Police pledge to respond to incidents more urgently under major new reforms
O cial name and branding for upcoming UK-wide recycling legislation revealed
DEPOSIT RETURN SCHEME PRODUCTS
The biggest launches from Pepsi, Boost, Magnum, Nestlé and more major brands
The Better Retailing Awards celebrates retailers who are doing great things across the eight core principles of retailing, providing an invaluable opportunity to showcase your achievements and elevate your store’s profile.
The categories:
• Community Hero
• Team Development
• Customer Engagement
• Merchandising & In-store Display
• Store Development
• Effective Ranging & Availability
• Retail Innovation
• Responsible Retailing
• Visit betterretailing.com/awards-2026 or scan the QR code to enter
• Email megan.simoes@newtrade.co.uk or call 07743 936778
STARMER TO SHOPS: ‘YOU’RE
Alex Yau, editor
RECENTLY, I had the pleasure of being shown around Abu Bakr Supermarket’s flagship Batley store by newly appointed managing director Hamza Hussain.
The company was founded by Hamza’s father and uncle in the early 2000s, and has since evolved from a small convenience store to an estate of ve larger independent supermarkets. Not content with letting his family’s retail business stand still, the 22-year-old is bringing a host of new ideas to the business.
Having recently graduated from university, Hamza could have le the family business for a new venture, but he has decided to take on the challenge of continuing its success. His ideas aren’t complicated and stick with the business’ core values of o ering simple but excellent customer service.
These include introducing freshly cooked meals prepared on site each day, an extensive aisle of homeware, which has proved popular with university students, and really increasing social media activity to highlight standout products, attracting customers from across the UK.
Hamza is among lots of nextgeneration retailers helping their family businesses evolve. Others include Amrit Singh Pahal and Sophie Williams – second-generation retailers who have taken over their parents’ businesses and ensured they last for several more decades.
YOUNGER RETAILERS ARE REALLY INNOVATING
In an environment where older and more traditional categories are in decline, it’s really promising to see a new generation of retailers innovating and helping the sector move forward.
@retailexpress betterretailing.com
Editor Alex Yau
alex.yau@ newtrade.co.uk 020 7689 3358
News editor
Ciarán Donnelly
ciaran.donnelly@ newtrade.co.uk 07743 936703
News reporter
Kwame Boakye
kwame.boakye@ newtrade.co.uk
Production manager
Chris Gardner 020 7689 3368
Senior production & content editor
Ryan Cooper 020 7689 3354
Copy editor Minhaj Zia
Senior designer Jody Cooke 020 7689 3380
Designer Lauren Jackson
Associate editor Jack Courtez jack.courtez@ newtrade.co.uk 020 7689 3371
Features editor Charles Whitting charles.whitting@ newtrade.co.uk 020 7689 3350
Features and advertorial writer Shyama Laxman shyama.laxman@ newtrade.co.uk
Head of marketing
Kate Daw 020 7689 3363
Head of commercial Natalie Reeve 07856 475 788
Senior account director Lindsay Hudson 07749 416 544
Senior account manager Tommy King 020 7689 3387
Editor in chief Louise Banham louise.banham@ newtrade.co.uk
Retailers to get more police protection under gov’t reform
ALEX YAU
NEW crime-busting reforms will require police forces in England and Wales to respond to emergency calls faster, while retailers will be able to speak directly to named of�icers in their areas.
Under the new reforms announced by the home sec-
retary, Shabana Mahmood, last month, police will be expected to respond to the most serious crimes within 15 minutes in cities, extending to 20 minutes in rural areas. Forces must also respond to 999 calls within 10 seconds.
Neighbourhood policing will also be expanded to ensure every council ward in England and Wales will have
named, contactable of�icers. Residents will be able to speak directly to of�icers about crimes or antisocial behaviour and will receive a response within 72 hours outlining the steps taken.
Fed national president
Hetal Patel said: “For far too long, we have raised the issue of a lack of police presence in local neighbourhoods and
poor response times. “As a result, many of our members have been reluctant to report every incident of shoplifting and abuse.”
ACS chief executive James Lowman added: “Retailers should be con�ident that when they report a crime, it will be investigated; repeat offenders will be identi�ied and effective penalties applied.”
PHILIP Morris International has warned new powers for Trading Standards won’t be enough to tackle dodgy traders and has called for a licensing scheme.
A spokesperson told Retail Express that increased en-
forcement powers would be ineffective within the current framework of penalties.
They added: “The penalties are so mild. First action is a verbal warning, with multiple test purchases and court orders often needed for �ines.”
the loss on both “revenue and cost of sales increases”, alongside “administrative expense decreases”.
year.
The company – which is listed as GoBrands UK on Companies House – blamed
Despite this, GoPuff said it was con�ident it would continue to receive �inancial support to become pro�itable.
VAPING is no longer offsetting decline from other categories, according to EPoS data from thousands of independent shops.
Talysis claimed value and unit sales of the category had fallen annually by 12.7% and 20.8%, attributed to the disposable-vapes ban. Talysis managing director Ed Roberts added: “While the need to reduce single-use plastic is clear, it’s also obvious this ban hasn’t worked as intended yet.”
HELL Energy has axed its UK headcount from 27 to two, severely affecting the support received by independent shops.
A source told Retail Express this bout of redundancies re�lects challenges for brands reliant on �ield teams visiting stores, with staff cost pressures making it harder for brands to keep reps on the road.
The company had invested in celebrity endorsements and wholesale activations.
THE government has been accused of neglecting small shops, after barring retailers from upcoming discounts on business rates bills for the pub and music sectors.
Last month, the government announced a 15% discount on business rates bills for pubs and music venues, with no increases for a further two years. According to treasury minister Dan Tomlinson, the three-year package would be worth £1,650 for the average pub.
However, the decision has faced backlash from small shop owners, with many retailers warning no similar support on business rates bills would add to already mounting cost pressures across convenience.
Andrew Taylor, of Taylors Today in Hull, said: “With all the additional pressure we’re facing from wage increases, paying pensions and National Insurance increases, it’s not fair at all. Why should pubs be the ones that get the relief? It just doesn’t make any sense. Retail shops are just getting nothing at all. We’re always there to pick up the bill for everybody else.”
Chris Shelley, of Shelley’s Budgens in Horsham, West Sussex, added: “It’s another cost pressure in an already challenging time �inancially, with the cost of living and people cutting back. Employer National Insur-
ance and minimum wage increases certainly add to the overall pressure in the business environment at the moment.
“We’re going to continue to look to minimise costs where possible, the main one being trying to limit hours and do what we can to limit the wage bill, but the truth is there’s only so much you can cut.”
Mo Razzaq, of Premier Mo’s in Blantyre, South Lanarkshire, warned stores affected by the lack of support would have to make cuts elsewhere to survive.
He said: “The government has just left shops high and dry again. We pay business rates because our store is over the threshold. It’s been detrimental for us because we’re having to fork out, even though our costs have increased quite steeply.
“It’s going to have a huge detrimental impact. Stores may need to cut back on staf�ing or might need to close down because you can only save so much before it’s not viable.”
Fed national president Hetal Patel sympathised with struggles of pubs, but stressed the government needed to recognise similar challenges faced by the convenience sector.
He said: “The limited reduction to the multiplier on rates was disappointing – and combined with the loss of retail, hospitality and leisure relief, and a signi�icant upward revaluation
“WE recently posted on social media to remind customers to shop locally, as small businesses like ours are the ones that are more than likely to provide ra le gifts to school events. The post said: ‘Remember when choosing to shop with us, you are shopping in a local family store and we will continue to run community events and initiatives that directly bene t the residents of the area or are relevant to the local area.’”
of property values for many shops, it is very worrying for many shops, including Fed members, as they look toward the new �inancial year in April.
“While we appreciate the social value of pubs to local communities, we feel the government needs to conduct a comprehensive review of its business rate changes, which looks at the impact of rising rates bills for everyone else, including retail and not just one part
of the hospitality sector.”
Similarly, the ACS accused the government of neglecting small shops and warned the decision would lead to signi�icant rates increases for stores. ACS chief executive James Lowman said: “Local shops will feel neglected and dismissed by this government as they are passed over for additional support. For those facing rates increases in April of thousands of pounds, dif�icult decisions will have to
be made about investment, employment opportunities and the services that are provided to customers.
“The chancellor has a chance to make this right and extend business rates support in the Spring Statement to all retail, hospitality and leisure businesses. Without additional support, jobs will be lost, in�lation will rise as retailers look to claw back margin and investment will be put on hold.”
How are you making a di erence for local children?
“I’VE worked quite closely with the local schools to give students opportunities. Previously, I’ve had a couple of children do work experience at the store, and through that, they went onto college. There was also a community for children with autism who came to me. The bigger stores weren’t giving these children these opportunities. I’d let them come to my store and I’d show them how to stack shelves.”
Julie Kaur, Jules Convenience Store (Premier), Telford
“WE turned our village store into a classroom, and we were proud to welcome primary school pupils to our store for a practical maths lesson. The visit brought maths to life, with pupils learning practical skills such as calculating change, budgeting and understanding money in a real retail environment, all while having fun and building con dence. The visit to the shop brought maths to life, with the pupils learning practical skills.”
GOOD WEEK
DHAMECHA: The wholesaler is working more closely with suppliers to improve sales of slower-selling lines. Director Anand Dhamecha said the rm would conduct research with customers and analyse buying for the strategy, which also includes making promotions more unique to each individual retailer.
For the full story, go to betterretailing.com and search ‘Dhamecha’
FLASH DELIVERY: Nearly 400 retailers are on track to partner with the home delivery provider this year. Co-founder Justin Whittaker told Retail Express the company had also begun trials with four stores in Northern Ireland, with food to go in higher demand across the region.
For the full story, go to betterretailing.com and search ‘Flash Delivery’
BAD WEEK
WHOLESALE: Unitas chief executive John Kinney has warned availability in smaller wholesalers will be impacted by suppliers raising minimum order requirements. Speaking at the Destination 2027 event last week, he said: “Suppliers have experienced massive cost increases. They will look at their routes to markets and raise the minimum order requirements. That’s certainly a challenge for the smaller wholesaler.”
BOOKER: Retailers are still reporting cashflow and stockholding issues with their latest promotional allocations, despite raising previous issues. One source close to the wholesaler said: “It’s not just Premier. Budgens and Londis retailers are also not happy.”
For the full story, go to betterretailing.com and search ‘Booker’
Natalie Lightfoot, Londis Solo Convenience, Glasgow
Vidur Pandya, Kislingbury Village Store, Northampton
ALEX YAU
Vidur Pandya
DRS branding unveiled
The trading name and branding for the UK’s upcoming deposit return scheme (DRS) has been unveiled.
As part of the next phase of development, Exchange for Change has unveiled a new brand icon that will appear on all in-scope bottles, cans and return points associated with the scheme.
The icon represents the deposit return process and will be used across the full range of drinks containers covered by the scheme.
Exchange for Change said it will work with drinks producers, retailers, wholesalers and the hospitality sector to support adoption of the logo on labels and packaging.
Under the regulations, the logo will be a required part of container design for drinks
included in the scheme, covering PET plastic, aluminium and steel containers sized between 150ml and 3l.
It is intended to help customers recognise in-scope items and understand how to return them.
Russell Davies, chief executive of Exchange for Change, said: “Our new name re�lects what this scheme is about: making a simple change that has the power to transform
recycling habits across the UK.
“The brand icon is intended to become synonymous with the scheme itself, providing a consistent visual cue that supports participation and helps drive cleaner streets and communities.”
DRS applies to single-use plastic and metal drinks containers in England, Scotland and Northern Ireland, and is due to come into force in October 2027.
A RETAILER has seen a 72% uplift in sales of Huel products following the installation of Huel PoS and a branded fridge in his store.
Atul Sodha, of Londis Hare�ield in Uxbridge, has had the PoS and equipment in his store for almost three months, with Huel channel manager for wholesale Andrew Pheasant praising the success of the store.
The chillers are available free on loan to stores, but are only available in limited quantities, subject to speci�ic terms and conditions.
ROYAL Mail-branded parcel lockers are coming to Post Of�ice (PO) branches.
The 24-hour lockers will be installed at PO branches on a six-month trial basis. Customers will need to pay for postage online to get a required QR code prior to using the lockers.
The lockers are in addition to the full slate
ALEX YAU
WIIINGS FOR YOUR SPRING.
PRODUCTS
Pepsi Max has gone ‘tropical’
SHYAMA LAXMAN
EXCLUSIVE: Carlsberg
Britvic has expanded its Pepsi Max portfolio with the launch of Pepsi Max Tropical, which blends �lavours of pineapple, mango and peach.
Pepsi Max Tropical is available in 500ml plain (RRP £2.29) and pricemarked (RRP £1.39) bottles, 330ml can (RRP 95p), 2l plain (RRP £2.50) and pricemarked (RRP £2.19) bottles, and multipacks of eight (RRP £7.19), 18 (RRP £12.69) and 24 (RRP £15.99).
The addition of Tropical, a popular soft drinks �lavour in the UK, paired with a new visual identity, is expect-
ed to help Pepsi Max remain on shoppers’ minds.
The launch is also set to be supported by a media campaign throughout April and May.
Retailers can also order campaign assets, shopper point-of-sale materials and a free trial case of the new Pepsi Max Tropical �lavour from 1 March onwards.
The brand has also refreshed the �lavours under the Max portfolio, with the updated packaging featuring a clearer design, stronger colours and distinctive fruit icons.
Kind launches chocolate nut bar
KIND Snacks has expanded its chocolate lineup with the launch of Kind Milk & White Chocolate Nut bar.
The bar joins Kind’s current portfolio, which includes Dark Chocolate Nuts & Sea Salt, Peanut Butter Dark Chocolate and Caramel Almond & Sea Salt. The bar is made with 60% nuts – a
Time to get guessing with Coca-Cola
‘Race
to Win’ with Doritos this year
DORITOS has launched a limited-edition Golden Sriracha �lavour and a new on-pack promotion to mark its partnership with Formula 1.
Shoppers can win prizes of up to £10,000 and F1 tickets by deciding between two races. Race 1 gives hourly instant-win opportunities, with 840 pieces of merchandise available throughout the promotional period. Race 2 enters shoppers into a grandprize draw, with nine winners receiving a pair of Grandstand tickets to the F1 Pirelli British Grand Prix 2026 and £200 spending money.
One overall winner will receive a pair of tickets plus
Biona
£10,000 (or € equivalent).
The promotion runs across Doritos’ full non-HFSS core range and the Golden Sriracha �lavour.
mix of almonds, peanuts and cashews, blended with milk chocolate and white chocolate pieces. It’s high in �ibre and gluten-free. It is aimed at shoppers divided between milk and white chocolate.
LAUNCH
COCA-COLA’S new promotion invites fans to predict the number of goals scored across each Premier League game week via the CocaCola app.
scored that game week, to win one in 1,000 of�icial Premier League Puma footballs.
KP brings back Skips Salt & Vinegar
KP SNACKS is set to relaunch the Salt & Vinegar variety of Skips, a line that was previously available in the ’90s. It will be available to convenience stores from March in 35g grab bags and £1.35 price-marked packs (PMP).
John McDougall, senior brand manager, Skips at KP
Snacks, said: “With Salt & Vinegar remaining one of the most in-demand �lavours in the category, launching the product in grab bag and PMP format will help to bolster retailer sales.”
‘Guess the Goals’ runs until 10 March on Coca-Cola Original Taste and Coca-Cola Zero Sugar multipacks. Shoppers must scan the on-pack QR code or in-store PoS, and head to Coca-Cola’s website.
After answering a qualifying question, they can submit their prediction for the total number of Premier League goals they think will be
has bean busy creating new range
BIONA has launched World Bean Meals, a range of organic heat-and-eat jarred meals, which have been inspired by global �lavours. The range comprises Bean Chilli Mexican Style, Chickpea Coconut Curry Indian Style and Chickpea Tagine Moroccan Style, retailing for £3.49. Each meal is high in �ibre and
offers up to 18g of plantbased protein per jar, with no added sugar or preservatives. The launch comes as the ready-meal category continues to expand, with branded ready-meal value sales up 20.9% and unit sales up 10.4%, the supplier said.
LAUNCH
A divine range of luxury
hot chocolate
DIVINE Chocolate has expanded its premium offering with the release of its refreshed Luxury Hot Chocolate Collection.
The collection includes three �lavours: the classic Luxury Hot Chocolate, Hazelnut Praline and Salted Caramel. Each container has approximately 12 servings.
Belvoir Farm puts sparkle into juice
The range is available at an RRP of £8.99 from RH Amar, Suma Wholefoods and Cotswold Fayre. The collection is vegan-friendly and supports Ghanaian cocoa farmers and their communities.
PREMIUM soft drinks supplier Belvoir Farm has launched Fruitz, a range of sparkling fruit juices, designed to meet demand for healthier soft drinks for children.
varieties in single 330ml cans with a £1.35 RRP. Fruitz has 100% natural ingredients, real fruit juice, no added sugar and no sweeteners.
The range is available, via wholesale, in Passion Fruit & Mango, Cherry & Raspberry and Orange & Pineapple
LAUNCH
Munchies flavour returns to shelves
NESTLÉ Confectionery has brought back Munchies Fudgey Salted Caramel Flavour in a sharing bag format. It features smooth milk chocolate cubes encasing a salted caramel �lavour �illing and crunchy biscuit centre. Munchies Fudgey Salted Caramel Flavour is free from arti�icial colours, �lavours and preservatives.
Munchies marketing manager Rachel Beaufoy said: “We’re excited to announce the return of Munchies Fudgey Salted Caramel Flavour sharing bag.
“We know our long-time fans will recognise this iconic �lavour and we hope new fans will be as pleased as we are to have it appear on shelves nationwide to try for themselves.”
Magnum launches
Signature range
MAGNUM’S Signature range features two new �lavours
– La Pistache and La Pêche –available via wholesale.
The launches mark the brand’s �irst as part of The Magnum Ice Cream Company.
La Pistache has pistachio enriched shell and caramelised, salted pistachio pieces.
Magnum La Pêche has a peach shell with peach�lavoured sugar pieces.
The new Magnum varieties are available as 3x90ml multipacks, with an RRP of £4.25, and 90ml singles, with an RRP of £2.50.
Boost unveils zerosugar Energy cans
BOOST has announced three new cans, tapping into the growing demand for zerosugar options and limitededition launches.
The new range includes Boost Zero Sugar Energy Citrus Zest, Zero Sugar Energy Dark Fruits and Limited Edition Energy White Peach. All three are available in pricemarked packs of 75p.
While Citrus Zest and Dark Fruits are available now, White Peach will land on 16 February. The launches come at a time when the brand witnessed 14% growth in the three
months leading to November 2025, ahead of the wider stimulation energy category’s 11.1% growth.
Feel revived with peachy Twinings
TWININGS has launched Revive, the latest addition to its ready-to-drink Sparkling Tea range. The �lavour combines green tea with sweet peach and apple juice, and elder�lower infusion. Peach Revive also contains magnesium and
vitamin C. It has no added sugar and has less than 50 calories a can. Revive Peach is available via Amazon at an RRP of £1.90.
Rubicon expands Still and Sparkling range
RUBICON has introduced a new Sparkling Cherry Burst variety, as well as Sparkling and Still versions of its Tropical variant.
Sparkling Tropical and Cherry Burst are available in 500ml bottles, in plain (RRP £1.75) and price-marked packs (PMP £1.29).
Retailers can also stock multipacks of 8x330ml (RRP £3.79) and 24x330ml (RRP £9.50), and a 2l bottle (RRP £2.10). Meanwhile, Still Tropical is available in a 1l £1.69 PMP carton as well as a plain version with a £2.10
Nirvana’s 10th anniversary launch
It’s a deeply satisfying brew – layers of rich �lavours combining in an indulgent fashion.”
Soreen launches
MALT loaf brand Soreen has partnered with lexicographer Susie Dent to launch Wordplay, designed to boost children’s vocabulary.
Research, commissioned as part of the campaign, highlighted growing concerns about children’s language development. Seven in 10 UK adults believe children today use fewer words than previous generations, exacerbated
by screen habits. Soreen has introduced limited-edition packs of Soreen Lunchbox Loaves, which include a Wordplay insert featuring unfamiliar words, de�initions and short origin stories, designed to spark curiosity and aid learning.
Tango targets Gen Z with makeover
TANGO has announced a brand refresh across its entire core range and rotational �lavour series, which will hit shelves from March.
LOW- and no-alcohol brewer Nirvana is marking its 10th year with the launch of a range of limitededition brews. First up in the line-up is Mocha Porter, a collaboration with east London coffee specialists Climpson & Sons. The beer features the ‘Midnight Oil’ coffee concentrate, made using sustainably-grown Brazilian coffee beans. The coffee concentrate is complemented with cacao nibs, barley, oat and wheat. Mocha Porter is available at an RRP of £2.75 (330ml can).
James Rabagliati, Nirvana’s head brewer, said: “Now is the time for hunkering down with darker, more complex, beers and this hits the spot.
consumption and boost category sales, according to the supplier.
Milkybar Crunchy Pops lands in store
Rainforest Alliance certi�ied cocoa and no arti�icial �lavours. It’s available in sharing bags at an RRP of £2.
The refreshed design includes enhanced on-pack fruit �lavour cues, delivered through bold iconography and vibrant visuals, helping retailers to attract and keep shoppers and increase appeal, particularly among Gen Z consumers.
Tango’s glow-up, backed by its biggest brand investment to date, spans Tango Orange and the newly named Tango Zero’d range, including Zero’d Orange, Zero’d Apple and Zero’d Cherry. It forms part of a wider brand refresh that’s set to increase
NESTLÉ Confectionery has launched Milkybar Crunchy Pops White Chocolate. It combines crispy cereal balls with Milkybar white chocolate. Milkybar Crunchy Pops White Chocolate is made with creamy whole
PRODUCTS
New Monster invokes Vikings
SHYAMA LAXMAN
COCA-COLA Europaci�ic Partners (CCEP) has expanded its Monster Juiced Range by launching Monster Juiced Viking Berry.
The variant is inspired by wild Nordic berries and Scandinavian fruit. It comes in plain (RRP £2.05) and pricemarked (PMP £1.85) cans.
While berry �lavours are among the fastest growing in beverages, increasing by 20% year on year, the supplier says �lavoured energy continues to be a key category driver, now worth £1.2bn in Britain and growing at 20.1% over the past year. Monster Juiced Viking Berry leans into both trends and has already
become Monster’s third bestselling Juiced �lavour in the US.
Rob Yeomans, vice president, commercial development at CCEP GB, said: “Viking Berry’s bold Nordicinspired story and striking design makes it one of our most daring launches yet, and we can’t wait to see how retailers get behind it and bring the Monster attitude and culture to life in store.”
Monster Juiced Viking Berry PoS materials and digital assets are available upon request.
Langtins expands range with Coneys
LANGTINS has added to its confectionery portfolio by launching a new brand called Coneys.
Coneys is inspired by the chocolate-�illed cone at the end of an ice cream, and is available in a freezer-free format in six �lavours: Vanilla, Chocolate, Strawberry, Coconut, Double Chocolate and
BURTS Snacks has announced plans to roll out a new series of HFSS-compliant crisps throughout 2026.
The launch kicks off with Lightly Sea Salted and Devon Roast Beef �lavours, both reformulated to meet HFSS regulations. Later in the year, Burts will expand the HFSS-compliant range with additional �lavours including Mature Cheddar & Onion and Sea Salt & Malt Vinegar. The new range will be available to convenience retailers and
Pringles’ Fallout 76 Mystery flavour
Double Chocolate with Strawberry. Each pack contains six bite-sized �illed waf�le cones, retailing at £2.50 for one pack, £10 for four packs, £18 for eight packs and £24 for 12 packs.
LAUNCH
A new Feast flavour is no mean feat
THE Magnum Ice Cream Company has launched a new Feast variant called Feast Caramel.
The original Feast has also undergone a recipe revival that includes the addition of real hazelnut within the chocolate core to add a roasted nutty taste.
Feast and Feast Caramel are available in 90ml single sticks at an RRP of £1.60 and in a multipack of four at an RRP of £3.
The launch is supported by in-store PoS materials.
PRINGLES has launched a brand-new Fallout 76 Mystery Flavour.
The tube bears of�icial Fallout 76 Vault imagery and has an RRP of £1.75. Fans have until 7 May to guess the new �lavour to win a �ive-night trip for two to California. They can enter a prize draw via Pringles platform, ‘Poptopia’, by scanning the on-pack QR code.
In 2025, Pringles launched two mystery �lavours – Spicy Pickle and Santa’s Secret Flavour. Pringles was one of the top 25 crisps lines in What to
Stock’s 2025 guide, bringing retailers up to £7.03 in average weekly sales.
Packs of Golden Acre yoghurts glow up
GOLDEN Acre Foods has refreshed the packaging of its ambient yoghurt range.
The Fat Free Plain, Fat Free Fruit and Thick & Creamy yoghurts now feature contemporary graphics and colourful lids highlighting each yoghurt’s �lavour.
JACK Daniel’s & Coca-Cola is launching a new 330ml slim can format, designed to help retailers tap into growing demand for premium and portable alcohol options.
The cans are available from March in both plain and price-marked formats across Original Taste, Zero Sugar and Cherry variants. The new format will elevate the product’s premium appeal, improve shelf standout and make merchandising more ef�icient – particularly in chilled and impulse spaces.
The launch comes as the alcohol ready-to-drink (RTD) category is worth more than £722m in Britain. Since launching in March 2023, the Jack Daniel’s & Coca-Cola
The updated packaging follows strong sales for the range, which sold 36 million pots last year and will be sup-
ported by a new-look website, LinkedIn page and marketing. Golden Acre Foods head of marketing Rebecca Cutter said: “With protein continuing to be a strong consumer trend and sustainability high on people’s agendas, we felt it was time to refresh our yoghurts range to create maximum appeal and bring it right up to date with an eyecatching new look.”
NESTLÉ has launched Rowntree’s Lollies range, inspired by Rowntree’s Ice Lollies. The sweets include three variants each made with real fruit juice: Fruit Pastilles Lollies, Sour Watermelon Flavour Lollies and Mango Flavour Lollies. Packaged in a 130g sharing bag, Rowntree’s Lollies will be available this month at an RRP of £1.50.
RTD range has generated more than £105m in value sales in Britain.
Nestlé launches
Rowntree’s was one of the 25 top-selling sugar confectionery lines in convenience stores last year. LAUNCH via wholesale in 40g (RRP £1-£1.25) and 150g (RRP £2-£2.25) bags.
They are not suitable for vegetarians or those on a halal diet.
OPINION
7689 3357 for the chance to be featured
FOOD TO GO: How are you differentiating your offer?
“WE’VE taken inspiration from all over, especially the US. The store’s much smaller than our usual 3,000sq ft, with less refrigeration and lower overheads. Some food is made on site using a central cooking unit. We also launched our own coffee with unlimited refills to hit higher margins.”
Harris Aslam, Greens on the Go, Edinburgh
“GREGGS opened about six months after we did. That affected our food to go completely. We stopped the morning rolls and hot dogs. The store now offers a £4 meal deal, including sandwiches, wraps, pasta pots and yoghurts. It has proved popular with workers and students.”
The meal deal is popular with students
HOME DELIVERY: What are your latest developments?
“IN December alone, we broke the £60,000 in online sales barrier for the first time. That level of growth came down to strong offers, great prices and the fact that customers genuinely love a bargain. We have customers who rely entirely on our Snappy Shopper app.”
Asiyah Javed, Spar Alloa Road, Stenhousemuir
“WE see it as a massive opportunity and are currently developing our own app to offer it alongside click and collect. There are a lot of families nearby who would find it very useful. Launching it would make us one of the UK’s first specialist Asian supermarkets with home delivery.”
Hamza Hussain, Abu Bakr Supermarket, Batley
INNOVATION: What improvements are you making to your store?
“WE have a full range of vape products on display now. Following the banning of disposable vapes, I wanted to ensure we had the confidence to stock vapes we knew would prove popular. Working in partnership with Parfetts has really boosted sales.”
Andy Campbell, Go Local Hursthead Convenience, Cheadle
“ONE of the new products we’re looking to add into the store for spring and summer will be alcoholic ice creams. It’ll be something different that not many convenience stores offer. We can stock them in the chilled beer vault at the back of the store.”
Kaual Patel, Nisa Torridon, South London
Our vape range has really
SUPPLIERS: How are you building better relationships?
“WE are pleased to be adding another local supplier into our Yorkshire stores. These new sausage products taste amazing and would, along with our local cheeses, make a great sharing board for a night in. Thanks to Annabelle at Wass Farm York for her support.”
Kevin Polley, Kash Retail, Bedale
“ONE of the biggest changes we made was scrapping the non-functioning dessert bar chiller and replacing it with a hot food cabinet serving Carrs Pasties and bakery items from nearby JW Buckley Bakery. I have also used my ownership of a nearby bar and grill to offer ready meal curry deals.”
Sasi Patel, MJ’s Premier, Rochdale
Nathalie Fullerton, One Stop Dumbarton Road, Glasgow
LETTERS
‘Labour’s policing idea is just destined to fail’
THE Labour home secretary, Shabana Mahmood, is promising to restructure our police service. She recently announced that she wants to set up a command service by merging 43 police forces into 12. This is yet another idea imported by our government from the US.
The home secretary has fallen for the ‘big is effective’ fallacy that assumes that scale is somehow synonymous with cost ef�iciency.
The opposite is true. The big setup will push up council tax to fund the plans.
This is a very bad idea and is destined to fail, just as the police and crime commis-
COMMUNITY RETAILER OF THE WEEK
‘Shops reflect UK’s heart and soul’ Vince Malone, Tenby Stores & Post O ce, Pembrokeshire
“FEW things are as cherished as the BBC’s Desert Island Discs, local shops and post o ces. All have woven themselves into the fabric of everyday life, representing unique forms of escapism and community connection.
“The BBC and the UK’s convenience shops and post o ces are beloved in British culture. Each o ers a unique blend of nostalgia, community spirit and evolving relevance. Whether it’s through the soothing sounds of music or the friendly interactions at our local that remind us of home, reflecting the heart and soul of the UK.”
The big set-up will loosen hands on local intelligence and the community contacts. Accountability and transparency will fade away with remoteness.
What people want above all is visible policing, and yet what they are offered
is increasingly remote bureaucracy.
To cap it all, Mahmood wants the police to response within 15 minutes of a call.
That’s if those working on the phone lines are lucky enough to spot one.
Subhash Varambhia, Snutch News, Leicester
RETAILER OF THE WEEK ‘Running Marathon
“A SMALL update on my London Marathon journey. I’m now up to eight miles in training – something I never thought I’d be able to say. Over the next couple of weeks, I’m aiming to push on to half-marathon distance, taking it one step (and mile) at a time.
“I’m running the London Marathon for Marie Curie, a charity very close to my heart. If you’re able to donate or share your support, it would truly mean the world and help make every mile count. Thank you to everyone who has encouraged me so far.”
We need to look a er each other
IT’S been a tough year for the independent retail sector, with several losses to our retail community.
It’s been a year since Atul Sodha’s brother passed away, and late last year we lost Sue Nithyanandan as well.
Sue was a big character, just like Raj Aggarwal, who passed away several years ago, and we owe it to their memories to reflect and support our loved ones.
Each issue, one of seven top retailers shares advice to make your store magni cent
When I spoke to Sue’s son about her, I don’t think he had realised the enormous impact she had on the retail community, so we need to do more to celebrate and understand those who work in this incredible industry and spread the word.
We all understand the stresses we su er and the stu we have to deal with as retailers – all the di culties of this way of life, and somehow we nd a solution, but we can do more to build that support network that will help with day-to-day problems.
People always talk about things we can do and making things happen, but we should be making it actually happen more o en.
Let’s talk to each other more frequently, let’s let each other know about what’s going on in our lives more o en. My door is always open.
O en within retail, the talk about community is focused on customers, sta and the local area, but we also have a retail community across the UK and we should seek it out.
As a community, we retailers have a weekly chat every Monday at 7pm on Retail Family (retailfamily.co.uk), and this week, things were quite highly charged. It’s a chance for retailers to talk face to face and share how they are feeling.
It’s also a place where you can ask for advice or simply listen and be a part of this community. I would advise more retailers to join this because it can be a great help.
Sue Nithyanandan
Chloe Taylor-Green, Spar Western Downs, Sta ord
GET A SLICE OF MORNING SALES
THE DIFFERENT KINDS OF BREAKFASTS TO OFFER
CUSTOMER demographics are vast, all with di erent tastes, preferences and dietary needs, so when it comes to breakfast, it’s important to o er more than just one type.
These span cereal, breads and spreads, to pastries, healthier alternatives and even the ingredients to make a hearty full English. There’s even tea and co ee to consider as well.
Priyesh Vekaria, of One Stop Carlton Convenience in
Salford, Greater Manchester, has as wide a range as he can manage.
“On any particular morning, customers will pick up cereal and add milk to their shopping, or buy granola and some fresh fruit,” he says. “We also have customers who prefer to make a full English at home, so they come ingredient shopping. We then also o er hot drinks and cereal bars, from brands such as Nomadic, for customers looking for breakfast on the go.
Most customers are looking for that all-in-one concept.”
Paresh Vyas, owner of ve stores in and around Manchester, also o ers a full range, but says value plays an important role in breakfast sales.
“Shoppers go for products that o er 20% extra or are on promotion with breakfast items,” he says. “This is because the cost of living continues to increase, and they’re looking for that added value.”
Vyas stocks bacon, sausag-
TAMARA BIRCH explores how retailers can tap into trends and make more money from breakfast sales
es, black pudding, beans and hash browns. He also runs a £5 deal where customers can pick up six eggs, bacon, sausages and a pint of milk or juice.
“It’s really strong value and customers have been able to build almost several full Englishes for a similar price they’d pay for one at a pub,” he says. Vyas regularly switches the combination that’s associated with the deal to keep his breakfast customers engaged and sales strong.
Stuart Ibberson, brand director, Arla Foods
“WHEN breakfast is eaten on the move, Brits tend to choose trusted formats with a better-for-you edge. Yoghurts, breakfast pots, smoothies and porridge feature regularly on morning grab-and-go missions.
“We’re seeing a lean towards protein-forward and more natural options. Dairy remains central thanks to its versatility, taste and nutritional credibility. Many shoppers also combine items – think a yoghurt drink with fruit, or a pastry paired with a milky co ee – to strike the right balance of convenience, flavour and fullness.”
FINDING THE RIGHT RANGE FOR YOUR STORE
WHILE it’s important to stock a wide range for breakfast, the reality is many don’t have the space. If you’re in a small store, you may need to just focus on a core range of cereal, as around 85% of people in the UK consume it daily.
He says: “You need all your ingredients, including hash browns, eggs, bacon, sausages and beans, which will sell through because that’s what your customers will expect to see.”
store expecting to see hot food on the go, in addition to breakfast items they can make at home,” Vekaria continues.
Vekaria says the sweet spot for smaller stores would be sausages and bacon for customers to make baps or sandwiches at home. But for a medium store, the range should increase to all ingredients needed for a full breakfast.
“Larger
Larger stores, however, have more space to experiment with a wider range and hot food on the go. This can include pastries, bacon and sausage baps or baguettes. stores have a larger footfall than smaller stores, and customers go into that
PRODUCT NEWS
Breakfast launches
While larger stores will have more space to dive into hot food to go, your range will be dependent on your customers. If you’re unsure of the demand, talk to your customers when buying breakfast items and ask their preferences. This will help you determine if it’s worth the investment no matter the size of your store.
Krave Caramelised Biscuit & White Chocolate
In December, Kellogg’s announced the launch of Krave Caramelised Biscuit & White Chocolate, which was available to retailers in January. The flavour combines crunchy pillow-shaped cereal with a smooth white chocolate and caramelised biscuit flavour lling. Each 375g/410g pack has an RRP of £3.50/£4 and aims to capitalise on the growth of caramelised biscuit, which has grown by 52% in value sales year on year.
U t launches Brekkie Shake
In October, U t announced the expansion of its ready-to-drink protein range, with the launch of U t Brekkie Shake, available through CJ Lang, Appleby Westward and Filshill. The Shake comes in Banana and Blueberry flavours, and contains 28g of protein. The launch aims to tap into the rising demand for on-the-go breakfasts, which have grown 8.5% in the past year as work patterns return to pre-pandemic norms, the supplier said.
Fearne & Rosie launches Seedless range Fearne & Rosie has added a Seedless range to its portfolio. Available in two flavours, Raspberry Seedless Preserve and Strawberry Seedless Preserve, it’s the rst reduced-sugar seedless range of its kind. With an RRP of £3.50 for a 310g jar, it became available to independents via wholesalers this month.
BREAKFAST ON THE GO
ON-THE-GO breakfast remains embedded in UK morning routines, particularly for those juggling commutes and hybrid schedules, according to Stuart Ibberson, Arla brand director for Arla Foods.
“Despite changes in where and when breakfast happens, consumers are consistently seeking swift, portable choices that don’t compromise on nutrition or quality,” he says.
“They want breakfast that’s easy to carry, and packed with taste and protein to keep them going. As a growth occasion, breakfast suits dairy exceptionally well – high-protein formats o er a simple, natural and delicious way to start the day.”
Vekaria focuses on ambient and cold on-the-go stock.
Customers will pick up Rustlers, for example, to heat up at home. He advises retailers to try hot food to go, but adds it won’t work for every store.
“We tried hot food to go, including pastries for six months before we realised we wasted more product than we sold,” he says. “We then recognised we didn’t have the demographic. We also have hot-food businesses around us that o ered more choice. It wasn’t a failure, it’s just about nding your niche.” For Vyas, on-the-go breakfast isn’t a core focus as he’s a neighbourhood store. “It’s a very hard sell when a lot of customers are buying to make food at home,” he says. However, with ongoing health trends and shoppers eating less, on-the-go products can be translated into a ‘normal’ breakfast at home. Ibberson says protein yoghurts can help meet any mission at breakfast.
“According to our research, protein yoghurts over-index at breakfast, whereas protein shakes over-index in the after-breakfast, mid-morning slot – serving needs such as protein top-ups, post-exercise recovery and convenient choices during the commute,” he says.
ADAPTING YOUR RANGE THROUGHOUT THE WEEK
PEOPLE have more time to be creative with their breakfast choices on the weekend. In fact, Vyas says customers will opt for a lighter breakfast during the week and, in his store, many come for breakfast topups, such as sauces.
“From Friday, it all changes,” he says. “Customers want a full breakfast, and it’s the same for
bank holidays and school holidays. This is because people have more time to create more of a moment and occasion. It’s an opportunity for them to spend time with their kids or loved ones,” he says.
Vekaria utilises his online platform to capture di erent markets throughout the week. His customers can go online,
order the right ingredients and his app encourages shoppers to buy more in order to make a full English breakfast.
“It’s a range of products that say ‘people also buy’, and it is fully automated. It doesn’t rely on Tesco’s database like instore, but it’s trends across the industry,” he says.
Vekaria also says that de-
mand also changes seasonally.
“We have a bigger demand for a fried breakfast in winter in the UK, but in summer, we still have a demand for fried foods, but it changes to bacon butties or breakfast mu ns,” he says. “This works in our favour because it means we can reduce our stock of some items, like black pudding.”
NIGHT IN
MAKE THE BIG NIGHT IN EVEN BIGGER
Upgrading your big-night-in o er and making your store the local go-to will boost sales across the categories and win regular shoppers, writes CHARLES SMITH
BIG NIGHT IN: WHAT’S NEEDED?
MAXIMISING big-night-in sales involves encouraging shoppers to spend more on evenings at home, whether watching movies or sport, hosting suppers or giving parties. This spring’s major occasions include the Six Nations Rugby, Mother’s Day, St Patrick’s Day and Easter, but a strong o er backed by in-store and online visibility can perform strongly all year round.
Convenience insight agency Talysis says soft drinks sales are up by 3.9% annually, confectionery’s up by 5.2%, while ready-to-drink formats (RTD) have grown by 30.1%. Home delivery services should target big nights in also. As stay-home shoppers spend their money at home, local retailers can win by focusing on premiumisation.
“Premiumisation is one of the biggest big-night-in drivers,” says Rachel Wells, commercial director at St Pierre Groupe, whose sales of
burger buns and hot dog rolls are growing in convenience.
“As shoppers look to manage spending, many still want food that feels special, without the cost of eating out.”
Avtar Sidhu, at Budgens St John’s in Kenilworth, Warwickshire, says his Cook premium ready meal sales are up by 57% annually, and his Laithwaites wine concession, priced at £12.99-£50 a bottle, is also growing.
“Our customers are spending noticeably more on replicating the going-out experience,” he says.
Big nights in are also evolving as shoppers look for affordable ways to unwind that suit their lifestyles.
“Big sharing bags in front of the TV are still hugely important,” says a spokesperson for Pladis. “Busy shoppers are carving out more moments of self-care, driving appetite for indulgent treats and smaller formats to elevate solo evenings.”
SUPPLIER VIEW
Imogen Adams, marketing executive, Country Choice
“DINNER presents a growing opportunity for independent retailers, with consumers seeking convenient, a ordable alternatives to home cooking. With many working flexible hours or going in later, the evening meal is an ideal scenario for stores to extend their hot food-to-go trading hours and maximise foodto-go margins, historically 35-45%.
“Retailers should assess the potential demand before investing heavily, possibly trialling a limited range that’s easy to prepare, serve and hold, such as Country Choice’s Flatstone Pizza Co pizzas, chicken chunks and seasoned wedges.
“Start small and execute well with a focused, consistent menu to build customers’ trust. Price meal deals competitively against local quick-service restaurants and takeaways, and position them near the front of the store using PoS, signage, A-boards and digital menu screens to show what’s on o er, and promote availability via social media.”
CATEGORY ADVICE BIG NIGHT IN
product advice
Make it an occasion
Big-night-in hosts want exciting food they can prepare and serve easily, memorable drinks, and sweet and savoury treats. Guests look for contributions their hosts will appreciate. Crossmerchandising snacks, dips, drinks and party essentials helps shoppers nd everything in one place with minimal e ort.
Make shoppers notice
Highlight big-night-in ranges with in-store advertising and displays to drive unplanned spending.
Diageo’s licensing manager, Declan Hassett, says 62% of shoppers make impulse purchases prompted by appealing displays.
Cater to changing trends
Cash-careful consumers are seeking premium options, bigger soft drinks and alcohol multipacks, as well as sharing bags of sweets and snacks. With price-marked packs generating 80% or more of sales in some sectors, use them to communicate value in price-sensitive categories like drinks, confectionery and snacks.
O er di erent drinks
As awareness of health and well-being grows, more shoppers are choosing low/no-alcohol options, while RTDs o er occasional drinkers a controlled way to enjoy spirits and mixers.
Focus on younger consumers
O er vegan and vegetarian options like world foods and snacks with exciting flavours that o er an alternative to the usual fare. Be bold. Jeet Bansi, at Londis Meon Vale in Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwickshire, puts fresh fruit and nuts by the till, and his KP nuts stand brings in more than £100 a week. He says: “People want to get healthier, eat permissible treats and not be told what to do, and nuts have all the right elements.”
Build on success
Use distinctive evening meal o ers to win sales from the supermarkets. Kam Nijjer, at Budgens Meriden in Coventry, West Midlands, sells a lot of curries, so he’s talking to a local Indian restaurant about selling their food in packaged form, advertising on Facebook and delivering through Snappy Shopper.
MAKING THE MOST OF THE BIG NIGHT IN
WHEN it comes to the big night in, it’s important to start simple. Give your bestsellers more space in the best positions, and keep the range updated with new products and limited editions. After that, add trending niche products appealing to your shoppers.
Take merchandising insights from suppliers’ resources, such as KP Snacks’ 25 to Thrive range guide and Pladis’ Better Biscuits advice platform.
Highlight favourites and offers in category xtures with shelf labels and secondary
siting at the front of the store and in high-tra c areas. Boost awareness of your o er with posters in store, signage in windows and social media.
Create a big-night-in bay and turn it into a customer experience, focusing on seasonal occasions, community festivals, cultural moments and big sports events like the Fifa World Cup. React quickly and stay stocked if national teams are doing well. Know the speci c occasions your shoppers buy for and put themed products in dedicated spaces.
In winter, heartier, comfortled choices drive demand, but when it’s warmer, lighter snacks and crisps, salads, sparkling soft drinks and barbecuefriendly foods dominate.
Before spring comes, review last year’s sales, watch weather forecasts and have everything ready to put out when the weather improves.
Finally, balance maintaining margins with giving shoppers value, and buy smart to keep prices competitive and get wholesalers’ rebates, an easily overlooked pro t builder.
SUPPLIER
Caroline Morris, sales director, Fire&Flame
“IN winter, big nights in are less about scale and more about making these times special. A complete bignight-in o er brings together everything customers need in one convenient shop, not only food and drink favourites, but environmental elements to elevate the experience, like lighting, warmth and comfort. When darker evenings and colder weather drive shoppers indoors, winter fuels are most relevant.
“Displays connecting logs and kindling with the big night in will encourage impulse purchases. When it’s warmer, positioning logs and kindling at store entrances or near complementary products, such as grilling supplies or outdoor gear, enhances the shopping experience and prompts fuel purchases for a ernoons and evenings in the garden.”
Get the range right
LATEST LAUNCHES
Aagrah Foods
Aagrah Foods’ latest launch is the vegan-friendly Butter Chicken Tarka Paste, which originates in Delhi.
Fray Bentos
Getting a head start on the World Cup this summer, Fray Bentos’ new Chicken Tikka Footie Pie has an RRP of £2.99.
Kepak
Kepak has given Rustlers a packaging redesign to provide a clearer di erentiation between Rustlers’ Burgers, Sandwiches and Subs.
Lir Chocolates
Lir Chocolates recently launched a collaboration with Diageo called Baileys Chocolate Caramel Whirl. It is available as a single unit or a triple pack.
Red Star Brands
Red Star Brands has launched BeatBox ‘Party Punch’ flavoured wine beverage in four flavours: Blue Razzberry, Juicy Mango, Orange Blast and Fruit Punch (ABV 6.1%). They come in 330ml resealable, recyclable Tetra Pak cartons.
Tayto Tayto has added Salt & Chilli Chicken to its Golden Wonder crisps £1 Sharing PMPs range.
TOP TIPS
Make it visible
Place sharing bags in high-tra c areas, on aisle ends or near tills to catch shoppers’ attention.
O er variety
Cater to di erent tastes and occasions with a wide range to appeal to a broader customer base and increase impulse purchases.
O er value
Boost confectionery sales by curating a dedicated big-night-in xture featuring complementary products and promotions or bundles, such as sharing bags of chocolate with snacks or soft drinks, and give discounts or loyalty rewards for multiple purchases.
Be ready
Know the occasions when consumers are likely to be looking to enjoy a big night in and capitalise on the opportunity.
*Provided
RETAILER VIEW
Kam Nijjer, Budgens Meriden, Coventry, West Midlands
“NO two stores do big night in the same, and you need to keep improving the o er. We’ve taken out the Tango Ice Blast machine and other units at the front of the store. They’re brilliant in summer, but hardly sell in winter.
“To use the space more pro tably, we’ve turned it into a promotional area and mark di erent events with bunting, flags, promotions and free drink glasses. Spending on speci c occasions varies by store, but retailers must prime customers in advance. “We put out our Valentine’s Day stock in midJanuary, and it sold well from the start. Display your big-night-in o er strongly, and it’ll take care of itself.”
Top tips for big-night-in confectionery*
New products for a big night in
by Lauren George, external communications manager, Mars Wrigley
SELLING IMPULSE AT THE TILL
SHYAMA LAXMAN speaks to retailers and suppliers to understand counter impulse opportunities
VIEW FROM THE COUNTER: WHAT’S IT LIKE
“ANYTHING you put at the counter will sell,” says Priyesh Vekaria, of One Stop Carlton Convenience in Salford, Greater Manchester. “If you have something that is not necessarily an impulse item, the fact you’ve put that product in front of the customer, on the counter, it feels like it’s a missed opportunity if they don’t pick it up.”
Vekaria’s counter space houses a range of protein bars, confectionery and snacks from brands including Grenade, KP
Snacks, Jack Link’s and Mentos, as well as nicotine pouches from Fumi.
Vekaria believes retailing is about understanding customer psychology, and counter space should be “fluid and dynamic – a direct representation of the way the market evolves”.
Cheryl Hope, trading director at Parfetts, says: “Impulse remains one of the strongest pro t drivers in convenience, accounting for well over 20% of sales in many stores. Margins
are typically stronger than on planned purchases, making impulse crucial to overall profitability.”
However, Imtiyaz Mamode, of Wych Lane Premier in Gosford, Hampshire, prefers a clean counter with a few products, such as chewing gum, batteries and Pez sweets. Previously, he used to display things like toys underneath the counter but stopped doing that as it made the space look disorganised.
SUPPLIER VIEW
Mark Roberts, marketing and trade marketing director, Perfetti Van Melle
Stock a variety of flavours, textures and formats to o er choice in the leading brands.
Add signage and PoS for a standout xture that builds visibility in store. Talk to your rep about compelling deals to advertise at the till – for example, two for one.
Include sugar-free products in your o ering. Mints and gum are not exempt from either the rise of the health-conscious consumer or HFSS regulations.
Counter-top units should ideally sit at arm’s reach from the main till point to drive impulse sales.
Priyesh Vekaria, One Stop Carlton Convenience, Salford, Manchester
“WHEN shoppers come in to buy crisps or a snack item from my store, launches at my till will stand out. If I have a launch at my till, I also have it in the main aisle in the bay.
“I will signpost shoppers to the bay, where the product is available not just as a single purchase opportunity, but also as a multi-buy opportunity. Shoppers will, therefore, shop the actual xture. The counter is a great opportunity to signpost and that’s what we need to be doing strategically. Your counter is also an opportunity to sell your store’s USP, so use it for that purpose.”
SUPPLIER VIEW
Cheryl Hope, trading director, Parfetts
Focus and discipline are essential when space is limited, so every line must earn its place through rate of sale and margin. Ranges should be refreshed regularly, with clear pricing, trusted brands and a small number of well-chosen new lines.
Tight ranges of proven sellers, clear facings and logical grouping outperform overcrowded displays. It’s also important to focus on cleanliness and consistency, especially during peak periods.
Planned switching of lines for key moments such as holidays, sporting events or gi ing periods creates relevance and urgency. Limited editions perform particularly well when shoppers are already in a browsing mindset.
WHAT WORKS ON THE COUNTER
HOPE says confectionery leads the way when it comes to impulse-friendly categories, followed by soft drinks, snacks, energy drinks and nicotine alternatives, where permissible.
“Seasonal novelties and small treats perform well. Instant reward at a low price is the common thread,” she says.
Vekaria says Fifo headphones and perfumes by Yodeyma were “non-conventional items” that performed well by the counter during Christmas 2025, taking a cumulative £1,400 in the two weeks over Christmas, including Christmas Day.
“We were strategically spraying perfume at the counter point before a customer came to the till. You don’t have to do much, because the bottle is standing on a point-of-sale piece, and the customer is im-
mediately drawn to it,” says Vekaria.
While there is an argument to be had about whether to use counter space to get rid of slow sellers, Vekaria says one should approach this with caution.
“If you start putting too many clearance products on your counter, your store will get a reputation for being that store that doesn’t sell products. What that also does is attract a particular type of customer to your store just for clearance products,” he says.
Rather than blocking the counter with clearance products, he recommends using category-speci c bays to get rid of slow sellers. This will enable retailers to use the most valuable selling space in the whole shop for the most pro table lines.
WHAT IS THE PERFECT TILL PRODUCT?
HOPE says “small, quick-tochoose items with clear pricing” are ideal for placing at the till, while price-marked packs help shoppers make speedier decisions.
“Packs should be easy to handle and consume on the go. Launches often perform well here due to low perceived risk,” Hope says.
Vekaria says that while brands are creating countertop opportunities, such as Red Bull’s countertop fridges,
introducing sampling opportunities at the till around launches can boost sales from the shelves.
“We’re now also learning that the countertop is not necessarily the point to stock lots of products. If it’s possible, have multiple items on the till just to showcase that this is available and allow customers to pick up from the shelf,” says Vekaria, adding that countertops, especially with launches on them, can act as a “trig-
ger point” for shoppers to be reminded of the brand and shop for other variants from the shelf.
When asked if there’s a particular product that only sells from the till, Vekaria says: “It has to be nicotine pouches and vapes because customers like to ask questions,” adding his average weekly vapes and pods sales amount to £1,000 as opposed to £400 weekly on confectionery sales from the counter.
“If a product is on a shelf, they’re less likely to ask questions that need interaction before they con rm their purchase,” says Vekaria, adding that cabinets in the aisle as opposed to behind the counter are a barrier to purchase.
“At the counter or the till point, they can be o ered an array of di erent flavours and brands. And it’s that kind of interaction that is crucial for a convenience store,” says Vekaria.
ADVICE
MAKE YOUR STORE FAMILY FRIENDLY
CHARLES
WHITTING nds out what retailers can do to encourage families to use their store
1
Kiefer Shea-Godden, My Local Convenience Stores, Newport, Gwent
“MY biggest piece of advice is to keep your �loors clear. If you have to put stock on the �loor, make a stack away from the shelves. Stuff on the �loor narrows the aisles for people with pushchairs, walking frames and wheelchairs, so they’ll just go to Tesco Express because they can get around it.
“I had a really small shop once where we re�itted it, and although we kept the aisles the same size, we took everything off the �loor. People found it more accessible and started to come back. Before, they would have had to leave their pushchair outside.
“My other advice is to interact with the local schools. Get in touch and work with them. In our local school, they have a �lavoured water that we weren’t stocking. But after speaking to them, we brought it in and now sell more of that than we do of Volvic because the kids know the brand and it’s cheaper.”
Nathalie Fullerton, One Stop Partick, Glasgow 2
George Phillips TJ’s Late Shop, Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire 3
“WE’VE always tried to stock items that will appeal to parents on the school runs, whether it’s the lunchbox �illers like juices or smaller bags of crisps. We always try to have a range of things like that.
“We have a good variety of fruit. Offering single-pick bananas means people can get just one as a healthy item for lunch rather than having to buy an entire bunch. We do the same with apples. We also have lunchbox-sized portions of grapes, which are only 100g, so people don’t have to buy the big 500g bags. Those work for children’s lunchboxes in addition to adult meal deals.
“Our store is only just over 1,000sq ft, but you can still get a pushchair up and down all our aisles, and although we do have higher shelves, staff are always on hand to help someone who can’t reach something.”
“IT’S the whole thing about the shop, really. We’ve been there for 36 years, so we’ve seen kids grow up and become parents. It means there’s a big trust factor within the shop, which is exactly what I want. Customers know that their kids are safe here and that the shop is a safe space. That’s something we make very clear on our social media pages. If you have any issues, you can come in here. And the kids are very aware of that.
“We also do fun things that appeal to the children. I recently bought a Segway, and we have videos of us bombing around the shop on it, looking at stuff. We have a range of sweets that the kids want, but the parents trust us about. The staff are also 95% regulars, which builds that sense of it being a community within a shop.
“Beyond that, it’s about staying relevant to what the kids want, whether that’s F’real milkshakes or ramen noodles.”
In the next issue, the Retail Express team nds out how retailers are making in-store promotions work better for them. If you have any problems you’d like us to explore, please email
We do lots of things to attract children and parents, but what are other retailers doing? –
Don Antony Manavalan, Nisa Local Stamford, Lincolnshire
