries to shoppers in as little as 30 minutes.

There are also no shopper charges – giving you the flexibility to offer the service for free, should you wish – or set your own delivery, service or minimum order fees.

CONSTANT IMPROVEMENT

So it’s easy to understand why so many retailers are embracing the unique opportunity delivered by Scoot – but it’s important to bear in mind that the Scoot platform will always be a work in progress.

The Booker Scoot team work ceaselessly with retailers to hone, perfect and improve the solution to ensure that it works exactly how they need it to in order to maximise sales and profits.

To illustrate this point, read on to discover just some of the retailer-informed improvements that have been made in recent months.

SCOOT ON BOOKER.CO.UK

All retailer assets for Scoot are now available on the main Booker.co.uk. website. This provides a one-place portal where retailers can access all brand assets, marketing materials and Scoot training videos.

It covers all functionality and intuitive advice and guidance on how to run Scoot, all third-party access details for Just Eat, DNA Payments and the IT help desk as well as Scoot star deal tiles for marketing, uniform, social media guides and videos.

VOUCHERING

Booker has been piloting vouchers by sending them directly to consumers who have accepted marketing when they sign up to Scoot. The pilot has run across a number of stores, with

consumers getting a voucher notification on their phone for free delivery or money-off when they next order on Scoot.

The results have been overwhelmingly positive, with retailer sales growth of 50%. The piloting will be continued and further developed in response to the learnings from the trials. Booker is also discussing with suppliers the opportunity to offer free products for consumers via Scoot home delivery.

EPOS API

Last month, Booker launched a new pilot with RDP trialling an EPoS API integration which will further streamline and automate many aspects of the Scoot platform for retailers by directly integrating the in-store EPoS with the Scoot platform. A full launch is planned in the next few months.

ANALYTICS-ACTIONABLE INSIGHTS

Booker’s bespoke, in-house analytics capabilities allow Booker to deeply understand how users interact with the Scoot app. By tailoring the Scoot experience based on these insights, Booker can drive repeat business, increase basket spend and generate long-term loyalty.

This also enables the Scoot team to turn data into action. For example, the system recently flagged more than 400 searches for eggs that were out of stock. This insight allowed Booker to immediately advise retailers on stock gaps, turning missed opportunities into future sales.

REDUCED CONSUMER SIGNUP FRICTION

Booker has overhauled Scoot onboarding with the aim to minimise friction in the consumer signup experience. By making the Scoot app more accessible, Booker has lowered the barrier for customers to place that all-important first order. This improvement has resulted in a superior user experience and has helped users overcome the psychological barrier of placing their first order.

INTELLIGENT SEARCH

Intelligent search functionality allows Scoot to understand how consumers naturally search for products, including the words, phrases and terminology they use. When a search returns no results, Scoot analyses those unsuccessful queries and applies relevant alternatives and related terms. This helps identify missing products, correct spelling issues, and improve search relevance so customers can find what they’re looking for. This improves the accuracy and flexibility of the search function, helping customers quickly find the products they want, add them to their basket, and complete their purchase with ease. This data also helps stores adjust their range to match real demand, ensuring the app becomes more intuitive while guiding smarter range decisions.

BEST IN CLASS HHT

After taking feedback from retailers, it became clear that the Scoot Hand-Held Terminal (HHT) was a key point of difference in the marketplace. Consequently, Booker invested heavily and challenged its software team to push the boundaries of what was possible with an HHT.

Today, the Scoot HHT empowers retailers to manage products and promotions, process Scoot orders, carry out order picking, chat with customers in real-time, view sales reports and manage driver allocations – all from one device.

Say hello to...Ailbe Heffernan

With the World Cup just around the corner, we catch up with Beer & Cider Category Manager Ailbe Heffernan to explore the opportunities that lie ahead over the next few months.

TELL US A LITTLE BIT ABOUT YOURSELF AILBE…

Where do I start? I’m Ailbe Heffernan and I’m Category Manager for Beer & Cider. I’ve been in that role for about seven years but I’ve actually been with Booker for over 42 years, believe it or not.

THAT’S A LONG TIME!

It is indeed. I spent the first 24 years in Branch, working my way from part-time shifts on the checkout to becoming an Area Manager in numerous locations. After that I moved into Category Management and during the last 18 years I’ve looked after Chilled, Soft Drink, Grocery, Confectionery and now Beer & Cider.

SO YOU’VE SEEN AND DONE IT ALL?

I wouldn’t say that but I have had the privilege of watching Booker and our customers develop and grow for over four decades. When I first started with Booker we didn’t even have barcodes! We just used paper price tickets!

ALL THAT EXPERIENCE MUST HELP IN YOUR CURRENT ROLE?

It definitely does. I know the business and, most importantly, I know our customers – and that’s the part of the job that has always been most important to me. We are nothing without our amazing customers. So, I am one of three Category Managers in the Booker Group looking after Beer & Cider and together we are responsible for offering our customers the best possible choice, price and service. It’s a simple mantra but it gets to the heart of what makes Booker special. Our goal is always to give our customers strong enough margins to flourish.

WHAT DOES A CATEGORY MANAGER DO?

We oversee everything to do with Beer & Cider. We are constantly reviewing the range, we negotiate the costs, we work closely with suppliers with a lot of time spent working on promotions which are extremely important in this category. Availability is also vital so making sure we always

ABOUT AILBE

Remarkably, Ailbe Heffernan has been with Booker for no fewer than 42 years. He began his career working part-time on checkouts in Booker depots before working his way up to become an Area Manager.

Around 18 years ago he moved into Category Management and in that time has looked after Chilled, Soft Drinks, Grocery and Confectionery. For the last seven years, Ailbe has looking after the vital Beer & Cider category.

His long experience at Booker means he is perfectly placed to help ensure that retailers have the products, prices and promotions they need to maximise revenues and profits in the beer and cider category.

have 100% availability is key. The most important part of the role, however, is the customer. A key function of my role is spending time with our customers and listening to their needs and concerns so I spend a lot of every week with customers in one way or another.

WHAT DOES A TYPICAL DAY LOOK LIKE FOR YOU?

It varies from day to day. Usually I would be dealing with several suppliers negotiating pricing and planning for future promotions to make sure our customers have competitive deals to sell to their consumers. Another important part is securing as many first-to-market and exclusive packs as we can to give our customers the edge over their competitors. We can only be successful if our customers are successful.

WHAT DO YOU LIKE MOST ABOUT YOUR ROLE?

I like a lot of things about it but the element I really enjoy is the pace and energy the role brings. There’s always lots going on and there’s always lots of opportunities for me to exploit that allow me to help my customers stay competitive.

HOW CLOSELY DO YOU WORK WITH RETAILERS?

Very, very closely. Over 42 years in this trade have taught me that nothing matters more than spending good time with customers. I make it a point of visiting customers at least a few times a week. They give you great insight into all aspects of convenience retail. And I tell all my suppliers that they should be doing them same. Nothing helps you understand the convenience trade like actually getting into stores and

talking to retailers about the reality on the ground.

HOW IMPORTANT IS THE BEER AND CIDER CATEGORY TO CONVENIENCE RETAILERS?

I would say it is one of the most important areas of their business, not least because it has one of the highest spends per trip (£9.51) of any major product category. It’s a vital category and it’s an exciting one because it’s always changing and evolving.

SO WHAT ARE THE KEY TRENDS FOR THIS YEAR?

The continued growth of low and no alcohol beer and cider means it’s now becoming firmly mainstream. Low and no remains a relatively small part of the overall category but it’s growing every year. More and more people are moderating their alcohol intake and that’s been reflected in huge growth in the number of low and no alcohol lines available and, I would have to say, the quality of products. Going back five or six years, the quality wasn’t quite there yet but these days you’d be hard pressed to tell the difference in a blind taste test.

HOW ABOUT PACK FORMATS?

We’re seeing strong growth in slightly larger mid-packs and that’s definitely something that retailers could focus on, if they have the space, and ideally chilled 4-packs for immediate consumption as 4-packs of beer and cider are still the biggest part of the category.

WHERE ELSE ARE YOU SEEING GROWTH?

A massive opportunity for retailers is in home delivery. It’s one of the few ways that retailers can relatively quickly add thousands of pounds onto their weekly turnover, particularly now that we have our own low-cost Scoot home delivery platform. It can be transformative and it’s never been easier to implement.

HOW IS THE BEER & CIDER CATEGORY GENERALLY?

The total Beer & Cider market is in good shape but it faces challenges mainly due to shoppers’ changing lifestyles. The young generation is more aware of physical and mental health and that impacts on purchasing behaviours. Premiumisation continues to be important at the Total Trade level as Premium beer is driving the highest value uplifts.

WHAT’S THE SCALE OF THE FIFA WORLD CUP OPPORTUNITY?

Absolutely massive! The stars are aligning this summer because, unlike the last FIFA World Cup which was held in winter, this one is in prime summer season. This opens up the opportunity to target wider get-togethers like BBQs and parties. Some of the timings of some of the games aren’t ideal but there’s no doubt that the FIFA World Cup presents a huge opportunity for retailers.

Major football tournaments are always among the biggest beer and cider occasions for UK shoppers, especially during summer with evening game times. During the Euros in 2024 there was a 2.9% volume uplift during the tournament period compared to the previous year.

It shows shoppers are more likely to purchase beer and cider within the convenience channel during tournament period as a quick top-up shop, especially the closer we get to the Finals.

HOW DO RETAILERS SCORE DURING THE FIFA WORLD CUP?

We’ve got plenty of fantastic opportunities for retailers to exploit, such as pre-game bundle promotions like beer plus main meal for the evening game and a half time top-

up package with beer and snacks. This will help maximise basket spend and drive footfall with creative promotions.

In terms of pack formats, one of the biggest opportunities is the mid-pack can (i.e. 10x440ml). This pack format is growing within the Convenience channel year on year because it offers a higher value proposition than the small pack. Singles and Small packs (4x), however, both over-index during the tournament period so keeping a good range of pack sizes is important, as is chilling beer where possible.

Small pack can lager, for example, remained the largest pack format with 47.0% volume share of Total Beer in the convenience channel during Euros 2024 and we expect a similar trend for the FIFA World Cup 2026.

Lastly, we shouldn’t forget that with some games being shown late at night, many consumers may take it a bit easier with work the next morning so no and low alcohol products will come into play – and we have lots of great promotions on great brands in that space during the tournament.

HOW WILL YOU BE SUPPORTING RETAILERS?

With Budweiser being one of the main sponsors of the FIFA World Cup we have secured an Exclusive Budweiser World Cup nostalgia pack with limited edition cans at a cracking £10 deal for consumers (subject to licensing laws). On top of this we have a whole array of new and exclusive lines being launched to help drive more footfall into our retailers.

DO YOU HAVE ANY TOP TIPS FOR RETAILERS?

Keep it simple: make sure you have enough stock for the Home Nations games and try do off-shelf displays on the mid-packs. Stock up on the leading deals for the day of the games. Display the available POS in your windows and around the store. Get busy on social media and have your customer-facing leaflets at the tillpoint.

Women at Booker: Three years of progress, purpose and possibility

In our latest update feature on Booker’s inspiring Colleague Networks, we turn the spotlight back onto the powerful work of Women at Booker as it celebrates its third anniversary and evolution to The Gender Equality Network.

Three years ago, the Women at Booker network began with a simple but ambitious intention: to create a space where women across Booker could connect, grow and be heard.

What started as a small group of passionate colleagues has evolved into a powerful community that now spans 308 members, touches every part of the business and continues to shape the culture of Booker for the better.

From the outset, the network aligned itself with the Tesco Group’s wider colleague-network purpose to ‘Amplify, Consult and Celebrate’ – a commitment which has guided every event, conversation and milestone since – the principles having become the heartbeat of Women at Booker.

A JOURNEY MARKED BY MOMENTUM

The last three years have been rich with activity, energy and impact. The timeline below tells a story of a network that has not only grown in size, but in confidence and influence. l March 2023: The official launch during International Women’s Day brought together 450 colleagues, signalling the appetite for change.

l June 2023: The Women Exec Career Panel created space for honest dialogue about progression, attended by 65 colleagues.

l November 2023: The Allyship event drew 150 colleagues, reinforcing that gender equity is everyone’s responsibility.

l 2024: A year of learning and visibility – from Bite Size Learning sessions on Personal Development Plans, mentorship and interview skills, to Women’s Health Week and Inspire Inclusion panels.

l 2025: The network continued to expand its reach with wellbeing events, including a well-received event focused on how colleagues could ‘own’ their careers, which was attended by 170 colleagues.

Last year was also a record breaker for International Women’s Day nominations, with more than 180 nominations celebrating women from across the business, as well as a fantastic 120 nominations for its International Men’s Day event recognising amazing male allies.

Alongside internal progress, the network has also gained external recognition – including colleagues being named

on the INvolve Hero Global Role Models List 2024 and representation at the Diversity in Workplaces Conference.

This is a network that has not stood still. It has built confidence, created community and contributed to a broader culture shift – exactly as the strategy intended.

LEADERSHIP THAT BUILT THE FOUNDATION

Much of this progress has been shaped by the dedication of Abbie Hackwell and Maria Chittenden, who have served as chair and co-chair since the network’s inception. Their leadership has been rooted in empathy, ambition and a deep belief in the potential of women across Booker.

Under their guidance, the network has aligned with the Group’s DE&I commitments, supported the rollout of inclusive policies and helped embed inclusion into the everyday culture of the business. As the document highlights, this sits alongside wider organisational progress – from enhanced family-friendly policies to inclusive recruitment practices and the Women’s Development Programme.

THE BOOKER COLLEAGUE NETWORKS

Booker’s fab four Colleague Networks are open to all and include:

l Women at Booker – newly named The Gender Equality Network

l Race and Ethnicity at Booker

l LGBTQ+ at Booker

l Disability at Booker

Abbie and Maria have not only built a network; they have built momentum.

A NEW CHAPTER: RISING WITH PURPOSE

As the network enters its fourth year, we mark an important transition. Leadership now passes to Stacey Gooch and Trudy Wilson, who step into the roles of chair and co-chair with a clear vision for the future.

The 2026 strategic objectives set out a clear and ambitious direction:

l Capability building: helping everyone to be the best version of themselves, whatever their aspirations, recognising that this benefits colleagues regardless of gender.

l Confidence and visibility: increasing the visibility of emerging female talent at all levels.

l Connection and community: strengthening the peer network and fostering collaboration.

l Culture shift: continuing to influence a more inclusive, equitable and gender-aware organisation.

l Cross-functional engagement: ensuring women thrive in every function, not just the ones where representation is already strong.

l Developing early careers: linking with universities, colleges and industry partners to attract the next generation of female talent.

The essence of this next phase is captured here: “Rooted in strength, rising with purpose – building our next chapter is about connecting with more women.”

This is not just a handover. It is a continuation of a movement.

LOOKING AHEAD

The network has achieved a remarkable amount in just three years – but its greatest impact may still lie ahead.

With Stacey and Trudy at the helm, a refreshed strategy and a growing community of women and allies, the network is poised to deepen its influence and broaden its reach.

And as the network evolves, so too has its name, with Women at Booker having changed to The Gender Equality Network – as was revealed at its rousing International Women’s Day event and third-anniversary celebrations on 26 March.

Three years on from its launch, a new chapter is about to unfold for the network.

This next chapter will be about visibility, about opportunity and, above all, about ensuring that every woman, in every role, in every function, at every ystage of her career, feels supported, represented and empowered to thrive.

25 million

meals donated!

Booker is celebrating a significant milestone of donating 25 million meals to food redistribution charity FareShare over the last five years.

Booker is celebrating a significant milestone with FareShare, providing the equivalent of 25 million meals over five years through its long-standing partnership with the UK’s leading food redistribution charity.

The 25 million meal milestone highlights the scale and impact of the partnership which sees surplus food from across Booker’s estate redistributed to charities and community groups nationwide, helping to support families and individuals facing food insecurity while preventing good food from going to waste.

Since the partnership began, Booker has worked closely with FareShare as part of its waste reduction strategy while ensuring surplus food reaches those who need it most. The milestone comes as Booker also marks five years of involvement in the FareShare Go programme, which helps charities access additional surplus food direct from branches.

Alongside FareShare, local communities are also supported to access surplus via OLIO’s Food Waste Hero volunteers, while colleagues can also take advantage of Booker’s Colleague Shop.

INCREDIBLY PROUD

Angela Hughes, Technical & Sustainability Director at Booker, said: “Reaching 25 million meals donated with FareShare is a milestone we’re incredibly proud of. This partnership is about more than reducing food waste – it’s about making a meaningful difference to people’s lives, supporting local communities and creating long-term, positive impact. As we

look ahead, we remain committed to building on this work and ensuring no good food goes to waste.”

Kris Gibbon-Walsh, Deputy CEO of FareShare and The Felix Project, said: “We are enormously grateful to everyone at Booker for their ongoing support. Reaching the milestone of providing the equivalent of 25m meals alongside celebrating five years partnership with the FareShare Go programme is hugely important. This food will have a life-changing impact on communities right across the UK, meaning more goodto-eat food goes to the people who need it most instead of going to waste.

“With the support of Booker, thousands of charities and community groups in every region of the UK can run transformative services for local people. By saving on food, our amazing charities can focus on providing the services that matter most to their communities – we are so grateful for Booker’s support.”

“We are enormously grateful to everyone at Booker for their ongoing support. This food will have a life‑ changing impact on communities right across the UK.”

Kris Gibbon-Walsh, Deputy CEO, FareShare

Saasha Celestial-One, Co-Founder of Olio, said: “We’re incredibly proud that, together with FareShare, we’ve been able to help Booker redistribute 25 million meals back into communities. Thank you to every single Olio and FareShare volunteer that’s made this possible, as well as the Booker HQ team and colleagues – whose flexibility and commitment to sustainability have been so crucial in making our partnership a success. Here’s to the next 25 million.”

REAL IMPACT

Across the UK, FareShare’s charity partners are seeing the tangible benefits of Booker’s ongoing support.

l Susan Ward, Kersiebank Food Project, said: “At Kersiebank Food Project we exist to help those who need support in the Grangemouth area in Scotland with a weekly food bank. Recently we have seen demand for our services increase and it’s difficult to keep up with the need.

We’ve been collecting from Booker for five years now and collect a range of fresh food and longlife cupboard supplies. These donations enable us to provide a variety of food for the people we support to make well-rounded meals – thank you Booker!”

l Mark Graham, Development Officer at Holbrooks Community

Care Association, said: “Booker’s contributions have made a significant difference to our social supermarket over the last few years enabling us to offer high quality food to the people who rely on us. “Their regular donations of essentials – often the items that place the greatest strain on our budget, such as bread, eggs, and meat – allow us to provide a wider and more reliable range of food. Their support has strengthened our service enormously, and we’re truly grateful for the impact it has on our community.”

l Lola Owoseni, Volunteer at The Vine Sanctuary, Manchester, said: “The Vine Sanctuary runs both a food bank to support people with immediate need, and also offers support services including skills training, mental health support and career guidance to help people in the community build more positive futures.

“We’ve been collecting from Booker Openshaw and Middleton regularly to support our food bank service. Booker food is fantastic and very fresh, and the staff are polite and helpful. We receive lots of vegetables, bread, sandwiches, and pre-made meals, and for this we would like to give them a big thank you for helping our food bank.”

ABOUT THE FELIX PROJECT AND FARESHARE

l The Felix Project and FareShare have joined forces to become the UK’s leading food redistribution charity.

l The charity rescues good- to-eat surplus food, that cannot be sold and would otherwise go to waste, from across the food industry. That food is repurposed and shared to support more than 8,000 community organisations across the UK. The charity manages seven depots and works with 16 network partners to operate a total of 35 depots across the UK.

l FareShare was established over 30 years ago, born out of the belief that no good food should go to waste. In the last financial year, 2024-25, FareShare redistributed 62,000 tonnes of food, or the equivalent of more than 148 million meals, reaching people in every corner of the UK.

l The Felix Project was started in 2016 by Justin and Jane Byam Shaw in memory of their son Felix who passed away from meningitis in 2014 aged just 14. It became part of the FareShare network in 2020. In 2025 it rescued over 18,000 tonnes of food, which is the equivalent of more than 44 million meals.

l www.fareshare.org.uk

l www.thefelixproject.org

DRS decision time

is looming

Important new details about the incoming Deposit Return Scheme have emerged in recent weeks and for the most part, things are looking positive for retailers, the ACS says.

Every retailer across the UK will soon need to decide how they’re going to interact with the coming Deposit Return Scheme and with many updates still to come, retailers must stay close to the developments, ACS Chief Executive Ed Woodall says.

In recent weeks, we’ve started to see more important details emerge about the incoming Deposit Return Scheme (DRS) coming into force in October 2027.

The headline news on DRS is that scheme administrator Exchange for Change have confirmed that there will be grants available for small independent retailers who are seeking to put a reverse vending machine (RVM) in store.

Hosting an RVM won’t be right for everyone, but we’re pleased that there is an acknowledgement that the cost of RVMs is challenging and that independent retailers need more financial support to make that option viable.

The £6,000 over three years that’s being made available as part of a £60m pot of funding for retailers is a step forward, but we need confirmation of the retail handling fees to complete our modelling of how many containers you as a retailer need to sell and return to make participation with the scheme cost neutral.

We know that if the scheme is going to `be a significant net cost, it will lead to more retailers seeking exemptions and communities losing local access to return points.

While some details are being confirmed, there are still plenty of unknowns about the scheme to be revealed in the coming weeks and months.

We were thrilled with the level of engagement that we received from retailers at our recent Safe and Responsible Retailing Conference and we’re putting together a wider ‘frequently asked questions’ resource alongside our comprehensive DRS guide on the ACS website.

For retailers in Wales however, there are more concerning developments. The Welsh Government have decided not to appoint Exchange for Change and have not yet presented a viable alternative.

Elections will be held to elect the next Welsh Government in May, and we’ll be pushing for more clarity on the plan as a matter of priority.

Every retailer will soon have to decide how they’re going to interact with the scheme, so it’s important to stay close to the developments to understand whether seeking an exemption, operating a manual scheme or installing an RVM is right for you.

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