We trust this message finds your stores adorned with festive cheer and looking splendid with all the Christmas-themed POS materials. The visual allure created by these decorations undoubtedly contributes to a warm and inviting shopping atmosphere for our valued customers.
Our recent BIG Deals TV adverts have proven to be highly effective, capturing the attention of over one million viewers who have engaged with them multiple times. This success is a testament to the impact of our promotional efforts, and we appreciate your contribution to making these campaigns a success in your respective stores.
Steve
The ELFie Selfie initiative stands out as a prime example of exceptional POS creativity, with numerous stores in the South West of England actively participating in the festive campaign. Through engaging with customers and hosting social media competitions for the best in-store posts, the initiative has seamlessly integrated with TV adverts to attract an influx of new customers. This
Westward
Thomas Head of Independents
dynamic approach, combining traditional advertising with interactive social media content, not only enhances brand visibility but also fosters community engagement. The success of ELFie Selfie underscores the positive impact of customer-centric POS strategies in creating memorable experiences and driving footfall into our stores during the holiday season and beyond.
As we bid farewell to December and usher in the New Year, it’s time to shift our focus towards a fresh start. January presents a golden opportunity to undertake a thorough cleanup and organisation of your stores. Ensure that all traces of Christmas decorations and POS materials are tidily stowed away, setting the stage for a clean slate in the coming months.
Understanding that many of our customers will be looking to tighten their belts in January, we are gearing up to support them with value-driven offerings. The forthcoming launch of our Price Lock campaign, detailed on page 17, underscores our commitment to providing affordable options. Additionally, our £1.25 POS range and the ongoing promotion of our Frozen Meal
Deals aim to offer compelling choices that resonate with cost-conscious customers.
Given the typical cold spells in January and February, we recommend maintaining a well-stocked inventory of winter essentials. De-icer, screen wash, and other winter motoring accessories should be readily available to cater to the needs of customers braving the chilly weather.
Looking ahead, mark your calendars for the retailer conference scheduled for the 25th of April 2024. Booking forms will be dispatched shortly, offering you the opportunity to participate in an event that promises to be both enriching and collaborative. Join us as we explore avenues to grow your business and connect with fellow retailers, fostering a sense of community within our network.
In closing, we extend our gratitude for your ongoing dedication and collaboration. Together, let’s embark on a successful and prosperous New Year, fortified by our shared commitment to excellence and customer satisfaction.
£250,000 for FareShare|Pg . 14
Wishing you and your teams continued success.
WHICH TYPES OF FOODS WILL BE
MOST POPULAR IN 2024?
Bidfood annual food and drinks survey has uncovered the trends most likely to dominate 2024.
Caribbean: dishes like jerk, patties, curries, or stews that contain fish and seafood, chicken, goat, and tropical ingredients like sweet potato, mango, pineapple, lime, coconut, and chilli.
Mexican: dishes like tacos al pastor, elotes or esquites (cornbased dishes), torta, mole or gorditas (flatbread sandwiches) contain ingredients like corn, tomatoes, avocado, pinto beans, limes, chilli, coriander, and cheese.
Eastern European: dishes like stews (e.g., goulash, paprikash, bigos), soups (like borsch), meatballs, dumplings, pretzels and cakes or pastries. These include ingredients like smoked sausages and meats, sauerkraut, gherkins, sour cream, mushrooms, herbs, paprika, potatoes, cabbage, pickles, apples, and berries.
British fusion tends to adapt traditional British cuisine formats like roast dinners, pies, pasties, sausage rolls, full English breakfasts, and pep them up with spices and flavours from other cuisines.
Drink Trends 2024
Rum and tequila are spirits which are still seeing growth momentum, partly because they make great cocktails, and offer a point of difference to gin and vodka which have been the focus for some years now. Rum and tequila also go hand in hand with the key food trends we’re seeing grow in momentum i.e., authentic Mexican cuisine and Caribbean cuisine. It’s also worth mentioning that consumers are looking for higher quality as well as signature or instagrammable cocktails. So creatively themed and presented cocktails are on the rise as operators take cocktails to another level to increase spend. Cocktails are also increasingly being served in a wider range of venues including restaurants. Consumers are also looking for better quality and more interesting low or no alcohol options too, such as virgin cocktails or mocktails.
LAURIE AWARDED TOWN’S FIRST COMMUNITY TROPHY
SPAR forecourt store owner Laurie McKinnon has won an inaugural community award to recognise his support for local activities in Ilminster.
Laurie, who runs the Station Road Texaco garage and SPAR forecourt store in the Somerset town, has been a stalwart supporter of local community events, providing thousands of pounds worth of sponsorship over the years.
His sponsorship has included football and rugby kits for young teams, boxing events, local fireworks displays, sponsored marathons and a local music festival. As a surprise, the local community got together to honour him.
Community spokesman Paul Webber said: “Laurie does so much for the community that we put on a community day for him where we presented him with an award. We approached his SPAR wholesaler Appleby Westward and they agreed to sponsor the trophy which was presented to him at the event. This SPAR Oustanding Member of the Community Award will now be presented annually to a deserving member of the community like Laurie.”
The Station Road business has been in the McKinnon family for over 20 years, with Laurie taking over from his parents John and Linda nearly ten years ago. “The majority of our trade is from local people and it’s nice to be able to give something back to the community that supports us so much,” said Laurie. “I feel very honoured to have been presented with this trophy and we are grateful to the people of Ilminster for their continuing support of our business.”
Laurie is pictured here receiving his trophy from Alex Schute, Business Development Manager for Appleby Westward
FCA PROPOSES NEW RULES TO PROTECT ACCESS TO CASH
The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) has proposed new rules to protect access to cash for businesses and consumers across the UK.
The FCA has launched a consultation on a new regulatory regime, which would require banks and building societies, designated by the Government, to assess and address gaps, or potential gaps, in cash access provision in our local communities.
Under the proposals, designated firms will be required to:
• Undertake cash access assessments when changes are being made to cash access services – to understand whether additional services are required to meet local gaps
• Respond to requests from local residents, community organisations and representatives to consider, assess and plug gaps
• Deliver reasonable additional cash services to fill gaps in provision where assessments show that there is or will be a significant local gap
• Ensure they do not close cash facilities, including bank branches, until any additional cash services identified are available
Findings from the 2023 Local Shop Report show convenience stores play a vital role in ensuring financial inclusion in their communities, offering a range of cash and banking services, including free- to-use ATMs (40% of stores), charged ATMs (12%), cashback (70%), bill payment services (76%) and Post Office services (22%).
ACS chief executive James Lowman said: “Cash is a valued payment method for both
business and consumers across the UK and is used by millions of customers as a way of managing their money.
“We welcome the FCA’s proposals to ensure that banks and building societies have regard for reasonable access to cash services, but it is important to note that further measures will be needed to protect this vital payment method. The Government needs to review ATM interchange fees to ensure that they rise to a level which properly covers the cost of providing and managing the longterm future of UK’s free-to-use ATM network.”
ACS’ Access to Cash Tracker reveals the change in ATM provision in every constituency across the UK. ACS will be responding to the FCA consultation in due course.
Source: ACS - Association of Convenience Stores, 7/12/2023
PICK OF THE BUNCH SPAR BORDEAUX
Indulge in the rich and timeless allure of SPAR’s Bordeaux Red, the Pick of the Bunch for P12.
Hailing from one of France’s most prestigious wine regions, this classic red wine is a testament to the artistry of winemaking. Immerse your senses in its beautifully smooth texture, where each sip unfolds a tapestry of elegant red fruit flavours, meticulously crafted to perfection.
Endorsed by the discerning palate of Philippa Carr, Master of Wine, this selection is a testament to its exceptional quality. With a reputation steeped in tradition and excellence, SPAR’s Bordeaux Red is destined to elevate your festive season to new heights. The careful curation by a Master of Wine assures that this choice is not merely a wine; it is an experience, a journey through the vineyards of Bordeaux encapsulated in every glass.
As you embark on this sensory adventure, consider enhancing the experience with thoughtfully chosen pairings. The Bordeaux Red comes alive when paired with the robust flavours of roast meats or the delectable layers of a mushroom Wellington. The harmonious interplay between the wine and these dishes creates a culinary symphony that resonates with the spirit of the season.
For optimal enjoyment, we recommend serving this exceptional wine at room temperature. Allow its complex bouquet to unfold, filling the air with the essence of Bordeaux’s terroir. Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or savouring a quiet evening, SPAR’s Bordeaux Red is more than a beverage;
it’s an embodiment of French winemaking tradition, a delightful companion for celebrations and shared moments.
This festive season, let the Pick of the Bunch be the centrepiece of your gatherings, an eloquent expression of the finer things in life.
SPAR’s Bordeaux Red invites you to revel in the timeless charm of French winemaking and create memories that linger long after the last drop has been savoured. Cheers to a season of indulgence, sophistication, and the joy of impeccable taste.
CHRISTMAS BISCUITS WITH SPAR
Prep: 10 mins
Cook: 12 mins EASY Makes: 20 Biscuits
Spread joy with festive vanilla biscuits: perfect for decorating trees and gifting warmth to teachers and friends.
These delightful festive vanilla biscuits not only serve as a charming addition to your Christmas tree decorations but also make for thoughtful endof-term gifts for teachers and friends when packed into festive boxes. Their delicious flavour and decorative appeal add a personal touch to your holiday celebrations, spreading joy and warmth to those who receive them. Whether adorning your tree or sharing them as tokens of appreciation, these biscuits are a delightful way to embrace the spirit of the season and express your festive wishes.
Ingredients
• 140g Icing sugar, sieved
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 egg yolk
• 250g butter, cut into small cubes
• 375g SPAR plain flour, sieved
To Decorate
• 200g icing sugar, sieved
Step One
Pour the icing sugar, vanilla extract, egg yolk, and butter into a mixing bowl, then blend with a wooden spoon (or pulse in a food processor until thoroughly mixed). Incorporate the flour to form a sturdy dough. Shape the dough into two flat discs, wrap them, and refrigerate for 20-30 minutes. Preheat the oven to 190C/fan 170C/gas 5 and line two baking sheets with non-stick baking paper.
Step Two
Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to approximately the thickness of two £1 coins. Create festive shapes by cutting them out with a cookie cutter if desired, and arrange them on the prepared baking sheets. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until they achieve a light golden colour.
Step Three
Transfer the biscuits to a wire rack to cool. Meanwhile, combine the icing sugar with a few drops of cold water to create a thick but still runny icing. Decorate your biscuits with festive patterns to embrace the spirit of the season.
BAKING ESSENTIALS
Ensure your customer’s holiday baking is a success by stocking up on SPAR own brand baking essentials this Christmas!
ELF ON THE COFFEE SHELF COCKTAIL
Prep: 5 mins Cook: 5 mins EASY Makes: 1 Cocktail
Follow our super easy cocktail recipe to serve up a tasty cocktail for your guests this Christmas!
This easy to make cocktail is a rich, indulgent twist on the classic espresso martini. It can be made in minutes and uses a lot of the ingredients you’ll already have in your cupboards.
Ingredients
• 50ml Absolut Vodka
• 75ml SPAR Caramel Latte
• 1 tsp SPAR Instant Coffee
• 1 tsp SPAR Honey/Syrup
To Garnish
• Biscuit Spread
• Crushed Biscuits
• Coffee Beans
TOP TIP!
Why not pre garnish your glasses and put them in the fridge to chill!
Step One
Pour 50ml of vodka into a cocktail shaker.
Step Two
Add 75ml of pre-made caramel latte drink followed by 1 tsp of instant coffee (add more if you like a stronger coffee).
Step Three
Drizzle in 1tsp of honey or alternative syrup (add more to sweeten).
Step Four
Add a handful of ice, then shake until the outside of the cocktail shaker feels cold.
Step Five
Strain and pour into a glass of your choice (we love a classic martini glass). This indulgent cocktail deserves a garnish, for an extra treat take your glass, coat the rim in biscuit spread and cover in crushed biscuits.
Step Six
Garnish with coffee beans.
ESPRESSO MARTINI
Make sure to have these must-have SPAR products readily available, allowing your customers to fully embrace the festive season by indulging in our delightful Espresso Martini!
ANTIPASTI SHARING PLATTER
P12 marks a momentous occasion as we proudly introduce the latest addition to our culinary lineup – the Antipasti Sharing Platter, a culinary masterpiece brought to you by SPAR!
This exquisite platter has been meticulously crafted to elevate your festive occasions, with a tantalizing mix of flavours that promises to delight the palates of all who indulge.
A symphony of tastes that includes a harmonious blend of mixed olives, the rich and savoury notes of chorizo and Milano salami, the creamy elegance of diced Gouda cheese, and the delightful crunch of tomato-infused breadsticks. It’s a gastronomic experience carefully curated to be the pièce de résistance at Christmas parties and any gathering where sharing good food is at the heart of the celebration.
This isn’t just a seasonal treat
reserved for the holiday season. We’re thrilled to announce that the Antipasti Sharing Platter is here to stay, gracing our shelves not only during Christmas but also taking centre stage throughout the vibrant summer months. Whether you’re planning a cozy winter feast or a sunsoaked picnic, our Antipasti Sharing Platter is the ideal companion for any occasion, ensuring that the joy of sharing exceptional food knows no season.
What’s even more exciting is the accessible price point of £3.99, making this delectable offering not only a culinary delight but also a budget-friendly choice for our valued customers. To
make your shopping experience even more seamless, we’ve introduced in-store POS materials to guide you to this sensational product during its launch.
Get ready to embark on a culinary journey that combines affordability with exceptional taste, as the Antipasti Sharing Platter takes its place as a star performer within the distinguished SPAR Brand Portfolio. Your taste buds are in for a treat, and we can’t wait for you to savour the moments of joy and togetherness that our Antipasti Sharing Platter brings to your table. Cheers to shared moments and unforgettable flavours!
SPAR UK DONATES £250,000 TO FARESHARE
Following SPAR UK’s announcement this September that the symbol group had partnered with food redistribution charity FareShare to launch its Giving One Million Meals campaign, a donation of £250,000 has now been made to the charity.
The campaign saw SPAR UK pledge a £250,000 donation to FareShare, enabling the charity to provide the equivalent of one million meals through the local charities they work with in SPAR communities.* The donation was presented to FareShare members at the South Midlands regional centre on Friday 24th November, where SPAR UK’s central office team joined them on a volunteering day.
Suzanne Dover, SPAR UK Brand and Marketing Director, said: “Supporting the community is at the heart of what we do. It was a privilege to volunteer at FareShare’s regional centre and see how SPAR UK’s donation will make a real difference to our communities this winter.”
FareShare is the UK’s longest running food redistribution charity who believe that no good food should go to waste, especially when people are going hungry. This belief is as central to
their work now as it was 25 years ago. According to FareShare, seven million people in the UK are struggling to afford to eat. This represents one in 10 of the UK population.
Polly Bianchi, Director of Fundraising at FareShare, said: “The donation of the equivalent of one million meals will make a significant contribution to our work getting good-to-eat food, which might otherwise go to waste, to people who need it. As the winter months approach, our network of 8,500 charities across the UK will be working hard to provide hearty, nourishing meals for people in their communities. Each group provides vital wraparound services to support people impacted by the cost of living crisis and the contribution made by SPAR will go a long way to strengthening those communities.”
The Giving One Million Meals was supported with instore POS
and across digital channels, with blog posts and TikTok content creators to reinforce the message of supporting those in need and minimising food waste. Britvic and Coca-Cola were also part of SPAR’s first One Million Meals campaign and contributed to the £250,000 donation.
Nicola Tovell, SPAR UK Marketing Campaign Manager, added:
“It’s been great to work on this campaign with FareShare and see firsthand the difference they are making to local communities. On our volunteer day we got to meet John, a volunteer from Hitchin Pantry, who said they simply couldn’t operate without FareShare.”
To find out more about SPAR’s Giving One Million Meals campaign and how FareShare can be supported by a donation or volunteering at the nearest warehouse, visit https://www. spar.co.uk/community/onemillion-meals/
SPAR EXTRA TASTY WHOLE CHICKEN
This top-tier offering features Class A Farm Assured 100% British Chicken, guaranteeing a delectable and ethically sourced dining experience.
Designed for your convenience, this whole chicken serves 5-6 people and comes expertly pre-seasoned. Perfect for family gatherings or dinner parties, it effortlessly elevates your culinary presentation with minimal effort.
What sets the SPAR Extra Tasty Whole Chicken apart is its unwavering commitment to quality. Sourced from trusted British farms with the Class A Farm Assured certification, it exemplifies transparency and our dedication to the highest standards.
Experience the epitome of convenience as our preseasoned chicken eliminates the hassle of preparation. Just
pop it into the oven, and voilà – a golden-brown masterpiece that rivals the skills of any chef.
Not only is this whole chicken a testament to quality, but it also prioritizes affordability. Priced at £6.25, it ensures that exceptional taste remains accessible to all without compromising on budget.
Introducing our latest offerings: the Price Lock product range, seamlessly complemented by our new array of POS. Together, they provide the perfect platform to showcase the exceptional value of these products. This dynamic campaign is set to unfold over a span of 9 weeks, kicking off from P13 and promising an immersive experience for our valued customers.
ELFIE SELFIES OF BIG DEALS
Our elves, Norty and Naice, have been hard at work capturing magical moments with you in-store.
Just take a peek at these enchanting selfies! Don’t miss out on the fun – share your own elfie selfies with us for a chance to be featured in Your SPAR and across our social media channels. Make this festive season truly special with SPAR!
