The Week in Retail 87

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● ONE STOP PARTNERS

NEW YEAR HONOURS LIST

RETAILERS RECOGNISED BY QUEEN

WITH JUST EAT

● NISA’S FRESH

MARKETING OFFERING

RETAILERS REWARDED FOR COMMUNITY WORK

● SPAR LAUNCHES

VEGAN OWN-LABEL WINE

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SPAR LAUNCHES NEW BRAND POSITIONING JOY OF LIVING LOCALLY MAKES DEBUT

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MEET NISA’S NEW CEO

FORMER CHIEF MOVES TO ASDA

+

TS SUPPLIER PAYPOINT GROWS PARTNERSHIP WITH COVID TES

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Issue 87 Wednesday 12th January 2022

Raise a BRU for Burns on January 25th

“

Stocking up with BRU’s the thing, If you want your till to go ker-ching

”

T H E W E E K I N R E TA I L

EDITOR’S COMMENT

Happy New Year!

Firstly, I would like to wish all our readers a Happy New Year. I hope your stores have been busy throughout the festive period, but that you’ve also had some time to celebrate with your friends and families.

All the recent industry data points to a good festive period for food retailers, with huge amounts of money being spent on food and drink as people were able to celebrate with their loved ones for the first time in long while. There were more store visits, and consumer confidence remained stable.

However, there is a dark cloud on the horizon in the form of the rising cost of living. Consumers are facing significantly higher energy, travel and other household costs, and industry experts think it’s likely that shoppers will look to make savings on their weekly food shop. They predict that shoppers will buy what they need when they need it, wasting less fresh food, and steering clear of unnecessary cupboard stocking.

Ethical spending looks set to continue to dominate the thoughts of shoppers in 2022, and in this issue we hear about new sustainability efforts from AG Barr and Suntory Beverage & Food GB&I. I had been hoping to slowly ease myself into the New Year, but Nisa had other plans for me, announcing a new Managing Director after Ken

Towle was revealed to be moving to Asda. As well as introducing new ranges and a fresh marketing proposition.

And Spar has been pretty busy so far this year too, launching vegan wines, a new own-label pet food range, and a new brand positioning.

One highlight of the New Year was the inclusion of several local retailers in the Queen’s New Year Honours List. The retailers were recognised for their efforts in keeping their local communities going during the pandemic and for their charity work. And there was also pleasing news from Scotland, where new statistics show that the Protection of Workers Act is proving effective; store owners and their staff are unafraid to use it and Police Scotland is treating complaints made seriously.

If the first two weeks of this year are anything to go by, it’s going to be an exciting and busy 2022.

LIZ WELLS, DEPUTY EDITOR

WEDNESDAY 12TH JANUARY 2022 / ISSUE 87 / SLRMAG.CO.UK / 3

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CONTENTS

WEDNESDAY 12 JANUARY 2022 / ISSUE 87

6

10 THIS WEEK’S NEWS IN BRIEF

25 COVER STORY

CHARITY

Michael Fletcher, Co-op’s Chief Commercial Officer, has been unveiled as Nisa’s new Chief Executive in the wake of Ken Towle’s move to Asda.

The annual industry bike ride that raises money for landmine clearance charity Mines Advisory Group returns in 2022 as an overseas trip.

9 Covid-19 update

22 Trading Standards

33 Business intelligence

Christmas sales exceed expectations and Scots retailers embrace the Protection of Shopworkers Act.

The latest coronavirus-related news.

13 Symbol groups

Illegal vaping products targeting children are seized in a major six-week operation.

Premium own-label sales broke records at Christmas, new Kantar research reveals.

Spar unveils a new brand positioning

24 Charity

34 Post Office

campaign and offers shoppers the chance

to win their shop for free.

Nisa’s Making a Difference Locally charity appoints two new trustees.

The Post Office sees record cash withdrawals over the festive period.

15 Community

27 Business intelligence

35 Smoking alternatives

Local retailers are recognised in the New Year Honours list.

The UK ‘green pound’ reaches record levels, passing the £100bn mark.

Over 25% of UK adult smokers are likely to explore smoke-free products in 2022.

16 Symbol groups

28 Shopper confidence

36 Sustainability

December was a month of two halves,

according to IGD ShopperVista.

39 NPD and media

SLR Young Retailer of the Year Anand Cheema joins the Costcutter symbol group.

17 Home delivery

29 Off-trade

Forty One Stop stores offer home delivery through the Just Eat app.

19 Symbol groups

One in three UK drinkers regularly choose

Brek and Weetabix.

46 Picks of the week

new Portman Group study.

52 Out the box

31 Shop prices

unveils an array of deals on healthy items.

The latest BRC-Nielsen Shop Price Index

21 Business services

data shows that both ambient and fresh

food prices rose in December.

TWITTER.COM/SLRMAG

Frubes, Cadbury, Spar, Naturya, Ready

low or no alcohol products, according to a

Nisa launches a new branding concept and

PayPoint boosts access to Covid testing.

Lucozade Sport, AG Barr and Mug Shot.

WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/SLRMAG

A new AI food chatbot aimed at helping shoppers make more conscious food choices launches in Spain.

54 Before you go...

WWW.SLRMAG.CO.UK

WEDNESDAY 12TH JANUARY 2022 / ISSUE 87 / SLRMAG.CO.UK / 5

NEWS DIGEST

THIS WEEK’S NEWS FOR ALL THE LATEST NEWS, HEAD TO WWW.SLRMAG.CO.UK/CATEGORY/NEWS/

FERRERO’S NEW LOOK Ferrero UK has relaunched its convenience retailing facing website, Your Perfect Store. To

TRADING

Christmas sales exceed expectations UK shoppers spent a total of £7.1bn at UK supermarkets in the two weeks ending 25 December, according to new NielsenIQ data.

celebrate the relaunch Ferrero is giving five lucky retailers the chance to win a bundle of stock. Retailers can sign up to the Your Perfect Store newsletter to be automatically entered into the giveaway.

SAINSBURY’S WAGE DEAL Sainsbury’s has agreed to pay its shop workers at least £10 an hour. The supermarket’s current basic pay rate is £9.50, but it will raise this by 50p an hour for staff across its stores from 6 March. In London, Sainsbury’s will increase its minimum hourly rate to £10.50 for workers in outer boroughs

UK shoppers spent a total of £7.1bn at UK supermarkets in the two weeks ending 25 December, according to new NielsenIQ data.

The figures show that there were 27m more in-store visits during this four-week period compared to 2020, leading to the online share of grocery sales falling to 11.3%, compared to 12.1% in December 2020. This is the

lowest online share since the 11.6% of April 2020 following the start of the pandemic.

Mike Watkins, NielsenIQ’s UK Head of Retailer and Business Insight, said: “British consumers are continuing to adopt an omnichannel approach and whilst online allows them to plan ahead, shoppers are increasingly heading in-store for a regular weekly shop, as well as for last-minute purchases and we can expect this behaviour to continue.”

He added: “Consumers are facing significantly higher energy, travel and other household costs so it’s likely that shoppers will look to make savings on their weekly food shop by managing budgets. We may see them buying what they need when they need it, wasting less fresh food, and steering clear of unnecessary cupboard stocking.”

and to £11.05 in inner areas.

PROFIT PLANS Plan for Profit, the retail initiative from Unitas Wholesale, has updated its website. The work includes a new planogram layout that makes it easier to navigate and view online, a new category insights section, and a new search facility that has made finding information easier.

Paypoint unveils winter promotion PayPoint has unveiled a retail promotion that means any eligible new retailer location signing up to PayPoint One can claim three months’ service fee refund.

In additional, retailers signing up to PayPoint who opt for the PayPoint One Core and Pro packages will also be able to take advantage of advanced EPoS features, PayPoint’s Counter Cash service, a fully-integrated card machine, and bill payments for a wide range of brands.

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Eligible retailers will also benefit from PayPoint’s partnership with Snappy Shopper and its Collect+ parcels offer, helping stores to maximise profitability and grow sales.

Anthony Sappor, Head of Retail Proposition & Partnerships, said: “With our latest promotion, retailers starting the new year with PayPoint One can do so with market-leading benefits and incentives.”

NEWS DIGEST

THIS WEEK’S NEWS FOR ALL THE LATEST NEWS, HEAD TO WWW.SLRMAG.CO.UK/CATEGORY/NEWS/

MILK MATTERS

PROTECTION OF WORKERS ACT

Hundreds of abuse cases reported since August

Morrisons will scrap ‘Use By’ dates on 90% of its ownbrand milk from 31 January to

Figures show Protection of Workers Act is effective and much needed.

help to reduce food waste in the home. The supermarket

Almost 300 cases of abuse against shop workers were reported to police in the first three months since the Protection of Workers Act came into force in August.

The figures from the Scottish Business Resilience Centre show 285 incidents of abuse or threats were reported to police by the end of November. The new law made it a specific offence to threaten or abuse retail staff.

Dr John Lee, Head of Policy at the Scottish Grocers’ Federation, said: “The message is getting out loud and clear that it’s unacceptable for anyone

to threaten or abuse Scotland’s retail workers. Those responsible will be punished. While every incident is one too many, the statistics show that the Protection of Workers Act is effective, is much needed, and that store owners and their staff are unafraid to use it.

“What’s more, it’s reassuring to see how serious Police Scotland are treating the complaints made, with every incident reported either having been investigated or under active investigation. This gives retailers confidence that these crimes are being taken seriously.”

giant will instead encourage its customers to use a sniff test. Morrisons anticipates the move will stop millions of pints from being thrown away every year.

COLLEAGUE SURVEY ACS has launched its annual Colleague Survey and is calling on people working in local shops to provide their views on employment in the convenience sector. The survey is designed to inform

Shopworker abducted and forced to reopen store in Tollcross robbery Police in Edinburgh are appealing for witnesses following a robbery at a shop in the Tollcross area of the city.

At around 10.45pm on 6 January, a 24-year-old man was walking on Spey Street, having finished his shift at the Scotmid store in Leven Street at 10pm.

He was approached by two men who forced him into a blue Volkswagen Tiguan car and drove him back to the store, where they threatened him and made him open the premises.

The suspects then stole a four-figure

ACS’ Local Shop Report and feed into discussions with government. The deadline is 4

sum of cash from the store and drove off at around 11.25pm.

Detective Inspector Kevin Tait, from Edinburgh Division CID, said: “We believe that this was a targeted attack and that those responsible had been following the victim prior to approaching him and forcing him to allow them entry to his place of work.

“While this was a very frightening experience for him, thankfully he was uninjured, and we are now pursuing a number of lines of inquiry to trace the suspects.”

March.

HEATING HELP GroceryAid’s Winter Heating Grant has launched to support low-income households meet the increasing cost of heating bills this winter. Retail workers that meet the criteria and provide the information requested could receive a grant of £150 per household.

WEDNESDAY 12TH JANUARY 2022 / ISSUE 87 / SLRMAG.CO.UK / 7

NEWS SPECIAL

COVID-19 UPDATE

ACS encourages retailers to back the Booster campaign

SELF-CHECKOUT AI COUNTER AIMED AT SMALL STORES UNVEILED

Public Health England has developed posters for retailers to display in store.

company Infiniq has

Immunisation’s chair of Covid-19 immunisation, said: “The current data shows the booster dose is continuing to provide high levels of protection against severe disease, even for the most vulnerable older age groups.

“For this reason, the committee has concluded there is no immediate need to introduce a second booster dose, though this will continue to be reviewed.

“The data is highly encouraging and emphasises the value of a booster jab.

With Omicron continuing to spread widely, I encourage everyone to come forward for their booster dose, or if unvaccinated, for their first two doses, to increase their protection against serious illness.”

More than 133 million Covid-19 vaccinations have been administered in the UK in just over a year, including around 34 million boosters and third doses, securing vital protection against Omicron.

revealed its AI counter specifically designed for small stores.

Eliminating the need for scanning individual barcodes, the new AI Counter aims to increase customer convenience boasting smart recognition, self-checkout and smart payment capabilities.

The company believes the solution would best suit bakery and fresh produce

TECH SOLUTIONS

A

CS is encouraging retailers to use new posters developed by Public Health England in store to help assist with the vaccine drive.

The new posters have been designed for businesses to use to encourage their communities to take up their opportunity to have their Covid-19 booster vaccine. They communicate key messages about the importance of having the Covid-19 booster vaccine.

The posters are available to download here.

The Get Boosted Now campaign has led to a huge increase in vaccination rates, with more than eight million jabs administered in England between 12 and 30 December.

Latest data from the UK Health Security Agency shows booster doses are continuing to provide high levels of protection against severe disease from the Omicron variant among older adults. With just two vaccine doses, protection against severe disease drops to around 70% after three months and to 50% after six months.

Professor Wei Shen Lim, the Joint Committee on Vaccination and

South Korean technology

services, as the system allows for products to be scanned individually as they go through the counter.

WEDNESDAY 12TH JANUARY 2022 / ISSUE 87 / SLRMAG.CO.UK / 9

C OV E R

APPOINT

Nisa welcom Former CEO Ken Towle is moving to Asda after mo

M

ichael Fletcher, Co-op’s Chief Commercial Officer, has been unveiled as Nisa’s new Chief Executive after it was revealed that Ken Towle is to join Asda as Retail Director.

Fletcher joined Co-op in 2013 and was part of the leadership team that helped reset the retailer’s proposition and get Co-op back on its feet. He has extensive operational experience, developing and leading commercial strategy, opening new markets, and leading integration synergy initiatives.

Over the past two years, while facing into the challenges of Covid-19, Fletcher has overseen the successful deployment of the Retail Business Transformation (RBT) programme, which delivered a significant step change in the Co-op’s proposition capabilities in 2021.

Fletcher led the team that acquired Nisa and helped create the new operating model for Nisa, which enabled the symbol group to leverage the synergies between Co-op and Nisa – driving greater value for partners.

Previously Fletcher spent 22 years at Tesco, having joined the Tesco graduation programme in 1991, and held numerous commercial roles across fresh and ambient, including delivery of value through price.

Fletcher said: “I am delighted to take on the leadership of the Nisa business.

I know many of the Partners and I look forward to meeting many more as we work together to make the very most of an exciting future.” Towle, who joined the

symbol group in May 2018, said: “It has been a privilege to lead the Nisa business.

Nisa is fortunate to work with fantastic partners from whom I have learnt so much. I wish everyone continued success

10 I SLRMAG.CO.UK / ISSUE 87 WEDNESDAY 12TH JANUARY 2022

in the future.” He added: “It’s an exciting time to be joining the Asda team and I am really looking forward to getting started later in the year.” Mohsin and Zuber Issa, who own Asda with

S T O RY

TMENTS

mes new CEO re than three-and-a-half years at the symbol group.

NISA WELCOMES NEW LEAD FOR NORTHERN IRELAND Nisa has also welcomed Nigel Maxwell into the business to head up the Northern Ireland team.

Maxwell will support Nisa partners across Northern Ireland and leading Nisa’s Irish team.

He brings with him more than 30 years’ experience in grocery retailing, largely in Northern Ireland, as well as the Republic of Ireland and England. He has worked with independent retailers for 20 years of his career. Most recently he held the position of Sales Director for Supervalu and Centra in Northern Ireland, part of the Musgrave retail and wholesale group.

Victoria Lockie, Head of Retail at Nisa, said: “I’m excited to welcome Nigel to the team. He is a well-respected figure in the industry with a wealth of knowledge, particularly about the independent sector in Northern Ireland and a track record of working with independent retailers and helping them to grow their sales and profits.

“Nigel is a valuable addition to the Nisa team and I’m very much looking forward to working with him as he supports our Irish partners and helps to drive forward their businesses.”

Maxwell said: “I’m really looking forward to working with the team at Nisa and our retail partners to continue to grow and develop the business. I can’t wait to get out to meet the retailers and build on the successful relationships that are the core of the Nisa business model.”

TDR Capital, said: “Ken’s considerable expertise as a Retail and Wholesale CEO with many years’ experience in some of the largest and most complex businesses, both in the UK and

internationally, make him the right person to lead our retail operations team.”They added: “We are delighted that we continue to attract such talent to our great business. Together, we will

MARK FLETCHER Mark Fletcher brings with him more than 30 years experience in grocery retailing

continue to put our customers at the heart of all our decision making and focus on delivering excellent service in what we know will be another challenging period for consumers.”

WEDNESDAY 12TH JANUARY 2022 / ISSUE 87 / SLRMAG.CO.UK / 11

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SYMBOL GROUPS

SPAR

Spar unveils fresh UK-wide brand positioning campaign

S

The Joy Of Living Locally campaign has debuted in Spar stores and digital communications.

par has launched a new brand positioning aimed at motivating shoppers and showing how the retailer is different to other convenience brands.

The Joy Of Living Locally campaign, which uses three new and distinct pillars, debuted this month.

The three pillars comprise: ‘Value on your doorstep’, ‘Nurture our neighbourhoods’, and ‘Passionate about local’. The first pillar is in use throughout January to kickstart the new campaign. Each pillar will have its own distinctive creative badge, which will also be incorporated into future store designs and across all marketing collateral.

The pillars aim to communicate to shoppers how the retailer adds value

through promotional activity or everyday pricing, nurtures neighbourhoods by employing people from local communities, supports local causes and charities, celebrates neighbourliness, and showcases local food and producers through the last pillar. They can work individually or can be brought together into a broader message.

Meanwhile, a new bespoke typeface, representing the spirit of the brand positioning called the ‘Spar scribble’, will also be used in-store and on all communications, together with an expanded, distinctive and complementary colour palette to the existing Spar colours.

All five Spar wholesalers are sharing the new positioning with independent retailers and company-owned stores,

while brand guidelines, a retailer video and toolkit have been produced to aid with execution.

Spar UK Brand & Marketing Director Suzanne Dover said: “We saw that we needed to showcase what makes Spar unique and the meaning behind our strapline ‘There for you’ and as a result ‘The Joy Of Living Locally’ brand positioning was born.

“A unique characteristic of Spar is that no two stores are the same, but all are supported by a core commonality. This allows our independent retailers to build on a core framework and proposition. It ensures they can exercise their individual entrepreneurial skill and meet the needs of local shoppers in their stores.”

WEDNESDAY 12TH JANUARY 2022 / ISSUE 87 / SLRMAG.CO.UK / 13

SYMBOL GROUPS

SPAR

Spar offers shoppers chance to win their shop for free The campaign aims to encourage customers back into Spar stores post-Christmas and New Year

SPAR SCOTLAND TO HOLD FIRST FACE-TO-FACE TRADESHOW IN MORE THAN TWO YEARS CJ Lang has unveiled details of its 2022

S

par is offering shoppers the chance to win their shop for free throughout January.

The ‘Win your Shop for Free’ campaign, which is launching in participating stores around England, Scotland and Wales throughout January, aims to encourage customers back into Spar stores post-Christmas and New Year.

tradeshow, which will be the compa-

Customers need to upload their receipt to a bespoke website for the chance to win back their basket spend.

There are 30 prizes a day up for grabs through to 1 February, with a total of 900 available. The campaign will be supported on in-store POS and via paid media activity across social channels.

Alex Hall, Spar UK Digital Marketing Manager, said: “We know consumers are more likely to spend more if they think they can win the value of their shop back and ‘Win your Shop for Free’ gives them a chance to do just that. Shoppers visiting our stores can win their essential shop and maybe something extra for a special occasion as well. It’s about bringing higher perceived value to Spar stores which will incentivise basket spend and in turn encourage footfall.”

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ny’s first face-to-face event in more than two years.

The event will be held at the MacDonald Hotel and Resort, in the heart of Aviemore and the Cairngorms National Park, on Thursday 22 September 2022. More than 700 delegates are due to attend.

Suppliers already signed up for the event include Brewdog, Juul, Imperial Tobacco, Ferrero, Kelloggs, Muller, and Hovis.

Colin McLean, Spar Scotland Chief Executive, said: “Our 2022 tradeshow will be a great opportunity to engage once again with a live audience. We will have over 180 national and Scottish suppliers turn their stands into exciting showcases for their products.”

COMMUNITY

NEW YEAR HONOURS

Local retailers recognised in New Year Honours list Local retailers have been rewarded for their charitable and community work during the pandemic.

L

ocal retailers across the UK have been recognised in the New Year Honours List for 2022.

Tina May, Postmistress for Christian Malford in Wiltshire has been awarded a British Empire Medal for providing services to the community.

Tina and her husband Kevin run the Post Office and village shop plus the five outreach post offices in Bromham, Foxham, Brinkworth, Broad Hinton, and Avebury.

Throughout the pandemic they have provided free home shopping delivery for the elderly and the vulnerable. They also keep an eye out for those in the village who live alone.

The couple managed to keep services

running for their six communities even when they they caught Covid, by calling in help from family and friends.

Tina said: “I am just doing what I do naturally. It has been tough for the past two years, but my automatic reaction is to rally round. I want to help people. I care about the communities that I serve.”

Also honoured were Hardip Atwal, who runs Atwal convenience store in Annan, Dumfries and Galloway. He was awarded the British Empire Medal for charitable services.

Dumfries and Galloway-based Debbie Murdoch, who until last year ran Balmaclellan Store, was also awarded the British Empire Medal for services to

the community. The shop owner helped those worst affected by the pandemic.

In addition, the mother and daughter team of Lynsey Cargill and Helen Ramsey were awarded the British Empire Medal for their services to the community at the Ancrum Pantry, Ancrum, Roxburghshire.

They have supported the community of Ancrum during the pandemic providing an essential supply of food and utilities to the community and establishing a delivery service for residents who were sick or self-isolating.

Lynsey is also a supporter of local charities for many years through her fundraising activities and makes items for local good causes.

TINA MAY, Postmistress for Christian Malford in Wiltshire has been awarded a British Empire Medal for services to the community.

Tina and her husband Kevin run the Post Office and village shop plus the five outreach post offices in Bromham, Foxham, Brinkworth, Broad Hinton, and Avebury.

WEDNESDAY 12TH JANUARY 2022 / ISSUE 87 / SLRMAG.CO.UK / 15

SYMBOL GROUPS

BESTWAY WHOLESALE

Award-winning retailer joins Bestway SLR Young Retailer of the Year Anand Cheema has joined Costcutter.

F

alkirk retailer Anand Cheema, SLR Young Retailer of the Year, has joined Costcutter.

Cheema’s 2,900sq ft store in Falkirk has been rebranded to the Costcutter livery and a full refit of the store will take place in early 2022.

Speaking of his move to Bestway, Cheema said: “We have a successful history with the Costcutter brand, having enjoyed tremendous success as a Costcutter store in the ‘90s through to the early 2000s. We still have a great relationship with members of the team.

16 I SLRMAG.CO.UK / ISSUE 87 WEDNESDAY 12TH JANUARY 2022

“I was particularly impressed by the ambition of the Bestway Group and the successful direction the business is clearly heading in. For me, it’s all about teamwork and optimising the best possible opportunities. It’s important to be working with a symbol partner that has the same vision as I do and who is looking to grow together with its retailers.”

He added: “This is the next stage in our growth and development in a fast-changing market. We know that consumers’ shopping behaviours are changing fast right now, and we want to ensure we are at the forefront of that change. We’re here to serve our community and that is and will always be our number one priority.”

Jamie Davison, Head of New Business and Store Development at Bestway Retail, said: “We are delighted that one of Scotland’s most exciting young retailers has joined our Costcutter brand as it’s a great time to join the Bestway family.

“As a family-owned business, Bestway has been very clear about its focus since the 1970s: helping retailers thrive.”

Davison added: “Anand has already had great success in his retail career, and we believe that together, we can help him grow his business even further.”

H O M E D E L I V E RY

ONE STOP

One Stop partners with Just Eat The agreement sees 40 One Stop stores offering delivery via the app

O

ne Stop has formed a partnership with Just Eat that has seen 40 of its stores start offering delivery via the app.

The new partnership will enable customers to buy a range of convenience products, from fresh ingredients for dinner through to last-minute essentials, which are then delivered to their door.

Up to 500 grocery items, ranging from essentials such as bread and milk to toiletries and snacks, will be available to order.

Jonny McQuarrie, One Stop Managing Director, said: “We’re thrilled to be partnering with Just Eat and as always, we are committed to making it as easy as possible for our customers to shop with us.

“Customers will be able to have great quality products at their doorstep within minutes. We look forward to offering the Just Eat service to both our existing loyal customers and new customers across the country.”

Andrew Kenny, Managing Director UK at Just Eat, added: “We’re always striving to offer our customers more choice, convenience and the very best service – this partnership enables us to do just that. One Stop is a much-loved British convenience store at the heart

of many local communities, making it a perfect partner for Just Eat. We look forward to helping One Stop shoppers enjoy more of their favourite items, delivered directly to their door.”

The partnership comes as demand for on-demand grocery deliveries is on the rise in the UK and follows Just Eat’s global commitment to expanding and

building on its extensive existing delivery network, including through convenience grocery operations. Just Eat has set up a dedicated team to acquire convenience grocery partners.

Just Eat currently supports nearly 10,000 stores globally and is well-known for grocery and convenience brands like 7-Eleven and Shell.

WEDNESDAY 12TH JANUARY 2022 / ISSUE 87 / SLRMAG.CO.UK / 17

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SYMBOL GROUPS

NISA

Nisa reveals fresh marketing offering

Memorable deal mechanics have been designed to help shoppers navigate the new offers.

N

isa has launched a new branding concept for its retailers, building on the Fresh Thinking proposition introduced in 2021.

The updated branding will span all touchpoints, from point of sale through to digital, and is designed to help attract a new generation of shoppers to Nisa stores.

Launched at the start of the new year, the new concept will see partners receive a new-look leaflet, personalised to their stores, showcasing the services on offer.

The leaflet’s content will focus more on meals and missions that drive greater basket size and spend per trip with key offers – such as The Big Deal, Freezer Deal and a new, all-year-round offer called Mid-Week Meal – also included.

Nisa is also working with new leaflet distribution partner Whistl to give partners more control of the distribution, using a tailored consumer targeting tool.

Memorable deal mechanics have also been designed to help shoppers navigate the new offers across leaflet, in-store, and digital channels.

Nisa Brand Manager Regan Howard said: “By applying Fresh Thinking to our Nisa brand we are evolving in a fast-paced market, creating consistency and recognition across all channels and communications for our partners.

“We’ve listened to feedback from partners and analysed the market and future trends to understand how we could improve our marketing mix. All of this research has enabled us to create a new design system that is distinctly Nisa but with a fresh and new feel.”

Nisa Head of Marketing Laura Gomersal added: “By adopting a mission-led

approach to our marketing we’re ensuring shoppers start to view our partners’ stores as a destination for meals and for active top-up missions like treats.

“These drive significantly higher basket values than distress missions and more trips. Winning in these key missions will drive increased basket values and sales for our partners.”

WEDNESDAY 12TH JANUARY 2022 / ISSUE 87 / SLRMAG.CO.UK / 19

SYMBOL GROUPS

NISA

Nisa taps into Veganuary and Dry January The symbol group is providing stores with a new periodic promotion that features three Co-op own brand fruit or vegetable lines on a 3 for £5 deal.

N

isa has unveiled an array of deals on healthy items for January to reflect the post-festive shift in consumer habits.

The symbol group’s stores will be offering Quaker Wholegrain Rolled Oats 1kg for £1.50; Tropicana Smooth Orange Juice 1.4ltr for £2; and Innocent Bolt From The Blue drink 750ml for £2.50 a bottle, as part of the promotion.

The deal also includes the Co-op Chicken Thigh Fillets 520g on a two for £7 deal; the Co-op Sweet Potato 2pk at £1; and the Co-op Curly Kale 160g at 65p a bag.

Nisa is also targeting Dry January consumers, offering non-alcoholic drinks such as Heineken 0.0% 4x330ml at £3, Gordon’s 0.0% 70cl at £12, and

the Co-op Irresistible Non-Alcoholic Botanical Drink 50cl at £9.

Meanwhile, with Veganuary 2021 in full swing, Nisa is providing stores with a new periodic promotion that features three Co-op own brand fruit or vegetable lines on a 3 for £5 deal, called Fresh 3.

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Nisa Wholesale Category Controller Darren Hamilton said: “Each year, the transition from December to January sees a huge shift in both consumer mindset and shopping habits as many begin to crave routine and structure after a busy and likely indulgent festive period.”

Research by IGD has revealed that more than a quarter of consumers agree that the main motivation for a change in diet is to improve overall health, with over a third proactively aiming to eat more fruit and vegetables at this time of year.

Hamilton added: “It’s important that Nisa partners have access to a broad range across these categories, at competitive prices, to ensure they can cater for the changing demands of their shoppers and create a one shop destination for their customers as we move into 2022.”

BUSINESS SERVICES

PAYPOINT

PayPoint expands partnership with Covid test supplier The expanded partnership will enable people to order a Randoz lateral flow test online for click-and-collect at a local store within the Collect+ network

P

ayPoint and Randox have expanded their partnership to boost access to Covid-19 testing and provide a vital service to travellers returning to the UK. The expanded partnership will enable people to order a Randox test online for click-and-collect at a local store within the Collect+ network, initially available in over 5,000 locations, and soon in more than 10,000 locations nationwide.

The service launched to coincide with changes to travel policy which, from 4am on 9 January, allows fully vaccinated arrivals from non-red list countries to take a lateral flow (antigen) test, with a PCR test only required if a positive lateral flow result is returned.

In addition, from mid-January, PayPoint will give consumers the ability to walk into a local store and pick up a test immediately in over 2,500 locations, with no need to order online. This service will be offered in partnership with major convenience retailers including Scotmid Co-operative and Spar in the north-west and Scotland.

Dr Peter FitzGerald, Managing Director at Randox, said: “By drawing on our 40 years’ diagnostics experience, unparalleled testing capacity, and well-established logistics network, which now includes an extensive

number of new locations from PayPoint, Randox is able to respond quickly to changing travel requirements and simplify the process of ordering Day Two lateral flow tests.

“The availability of value for money tests that can be collected at the customer’s convenience thanks to our partnership with PayPoint means people in the UK don’t need to wait for home delivery or a walk-in clinic appointment when ordering a Covud-19 test.”

Nick Wiles, Chief Executive at PayPoint, added: “Our expanded partnership with Randox will deliver yet another vital service to help keep people safe in communities across the UK. “Consumer convenience and accessibility are at the very heart of what we do and this is another example of our agility, responsiveness and the great relationships we have with our retailer partners in the ever-changing landscape across the UK.”

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TRADING STANDARDS

ILLEGAL VAPES

Vapes aimed at kids seized in crackdown Products were removed from sale because of their design, labelling, and nicotine content.

I

llegal vaping products targeting children have been seized in a major six-week operation by Middlesbrough Council’s Trading Standards team.

The vapes are typically sold in brightly coloured packaging and with flavours and names, such as Strawberry or Banana Milkshake, Unicorn Shake and Tiger Blood, to appeal to children and young people.

Products removed from sale include the brands Elf, Solaz, Voopoo, Elux 3500 puffs, Hipster Glow 2000 puffs and Hipster 2600 puffs, which are illegal in relation to their design, labelling and nicotine content.

Many are also not registered with the Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Authority, while others were also found to be counterfeit.

Some of the seized products had tank sizes up to three times the legal limit, as well as incorrect labelling, with devices lacking information including sufficient health warnings or the details of a UK-based manufacturer or importer who can be contacted in the event of a safety issue.

In an attempt to avoid detection some products did not display the nicotine content of the product.

The Trading Standards team have been told by local shop owners that retailers are being approached by mobile sellers who are selling the e-cigarettes from vans.

More than 43 retailers in Middlesbrough were visited by trading standards, with nearly 4,000 products being taken off sale. Investigations into the sale of these illegal products are ongoing.

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Judith Hedgley, Middlesbrough Council’s Head of Public Protection, said: “We will continue to work with local businesses to protect fair and lawful trading practices, to raise awareness of our concerns over illegal vaping products and advise them on how to avoid buying unsafe goods.

“However, we will take appropriate enforcement action against businesses that fail to carry out appropriate product safety checks and expose their customers to unsafe vape products.”

TRADING STANDARDS

ILLEGAL VAPES

Geek Bar combats counterfeit and non-compliant products The company has produced a leaflet which will accompany all its products heading to the UK.

G

eek Bar has launched an information campaign aimed at retailers across the UK in a further attempt to stem the flow of counterfeit and non-compliant vaping products finding their way onto the market.

The company has produced a leaflet which will accompany all Geek Bar products heading to the UK from this month. The leaflet states: “It has come to our attention that there are counterfeit

products on the market, claiming to be genuine Geek Bar vapes.

“We cannot vouch for the safety of counterfeit products and would urge customers to verify their Geek Bar vapes at our website http://www.geekbar.com/ where you can input the unique serial number and instantly identify whether it is a genuine product.”

The leaflet is also being sent to all trading standards teams across the UK.

Geek Bar has launched several other initiatives to crack down on counterfeit and non-compliant products in recent weeks.

Billy Rahman, Managing Director at vape manufacturer iBreathe, is acting as a consultant for Geek Bar. He has established a primary authority arrangement with his local council, Oldham in Greater Manchester, in which trading standards officers there will co-ordinate operations with their counterparts around the country in respect to counterfeit and non-compliant disposable vape products.

He is also working alongside compliance company Arcus Compliance to ensure that all classification, labelling and packaging requirements for Geek Bar products being sold around the UK are met.

Meanwhile, Geek Bar has published a list of approved UK distributors and has worked with the authorities in China to close 12 counterfeit factories in recent months. It is also in the process of warning all non-official Geek Bar social media sites that they must cease to continue under the Geek Bar name.

Retailers and distributors can report suspected counterfeit and non-compliant products at legal@geekbar.com [mailto:legal@geekbar.com]. The company is incentivising retailers to report products that do not comply with UK regulations.

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COMMUNITY

NISA

Making a Difference Locally charity appoints new trustees

Retailers will join the existing board of trustees to support activity and help shape the charity’s direction going forward.

N

isa’s charity Making a Difference Locally (MADL) has named two new trustees to support activity and help shape its direction going forward.

Scarborough-based Proudfoot Group Director Valerie Aston and Baz Aslam, Director of Fishpool News in Bury, join the existing board of trustees which comprises members of Nisa’s senior team alongside two independent trustees.

Aston has worked at the Proudfoot supermarket group for more than 28 years, which operates four supermarkets, based in Newby, Eastfield, BAZ ASLAM VALERIE ASTON Seamer and Manham Hill.

Proudfoot stores has itself supported communities and across the UK would of achieving. I wish to help the charity local causes with more than £110,000 in be lost without. Knowing that something and the hardworking people involved donations raised through MADL to date I will be part of is able to contribute, to to make it better and help out as many and has won numerous Nisa awards for help transform a community, is really people as we can.” its extensive charitable activity within heartening.”

Making a Difference Locally will also the local community.

Aslam added: “’I’d like to try to bring be launching a new Retailer Forum this Aslam runs Fishpool News, which has a different vision and drive to the charity week to encourage Nisa retailers to share been operated by his family since 2008, as it has the ability to reach out to so their thoughts and feedback on the charand joined Nisa just last year in a bid to many different areas of the community ity and any further support they may that need help, but have limited options need. give his store a new lease of life.

The first meeting will take place on Aston said: “What inspires me most in getting it. about MADL is how it supports small “I have seen for myself in a short Thursday 13 January and will be held and local charities that people in our space of time what MADL is capable monthly via video call.

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COMMUNITY

BIKE BOSNIA 2022

Wholesale and convenience charity bike ride set for Bosnia Charity ride will take place across the Western Balkans in June.

T

he annual grocery, wholesale and convenience retail charity bike ride, set up in 2015 by Sugro Managing Director Neil Turton and TWC Development Director Tom Fender, to raise money for the Manchester-based landmine clearance charity, Mines Advisory Group (MAG), will return as an overseas trip in 2022.

Bike Bosnia 2022 will take place across the Western Balkans, starting in

Dubrovnik on 10 June and finishing in Sarajevo on 15 June.

The 2022 ride will be the sixth international ride – the previous five challenges have taken place in regions which, like Bosnia, are impacted by the legacy of conflict ncluding Laos, Sri Lanka, Vietnam and Cambodia. To date, the rides have raised £730,000 for the charity.

Turton said: “After a challenging 2021,

we are delighted to be able to return to an international bike ride for 2022.“We managed to hold seven individual day rides in the UK last year, which were fantastic, but we’re excited to head overseas again, to one of the countries where MAG is making a huge difference to the people living there.”

Fender added: “The devastating conflict in the Western Balkans ended in 1995. The war claimed an estimated 100,000 lives and displaced another 2.2 million people.“Many people will recall seeing the horrific images on the news.

‘Bike Bosnia’ will allow riders to learn more about the deadly legacy of the war — the deadliest European conflict since World War II — whilst raising funds for a fantastic cause.”

Places are still available for the Bike Bosnia event and the organisers calling for more riders to get involved. For more information about the ride, or about sponsorship opportunities, email sarah.tavener@ maginternational.org.

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STOCK UP NOW IN TIME FOR ALL THE RUGBY ACTION

BUSINESS INTELLIGENCE

CO-OP

Green pound hits record levels The company has produced a leaflet which will accompany all its products heading to the UK.

T

he UK ‘green pound’ has reached record levels, breaking through the £100bn for the first time, according to the Co-op’s Ethical Consumerism Report. The research shows ethical consumer spending and finance in the UK amounting to £122bn, but brand boycotts on ethical grounds have risen sharply to almost £4bn, up 18% in the year.

In particular, ethical shoppers have got their teeth into vegetarian and plantbased food and drinks which have experienced a 34% sales increase to almost £1.5bn.

Sales data from Co-op indicates that plant-based burgers outperformed

meat-based counterparts by 24% in 2021. Data also revealed an increase in the sales of plant-based ready meals, outperforming meat-based ready meals by 15% over the past 12 months.

Steve Murrells, Co-op Group Chief Executive, said: “Our Ethical Consumerism Report is a barometer on consumer behaviour and shoppers are turning up the heat to boycott businesses which fail to act on ethical or social concerns.

The report is a warning to brands that they must do business a better way for workers, communities and the planet but it offers clear evidence to policy makers that they can positively influence change.”

The report shows that independent certification continued to be important in helping consumers make better choices. The Fairtrade, RSPCA Freedom Assured and Rainforest Alliance brands all rose in value while spend on MSC-certified sustainable fish fell from £899m to £818m.

The research also finds that freerange egg sales topped more than £1bn for the first-time.

Sales of energy efficient lightbulbs fell in 2020 after lockdown restrictions hit supply chains. However, UK sales of LED lightbulbs are expected to increase significantly following the September 2021 ban on retailing halogen lightbulbs.

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BUSINESS INTELLIGENCE

IGD SHOPPERVISTA

Shopper confidence remains stable

IGD’s latest data shows shoppers remain concerned about increasing food prices.

D

ecember was a month of two halves for shopper confidence, as the excitement of Christmas festivities was coupled with the uncertainty over Omicron, according to the latest Shopper Confidence Index from IGD ShopperVista.

The latest data reveals that, despite a slight return to normality compared with Christmas in 2020, shopper confidence remained flat at -9 in December, unchanged from November, and 3 points lower than December 2020’s score of -6.

There was a clear split across the month, with shopper confidence increasing from a low of -13 in the first week to a high of -7 in the last week.

The index reveals that financial confidence remained stable from November, with 31% expecting to be worse off in the year ahead, and 20% expecting to be better off. However, shoppers remain

concerned about increasing food prices, with 86% expecting prices to become more expensive over the next 12 months, the highest level since January 2016.

Rhian Thomas, Head of Insight at IGD ShopperVista, said: “It’s encouraging to see that overall confidence remained unchanged from November. Despite increased restrictions causing a dip in the first week it’s clear that time spent with friends and family over Christmas helped to bolster confidence significantly by the end of the month.

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“Assuming no further restrictions are introduced then shopper confidence may be sustained in early 2022. However, this is likely to remain fragile in the first quarter as shoppers contend with a double whammy of the energy price cap review and the National Insurance increase in April. This will hit the lowest affluence groups hardest, as a higher proportion of their income goes on food, drink and energy, meaning that their recovery is slower than higher affluence groups.”

BUSINESS INTELLIGENCE

PORTMAN GROUP

One in three UK drinkers regularly choose low or no alcohol products The company has produced a leaflet which will accompany all its products heading to the UK.

U

K drinkers increasingly choose low and no alcohol products all year round and not just for Dry January.

That’s according to the fourth annual YouGov online study commissioned by marketing regulator the Portman Group.

The research shows that almost one in three UK drinkers now ‘semi-regularly’ consume low and no alcohol products compared to one in four in 2020. In addition, 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. The most popular reason for consumers who have tried low and no alcohol to drink these products continues to be ‘being able to drive home from social events’ (33%), followed by reducing the possibility of health concerns or current medical reasons (22%).

The study reveals that across the UK there were increases in the number of low and no consumers. Welsh drinkers top the chart as most likely to be semi-regular low/no drinkers at 36% of respondents, compared to 22% in 2020.

English consumers come in at 32% up

from 25%. In Scotland 29% of consumers are semi-regular drinkers, up from 27%.

Matt Lambert, Chief Executive of the Portman Group, said: “As these positive findings show, there has been a big increase in drinking low and no during the pandemic, indicating that many UK drinkers have looked to moderate their alcohol consumption by swapping with non-alcoholic options. These figures show the fruits of large industry innovation and investment into the sector over the past decade to provide consumers with an array of lower alcohol options.”

WEDNESDAY 12TH JANUARY 2022 / ISSUE 87 / SLRMAG.CO.UK / 29

Top performing JUULpod flavours bring in more revenue.

Designed for adult smokers.

•Menthol JUULpods are U.K.’s #2 refill kit in independent shops.4 •Berry JUULpods are the U.K.’s #1 fruit flavour.2 • Mint JUULpods are the U.K.’s #1 closed pod refill kit.1 •The JUUL Starter Kit is the U.K.’s #1 closed system in supermarkets.3

Not for sale to minors.

JUUL is an e-cigarette. This is an age restricted product and age verification is required at sale.

1.IRI total market, value sales, 12 weeks to 11/04/21 sales comparison of top four performing JUUL skus versus the top four performing SKUs of our nearest competitor. 2. Based on additional sales of Mango, Golden Tobacco and Rich Tobacco JUULpods, IRI total market, value sales, 12 weeks to 11/04/21. 3. IRI total market, value sales, Supermarkets, 12 weeks to 11/04/21. 4. IRI total market, value sales, Symbols and Independnets, 12 weeks to 11/04/21.

WARNING: This product contains nicotine which is a highly addictive substance.

BUSINESS INTELLIGENCE

BRC-NEILSEN

Price rises to pick up speed in 2022 Data shows that both ambient and fresh food prices rose in December.

S

hop Price annual inflation accelerated to 0.8% in December, up from 0.3% in November, according to the latest BRC-Nielsen Shop Price Index. The data shows food inflation accelerated to 2.4% in December, up from 1.1% in November.

The Shop Price Index shows fresh food inflation accelerated significantly in December to 3.0%, up from 1.2% in November, which is the highest inflation rate since April 2013.

Meanwhile, ambient food inflation accelerated to 1.7% in December, up from 0.9% in November, this is the highest rate of increase since March 2021.

Helen Dickinson, Chief Executive of the British Retail Consortium, said:

“Food prices were falling earlier on in 2021, but the acute labour shortages across supply chains, amongst other factors, led to the year ending with a notable increase. For example, fresh food saw the largest rate of inflation in almost a decade. Year-on-year non-food products were deflationary, but prices rose across the board on the previous month.

“The trajectory for consumer prices is very clear: they will continue to rise, and at a faster rate. Retailers can no longer absorb all the cost pressures arising from more expensive transportation, labour shortages, and rising commodity and global food prices. Consumers will already be harder pressed this year, with rising energy bills, the looming hike in

national insurance, and more expensive mortgages. Government should relieve some of these costs by looking for longterm solutions for resolvable issues such as labour shortages.”

Mike Watkins, Head of Retailer and Business Insight at NielsenIQ, said: “After a challenging Christmas period, consumers are facing higher energy, travel and for some mortgage costs and the underlying price inflation in retail may only make it more difficult to entice shoppers to spend in January.

“But it is weak consumer confidence and uncertainty around the pandemic rather than shop price inflation which will have the biggest impact on demand at the start of the year.”

WEDNESDAY 12TH JANUARY 2022 / ISSUE 87 / SLRMAG.CO.UK / 31

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BUSINESS INTELLIGENCE

KANTAR

Consumers seize the chance to enjoy Christmas Premium own-label sales broke records at Christmas, new Kantar research reveals.

G

rocery sales reached £31.7bn over the 12 weeks to 26 December 2021 as shoppers made the most of Christmas festivities, new research reveals.

Data from Kantar shows that people seized the chance to enjoy Christmas with friends and family after last year’s muted festivities, and grocery sales hit £11.7bn over the month of December.

The research shows spending on many traditional Christmas dinner items was broadly similar compared with last year, there was ample evidence of people

treating themselves and guests. Sales of mince pies reached £62m in December, a jump of 7% on 2020. A similar amount, £61m, was spent on Christmas chocolates, with sales soaring by 21%. Consequently, indigestion remedy sales rose by 8%. Sprout sales dipped by 3% but the traditional green hasn’t fallen out of favour just yet as almost half of all households in Britain served them up in December.

Premium own-label sales broke records at Christmas and shoppers spent £627m on supermarkets’ own upmarket lines over the four weeks to 26 December,

an increase of 6.8% versus 2020. The appetite to celebrate and splash out that little bit more pushed sales of luxury own-brand products up across the board.

Sparkling and still wine sales grew 22% and 18% respectively, while crisps surged by 31%.

As is traditional, the busiest shopping day of the year was 23 December. Food and drink spend peaked two days before Christmas. The real driver of bumper sales on 23 December wasn’t online though, as Kantar recorded the largest number of in-store visits since March 2020.

WEDNESDAY 12TH JANUARY 2022 / ISSUE 87 / SLRMAG.CO.UK / 33

BUSINESS INTELLIGENCE

POST OFFICE

Post Office sees record cash withdrawals over festive period The record figure came despite Covid-19 restrictions being introduced over the festive period in parts of the UK.

M

ore than £800m in cash was withdrawn by personal customers over the counter at Post Office branches during the festive period, an increase of 7.8% on November and 25% up on December 2020, new figures reveal.

The record figure for December 2021 came despite Covid-19 restrictions being introduced over the festive period in parts of the UK that meant businesses reliant on cash had reduced takings and therefore in some cases reduced cash deposits at their local Post Office.

Overall, Post Offices handled a record £3.1bn in cash deposits and withdrawals

in December, up on the previous £3bn November record. In December 2020, Post Offices handled £2.4bn.

Meanwhile, business cash deposits dipped 1.8% month-on-month and personal cash deposits grew 0.2% monthon-month. Personal and business cash deposits were both up 30% year-on-year.

Martin Kearsley, Banking Director at Post Office, said: “Postmasters kept their Post Offices open throughout the festive period serving their communities and providing a convenient and secure location for millions of people and businesses to do their everyday banking. Despite

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Covid-19 restrictions being introduced and some people’s natural desire to avoid going out to see friends and family before Christmas, it’s testament to the hard work of Postmasters that a record £3.1bn was processed at branches.

“We are incredibly proud of our partnership with the Trussell Trust and are heartened that customers withdrew a record £801m over the counter, helping us to raise vital funds for the charity.”

Post Office recently announced a new charity partnership with the Trussell Trust and is donating 1p for every cash withdrawal done over the counter.

BUSINESS INTELLIGENCE

PHILIP MORRIS

Quarter of smokers to explore smoke-free products in 2022 Research shows that 61% of smokers said they would feel comfortable asking their l ocal retailer for advice on what smoke-free products might be right for them.

M

ore than a quarter (26%) of adult smokers in the UK are likely to explore smoke-free products in 2022, an independent survey for Philip Morris reveals.

Of smokers surveyed, 61% said they would feel comfortable asking their local retailer for advice on what smoke-free products might be right for them in 2022.

Meanwhile, 58% of respondents believed they hadn’t yet found a satisfying alternative to cigarette smoking to help them quit, and 32% wished they knew about a better range of options available to them.

The survey revealed several challenges local retailers may need to consider to better support adult smokers switch to alternative products. Only 17% of smokers were likely to ask retailers what smoke-free products they stock and for recommendations on what alternatives might be right for them. In addition, 65% of smokers were unlikely to ask which alternatives matched their preferences, such as taste and nicotine strength, and for information they could take away from the point of sale to find out more.

Kate O’Dowd, Head of Commercial Planning at Philip Morris in the UK & Ireland, said: “The New Year provides retailers with a great opportunity to help adult smokers switch to better smokefree products, like e-cigarettes and heated tobacco products, if they’re unable to give up tobacco and nicotine products completely.

“This survey reveals that stocking smoke-free alternatives won’t be enough.

Retailers must educate themselves and make connections with their customers, regarding the benefits of these products.”

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SUSTAINABILITY

SUNTORY BEVERAGE & FOOD GB&I

Lucozade Sport dons new sustainable kit

The reduced sleeve alone will save 101 tonnes of virgin plastic being produced annually

L

ucozade Sport has unveiled a new kit with a reduced plastic sleeve on its bottles as part of its continued focus to become more sustainable and which is now being rolled out across the Lucozade Sport portfolio.

The new-look sleeve follows Suntory Beverage & Food GB&I (SBF GB&I)’s £7.8m investment to make its packaging more sustainable, as part of the company’s Growing For Good vision that focuses on positive change for businesses, people and the planet.

The reduced sleeve alone will save 101 tonnes of virgin plastic being

produced annually and allows the bottle to be more easily identified and sorted into the correct waste stream, helping ensure more Lucozade Sport bottles are turned back into bottles within the current UK recycling infrastructure.

The Lucozade Sport sleeve redesign follows a major packaging update on the Ribena brand last year, including launching paper straws for Ribena cartons, as well as a move to 50% transparent sleeves across the Lucozade Energy range to allow them to be recycled more easily back into bottles. Lucozade Sport’s new kit will help bring SBF GB&I closer

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to its goal of making all its plastic packaging sustainable by 2030 and is also a key step toward the company’s ambition of reaching net zero emissions by 2050.

Tom Bell, Head of Marketing for Lucozade Sport at SBF GB&I, said: “This is a key move for the Lucozade Sport brand and, more broadly, for SBF GB&I as part of our Growing For Good vision. The new sleeve not only makes Lucozade Sport bottles easier to recycle but equally benefits retailers by being more eye-catching and striking on shelf, helping shoppers to find their favourite isotonic drink more easily.”

SUSTAINABILITY

AG BARR

AG Barr boosts supply chain sustainability

The company has introduced a new 70-strong all-electric forklift truck fleet across its warehouses.

A

G Barr has entered a long-term partnership with forklift truck manufacturer Jungheinrich to introduce a new 70-strong all-electric fleet this year to support its sustainability goals.

The company’s drive for sustainability and efficiency led to a move away from LPG powered trucks, upgrading to a fully electric fleet using a combination of lithium-ion technology and conventional battery powered vehicles.

Jungheinrich used its in-house electrical infrastructure team, engaging with AG Barr at every stage using advanced technology to ensure there was sufficient charging power available for the fleet when it arrived. In addition, Jungheinrich supplied both trial and demonstration vehicles and electrical charging infrastructure across multiple AG Barr sites to help AG Barr’s team become familiar with the electric fleet before its arrival.

Karl Donnan, Supply Chain Director at AG Barr, said: “Our partnership with Jungheinrich has enabled us to have a forklift fleet across all our warehouses which is safer, more efficient and contributes towards our environmental sustainability ambition to become a carbon net zero business.

“The Jungheinrich team worked with us to ensure we identified the solutions

which best fit our needs, and their latest technology solutions give us stepchange improvements in all aspects of performance.”

Neil Warren, Director Region One at Jungheinrich, added: “We are delighted that our lithium-ion and battery technology transition will help AG Barr move toward a more sustainable operating model. This provides huge

environmental and economic benefits including efficiency and productivity gains. With our passion for delivering sustainable solutions that complement business objectives, it has been a pleasure to work with AG Barr on the upgrade and renewal of its warehouse fleet. AG Barr has been a great partner for us, and we look forward to continuing that relationship.”

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SUSTAINABILITY

MUG SHOT

Mug Shot introduces 100% recyclable sachets The move is expected to help remove 37 tonnes of plastic per year.

H

ot snack brand Mug Shot has revealed 100% recyclable packaging across its sachets aiming to target the sustainability-conscious consumer.The new design will help remove 37 tonnes of plastic per year, in what has been described as a first for the instant hot snack category.

The improved sachets still retain Mug Shot’s features, such as its logo and health credentials, outlining calorie and fat content to resonate with health-focused consumers.

Emma Boyle, Brand Manager at Mug Shot, said: “We understand that a lot of people will be looking at how they become more sustainable in their dayto-day lives, especially when thinking about their New Year’s resolutions in January.

“We want to help our customers to reach their goals and recycle more of their household packaging.”

Mug Shot is available in a range of flavours including Chicken & Sweetcorn noodles and Creamy Cheese pasta.

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“We’ve also made sure that none of Mug Shot’s taste or quality has been compromised when developing this change,” Boyle added.“Inside you’ll still find the same delicious flavours with the same health credentials you would expect of the Mug Shot brand.”

Each flavour comes low in calories, less than 2% fat and no MSG, also making them suitable for consumers on a January health kick, while the sachet format is ready in five minutes by adding boiling water.

NPD AND MEDIA

YOPLAIT

Frubes reveals gift-in-pack The campaign aims to encourage children to adopt healthier snack alternatives

Y

ogurt snack brand Frubes has unveiled a new gift-in-pack promotion offering a free Frubes sticker with each multipack SKU. The deal is aimed at children returning to school after the Christmas break, supported by a comprehensive marketing campaign that includes TV, video-on-demand, YouTube, online videos on gaming platforms, in-store marketing and influencer activity expected to reach 2.9m people.

The yogurt’s portable format can be kept fresh for up to eight hours out of the fridge, making it suitable for lunchboxes,

on-the-go or as a top-up after school.

Lindsay Hill, Marketing Director at Yoplait UK, said: “Frubes is a healthier snack alternative that is popular with kids and easily incorporated into daily routines. The addition of a new gift-inpack promotion adds another layer of fun and play to Frubes that connects with children and inspires parents.

“Our new campaign will support Frubes during the Return to School period, with fresh activity across a range of popular home media channels, including TV, YouTube, and gaming. With

parents finding new ways to fill their children’s time, these channels have experienced spikes in consumption and are great consumer touchpoints for reaching key audiences.”

In September 2020, the brand launched its biggest ever Back to School campaign achieving the strongest monthly market share in 1.5 years, with value reaching £2.6m in September that year, up 26.6% year-on-year. Over the last 52 weeks, Frubes has been growing at a rate of +5.2% in sales value, the company added.

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NPD AND MEDIA

MONDELEZ INTERNATIONAL

New Cadbury hot chocolate promo promises perfect break The ‘Make it Yours’ promotion will generate extra stand-out on shelf to encourage sales at this key time

M

ondelez has unveiled ‘Make It Yours,’ a new promotion that will run across Cadbury Drinking Chocolate 500g and Cadbury Instant Hot Chocolate 400g packs from mid-January for three months.

The promo gives shoppers the chance to win their Perfect Weekend, as well as one of thousands of Cadbury Hot Chocolate hampers.

The winner of the Perfect Weekend prize will receive a weekend experience

worth up to £5,000. They can choose from a VIP festival weekend, a luxury family adventure weekend, an at-home VIP party, a VIP theme park adventure, an exclusive football weekend or a golf and spa weekend.

Lorena Moyano, Brand Manager for Cadbury Hot Chocolate at Mondelez International, said: “The winter months are of course the key selling season for hot beverages like hot chocolate so it’s important that retailers make the most of the additional shoppers and sales

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opportunities at this time of year.“That’s why we’re bringing the ‘Make it Yours’ promotion to life across our bestselling range – generating extra stand-out on shelf to encourage sales at this key time and offering our consumers the chance to win some really fun prizes. It’s a win-win.”

Mondelez is advising retailers to stock up on the two SKUs and site them in their main hot beverages fixture to make the most of the buzz around the promotion.

NPD AND MEDIA

SPAR

Spar becomes first UK grocer to launch vegan own-label wine The range will be available across more than 1,700 licensed Spar stores across England, Scotland and Wales

T

he vegan line comprises over 70 products, including award-winning wines, and will be available across more than 1,700 licensed Spar stores across England, Scotland and Wales.

The new range includes Spar Regional Selection Languedoc Red; Spar Regional Selection South African Reserve Chenin Blanc; Spar Vine & Bloom Rosé –part of a range of three (including a white and a red), which was the first overtly vegan wine to hit shelves and has enjoyed a 54% year-on-year growth; and the Spar Prosecco Valdobbiadene DOCG. Spar UK Brand Manager for Own Label Beers, Wines and Spirits, Adam

Georgiou, said: “We are really proud to be delivering on our promise to become the first grocer offering an own-label wine range that is suitable for vegans.

“Our vast range boasts many multi-award-winning bottles, which offer shoppers great quality and fantastic value. The new range is exciting for vegans and non-vegans alike and we are looking forward to developing more products to cater for all dietary requirements.”

Noting that “more than half a million people took part in Veganuary 2021 and 85% of those surveyed said they planned to at least half their intake of

animal products after January”, Georgiou added that Spar decided to create the more inclusive range as a result of consumers’ increasing demand for vegan products, “regardless of their eating habits or lifestyles”.

“We are confident that there is now something for everyone – whether they are vegan, flexitarian or meat eaters who just love a nice glass of wine,” he said.

Spar is supporting the launch with digital campaigns at in-store and online points-of-sale, along with consumer PR including advertorials, influencer activity, media and celebrity outreach, expected to target five million people.

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NPD AND MEDIA

SPAR UK

Spar launches own label petfood range The new range consists of five wet cat food and five wet dog food SKUs.

S

par has launched a new ownbrand petfood range under the Spar International label Spar N°1.

The range of 10 petfood products will provide shoppers with an even wider choice of quality, everyday essential petfood products at great prices.

The new range consists of five wet cat food and five wet dog food SKUs, which will support the current pet products in the Spar range.

The new N°1products include Cat Multipack in Jelly £3.25; Dog Alucup with Chicken and Turkey 80p; Cat Pouch Flowpack in Jelly £1.25; Cat

Alucup with beef 60p; Cat Alucup with Chicken 60p; Cat Pouch Flowpack in Gravy £1.25; Dog Can with Poultry 70p; Dog Can with Beef £1.30; and Dog Alucup with Veal and Rabbit 80p.

Amrit Rebello, Spar UK Brand Manager, said: “One of the unexpected outcomes of the pandemic was the sharp increase in pet ownership and as a result we are delighted to launch a range of 10 SKUs for cats and dogs to meet the increased demand for pet food in our stores.

“We know that the pet category is a high value opportunity for Spar stores as the basket spend of pet food shoppers is

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significantly more than non-pet product shoppers.“The design of our new Spar N°1 range perfectly complements pet owners who see their pets as part of their family and are for many their number one priority.”

The range includes cans and alu-tray formats, while the cat food offers individual tray options, as well as pouch multipacks. The pack design includes helpful icons to highlight the added vitamins and health benefit credentials within the range, as well as the protein variants.

The Spar N°1 range of petfood is available in participating Spar stores in England, Scotland and Wales.

NPD AND MEDIA

NATURYA

20-strong superfood range for convenience introduced

The brand is debuting a complete portfolio of items for breakfast, lunch, snacking, baking, desserts, and drinks.

S

uperfoods snack brand Naturya is rolling a new line-up of 20 products into the convenience sector, in partnership with distributor Tree of Life.

Seeking to capitalise on demand for products containing superfoods in 2022 and beyond, the company is debuting a complete portfolio of items for breakfast, lunch, snacking, baking, desserts, and drinks.

“We’ve been hard at work developing an extensive new portfolio of added-value convenient superfoods which meet the demands of today’s health-conscious and time-poor consumers and offer a deliciously nutritious superfood solution for every occasion,” Lewis Black,

Marketing Director at Naturya said.

“Our backed-by-science superfoods range has been developed with specific consumer needs including immunity support and gut health at its core and we’re incredibly excited to launch our products onto the market.”

The new range comprises the Chia+ Pudding available in five flavours; the Gut Feel Flaxseed Blend aimed at supporting digestive enzymes function to boost immunity; the Overnight Oats available in three flavours; Keto Breakfast Porridge made with chia, flax and hemp seeds and real fruit powders; Hot Chocolate made with Fairtrade Cacao, Maca and Lucuma; Cacao+, a blend of

Fairtrade cacao, reishi mushroom, maca, baobab and camu camu; Cacao Butter Drops pressed from hand-harvested and roasted cacao beans; and Spirulina and Chlorella Tablets made with 50% organic spirulina and 50% organic chlorella.

Black added: “Our latest research into the behaviours and habits of consumers, post pandemic, highlights the huge size and scale of the superfoods opportunity, which is set to explode over the next year and beyond. “Half of all consumers want a greater choice and variety of superfoods available in stores, with over a third (34%) saying they would be encouraged to buy more superfoods if it was easier to find them in store.”

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NPD AND MEDIA

READY BREK

Ready Brek and Roald Dahl team up

Promotional packs featuring The BFG, Matilda, James and the Giant Peach, and The Witches are available until March.

A

new partnership sees Roald Dahl’s literary characters brought to breakfast tables with the release of limited-edition Ready Brek packs. Promotional packs featuring The BFG, Matilda, James and the Giant Peach, and The Witches are available from now until March.

Shoppers have the chance to win Roald Dahl merchandise – with 7,500 prizes (worth a total of £200,000), including box sets of books and crockery sets, up for grabs. A microsite is also hosting free Roald Dahl activities.

Ready Brek is supporting the launch with a £100,000 shopper activity investment. This includes digital activations and point of sale to bring the world of Roald Dahl to life in-store and online.

Consumer social media campaigns will run across the Ready Brek and Roald Dahl channels, climaxing around World Book Day on 3 March.

Alastair Porter, Ready Brek Marketing Controller, said: “Roald Dahl is immensely popular with families, with a 98% awareness rate. This partnership aims to ignite some love back into the

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brand and category, increasing our reach to families and introducing new consumers. As a result, we’re expecting a sales boost for Ready Brek, adding incremental value to the rest of the category.”

Ready Brek’s Limited-Edition Roald Dahl packs are available across the entire Ready Brek range, excluding pricemarked packs. The partnership will return with a new promotion in autumn 2022 ahead of the next porridge season.

Roald Dahl is the UK’s number one children’s author and has sold over 300 million books worldwide.

NPD AND MEDIA

WEETABIX

Weetabix resolves to deliver a healthy 2022 The brand’s new £1.5m campaign will run through January and February,

A

new light-hearted TV campaign is encouraging Brits to start the day right by trying out even more new ways of eating Weetabix.

The £1.5m campaign runs across TV, video-on-demand, online and social media platforms through January and February, supported by online and in-store shopper marketing.

Featuring the campaign line: “New Year, New you-a-bix,” the ad references topical, on-trend subjects such as plantbased eating, remote working and self-driving cars to engage and inspire a variety of ways to eat Weetabix and

encourage shoppers to choose healthy cereals for 2022.

Gareth Turner, Head of Marketing, at Weetabix Food Company, said: “Already present in over 6.5 million households, the new TV ad and in-store campaign sees us kick start another big year for Weetabix. It builds on our ongoing commitment to driving category sales and supporting healthy choices at such a key time of the year.

“Once again Weetabix is investing significantly during January and February, and we expect the campaign to help us fill more bowls than ever

before. ’New Year, New you-a-bix’ takes a light-hearted look at some of our new year resolutions and aims to inspire the nation to start 2022 (and the day) in the best possible way.

“It’s going to be a year of change given HFSS, which will affect the way some cereals can be supported in-store and through advertising. A “s the entire Weetabix-branded range is already HFSS compliant, with no need to reformulate, we are in a position where we can continue to confidently invest in our brands throughout 2022 and beyond.”

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NPD AND MEDIA

PICKS OF THE WEEK – COMPETITION

FERRERO ENCOURAGES RETAILERS TO SHARE THE VALENTINE’S LOVE The brand’s campaign builds further on its successful Love Island association.

Ferrero UK has launched a Valentine’s Day

the Ferrero Rocher T16 compared to the previous

competition, exclusive to convenience retailers,

year, and the competition also encouraged us to

to drive engagement among shoppers. In addition

stock new formats for the first time with the T24

to stock, five stores will each win five Ferrero

pack size, Ferrero Rocher Hearts and the Grand

Rocher-inspired rose bouquets (worth £50 each)

Ferrero Rocher. These all sold well, and I’d say the

to gift to loyal customers or members of their

sales uplift was purely down to the Ferrero Rocher

community who they believe deserve a reward.

cross-category FSDU and the front of store display

The campaign highlights the importance of

we created, so we really appreciated the support

stocking the core Ferrero Rocher range ahead of

and would encourage fellow convenience retailers

Valentine’s Day, while point-of-sale materials will

to get involved for 2022.”

assist retailers in encouraging in-store cross-cate-

Retailers can visit Ferrero’s dedicated trade

gory purchases by bringing chocolate confectionery

website yourperfectstore.co.uk and order the Fer-

and flowers together. This year, the winning retailers

rero Rocher cross-category FSDU to be entered

will be further supported with comms to local media.

automatically. Alternatively, individuals who tweet

Levi Boorer, Customer Development Director

Ferrero’s trade account or email FerreroYourP-

at Ferrero, said: “Our competition and Ferrero

erfectStore@cirkle.com an image of their boxed

Rocher-inspired bouquets had incredibly positive

chocolate collection along with their name, store

feedback last year, so we’re looking forward to

name, address and contact details will also be

bringing it back once again and working closely

entered. The competition runs until 31 January and

with the winners.”

the winners will receive their bouquets ahead of the

Aman Uppal, of One Stop Mount Nod in Coventry, added: “We saw a sales uplift of over 100% on

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Valentine’s Day weekend. Visit yourperfectstore. co.uk for full terms and conditions.

NPD AND MEDIA

PICKS OF THE WEEK – BEL UK

BABYBEL GOES GREEN FOR PLANT-BASED LAUNCH Babybel Plant-Based is made using a Vegan Society-approved blend of coconut oil and starch.

Bel UK has rolled out Babybel Plant-Based following growing public demand.

The new product launched in Sainsbury’s on 1

It comes in a fully recyclable paper outer bag – with the other elements of the packaging recyclable via Babybel’s TerraCycle scheme.

January and will be available to retailers nationwide

The launch comes as insights show that more

from early 2022 in cases of eight, with an RSP of

than two-thirds (68%) of British consumers have

£2 per pack.

considered a transition to a vegan diet and that

Packs contain five portions, each individually wrapped in a green wax shell – a move away from the brand’s traditional red covering.

dairy-free alternatives to cheese are growing faster than cheese itself.

Ollie Richmond, Brand Manager at Babybel,

With a smooth and creamy texture, Babybel

said: “We’ve seen overwhelming demand for the

Plant-Based is made using a Vegan Society-ap-

development of a vegan-friendly Babybel over the

proved blend of coconut oil and starch, is free

years, and with the plant-based market continuing

from artificial colours and preservatives, and is a

to grow substantially, the new launch is perfectly

source of calcium and Vitamin B12.

timed to meet this consumer appetite.”

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NPD AND MEDIA

PICKS OF THE WEEK – QUORN

QUORN HAS SOME TASTY RESOLUTIONS FOR FOR 2022 2022 ‘Tasty Resolutions’ will run across TV, video-on-demand, online, and social.

Research in January 2021 highlighted that 90% of those that came into the meat free category during Veganuary, did so for health reasons.

“Add to that, the research showing 53% of New Year’s resolutions are to live more healthily, but nearly a quarter of them are never fulfilled, and it highlights a big opportunity to show that Quorn can be the perfect way to kick start a healthier year both for ourselves and the planet.

“Quorn’s Tasty Resolutions campaign has been developed to show that swapping to meat free can be an easy swap we can all make, even meat lovers. Why? Because, unlike most healthy behaviours, eating Quorn isn’t a compromise, it is delicious and nutritious.”

Riley added: “Quorn’s iconic orange branding Quorn has kicked-off 2022 with a new TV ad

is a beacon within meat free, providing retailers

encouraging carnivores to swap out meat for

with a real opportunity to drive meat free sales with

Quorn this January.

products that are synonymous with quality, taste

‘Tasty Resolutions’, part of the brand’s Helping

and sustainability. Shoppers know they’re getting

the Planet One Bite at a Time campaign, runs until

a delicious product that’s good for the planet and

the end of February across TV, video-on-demand,

for them.”

online, and social. The new ad is expected to reach millions of viewers across shows including Coronation Street, The Masked Singer, First Dates, Harry Potter 20th Anniversary: Return to Hogwarts, Googlebox, and Friends.

It features a meat-loving wrestler dad who, like a quarter of Brits, normally can’t keep to any resolutions. This year, he bucks the trend and wins at his resolution to eat more healthily, with a switch to Quorn.

Three of Quorn’s best-sellers appear in the ad: Quorn Sausages, Mince, and Pieces.

Gill Riley, Marketing Director at Quorn Foods UK, said: “January is the biggest month for new consumers coming into the meat free category.

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NPD AND MEDIA

PICKS OF THE WEEK – BIRDS EYE

BIRDS EYE ASKS SHOPPERS TO ‘DO-WHAT-YOU-CAN-UARY’ The campaign aims to empower shoppers to do their bit in reducing the amount of meat they eat, without feeling the pressure of going 100% meat-free.

Birds Eye Green Cuisine has launched a new

encourage people to increase their consumption of

campaign for Veganuary, to encourage shoppers

plant-based food for both the benefit of themselves

to ‘do what they can’ when it comes to increasing

as well as the planet. Yet, while Veganuary is cru-

their consumption of plant-based products.

cial in attracting new shoppers to the category, we

Making a pun on the annual campaign that chal-

recognise that many are caught between wanting to

lenges people to avoid eating meat for a month,

make a difference but without having to commit to

‘Do-what-you-canuary’ seeks to empower shop-

completely shifting away from meat-based products.

pers to do their bit in reducing the amount of meat

“Do-what-you-canuary targets flexitarian shop-

they eat, without feeling the pressure of going

pers who want to reduce their meat consumption,

100% meat-free for the whole of January.

but on their own terms and without the associations

The campaign rolled out on 3 January, across

that come with being labelled as a vegan or meat-

TV, video-on-demand and out-of-home in con-

eater. We want to reassure shoppers to do what

junction with in-store activity. Veganuary plays an

they can when it comes to enjoying meat-free food,

important role in attracting new shoppers into the

and to do so free from the labels, pressures and

meat-free category, having seen a 20% increase

pretention of plant-based eating. With the number of

in penetration last January, totalling £23m.

options available as part of our Green Cuisine range,

Victoria Westwood, Senior Brand Manager

we’re perfectly positioned to make it even easier for

at Birds Eye, said: “We’re on a mission to show

shoppers to add more plant-based foods to their

how plants can be at the heart of every meal, and

diet, throughout January and the rest of 2022.”

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NPD AND MEDIA

PICKS OF THE WEEK – WKD

BRANSTON UNVEILS NEW HIGH-PROTEIN BEAN MEALS The meals are high in protein, contain at least one of your five-a-day, are gluten free, and are low in fat and sugar.

Branston Beans has launched three new high-

beans with mixed herbs in a creamy tomato

protein vegetarian/plant-based bean meals that

sauce and a splash of olive oil.

are packed with protein and are quick and easy to prepare.

The three variants are:

With meat-free and health-conscious options becoming more popular, Branston’s new variants are high in protein; contain at least one of your

● Branston Chickpea Dhal (390g plant-based)

five-a-day; are gluten free; are low in fat and sugar;

– Full of chickpeas, whole brown lentils,

and are free from artificial flavours, colours, and

onion, and red pepper in a mildly aromatic

preservatives.

tomato sauce.

Dean Towey, Commercial Director at Branston

● Branston Mexican Style Beans (390g plant

Beans, said: “Branston Beans are already a staple

based) – A hearty chilli with a mixture of

within in the kitchen cupboard and we’re thrilled

five beans, including borlotti, cannellini,

to introduce these new products that we know

pinto, flageolet, and red kidney beans in a

our customers will love. We’re certain the trio of

rich tomato sauce with chilli.

new products will become firm favourites with

● Branston Italian Style Beans (390g vegetarian) – A blend of borlotti and cannellini

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consumers.”The meals are available now and have an RSP of £1.

NPD AND MEDIA

PICKS OF THE WEEK

KP Snacks is looking to capital-

SALMON GOODNESS

VALENTINE’S PICK & MIX

ise on the popularity of PMPs

Burgess Pet Care has expanded

Hancocks’ Valentine’s Day range

with the new McCoy’s Sizzling

its Supadog range of complete

includes a selection of Val-

King Prawn range, marking the

dry dog food with a new Rich in

entine’s-themed pick and mix,

25th SKU in the £1 PMP range.

Salmon line, suitable for all adult

chocolate boxes, and Bonds Pun

The rollout is expected to boost

dogs. For every 12.5kg bag sold,

Boxes. Pink Hearts, Fruit Hearts,

retailers’ sales as the value cat-

Burgess will donate 20p to dog

Milk Chocolate, Mallow Hearts,

egory continues to expand in

rescues across the UK in the

Guylian, and Lindt heart boxes

demand.

form of free food.

are all available.

SUGAR-FREE ENERGY

CHILEAN RED

TASTE OF JAPAN

Accolade Wines has rolled out

Soy sauce brand Kikkoman is

Red Bull is extending its multi-

a new Jam Shed varietal, Chil-

launching a new limited-edition

pack offering with the launch of

ean Merlot, which has an RSP

design to its 150ml dispenser

a new Sugarfree Price Marked

of £7. The Jam Shed Merlot is

bottle, depicting a set of classic

Multipack, available from Booker.

rich and smooth with flavours

Japanese images including koi

The new pack bolsters the

of cherries, raspberry, and juicy

carp and a lotus flower on the

brand’s current multipack port-

plums. The brand hopes the

front of the bottle. Over 600,000

folio and futureproofs the range

launch will attract new, younger

new bottles will be produced, on

ahead of HFSS legislation.

wine drinkers.

shelves from February/March.

SIZZLING PMP

WEDNESDAY 12TH JANUARY 2022 / ISSUE 87 / SLRMAG.CO.UK / 51

NOW THAT’S A

OUT TH

Supermarket virtual a healthier eating la

Shoppers can use the technology to access information and advice

A

new AI food chatbot aimed at helping shoppers make more conscious food choices has been rolled out in the Spanish region of Murcia.

Developed by tech company Al Talentum, the pilot app uses artificial intelligence to integrate with the retailer’s loyalty programme to store information on shoppers’ individual food preferences.

It then guides them to the healthiest versions of their favourite products, while also providing the full nutritional information of items.

The chatbot is available on an interactive platform called T-Assist, developed by a consortium formed by Spanish technology centre AZTI, food co-op Grupo AN, the University of Turin, the

University of Helsinki and AI Talentum, with the support of EIT Food.

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On the platform, users can access information and advice on how to improve their eating habits based on their shopping list.

For retailers, T-Assist provides the opportunity to collect valuable data on consumer behaviour and preferences, which can then be used for the development of predictive models.

The new solution was rolled out in partnership with Spanish supermarket chain Eroski, which trialled the system on its six million registered customers.

The process is designed to be embedded within the loyalty card customer experience, allowing the user to scan grocery receipts from food companies

A GOOD IDEA…

HE BOX

assistant to promote aunches in Spain

e on how to improve their eating habits based on their shopping list.

outside the supermarket and adding them onto the existing profile. This way, both retailers and brands benefit from the data analysis, helping them predict shopping patterns and avoid stock shortages.

“One of the main challenges facing the population in an over-informed society such as today’s is depending on reliable sources for information and advice on how to improve their eating habits and choices,” AI Talentum said.

“People are increasingly aware of the need to change to healthier and more sustainable habits, but many times the information is not clear, or we rely on non-verified sources such as social networks. “With this

app, supermarket chains can play a relevant role if they are willing to help consumers understand their nutritional needs and habits and identify the products that best meet their needs.”

Being primarily targeted at families, it is also children-friendly, offering age-specific food recommendations and providing answers to frequently asked questions.

The app is also hoped to help reduce carbon footprint by promoting local Murcia products or suggesting items with a shorter expiration date, thus reducing

waste. “Our content is driven by science and technology, collaborative initiatives, creative imagination, and media experimentation,” AI Talentum’s parent company Iotic Solutions said.

“We hope that this platform will become a virtual space that overcomes misunderstandings and fosters a new relationship between the public, academia, experts and the food industry based on honesty and the generation of trust.”

WEDNESDAY 12TH JANUARY 2022 / ISSUE 87 / SLRMAG.CO.UK / 53

BEFORE YOU GO

RETAIL RANDOMS

t i r a e b d n Grin a The ‘gay cake’ row that has kept lawyers in lavish lifestyles for the past seven years has ended with the European Court of Human Rights ruling against gay rights activist Gareth Lee. Lee started legal proceedings way back in 2014 after Ashers, a Belfast bakery, refused to bake him a cake with a “Support Gay Marriage” message on it.

We’re not about to get into the rights and wrongs of the case but spare a thought for the couple at the centre of the row.

No, not Amy and Daniel McArthur, the owners of the Ashers who said the cake was “at odds” with their Christian beliefs, but Bert and Ernie, the Sesame Street characters who featured in the design.

Not only have their image rights been trampled on, but the latest ruling once again thrusts the hapless duo’s sexuality into the spotlight.

There has long been speculation that Bert and Ernie are a gay couple. This despite them sleeping in separate beds – unlike Morecambe and Wise, and Laurel and Hardy.

Lee should have stayed closer to home when researching potentially gay puppets. In the long-running ITV children’s show which just happened to be called Rainbow, not only did George and Zippy bunk down in the same bed, but they shared it with Bungle.

And, according to Bungle’s Grindr profile, he’s a bear.

GIVE CHEESE A CHANCE

The Scandinavian country took

it’s sold as ‘Ski Queen’ in the US.

over the UN Security Council’s presi-

Now, TWIR isn’t suggesting for

dency at the start of January and, as

a minute that Ski Queen is going to

custom dictates, presented a sym-

reduce tensions in eastern Europe.

What with North Korea conducting

bolic gift to the other member states.

However, it’s well known that Kim

ballistic missile tests, Russian troops

This consisted of some Gubrands-

Jong-Un picked up a fondness for

massing on its border with Ukraine,

dalsost – a traditional Norwegian

Emmental during his schooldays in

and Serbia set to declare war on Aus-

brown caramel cheese. And, thought-

Switzerland. Perhaps a block or two

tralia over a tennis player, Norway

fully, a cheese slicer.

of brown caramel cheese would be

has entered the world stage offering

Gubrandsdalsost translates as

enough to persuade the notoriously

what probably won’t be known as

“the cheese that comes from Gud-

sweet-toothed dictator to stop lobbing

“brown cheese diplomacy”.

brands Valley” so it’s little wonder

flying bombs into the atmosphere.

WEDNESDAY 12TH JANUARY 2022 / ISSUE 87 / SLRMAG.CO.UK / 55

NPD AND MEDIA

PICKS OF THE WEEK TO GET YOUR PRODUCT LISTED PLEASE CONTACT RAITKEN@55NORTH.COM

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