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‘A LUCKY ESCAPE’
Alex Yau, editor
THIS month, multi-site retail chain Pro Gro Group lost one of their stores in Glasgow a er a sudden re tore through the premises (p3).
Thankfully, all sta were evacuated and nobody was hurt, but the blaze will have caused severe sales losses and impact to store operations for the foreseeable future.
The incident was widely reported and the cause is yet to be con rmed, but members of the online platform Reddit made assumptions it was due to the improper storage of vapes, adding to common misconceptions that independent retailers do not care about safety standards.
It has not been proven that the re was sparked by vapes and it is not o cially suspected this was the cause.
Like all of you, I know Pro Gro Group co-founder Jay Javid is a legitimate operator who does the most stringent checks to ensure he is operating on the right side of the law. He trades under the Nisa banner and his stores have won multiple industry awards.
Unfortunately, there are shady retailers who are impacting the reputation of honest store owners like yourselves. Some retailers have voiced their frustration to me that a lack of enforcement from Trading Standards isn’t helping. Hopefully, new licensing requirements and on-the-spot nes as part of the Tobacco and Vapes Act will make illicit traders think twice.
As usual, Retail Express will continue to champion legitimate retailers and ensure you aren’t being grouped together with dodgy businesses.
@retailexpress betterretailing.com facebook.com/betterretailing
Editor Alex Yau
alex.yau@ newtrade.co.uk 020 7689 3358
News editor Ryan Butcher ryan.butcher@ newtrade.co.uk
News reporter
Kwame Boakye kwame.boakye@ newtrade.co.uk
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 & advertorial writer
Shyama Laxman shyama.laxman@ newtrade.co.uk
Editor in chief Louise Banham louise.banham@ newtrade.co.uk
Deputy insight & advertorial editor Jasper Hart jasper.hart@ newtrade.co.uk 020 7689 3384
Shops urged to seek more nancial well-being support
ALEX YAU
RETAILERS and their staff struggling with �inancial stress are being urged not to suffer in silence, as new GroceryAid research has revealed more than half avoid seeking support.
In a poll of 200 grocery workers, the charity found
82% felt there was a stigma in needing additional �inancial support, with 57% reporting feelings of stress related to money worries. Nearly a third said this had impacted their relationship with family and friends, while 14% stated they were unable to enjoy their leisure time.
Speaking on the latest episode of the Better Retailing Podcast, GroceryAid chief executive Kieran Hemsworth said there was a “massive increase” in people looking for �inancial grants post-Covid.
He added: “One thing we’re seeing, which is mirroring the rest of the country, is the increase in mental health is-
sues, which manifests itself into more people asking for help in the moment.
“We want to help everyone in grocery in need of our services, and it’s about building awareness. If I went into a store and asked the staff who they would go to for help, only 4% would say GroceryAid.”
Cover
Finance manager Magdalena Kalasiuniene 020 7689 0600
Managing director Parin Gohil 020 7689 3388
Head of digital Luthfa Begum 07909 254 949
3387
The Fed con�irmed it would be writing to new ministers to ensure they are aware of the vital role independent shops play.
Meanwhile, the ACS warned there would be a serious impact on business rates and the Deposit Return Scheme.
Counterfeiting Group, CTSI identi�ied Birmingham, Liverpool and London among the leading organised crime hotspots, and is calling for stronger enforcement and greater support for Trading Standards services.
PHILIP Morris (PML) is working with retailers to remove Iqos ads from shops, after the Tobacco and Vapes Act banned advertising of heated tobacco products.
A PML spokesperson told Retail Express: “For retailers with an established direct partnership with us, we are proactively providing guidance and support to ensure any materials needing removal or updates are managed appropriately within their stores.”
ALLWYN has assured retailers that customers have welcomed upcoming changes to Lotto and Lotto Hotpicks, despite prize values being overhauled.
An Allwyn spokesperson said: “Our consumer research shows that players see it as offering greater value for money.”
From 10 June, a £2 ticket will give players two lines and double their chances of winning. However, minimum prize values will be cut as part of the changes.
Major re rips through Glasgow convenience store
A RETAILER has described the devastation of losing his store to a major �ire, which took more than 100 �ire�ighters overnight to extinguish.
The �ire at Pro Gro Group’s Nisa Local Wee Mill in Rutherglen, Glasgow, broke out on 7 May and tore through the building, which also included residential �lats above the premises. No casualties were reported, but it took more than 100 �ire�ighters nearly 24 hours to bring the blaze under control. It is understood the �ire started at around 5.30pm while the store was still trading.
Owner and co-founder Jay Javid told Retail Express that investigations are ongoing to determine the cause, but he suspects it may have been due to an electrical fault in the basement where the �ire ignited.
He added: “When the �ire happened, it was a very warm day. Staff noticed smoke coming from the basement. The carbon monoxide sensors went off and they did their usual drills.
“They evacuated the customers and anyone else in the shop before meeting at the �ire assembly point. From there, it just went up in smoke. The �lats upstairs were evacuated, so we’re very grateful nobody got hurt.
“The �ire of�icers were very cautious as a major �ire
happened in Glasgow city centre when a vape shop went up in �lames. There were more than 20 �ire engines attending the �ire at my shop at one point. They noticed our vapes were behind a glass unit, and it’s something we do around all our shops. The �ire service realised everything was above board and realised we were not just another corner shop going up in �lames. I was told we were quite lucky the building will not be demolished and they will be repairing the building.”
Despite the building not needing to be demolished, Javid does not know when the store will reopen and is set to lose between £32,000 and £38,000 in weekly sales until then.
He added: “The shop is only two-and-a-half years old, and there was a lot taken into consideration when building it. The ventilation and the air�low system were all done from scratch, so we’re still trying to get our heads around it. We’re going to have to absorb it, but it is a challenging time for us, with increases to business rates and employee wages.
“We’re going around all our other stores and making sure our reporting is spot on. Our operations director has been ensuring everything is up to scratch. He used to work for the Metropolitan Police, so he’s very thorough in his
“YOU have to check the weather apps regularly to make sure you have the right product range coming in at the right time. Using this tactic, I bought a pallet of charcoal for the last bank holiday and sold around 30-40 bags in a single weekend. We do a variety of sizes of the charcoal, and prices range from £8.99 to £14, so we generated around £270 to £560 that weekend on a single product.”
Nishi Patel, Londis Bexley Park, Dartford, Kent
GOOD WEEK
ACS: The trade body has promoted former communications director Chris Noice to external a airs director, and Jordan New eld from public affairs manager to head of public a airs. Both will be responsible for bolstering the trade body’s engagement with the government and policy makers in their new roles.
checks.”
Co-founder Saj Javed added: “We would like to thank everyone for their support, including emergency services, local customers and our great team.” Other independent retailers and industry �igures took to social media to offer support to Javid following the blaze.
Co-op Wholesale managing director Katie Secretan said: “So sad to see this, but thankfully everyone is safe. Here to support you as you need.”
Paul Jordon, managing director of shop�itting �irm
Jordon Group, added: “Honestly, it’s rebuildable. No injuries is the best news.”
A spokesperson for Scottish Fire and Rescue Service con�irmed to Retail Express more than 100 �ire�ighters were deployed to the scene, who spent more than 24 hours ensuring the area was safe.
They added: “We were alerted at 6.19pm on 7 May to reports of a building �ire on Baronald Street in Rutherglen.
“At its height, Operations Control mobilised 22 �ire appliances and additional
resources to the scene of a �ire affecting the basement of a commercial property within a four-storey tenement building.
“Crews left the scene at around 5.55pm on 8 May, after ensuring the area was made safe.”
The Nisa store �ire comes just weeks after a major blaze at a vape shop in Glasgow city centre caused severe disruption, including to national rail services in and out of the city.
The affected area is expected to remain cordoned off until July.
Summer: How are you preparing for the warmer weather?
“I HAVE my own car park and I’ll let it out for free to local food trucks. It helps build up a local business, making the overall area a more inviting place to spend time and it draws people through my doors. I’d recommend reaching out to anyone in trade media as they are a great point of contact, with lots of suppliers in each publication. LinkedIn is a great tool for reaching out to suppliers with questions you might have.” Kaual Patel, Nisa Torridon, Lewisham, south London
“I STOCK charcoal, but have expanded into a full barbecue accessories range, which includes lighter fluid, lighters and condiments. We have one or two months in the summer where store sales will increase 10-12%, and it’s usually around school holidays. We put everything on a promotional bay to remind customers what we stock and that they can get it from us rather than a supermarket.”
For the full story, go to betterretailing.com and search ‘ACS’
TG JONES: The potential closure of as many as 150 TG Jones sites could help increase magazine sales in independent stores, as publishers have implemented plans to minimise disruption. Insiders told Retail Express meetings between the struggling high-street chain and distributors are underway to assess the impact.
For the full story, go to betterretailing.com and search ‘TG Jones’
BAD WEEK
BESTWAY: The wholesaler has been told o by the Advertising Standards Authority after the body ruled a Bargain Booze advertisement for Mount Gay Rum had irresponsibly “presented alcohol as an alternative for those who did not have romance on Valentine’s Day”. Bestway defended the adverts as “lighthearted”.
For the full story, go to betterretailing.com and search ‘Bestway’
SMITHS NEWS: The newspaper wholesaler’s rate of decline has accelerated, despite growth in non-news wholesale services. Newly released accounts for the 26 weeks to 28 February showed a 3.9% annual revenue drop, compared to a 0.6% decline during the same period last year.
For the full story, go to betterretailing.com and search ‘Smiths’
Vidur Pandya, Kislingbury Village Store & Post O ce, Northamptonshire
ALEX YAU
Vidur Pandya
Image credit: Vyro Media/@xxjayzeexx
Retailers become GQ models
A FATHER and son retail duo have become fashion icons, after being snapped flaunting designer clothing in the latest issue of British GQ. Priyesh and Mayank Patel, of Londis N16 in London, featured in the April/May edition of the famous lifestyle magazine. The pair were given a full-page spread showing them sporting the latest high-
end Louis Vuitton fashion, including a £2,330 jacket and £1,040 shoes.
The feature described the corner shop “as a local institution”, highlighting how the Patel family provides a vital community service with daily staples.
Describing the experience, Priyesh told Retail Express: “We’ve become quite well known from our Instagram page. One day, someone from
British GQ contacted me and asked if we’d like to get involved in the photoshoot. We spent a few hours in the afternoon being photographed at a studio in London.
“It’s a regular feature where they shoot local business people instead of models. It was a fun afternoon doing a proper fashion shoot, but unfortunately we didn’t get to keep any of the clothes.
“They also did full make-
up, but my dad had less than I did. I already have experience studying a fashion course at university, so it was familiar to me.”
The feature has also brought extra attention to the store.
Priyesh explained: “We’re still everyday shopkeepers and it doesn’t change who we are. Customers have been supportive. One even sent a picture of the feature because she had seen it while in Paris.”
New UWG depot
UNITED Wholesale Grocers is to open a new depot in Greater Manchester.
The firm’s managing director, Amaan Ramzan, confirmed the details to Retail Express, following the posting of several job advertise-
ments for the depot. Although no opening date has been set, Ramzan confirmed it will open later in 2026. It adds to three other depots in Gateshead and Glasgow.
SPAR ICELAND ROLLOUT
SPAR retailers trialling the Iceland own-label range in their stores have reported sales uplifts, but warned of pressures around space.
Some independent retailers who had introduced the range into their shops told Retail Express that customers had reacted positively.
However, Retail Express understands store owners wanting the range must replace the majority of their existing frozen products to accommodate the products.
Vape sales decline
SALES of vapes and smoking alternatives across independent retail continue to drop following the disposables ban, as refillables still struggle to gain popularity.
According to the latest figures from Talysis, value and volume sales for the first three months of 2026 fell annually by 4.4% and 7.8%, respectively. The firm said the results paint a “sobering picture” for the convenience sector.
For the full story, go
ALEX YAU
WIIINGS FOR YOUR SUMMER.
PRODUCTS
PepsiCo kicks o World Cup
SHYAMA LAXMAN
PEPSICO has unveiled a line-up of globally inspired �lavours across its Walkers, Doritos and Wotsits portfolio, marking the supplier’s appointment as an of�icial sponsor of the FIFA 2026 Men’s Football World Cup.
The range includes three limited-edition Walkers �lavours – English Bangers & Mash, Wavy Spanish Queso and Portuguese Chorizo & Onion – while Doritos adds a Mexican twist with Mexican Beef Taco.
In addition, Wotsits has launched a limited-edition Golden Balls Smokin’ Cheese �lavour snack shaped like a football.
The launches are accompanied by an on-pack promotion running until 7 August.
Selected packs feature a QR code giving shoppers the chance to win instant prizes. These include FIFA merchandise, home viewing bundles and food delivery vouchers, as well as entry into two prize draws of £10,000 (or € equivalent).
While Walkers and Wotsits lines will be available until 7 August, Doritos Mexican Beef Taco will become a permanent addition to the range once the tournament ends.
Minions to invade World of Sweets
WORLD of Sweets has unveiled the latest launch from Gumi Yum Surprise, featuring a brand-new Minions range. It will be available from 1 June, launching ahead of the release of Minions & Monsters in cinemas on 1 July. The range comes in 26g single units, packed 18 per case, with an RRP of £1.50. The new product will be distributed through Bobby’s, World of Sweets �ield sales and national accounts, and Hancocks cash and carry. Pre�illed free-standing display units will also be available.
your own team with
Tyrrellbly nice crisps. Howzat
KP SNACKS has launched a limited-edition Tyrrells �lavour to mark its partnership with the England and Wales Cricket Board.
Tyrrells English Ham & Mustard is available in 35g sharing bags, retailing at £2.75. It is non-HFSS and available until the end of September.
Tyrrells is valued at £73.8m in retail sales value and growing, according to Toluna research. The launch aims to drive incremental category sales by tapping into sharing missions.
FOOTBALL-THEMED collectables FIFA Ballers are now available to convenience retailers via Bobby’s. Retailing at £9.99, these are aimed at helping drive impulse sales in the build-up to the FIFA World Cup 2026.
Created by toy manufacturer Zuru, each ‘Baller’ is a sealed ball containing a miniature FIFA star and accessories that help fans build a mini football world. Series 1 features international players in iconic team colours, with rare �igures that drive repeat purchase. Counter displays are included for secondary siting.
Fridge Raiders unveils new flavours
FRIDGE Raiders has added to its roster of protein snacks by launching two new variants.
The dual launch expands Fridge Raiders’ Grills range with Chicken Skewers in Chinese BBQ and Satay.
The core Chicken Bites range has got a �lavour boost as the result of a collaboration with hot sauce brand
Pukka grows range and rebrands slices
Frank’s RedHot. Both new products are available now to Morrisons Daily stores. The launches are also supported by Fridge Raiders’ new ‘Chicken for the Road?’ campaign.
PUKKA has rebranded its chilled slices range with new packaging and added a Cheese & Pickle Slice to the range. The rebrand and new variety come as Pukka Slices are growing in value by 6.4% and in volume by 11.2% year on year, according to Nielsen
�igures. Pukka will support the relaunched range with seasonal lines to drive incremental sales and maintain interest.
Country Choice expands sweet bakes
COUNTRY Choice has upgraded its Swan Bakery brand and extended its sweet bakery range.
The ready-to-bake range includes Raspberry & Mascarpone Crest, two new hot-drink-friendly butter pastry buns in Cinnamon and Chocolate �lavours, a
Hazelnut & Chocolate Roll, a Chocolate Babka and a Caramel Babka. A new thaw-andserve Iced Finger Bun is also available in packs of four, among other additions.
LAUNCH
PREMIUM crisp producer Fair�ields Farm Crisps has announced a new limitededition Cajun Barbecue-�lavoured crisp, the brand’s �irst ever ridge-cut crisp, designed to hold more �lavour.
The new �lavour was selected by Fair�ields Farm’s Secret Crisp Committee, a panel of crisp enthusiasts recruited from across the UK earlier this year.
Retailing at £2.30, the limited-edition crisp will be available from wholesale in 150g sharing bags from June this year.
SHYAMA LAXMAN
COCA-COLA Euro Pa-
ci�ic Partners (CCEP) has launched a limited-edition Fanta Dark Cherry variant.
It’s available to retailers in 330ml cans and 8x330ml multipacks. The brand has also dropped the latest iteration of its Wanta Fanta campaign, including limitededition packs and on-pack gaming promotion in partnership with Xbox.
The campaign targets Gen Z and Millennial shoppers through �ive major Xbox gaming franchises: Call of Duty, Halo, World of Warcraft, Forza Horizon 6 and Diablo.
Live until 10 June, the onpack promotion runs across
PRODUCTS
PRODUCTS
You wanta try the new Fanta
limited-edition 330ml single cans and multipacks of Fanta Orange and Orange Zero, Fruit Twist and Fruit Twist Zero, Lemon and Fanta Dark Cherry, as well as a variety pack containing all four �lavours.
Gaming fans can enter by scanning unique QR codes on promotional packs or in-store PoS materials via the Coca-Cola app. The prize pool includes thousands of gaming-themed rewards including exclusive in-game content, unique merchandise and gaming experiences.
The campaign is supported by a marketing campaign, including out-of-home advertising, paid social media, in�luencer partnerships and
Delice’s new spring/ summer catalogue
DELICE de France has launched its 2026 spring/ summer catalogue, featuring 47 new on-trend products across bread, patisserie, snacking and chilled.
These include savoury Jamaican patties, Scandiinspired hand-twisted knots, slices and bakes. The brand has also launched �ive types of sandwich �illings, available in 1kg tubs. Other products include fully baked bagels, multiseed sub roll and multigrain country roll.
The dessert selection includes a trio of pastry swirls and mini muf�ins, apple cake with butter crumbles, and products tapping
sponsored
into current bakery trends including cheese bretzel and a funfetti crodot.
Claim a case: It’s Giving modern soda
A BRAND-NEW modern soft drink, It’s Giving comes from Simon Gray, founder of Boost Drinks, launching at £1 PMP –making great taste and real bene�its accessible to all.
To celebrate the launch, 200 retailers can claim a case of 24 cans.
Every 330ml can deliv-
experiential events. Free PoS materials are available to download from CCEP’s portal.
ers 6g of plant-based �ibre, no arti�icial sweeteners and naturally low sugar, across three �lavours – Apple & Elder�lower, Mango & Passionfruit and Black Cherry.
It’s Giving brings everyday wellness to your shelves without the premium price tag.
Claim your free stock: scan the QR code, register for Better Retailing Club Rewards and click the ‘Free Stock’ button
PARFETTS has further expanded its own-brand range with the launch of Go Local Granulated Sugar in a 1kg price-marked pack, retailing at £1.09.
The range now spans more than 250 lines across impulse, licensed and grocery categories.
Score bigger sales with Goalden Balls
GOLDEN Wonder has widened its snacks range by launching Goalden Balls to capitalise on the FIFA fervour. Available now, Goalden Balls retails at £1.25 and comes in a 150g sharing pack.
The launch taps into growing demand for sharing formats.
Earlier this year, Golden Wonder also expanded its range of PMP snacks by launching £1 PMPs of Oinks and Saucers Sour Cream & Onion, and introduced a new variant called Bikers Cheese & Onion in a 35p PMP.
The sugar replaces the Local Living 500g line and is exclusive to Parfetts. The launch further strengthens the Go Local own-brand range, which is designed speci�ically for convenience retailers and built around the principle of being “big on quality and bigger on margins”.
INDEPENDENT snacks brand
Salty Dog is set to expand its portfolio with the introduction of Chilli Rice Crackers. Available from June, the new product will launch in 40g packs retailing at £1.69. Other products under the
brand include a range of crisps, pork scratchings, �lavoured nuts and toasted corn kernels.
Vogo RTDs available now in wholesale
VOGO, a new concept readyto-drink (RTD) cocktail brand, is now available via Filshill, with more wholesale listings to follow.
Vogo cocktails are premixed vodka shots in pocketsized pouches. Retailing at £1.85, the RTDs come in four
�lavours – Strawberry Splash, Tropical Deluxe, Raspberry Blast and Citrus Zing, with an ABV of 15%. Vogo is supporting stores with a starter pack, which contains 40 pouches (10 of each �lavour), and branded PoS including fridge stickers and clip strips.
WKD has launched a WKD Cocktails range comprising three �lavours.
These include Cheeky V, Venom and Blue Lagoon. Retailing at £3.10 for a 330ml can, the RTDs have an ABV of 6.5%. The launch responds to a shift in consumer behaviour, with at-home predrinking occasions continuing to rise, driven by affordability and convenience.
Pre-drinking before events is up 8% year on year, while interest in experimentWKD adds
ing with new �lavours has risen by 4%, according to NIQ �igures.
In partnership with:
Shake up shake sales with Grenade
GRENADE has launched its �irst nationwide consumer competition for its protein shakes range, running until 30 June.
Shoppers can win hundreds of prizes including a holiday worth £5,000. To enter, shoppers must purchase a Grenade protein shake, scan the QR code found on the PoS in store and complete the online entry form on the microsite including the batch and barcode. Retailers can also win a share of £5,000 cash by
purchasing an 8x330ml case of Grenade protein shakes, scanning a QR code on the PoS in wholesale and completing the online entry form.
Del Monte partners with Toy Story 5
via social media. Shoppers who purchase participating products could win a �ivenight stay in San Francisco, with a curated itinerary of play-inspired experiences.
Whitley Neill debuts gin RTDs range
HALEWOOD Artisanal
Spirits has expanded its UK portfolio with the launch of two premium RTD cocktails under its Whitley Neill Gin brand. The �lavours are Rhubarb & Ginger Gin with Ginger Ale and Yuzu & White Strawberry Gin with Lemonade. Both cocktails are available as single 250ml cans (RRP £3.25) and 12-can multipacks via Amazon, with more listings to follow. The cocktails have an 8.3% ABV.
Squashies Splits lands in chillers
BRAND of Brothers has expanded its Swizzels range with the launch of Squashies Splits. It is a milk-�lavoured ice cream lolly with a raspberry coating. According to information seen by Retail Express in a wholesaler’s catalogue, the new product
PML adds Levia to zero-tobacco range
PHILIP Morris Limited (PML) has widened its smoke-free alternatives roster with the introduction of Levia, a range of zero-tobacco �lavoured nicotine sticks. These have been created for the brand’s Iqos Iluma range. Four �lavours are available: Deep Mint, Strawberry with Watermelon Pearl, Citrus with Peppermint Pearl and Blueberry with Strawberry Pearl. The latter three are capsule-based. They retail for £5 and are available from the PMI Open website and via wholesale.
KATRINA YULE
Kat’s Corner Shop, Hawick, Scottish Borders
Focus on… partnering with other businesses
JUST before Valentine’s Day, I teamed up with a woman who runs a florist near to my store.
She said she was struggling to sell all her stock, so I suggested that she give me any le over flowers. I’m open much later, and there are always people looking for things last minute, so I thought I’d be able to help with selling them.
DEL Monte has launched an on-pack partnership with upcoming Toy Story 5, running until September. The campaign sees the �ilm’s characters featured on pack across Peach Slices and Fruit Cocktail in juice, and drinks such as Pineapple and Mango & Papaya. There’s also a global consumer competition with one grand prize available across all participating countries, alongside co-branded Del Monte and Disney prizes available to win is available now in a case size of 12, with six lollies in a pack retailing at £2.50. It is available to Nisa retailers and expected to bring 30% pro�it on return.
We ended up partnering earlier than planned, so I had fresh flowers in the store before Valentine’s Day, and we worked together to sell them. The flowers sold really well and, with what I had le over, I ran a ra le, which created excitement and got rid of them.
KP SNACKS has launched its cricket-themed on-pack promotion, ‘Catch and Win’.
The promotion is live from 25 May to 23 August and offers consumers the chance to win £20,000, with daily
We carried on having flowers in weekly. Then Mother’s Day came and, this time, we teamed up for gi boxes that included flowers from the florist, plus something from our shop, such as a bottle of wine, a bottle of so drink or box of chocolates.
We both advertised it on social media, and we’ve increased our reach. Posting on social media can change your business.
‘Catch and Win’ with KP Snacks campaign
It feels great to work alongside another business to bene t us both. It worked really well for everybody and made me realise the impact teaming up with someone else can have on your business.
Headline partner
cricket prizes also up for grabs. It runs across 61 lines in a variety of pack formats from brands including: Hula Hoops, KP Nuts, Tyrrells, McCoy’s, Pom-Bear, Popchips and Skips. Prizes include tickets to The Ashes in 2027 and The Hundred in 2026, with England Cricket Store vouchers and cricket sets also on offer.
Supporting partners
Collaborator partners
MY STAR STAFF MEMBER
OPINION
RETAILER OPINION ON THIS FORTNIGHT’S HOT TOPICS
What do you think? Call Retail Express on 020 7689 3357 for the chance to be featured
TRADING:What are you doing to offset sales decline?
Imran Ahmed
My role in the shop: retail assistant
What was your background before joining convenience?
I used to be a store manager at the clothing store Blue Inc, but eventually moved away to live in Heacham. I saw an advertisement for sta at the Nisa and introduced myself.
How is convenience retail di erent to other sectors?
One of my previous roles was at Tesco many years ago, so I do have experience. Clothing retail isn’t that di erent to food retail in some respects. However, with the way the world is right now, people want to ensure they’re fed – and clothing isn’t a priority.
What is the shop atmosphere like?
It feels like I’m at home in the shop, and the team is really fantastic. Hemal and Neil are very understanding people, and they don’t treat you like most other bosses do.
Tell us about your day-to-day duties.
I maintain the shop floor and ensure customers get what they need. We try to get a product in if we don’t have them already.
It sounds like your role is really rewarding? The most rewarding aspect is making customers and the team happy. I serve and work with people of all di erent ages. As well as a community, we get a lot of passing trade due to the nearby beach and caravan sites.
appetite for retail has never been greater
LONDON MARATHON 2026: How was the annual event?
“I’M incredibly honoured to have run this marathon alongside my dad. Every single step we took was for Marie Curie, helping it continue the truly incredible and compassionate work it does for people and families who need it most. ”
Chloe Taylor-Green, Spar Western Downs, Staffordshire
“RUNNING my �irst London Marathon was such a memorable day for me. A big thank you to everyone who called, messaged and came out to support me. Seeing family and friends along the route meant so much, and all the lovely messages really kept me going.”
Siva Thievanayagam, TYS Retail, Peterborough
“THIS has been one of the slowest trading years I’ve known. Traditional categories are in decline, so I’ve introduced novelty products which aren’t available elsewhere. These include Japanese, South Korean and Chinese editions of Pokémon cards from Plus Marketing, as well as CBD products.”
Rakesh Bhimjiyani, Costcutter Hampstead, London
“AFTER more than 40 years in convenience retail, I have never seen a trading environment as tough as it is today. In the coming weeks, we will introduce Captana cameras to monitor on-shelf availability. This will allow us to explore ways to engage customers.”
Ramesh Shingadia, Budgens Caterways & Post Of�ice, Horsham
I have never seen trading as tough as it is today
RETAIL CONFERENCES: How important is it to engage?
“WHAT a brilliant couple of days at the National Convenience Show and the ACS annual conference. These were my �irst proper few days at an event since 2024. It was great meeting some new suppliers, old friends and new friends. My appetite for retail has never been greater.”
Amit Puntambekar, Ash’s Shop, Fenstanton, Cambridgeshire
“I RECENTLY attended the new Co-op Wholesale show in Manchester. It was an amazing day at an amazing venue, which left me well impressed. It was really useful to spend the event speaking to old and new suppliers, and seeing all the new products coming to market.”
Kevin Polley, Kash Retail, Bedale, North Yorkshire
TOBACCO
AND VAPES BILL: Will it have an impact? Every single step was for Marie Curie
Store owners: Neil and Hemal Godhania, Nisa Heacham Stores, King’s Lynn
“CUSTOMERS will always seek out new products, and we’ve seen similar habits when previous legislation was imposed. I don’t think sales will be affected too much. Suppliers are usually on it with releasing new products to help retailers offset any potential sales losses.”
Dipak Shah, H&R News, Camberley
“W E’RE a legitimate business, but we always hear about Trading Standards teams being underfunded. Instead of checking on legitimate businesses like ours, the investment and effort should be placed into �inding and stopping illicit traders.”
Kaual Patel, Nisa Torridon, Catford, south London
Image credit: Getty Images/Orbon Alija
‘We
need more practical crime enforcement’
FOLLOWING a recent break-in and assault on a staff member, we had the pleasure of hosting deputy mayor for London Howard Dawber to discuss business crime and the realities facing retailers on the ground.
I found Howard to be thoughtful, engaged and genuinely interested in understanding what’s really happening at the front line
of retail.
Our conversation was rooted in real experiences. In the past month alone, we’ve dealt with a break-in and the assault of two members of our team. Sadly, this isn’t unique to us – through both the ACS and the Croydon Business Association, we’re seeing consistent patterns across the sector.
There are, however, positive steps forward. The
COMMUNITY RETAILER OF
Bisi Osundeko,
new legislation introduced last week – making assault against shop workers a speci�ic offence – is a strong and welcome move. It sends a clear signal that protecting retail staff is being taken seriously.
Now the opportunity is to build on that with more joined-up, practical enforcement.
For example, if a known offender is banned from a
store and re-enters, that should be treated clearly and consistently as trespass – with the con�idence that when retailers call for support, there will be a response.
Howard has committed to staying engaged and exploring this further, which is encouraging.
Benedict Selveratnam, Fresh�ields Market, Croydon
“WE are pleased to relaunch our Sta of the Month initiative as part of our continued commitment to recognising and celebrating the people who power our business. This month, we are proud to recognise Dinesh for his outstanding contribution. Dinesh consistently goes the extra mile to support the growth and smooth running of our store. He is friendly, smart and resilient in his approach, and he brings a strong sense of professionalism and positivity to the team. Together, we continue to build a people- rst, community-focused retail environment.”
“I RECENTLY converted my store from One Stop to Go Local. I want the store to stand out not just on value, but on the overall experience, so expect to see lots of locally sourced produce on the shelves and a food-to-go option. I’m also really excited to strengthen my existing links with the local community, which I am very passionate about. I’ve worked closely with Partick council, donating produce for events and deserving causes, and regularly provide surplus stock to local food banks, which also helps to minimise food waste and promote sustainable retailing.”
The rise of ready-to-drinks
I AM concentrating a a lot of my time and energy on making sure my ready-to-drink cocktail (RTD) range is well stocked and varied.
At the beginning of last year, we got heavily into Bacardi Breezers, and even now we’re still selling plenty enough to keep stocking them. We have the four flavours that came out in the UK and we’re still selling imported varieties as well.
We recently ventured into West Coast Cooler, which is the number-one RTD in Ireland. I took it on a whim, but what appealed to me was the low calories – it’s technically a wine, but the Sunburst peach & mango flavour is only 88 calories and the Original tropical is 93. I think people’s demands are changing and they want that treat occasion while still chasing those summer bodies. I didn’t expect the response to be so good, but we sold three cases in a couple of days – although when we rst got those Bacardi Breezers in, we sold a pallet in a day.
It feels like I am selling fewer bottles of spirits and am dedicating more fridge and shelf space to RTDs. That’s what people want, perhaps what they can budget for, or maybe they’re being more conscious overall about their alcohol intake.
The Bacardi Breezers – like Reef and WKD – they tap into that nostalgia, which always wins. And then you have innovation, such as new flavours from brands such as Cîroc and Four Loko that sell well.
I also have every single Au Vodka can, and they all have their place on the shelf. Having that range helps to shi that volume because people will come to us, see what we have and they can buy one without it being a massive commitment before trying something else.
People are looking for interesting flavours across the board, whether it’s in RTDs, ciders, beers or anything. The Echo Falls Blue was an intriguing viral flavour that sold, and continues to sell, really well. I could have sold 10 times what I sold if I’d had the stock when I rst got it in.
Fullerton, Go Local Dumbarton Road, Glasgow
Go Local Junction Lane, St Helens
Each issue, one of seven top retailers shares advice to make your store magni cent
A NEXT-GEN GANTRY FOR NEXTGEN SALES
BAT is rolling out a new gantry for retailers to safeguard their vape and nicotine-pouch sales
RETAILER VIEWS
Mark Dudden, Albany Road Stationery & News, Cardi
THE FUTURE OF VAPE DISPLAYS
BRITISH American Tobacco (BAT) has unveiled its latest backwall gantry and is beginning a rollout to UK convenience retailers.
The gantry is 1.5m wide and comes in two di erent height options of 2m and 2.3m. The full-sized unit can house 32 nicotine-pouch lines and more than 100 vaping lines.
BAT rst unveiled the gantry at its Innovation Centre in Southampton at an event on
24 February, where a demonstration was held to several visiting retailers. At the event, BAT’s trade marketing visibility head, Louise Marcon, described the new gantry as the “Be Jealous” solution, which displays a range of Velo and Vuse products for both seasoned alternative nicotine consumers and those new to the category, with additional room for a retailer’s full category o er.
“YOU need to be ahead of the curve and to futureproof your store. The generational ban is coming in January, and you have to be proactive in an ever-changing marketplace. Vapes and nicotine pouches are very important categories because the market is changing and tobacco sales are going down. The installation went very smoothly and professionally, and I’d recommend it to anyone.”
Priyesh Vekaria, One Stop Carlton Convenience, Salford
“WE wanted to scale up to match the emerging trend of nicotine pouches and smoking alternatives, and the only way we can scale up is by being on point with innovation and working with these brands to drive home their messages. Seeing it in store, I think the gantry looks really great. It’s high impact and will drive some great sales value and volume for us.”
SUPPLIER VIEW
Eddie Devine, head of symbols & independents, BAT UK
“BAT is rolling out the next generation of backwall gantries for symbol and independent stores. Having all nicotine products consolidated in one place allows shoppers to see consistent planograms, flavours and strength ranges. Having a unit which will light up and video screens to advertise and communicate a product to adult consumers will drive uptake and additional sales.”
A SCALABLE AND FUTUREPROOF SOLUTION
BAT’s gantry is also scalable and futureproof to allow retailers to adjust their display in line with changing legislations. “What we’re showing is built on partnership, built with retailers,” said Marcon. “We can come to the store and o er a free consultation in which we can look at o ering window skins, bus-stop signs, the back wall and CTUs so you
get a full suite of visibility solutions.”
Designed by retail equipment specialists Modern Expo, the gantry also has LED highlighting around the products, bringing them a visual premium, as well as a digital screen that explains the attributes of BAT’s top-selling lines, including Vuse, which is the global number one closed-
system vape brand1, and Velo, which is the UK’s top-selling nicotine-pouch brand2
The supplier has also partnered with Retail Express on a project that has seen the gantry installed in four independent retailers’ stores. Priyesh Vekaria’s One Stop Carlton Convenience in Salford and Mark Dudden’s Albany Road Stationery & News in Cardi
are two of the rst to take part in an exclusive trial of the new gantry. Installations took place in March with the help of shop tters The Shore Group. For more information, head to betterretailing.com to watch a video of the installation and keep an eye out for coverage of the trial results in a future edition of Retail Express.
PUTTING THE CATEGORY IN PRIME POSITION
BOTH retailers praised the smoothness of the installation. “You need to get gantries like this one in your store because you have to be proactive and move with the market. Being ahead of the game is how you grow your sales,” said Dudden. “We’ve designed this gantry to try and bring the category together,” added BAT’s head of symbols & independents, Eddie Devine. “We’ve noticed stores can be quite cluttered with hanging strips and countertop units,
If you would like to enquire about having a BAT gantry in your store, please speak with your local BAT representative or register your interest at batclub.co.uk
FOCUS ON FASCIAS
Future partners
RETAIL EXPRESS looks at the ways symbol groups are supporting their retailers through the challenges and opportunities of 2026
THE current situation for retailers is a challenging one and having the support of a symbol group behind you can be a useful pillar on which to build and grow a business.
Whether it’s getting better deals on the essential products that �ill the shelves or seeking advice on the best way to create an exceptional customer journey and experience, there are ways in which having a good symbol group and a good rela-
tionship with it can boost a store’s fortunes.
Retail Express has been talking to symbol groups and some of the retailers who run their stores in partnership with them. Over the next few pages, Parfetts and Spar will share more about what they are doing to help retailers get through these tricky times, but also how they are looking to build stronger businesses that drive sales and pro�its through the tills.
Parfetts focuses on its
competitive pricing and promotional cycles, with a particular focus on pricemarked packs. But there is also investment in responsible retailing, digital technology and data-led advice. Spar sheds light on similar price-led support structures, with links to suppliers for better margins and supply chain logistics. There is also talk of the initiatives Spar has put in place that retailers have been able to adopt to their bene�it.
PAID FEATURE IN ASSOCIATION WITH PARFETTS
Parfetts
PARFETTS outlines the strides it has made to help its retailers deliver value and compete in convenience
Strengthened promotional cycles with clearer, more consistent value messaging, improving retailer condence and shopper trust.
Continued expansion of the Go Local own brand, now exceeding 250 lines, giving retailers stronger margins and credible alternatives to branded products.
Introduction of key commodity lines, such as pricemarked sugar, reinforcing everyday value and driving footfall.
Investment in data-led ranging and category advice, helping retailers tailor o ers to local demographics.
Enhanced depot and retail club execution, ensuring promotions land e ectively in store.
Ongoing supplier partnerships delivering exclusive deals and improved availability on core lines.
Increased focus on compliance and responsible retailing support, particularly in regulated categories like vaping.
Offering value
THE ongoing cost-of-living crisis has made shoppers more deliberate, more price-aware and less loyal, which puts pressure on independent retailers to stay relevant without eroding margin. In this climate, wholesalers must actively help retailers compete. Parfetts supports this through a value-led model. Competitive depot pricing, strong promotional cycles and PMPs give retailers the tools to demonstrate value on shelf. The Go Local symbol fascia further strengthens this, combining national pricing with
Ashish Gajjar
“I’VE been in the retail business for 16 years, starting with a corner shop in Southampton. I now have six in total, with this Go Local Extra being the most recent. I’m planning on moving all my other stores over to Go Local in the coming year.
“I opened in July last year, before the new Southampton depot. [National sales controller] Steve Miller was very helpful;
local flexibility so retailers can respond to their own shopper base.
Beyond pricing, support is practical and ongoing.
Retailers bene t from category insights, merchandising advice and access to the fast-growing Go Local own-brand range, which
Go Local Extra Palmerston Road, Southampton
he helped me get stock from the Birmingham branch so I could open the shop on my own timeline. He has showed so much interest in my journey and shared so many ideas with me. The own-brand range is very competitive – I never thought I would sell so many baby wipes.
delivers margin and value in equal measure. Regular communication, in-depot engagement and retail club initiatives ensure retailers are not operating in isolation. The focus is simple: help independents remain competitive and pro table in a tough market.
“I’m also in touch with my RDA every day because I go to the branch so o en.
Parfetts has special deals from Monday to Friday, so it’s become a habit for me to go every other day. I’m in touch with the sta and meeting new shop owners all the time – it’s just like the old days. If I open a new shop, it will be with Parfetts.”
PAID FEATURE IN ASSOCIATION WITH SPAR Spar
SPAR outlines the ways in which its retailers are o ering their customers value
Member benefits
OVER the past year, Spar has taken signi cant steps to strengthen retailer support and enhance in-store performance. Its promotional cycle delivers clear, impactful value for shoppers, with stronger o ers on Spar own-label and key lines, and improved visibility driving both footfall and basket spend. Alongside this, increased investment in data-led insight has enabled Spar to tailor ranges more e ectively to local demand, improving availability while reducing waste.
Stronger partnerships with key suppliers have unlocked sharper pricing, exclusive promotions and improved margins
Retailer viewpoint
Phil Bridge
across core categories. This has been complemented by a continued focus on retailer support, with a blend of inperson engagement, digital tools and practical guidance helping stores optimise merchandising, pricing and overall standards.
Operationally, ongoing investment in supply chain and logistics has enhanced availability and consistency, supporting retailers to trade more efciently day to day. Together, these initiatives are delivering tangible benets, helping stores remain competitive, relevant and well positioned for growth.
Spar stores in Blackburn and Clitheroe, Lancashire
“IN terms of value, Spar has several initiatives which I have been quick to adopt. This includes Spar’s ongoing Price Locked scheme on hundreds of lines, which gives con dence to customers to repeat shop. More recently, Spar Rewards has enhanced loyalty. Both are helping me successfully navigate some of the toughest trading times I have experienced as a retailer.
“I have an excellent retail
sales advisor who truly understands the convenience retail sector and the direction it is moving in. The support my retail teams and I receive from her is integral to both my Spar stores performing strongly.
“More widely, James Hall & Co Ltd’s fresh food merchandising team have really supported me to present my fresh food categories at their optimum. My food-
Average store size: 1,700sq
IN the current climate, where shoppers are increasingly price-conscious and operating costs remain high, delivering clear, consistent value has never been more critical for convenience retailers. Value today goes beyond price alone – it’s about a compelling overall proposition that combines competitive pricing, strong promotions, quality own-label ranges and a reliable shopping experience. Independent retailers who can strike this balance are better placed to drive footfall, build loy-
JOIN
alty and protect margins.
That’s where a strong fascia plays a vital role. By leveraging collective buying power, data-led insights and centrally driven promotional strategies, Spar helps independent retailers stay competitive against larger multiples. Ongoing support from regional distribution centres spans everything from tailored ranging and category ad-
Number of members: 2,265
Cost of joining: no cost to retailers during their rst year
vice to marketing, store standards and operational e ciencies. Crucially, this partnership approach enables retailers to remain locally relevant while bene ting from national scale, ensuring they can meet evolving shopper needs.
to-go o er is also hugely important to driving sales in my stores. Whether at the Daily Deli with freshly prepared sandwiches and hot food at my Clitheroe store, or Cheeky Co ee at my Blackburn site, I deliver quality products at value prices.”
DRIVING ENERGY DRINKS SALES
Retailers and suppliers share with SHYAMA LAXMAN how to keep the category energised
WHAT IS THE CATEGORY WORTH?
PRIYESH Vekaria, of One Stop Carlton Convenience in Salford, Greater Manchester, says energy drinks account for around 60% of his total soft drinks sales.
On the other hand, Imtiyaz Mamode, of Wych Lane Premier, in Gosport, Hampshire, sells more of his other soft drinks than energy drinks,
simply because of the variety available. This is not to say that energy drinks is not a vital category, as monthly takings are in the range of £5,000.
“There are quite a few customers who buy energy drinks from the morning and into the night as well, so we sell a good quantity,” says Mamode, who has 16 metres of shelf space
dedicated to the category. Mamode also says in the past ve years or so, more people have switched from hot beverages like teas and co ees to energy drinks as the latter offers more flavour options.
Elsewhere, Reuben Singh Mander, of The Three Singhs in Selby, West Yorkshire, says customers are keen on current
trending flavours as opposed to the functionality of the drink itself. Therefore, o ering variety becomes important.
A Red Bull spokesperson says energy drinks are key to growth in the impulse channel, especially at this time of year, with the category driving 47% of all soft drinks growth during the summer of 2025.
ENERGISE YOUR FIXTURE
KEY MERCHANDISING PRINCIPLES
READY TO ACCELERATE YOUR SOFT DRINKS SALES?
A well-merchandised fixture helps shoppers, drives impulse purchases and ensures your soft drinks perform to their full potential. Here’s how...
SEGMENT BY SHOPPER NEED 2
3
STRIKE ZONE FOR POLE POSITION 1 BRAND BLOCK FOR MORE SALES
The Strike Zone can achieve +25% uplift for leading brands and +9% for the category overall.1 With 21% of shoppers going elsewhere if they can’t find their favorite energy drink2, place the top-sellers at eye level to maximise sales.
51% of shoppers are on an in-and-out mission.2 Organise products by category, brand and shopper need to improve ease and speed of shop – because every second counts.
Shoppers navigate by shape and colour. Block a brand’s range and stair-step different sizes. This will encourage trade-up and cross-category purchases, while also increasing shopper satisfaction by +5pp.1 GROWTH
CATEGORY ADVICE ENERGY DRINKS
BRANDS AND TRENDS DRIVING THE CATEGORY
MONSTER, Red Bull and Lucozade continue to be the top names in the category. In fact, 74% of retailers who participated in a survey on the Better Retailing Club Rewards app said Monster was their topperforming brand.
Vekaria says his monthly takings on Monster alone is £3,600, with the three brands cumulatively adding around £9,850 to his tills each month.
Flavour innovation is a constant within the category, with Monster releasing Lando Norris, Ruby Red and Juiced Viking Berry between May 2025
and January 2026. This year also witnessed two Red Bull launches – the brand’s rst spring launch, Cherry Sakura, which landed in January, and the recent Summer Edition Citrus Zest.
According to a Red Bull spokesperson, the new flavour is inspired by a “drive towards citrus flavours”. Retailers must “always prioritise newness, because that’s the stu shoppers are actively seeking out”, the spokesperson adds. Furthermore, retailers with smaller chillers should go for bestselling flavours – for exam-
ple, White Peach – in addition to the new lines. Vekaria says he delisted Red Bull Juneberry and replaced it with White Peach as it had a stronger rate of sale and “better alignment with current flavour trends”.
Vekaria is seeing better sales of low-sugar variants and alternative energy, though feels the ‘clean energy’ brands are “ahead of their time” in the UK. “It’s a great opportunity, but until our consumers fully shift towards these brands, we will be ghting a marketing challenge to push this product into their hands,” he says.
A CASE FOR IMPORTED LINES
MAMODE says imported lines from Monster always perform well in his store. At the time of writing, he was waiting to get delivery of Voodoo Grape, which launched in the US late last year.
He adds that certain imported lines are “extremely hard to get hold of”, meaning retailers who can o er sought-after brands and flavours end up becoming a destination of sorts.
Currently, Mamode o ers international lines including four kinds of co ee-flavoured Monster, Ryse Fuel energy drink retailing at £2.99, Reign Storm Energy with an RRP of £1.89, Shilajit Energy Drink retailing at £3.25, as well as Thai Red Bull imports including Krating Daeng and Red Bull Extra B12.
Mamode orders international flavours not just o the
back of “several customer requests”, but to feed his own interest in trying new products. When it’s a well-known brand like Monster, he tends to order 15-25 cases and manages to sell through in two-tothree weeks.
Voodoo Grape will have an RRP of £3.25, and if it has a similar rate of sale, then the takings could be between £1,170 and £1,950.
supplier viewpoint
The strike zone is the most visible part of the shelf, ranging from waist to eye-level. Use this space for bestsellers to signpost the category.
Brand blocking
Strong brand blocking improves shopper satisfaction by making the xture simpler to shop, making it easier for shoppers to nd what they are looking for.
Optimise other categories
Use other high-penetration categories to drive tra c into energy drinks. Placing sports drinks and energy drinks next to cola creates a natural flow, since cola has high footfall and overlaps strongly with energy drinks.
Drive volume with take-home
Encourage take-home purchases and drive volume through multipacks in the chiller and merchandise low on the xture for easier reach.
Strike zone
Top merchandising tips from Red Bull
RESPONSIBLE RETAILING
WHEN asked what he nds worrying about the category, Mamode says it is retailers who sell energy drinks to underage consumers.
“We don’t sell to any kids at all,” says Mamode, adding that energy drinks have a 16year age check in his store and shoppers are asked for ID verication if they look underage.
He also doesn’t excessively promote energy drinks on so-
cial media. He’s of the view that if the government wants to ban the sale of products that it deems unhealthy, then it should be across the board and not age-speci c.
Vekaria says his sta are trained to carry out a “dynamic risk assessment”, a concept that was developed in store.
“We don’t just do the bare minimum legal standard of ‘they don’t look old enough’,
we check: are they old enough? Do we feel like they have enough capacity to purchase? Are they a vulnerable individual?” he says.
“And like with any other product, we also treat proxy energy drinks sales with the same level of integrity.”
He adds that his sta have also been trained by Serve Legal, an organisation partnered with One Stop.
RETAILER VIEWS
Priyesh Vekaria, One Stop Carlton Convenience, Salford, Manchester
“MAKE sure your products are cold, especially in the summer months. Sampling is very important when it comes to introducing new lines. You will have energy drink consumers who will be xed on certain flavours, and the only way you can get the upsell opportunity is by allowing them to try something new.”
Reuben Singh Mander, The Three Singhs, Selby, West Yorkshire
“A LOT of shops feel the need to stock everything to the extent where every product is single faced, just to be able to t it all in. And when a customer is looking at it, it can feel overwhelming and confusing. Whereas if you stick to just the top 10 lines of Monster, have them all double faced, you’ll get a much better result than having 20 di erent varieties, and having shady availability. Last December, we also installed Coca-Cola eco tracks in our chillers and saw a 40% increase in overall so drinks sales.”
New Products
Bull’s latest seasonal variant, Summer Edition Citrus Zest, includes flavour of Japanese Sudachi lime. It is available in single 250ml plain (RRP £1.80) and price-marked pack (PMP £1.75) cans, sugar-free 355ml cans retailing at £2.20 and 473ml cans at an RRP of £2.75, as well as a 4x250ml can multipack, available at an RRP of £5.75.
Irn-Bru Energy makes a comeback
Irn-Bru Energy has returned to UK convenience stores. Both Original and Zero Sugar variants are available to retailers now in 500ml plain (RRP £1.50) and price-marked cans.
Suntory brings back Lucozade Energy Grafruitti Suntory Beverage & Food GB&I has permanently reintroduced Lucozade Energy Grafruitti, following consumer demand. Available across grocery, convenience, wholesale and e-commerce channels, Lucozade Energy Grafruitti is available in a zero-sugar variant, with formats including 500ml plain (RRP £1.75) and PMPs (£1.50), and a 900ml bottle (£2).
CCEP launches Relentless White Citrus Coca-Cola Europaci c Partners (CCEP) has launched a new variant of its Relentless energy drink called White Citrus. It is available in £1 plain and pricemarked cans of 500ml. Relentless White Citrus joins the existing range comprising Relentless Origin, Cherry and Guava.
Rubicon Raw taps into cherry craze
Rubicon Raw has added to its energy drinks roster with a cherry variant. Cherry Burst and Zero Added Sugar Cherry Raspberry are available in 500ml cans, price-marked at £1.
Red Bull Cherry Sakura launch
Red Bull launched its rst Spring Edition –Cherry Sakura – earlier this year. Sakura, which means cherry blossom in Japanese, is described as a delicate floral flavour. The new flavour is available in 250ml, 355ml, 473ml and 4x250ml formats. PMPs of the 250ml can (£1.75) and 473ml can (£2.80) are also available. This marks the rst time an Editions format has o ered a 473ml PMP format.
Boost’s zero-sugar and limited-edition lines
Boost has introduced three new lines in response to growing demand for zero-sugar and limitededition launches. The range includes Boost Zero Sugar Energy Citrus Zest, Zero Sugar Energy Dark Fruits and Limited-Edition Energy White Peach. All three lines are available in 250ml cans, pricemarked at 75p.
Red Bull Summer Edition Citrus Zest Red
A SUMMER OF SPORTING SALES
ANGELA YOUNGMAN nds out how retailers can prepare for success with a summer of massive sporting occasions on the way
THE BIG OPPORTUNITIES THIS SUMMER
WORLD Cup football, rugby internationals, Wimbledon, the British Grand Prix, the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup and the Tour de France – the list goes on to create a jam-packed summer sporting schedule.
For retailers, the message is clear: with brands such as Coca-Cola, Budweiser and Diageo involved in sports sponsorship, this summer’s sporting events o er considerable sales opportunities.
“There is an action-packed summer of sport ahead, with the men’s FIFA World Cup set to be the standout moment of the year,” says Brandon Howard, trading director at James Hall & Co. “There is strong anticipation around England’s performance, and that optimism drives strong consumer expectations.”
Late-evening kick-o s and economic pressures mean greater numbers of fans will
be looking to watch World Cup matches and other sporting events at home with friends and families, creating a party atmosphere complete with easy-to-eat meals and lots of drinks and snacks at hand.
Natalie Marshall, trade marketing manager at Aston Manor Cider, says: “Major sporting events consistently drive higher spend. During the last major football event in 2024, one in ve households planned
to buy extra items, with beer and cider among the biggest winners, highlighting the scale of the opportunity for retailers this year.
“With 69% of occasions now taking place in the home, major sporting events t closely with current consumer behaviour. People still want the excitement and social element of live sport, but they’re recreating it at home in a way that feels affordable and accessible.”
KEY DATES
Sporting dates for your calendar
World Cup
Scotland v Haiti: 13 June
England v Croatia: 17 June
Scotland v Morocco: 19 June
England v Ghana: 23 June
Scotland v Brazil: 24 June
England v Panama: 27 June
Semi- nals 14 & 15 July
Final: 19 July
Wimbledon
29 June – 12 July
British Grand Prix
5 July
Test Cricket
England v New Zealand: 4-29 June
England v Pakistan: 19 August – 13 September
CATEGORY ADVICE SUMMER SPORT
GETTING THE TIMELINE RIGHT
RETAILERS should start planning their build-up at least four weeks ahead of any match.
Within three weeks of it starting, they should introduce appropriate merchandising and displays including any special promotions. This builds momentum and raises awareness of product availability among customers who will be
making plans for the event. Being visibly involved will ensure customers are aware that whatever they need, even as last-minute purchases, is available.
Retailers can also think beyond food and drink options. Matchday barbecue sections cater to game-day gatherings, and by stocking party accesso-
ries, tablecloths, decorations, portable speakers, barbecue accessories, relighters, skewers and kits, you can help customers build a bigger basket.
Themed merchandise can also drive impulse purchases. Typical products that will be in demand include flags, face paint and football shirts.
One week before a tourna-
ment starts, focus on convenience and impulse. Highlight instant meals, quick-to-cook barbecue food, ready-to-use barbecues, sharing items, drinks and themed merchandise near the front of the store and in key promotional areas. This will act as a constant reminder that a big sporting moment is coming up.
SUPPLIER VIEWS
Caroline Morris, sales director, Barbequick
“RETAILERS can attract sports fans by using themed displays and creating a lively atmosphere. Using national flags and bunting fosters community spirit, while team-coloured displays allow fans to showcase their loyalties. Football-themed point-of-sale materials can drive impulse purchases and large screens featuring match highlights or schedules keep customers entertained and informed.”
Tash Jones, commercial director, Fair elds Farm
“MAJOR sporting events o er retailers the opportunity to create fun and engaging shopping experiences for customers. In-store themed displays can capture attention, while sampling stations o ering free tastings encourage trialing and drive sales. Retailers can also run competitions and challenges to boost engagement and create a sense of excitement.
“If limited-edition themed products are available, such as items tied to the World Cup, these provide a perfect opportunity to highlight exclusive o erings.”
Giles Mountford, head of brand marketing, Badger Beers
Cross-category purchase
Encourage trial and boost cross-category buying among shoppers by positioning nuts and crisps in the beers, wines and spirits aisle, for example.
Drive impulse
Dedicated xtures and promotional o ers that make shopping easy are a good way to drive impulse purchases.
Secondary displays
Retailers should implement more than one site of bestsellers at high-footfall areas of the store to unlock further purchases.
“CONSUMER demand for beer can vary during sporting events. Sales can deliver a better margin than lagers being sold on promotion. Retailers can consider o ering ales on price deals, such as four bottles for a set price, which encourages customers to purchase several beers, while still making a healthy margin.”
Kate Abbotson, senior external communications manager, Coca-Cola Europaci c Partners
“THE alcohol RTD category continues to outperform the wider alcohol market. Worth more than £735m in Great Britain, value sales are forecast to grow by an average of 4% annually between 2026 and 2028 – equating to 8% growth across the two years. Cold is sold, so accommodating chilled space near the front of store is critical.”
Praveen Kumar, founder, Praveen Kumar
“CUSTOMERS watching sport at home want easy food and drink combinations. Simple activations such as meal bundles, themed displays and tastings work well. During major sporting events, customers tend to buy bigger baskets, combining meals, snacks and drinks for the occasion. Retailers who create clear in-store solutions and themed displays will bene t the most.”
Stuart Graham, head of convenience and impulse at KP Snacks, o ers his top three tips
PRODUCTS IN DEMAND
GEORGE Phillips, from TJ’s Late Shop in Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire, says: “We look at the sporting events coming up, and what the sponsors and manufacturers are doing. For example, Heineken is promoting non-alcoholic drinks. We look at sponsorship areas like Coca-Cola and double up on products for those areas.
“Other sports have other demands. When the women’s football matches are on, we see an uplift in sales, especially for chocolates like KitKat. We also have a big eastern European catchment who watch basketball and will buy in bulk to watch the games.”
The shift towards grazing style snacking is one of the biggest behavioural changes retailers notice during tournaments. Shoppers create
their own match-night collection across savoury snacks, sweets, crisps, chocolate, alcoholic, low-alcohol and soft drinks. Sugar-free is increasingly important, alongside low- or no-alcohol for weekday xtures and early starts.
Availability of a wide range of snacks including crisps, popcorn and confectionery is important. Within this, sharing bags is the largest segment, worth £2bn and growing.
When celebrating in their own home, people are more willing to try new flavours and premium products like Tyrrells alongside familiar brands such as Walkers, Quavers and Wotsits. Sharing platters and dips, sauces and marinades can be equally valuable.
Panini
CATEGORY NEWS
Panini has launched its largest-ever FIFA World Cup 2026 O cial Sticker Collection. The collection includes 980 stickers, including 68 special stickers. There are seven stickers per packet, more than before, and for the rst time ever in the UK, Panini has partnered with Coca-Cola to create a special double-page spread in every album with 12 exclusive stickers to collect from under labels on bottles.
Walkers
Walkers is introducing a new range of sharing bags for the FIFA World Cup, featuring flavours inspired by the competing nations. These include English Bangers & Mash, Spanish Queso, Mexican Beef Taco, Portuguese Chorizo & Onion and Wotsits Golden Balls Smokin’ Cheese.
Bobby’s
Bobby’s is introducing Bobby’s Bobblers – a crunchy corn snack with a distinctive bobbled shape designed to give a strong flavour hit in Ketchup and Cheese.
Bobby’s is also o ering convenience retailers a unique, exclusive football-themed collectable. FIFA Ballers comprise a sealed ball that shoppers crack open for a blind reveal. Each ball contains a stylised FIFA star gure with detailed facial sculpting in team colours and authentic accessories designed to enable fans to build teams and a mini football world. Counter displays are available to support them.
Spar
For customers wanting something di erent, ready-to-drink cocktails are proving a major growth category. Spar has announced a limited-edition England-themed BuzzBallz, which will encourage impulse and trial purchases.
Golden Wonder
Golden Wonder is launching Goalden Balls, which comes in 150g bags and has an RRP of £1.25.
BUILDING THE BASKET
WHEN it comes to shopping for a big sporting occasion, customers want things to be simple and easy. Special deals, clear pricing and easily navigable sections will make your store more popular and your baskets bigger.
“A combination of strong value perception, clear merchandising and smart crosscategory promotions will help retailers capitalise on impulse behaviour and drive a successful summer trading period,” says Phil Holford, senior brand manager at
Golden Wonder.
Bringing as many items together in one dedicated space will simplify things for customers, but it’s also important to have reminders and impulse items in other locations as well.
“The strongest results come from visibility, theatre and simple shopping missions,” says a spokesperson for Bobby’s. “Secondary siting is also important. Counter displays can be used to give novelty, impulse and collectable lines more visibility.”
Summer sport launches
ADVICE
REEL REVENUE
CHARLES
WHITTING discovers what tactics retailers are using to promote their stores on social media
1
Anila Ali, Ali’s Convenience Store, Tranent, East Lothian
2
Raj Suchak, Coldean Convenience 02, Brighton, East Sussex
“INITIALLY, we just put up photos of products online. But then we partnered with Orrest, and it introduced the idea that people buy from people. You need pictures of staff and yourself holding the products. So, we started doing that.
“We also follow a lot of retailers. I have a willingness to learn from younger generations, like Sophie Williams in Premier Broadway in Edinburgh. She comes across very naturally in her videos. My son Sohaib used to be very shy, but now he has the con�idence to be in one or two videos a week. He’s the face of our shops.
“We’ve since moved onto another digital media company with Snappy Shopper. We used to just be on Facebook, but now we’re on Instagram as well. We’ve joined all the social media community pages in the villages within a �ive-mile radius – our delivery range – and we post on their pages as well.”
3
Amit Patel, Go Local Extra – Duchy Stores, Manchester
“IT’S completely video-focused for us. Our strategy is to produce content that people want to watch rather than producing content purely for the sake of generating sales. I didn’t know anything about social media, but it was something I wanted to do and I got involved when we got Scoot delivery service with Booker.
“Too much social media content is easy to ignore and scroll past. So, we make some ‘brain rot’ that people want to see. I’m past the point of promoting speci�ic products. I’m doing it to raise the pro�ile of the brand. Social media has generated a lot of interest from outside our local area, and our reach is now considerably better than it was. The problem is there’s no metric to measure it against, but it does raise awareness. We’re getting nearly one million views on some of our posts – how else could I get a million eyes on my business?”
“IT has to be as informative as possible. It’s about having the right pictures and videos, and then engaging correctly with the customers. We found that when we were posting regularly, things became repetitive and customers got bored, so now we only post every so often to keep them entertained.
“We’re on Facebook and LinkedIn. I would 100% say that more retailers should get into LinkedIn. Facebook is for talking to customers, and LinkedIn is for contacts within the industry and �inding out about what’s going on. What you want to do on LinkedIn is post videos and things that showcase what you’re doing in the store that will excite suppliers.
“If you’re showing them that you’re promoting things in an extravagant way, then they are more likely to reach out to you for brand activations. All my activations are different – it’s always important to put your own twist on things.”
In the next issue, the Retail Express team nds out how retailers handle sudden problems. If you have any problems you’d like us to explore, please
We have been on Instagram for six months, but we don’t do much. What are other retailers doing? – Alpesh Patel, Charlton Horethorne Village Shop