Reported shopli ing and abuse incidents spike during football tournament
Far-right rioters ransack and burn down independent shops across Belfast HMRC issues stark warning to dodgy shops in new crackdown on
The big releases from Cadbury, Smirno and Maggi coming to your shelves
Alex Yau, editor
MAJOR suppliers are playing it too safe with product innovation and launches. This was one of the key messages during the retailer panel at this month’s Food & Drink Wholesale Live! conference.
The panel included symbol retailers Suki Athwal, Harj Dhasee and Atul Sodha, who hinted that the big brands were too scared to take a punt on anything groundbreaking.
Their statement is accurate. Where big brands are loving tie-ups right now, ask yourself when was the last time you saw a product from a major supplier that was truly innovative or new?
Although short-lived fads, that baton has been passed onto more niche suppliers. Think imitation chocolate chicken drumsticks and Labubu dolls. These products have helped retailers generate thousands of pounds in additional sales, although shop owners must be careful with the risk around non-compliant products.
Small shops burned down in far-right violence
ALEX YAU
INDEPENDENT shops in Belfast were ransacked and burned down during several days of far-right violence.
The unrest was sparked by a knife attack in North Belfast on 8 June, after which a man
SOME RETAILERS HAVE GONE EVEN FURTHER
Some retailers have gone even further, creating their own unique lines. London retailer Kaual Patel has recently worked with a local supplier to produce mango shortbread with his store’s branding. The premium £10 products are targeted at premium giing, with fancy boxes to match.
Elsewhere, Go Local retailer Bisi Osundeko recently gave away reusable drink pouches with purchases of alcohol, catering to customers attending a nearby festival who had a strict no-glass policy. What’s clear is that small independent businesses are the real ones innovating.
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
On 9 June, crowds gathered in multiple areas of the city, before setting cars and homes alight. It was alleged that some businesses and homes were targeted based on the owners’ ethnicity.
Sham Supermarket was reportedly targeted and burned down by rioters. It had previously been hit by racist attackers in 2024. Trade group Retail NI con�irmed some of its members were targeted.
One retailer in Belfast told Retail Express: “We’ve been closing early to keep everyone safe and ensure staff can get home with no trouble. It’s also impacted the overall running of the business as I’ve had adapt for potential changes to deliveries.”
There have been no major incidents since.
10year deal with News UK. The major deal announced this month will see Smiths
The Sun, Times and Sunday Times, including to areas served by InPost Newstrade. Smiths pledged to freeze carriage charges at current levels “for the life of the contract” from 2027.
chief revenue of�icer Dominic Grounsell said: “The choice was simple: adapt and compete for future growth or stand still and watch parcel volumes gradually migrate to lower-cost networks.”
LABOUR leadership favourite Andy Burnham could reduce business rates, revamp National Insurance and bring down electricity bills.
The leadership contest was triggered by Keir Starmer’s resignation as prime minister on 22 June. Following his Maker�ield by-election victory this month, Burnham said: “We do need to bring down bills to make life more affordable.”
PAYPOINT is targeting more volume and commission for its 22,000 partnered independent stores by “refocusing its sales teams”.
The strategy was outlined in the company’s annual results and will involve reorganising its network services, payments, Love2shop and merchant services divisions. The �irm added its tie up with Royal Mail for branded stores had reached 50 sites.
For the full story, go
‘Andy Burnham’
HMRC gets tougher on rogue traders and dodgy shops
“WE are coming for you.”
That was the warning from tax minister Dan Tomlinson as HMRC launched a major new crackdown on rogue traders accused of using dodgy shops as fronts for tax evasion, money laundering and fraud.
The government says it is stepping up enforcement across the UK to target illicit tobacco sales, illegal vapes and other criminal activity linked to some convenience stores, mini marts and vape shops.
Under the plans, police and local authorities will be able to shut rogue businesses for up to 12 months, double the current maximum. Ministers hope the change will stop operators simply waiting out closure orders before reopening elsewhere or continuing to trade while investigations are completed.
Exclusive Retail Express polling suggests retailers support the tougher approach. Some 72% believe the new powers could make a difference. However, 66% said there had been no follow-up after reporting suspected illicit traders to Trading Standards, while 51% said customers had asked them for illicit cigarettes or tobacco.
That gap between tougher powers and real-world enforcement is where concerns remain for many re-
tailers.
One London store owner, who asked not to be named, said they had spent more than a year reporting suspected illicit activity on their high street with little action taken.
“There are several stores I know aren’t complying with the law,” they said. “I’ve been reporting them for over a year now and nothing has been done.”
They added that a Trading Standards of�icer had even asked them to gather evidence against a neighbouring business.
“This should be their job,” they added, “and I shouldn’t be asked to do it for them.”
Faraz Iqbal, of Premier Linktown Local in Kirkcaldy, said illicit traders were not only taking sales but damaging the reputation of legitimate convenience stores.
“I get people coming in to ask if we have ‘cheap’ cigarettes,” he said. “We do everything by the book, but some people just end up painting every convenience store with the same brush as illicit traders.”
Ken Singh, of BB Superstore in Pontefract, welcomed the announcement but questioned whether existing enforcement teams had the resources to deliver meaningful change.
“It sounds good on paper, but I’m pessimistic about how these new powers will be implemented,” he said.
“There simply isn’t
enough manpower to see this through and that needs to be addressed. We need action, not words.”
Vas Vekaria, of Kegs N Blades in Bolton, said existing penalties were failing to deter rogue traders.
“There’s so much illicit trading going on, existing �ines just aren’t a deterrent as they’re making so much they’re happy to just pay the �ine and carry on,” he said.
“The government needs to level the playing �ield. You might have one honest shopkeeper on the parade, but the other three are sell-
“I HAVE cleared space in my fridges to take advantage of the growing demand. There were some slow sellers of ales, which I cut in half. I would say sales of RTDs are up 50% compared to last year. We’ve got one whole shelf now dedicated to RTDs, and there are still new ones coming in. We take about £5,000-£6,000 a week from alcohol, and at least £1,000 of that is from RTDs.”
Vijay Aanasane, Foxhole Store Premier, St Austell, Cornwall
GOOD WEEK
ing illegal products. It’s not fair on the one who’s doing everything above board.”
Ministers insist the crackdown will help restore that level playing �ield.
Tomlinson said: “Too many high streets have been blighted by illegal activity that harms local communities and undercuts honest businesses, and we’re determined to �ix this.
“We’re increasing our action across the UK to target the criminals using shops as a front for tax evasion, money laundering and fraud. This is a sustained, nationwide effort.”
Home secretary Shabana
added rogue traders were damaging con�idence in local communities.
“These incidents make people lose faith, not just in their local area but in democracy, in what our country is – and we can’t let that happen,” she said.
The Chartered Trading Standards Institute also welcomed the changes.
Chief executive John Herriman said longer closure orders would make it less viable for rogue traders to wait for restrictions to expire before reopening.
Alcoholic RTDs: How are you boosting sales?
“I LEAN heavily on price-marks and promotions. Multibuys is a major factor for us in terms of sales –BuzzBallz are our most popular, with Au right behind them. With BuzzBallz, we’ll sell them for £3.99 and o er three for £11. After that, it’s Jack Daniel’s & Coca-Cola, and Gordon’s Gin & Tonic. We have the £2.39 PMP, but we’ll also o er three for £6. They’re really fast sellers, especially with a heatwave.”
Gav Singh, Charlie’s Convenience, Worcester
“ONE product I’ve recently introduced is the larger 1l BuzzBallz, which I’m seeing success with. Initially, I didn’t go for them as I thought they’re too expensive, but I’m selling loads of those now. They’re priced at £25 for a unit and I sell about eight a week, adding £200 in additional weekly sales. Elsewhere, we run activations with suppliers, which can help generate demand from customers.”
MORRISONS: Nearly 500 delivery drivers who threatened to leave shelves empty through striking have called o any potential action. The drivers originally made the threats after learning that Eddie Stobart planned to hire agency sta on lower wages, while also directly employing drivers on inferior pay.
For the full story, go to betterretailing.com and search ‘Morrisons’
REAL TRADING: The rm claims its free stands o ering o cial merchandise from major sports teams and lm franchises such as Disney and the Marvel series can help independent convenience stores generate around £300 in additional weekly sales. Each stand will come free with rst orders of at least £75.
For the full story, go to betterretailing.com and search ‘Real Trading’
BAD WEEK
CYBER CRIME: Most independent convenience stores are not protected against a cyber attack, Co-op’s director of public a airs and policy Paul Gerrard has warned. The warning was given at the FWD’s annual Live! conference, a year after the supermarket was notably the victim of a major hack.
For the full story, go to betterretailing.com and search ‘Co-op’
BOOKER: The wholesaler’s like-for-like sales during the rst three months of its most recent nancial year fell annually by 3.2%. The drop during the period was blamed on the “impact from the ending of a lower-margin national account in August 2025, and the prior year bene ting from favourable weather.”
For the full story, go to betterretailing.com and search ‘Booker’
Kay Patel, multi-site Best-one retailer, London
RYAN BUTCHER
Mahmood
Kay Patel
World Cup sparks shop violence
ENGLAND’S World Cup opener against Croatia sparked a 20% increase in shop violence, with further antisocial behaviour expected during future matches.
According to crime prevention specialist SAI, the match on 17 June also led to a 6% rise in shoplifting. This data was compiled
from 1,000 retail locations and 20,000 cameras.
More regionally, stores in the west Midlands saw a 25% increase in shop thefts, while Northern Ireland experienced an 11% uplift.
Like England, stores in Scotland were also victims to increased crime.
Before Scotland’s 2am opening match against Haiti on 14 June, retailers experienced a 13% rise in shoplift-
ing between 2pm and 4pm on 13 June.
SAI claimed England’s previous nine international games correlated with a change in shoplifting and violence, adding that crime was more likely to increase with an England loss.
Chris Bell, head of marketing and insight at SAI, said: “With commercial opportunity also comes operational complexity – and that be-
comes even more pronounced during major sporting events.
“With rising footfall, fan excitement reaching fever pitch and emotions running high, those pressures can spill over into store environments, driving increases in theft, safety incidents and wider operational disruption.
“As the World Cup progresses, sales opportunities build, but so do the pressures.”
SUPERMARKETS are looking to convenience franchises to bolster their growth plans, according to DHL’s head of convenience, Nick Archer. He told Retail Express: “One of the grocers has said
A FREE-ON-LOAN smoothie machine is launching in forecourts, o ering retailers £1.50 average pro t per £4.95 cup sold. The self-serve Smügo machine is available in a countertop and larger cabinet model. All marketing and maintenance support is provided, with retailers required to buy the cups and pre-packaged smoothie ingredients.
DRS machine warning
RETAILERS are being urged not to rush into buying a reverse vending machine (RVM) to avoid losing out on potential grant funding.
Scheme administrator Exchange for Change is expected
ALEX YAU
Access exclusive pricing data
PRODUCTS
Grab, scan, win with Cadbury
SHYAMA
LAXMAN
CADBURY is set to launch 56g Grab & Go bars across its Dairy Milk, Dairy Milk Marvellous Creations and Dairy Milk Chopped Fruit & Nut range.
The new range will be available in plain and pricedmarked packs retailing at £1.35 and £1.29 respectively.
The launch will also be supported by a promotion for retailers and shoppers, with a range of prizes on offer for both.
Retailers simply need to scan QR codes on participating cases and promotional material to win one of 40 £25 Amazon vouchers, 30 £50 Amazon vouchers or 20 £100
Amazon vouchers.
An additional prize draw for £1,000 is also up for grabs.
Similarly, shoppers can purchase and scan a participating pack or visit the competition site and enter their details.
They will then �ind out immediately if they have won one of the Amazon voucher prizes.
Smirno drops its new Crush flavour
SMIRNOFF has launched a new ready-to-drink (RTD) cocktail into convenience stores called Smirnoff Crush Blueberry & Pomegranate.
Retailing at £2.99, it’s now available exclusively to convenience retailers ahead of a wider rollout in September.
Reduce food waste with East St Deli
KEPAK has introduced a range of sandwiches and wraps under the name East St. Deli.
The products include Chicken & Stuf�ing, Chicken & Bacon Mayo, Tuna Mayo, Egg Mayo and Cheese & Onion Mayo sandwiches, as well as two wraps that come in Sweet Chilli Chicken and
Chicken Caesar varieties. All the products retail at £2.89.
The range aims to help retailers slash food-to-go waste at a time of signi�icant growth for the sandwich category in the UK.
Why double dip when you can triple dip?
SWIZZLES has launched a brand-new Triple Dip sherbert line to celebrate the 50th birthday of its cherry and orange Double Dip.
Retailing at 50p, Triple Dip includes three sour sherbet �lavours – Strawberry, Apple and Blue Raspberry. Just like Double Dip, it comes with a Swizzels stick for dipping.
BELVOIR Farm has launched Happi, a range of functional drinks.
Retailing at £1.75, Happi includes two �lavours: still Ginger, Lemon & Turmeric and sparkling Blueberry & Lemon.
Research indicates that UK shoppers spend more than £36bn annually on healthy food and drink. Sixty-seven per cent of shoppers prefer functional soft drinks over supplements, demonstrating the huge opportunity for innovation within soft drinks. Furthermore, 73% of UK
The launch follows the success of existing Smirnoff Crush varieties, Mango & Peach and Lemon & Lime, which are now the thirdand fourth-fastest-growing high-ABV large-format RTDs in Britain, according to Nielsen. The two �lavours have delivered a combined £1.1m in value sales.
Add a dose of Happi to hydration range
consumers believe optimal hydration supports mental performance, while 67% of under 35-year-olds say hydration-boosting ingredients increase appeal in carbonated drinks.
Maggi invokes Korea with new flavours
MAGGI has launched three brand-new Korean-inspired noodle �lavours.
Retailing at £1.49, the �lavours include Gochujang Beef, Kimchi Chicken and Spicy Cheese. The range is available via Bestway and Spar. To further mark
the launch, the brand has partnered with creative studio Unusual Service to create portrait artworks of Korean celebrities, made entirely from the new range of noodles.
QUAKER has widened its range of breakfast options with the introduction of Quaker Overnight Oats.
Retailing at £3.75 for 350g, Quaker Overnight Oats are available in Blueberry and Mocha Choc Chip �lavours. With this launch, Quaker aims to expand beyond its traditional hot breakfast
All entrants will also be entered into the wrap-up prize draw to win one of: 15 £500 days out and 30 £100 Red Letter Day vouchers. Prep tonight for a treat tomorrow
portfolio by capitalising on the fast-growing overnight oats trend.
Research indicates that while more than 70% of UK consumers are aware of overnight oats, far fewer have made them at home.
TENZING has widened its Natural Energy+ sub range by launching Natural Energy +Focus White Peach, retailing at £2.95.
It is available now from the brand’s website, and from July onwards, can also be ordered from Amazon as well as wholesalers including Booker and Unnu. This is the second release in the brand’s Natural Energy+ sub-range. The �irst �lavour, Natural Energy +Lion’s Mane, launched in March and has seen 48% growth month on month.
Mondelez to sweeten your summer sales
MONDELEZ International is adding three new lines to its sugar confectionery range, available from July.
Maynards Bassetts’ Tropical Fruit Mix is an assortment of Pineapple, Mango, Peach and Passionfruit �lavours, shaped like turtle, �ish, parrot, shell and star�ish. It will be available in a £1 PMP format. Sour Patch Kids Paradise Twist features the iconic Sour Patch Kids shape in �lavours including Mango, Watermelon, Pineapple and Tropical Mix-Up. Sour Patch Kids Peach is vegan and halal. Both will be available in plain (RRP £1.40) and PMPs (£1.25).
Mother’s Recipe gets wider distribution
INDIAN food brand Mother’s Recipe is now available through Empire Bespoke Foods.
The brand offers more than 75 products. Some of the lines in the range include pickles (300g, 500g and 575g RRP £1.99), chutneys (250g, 340g RRP £1.69-£1.99), curry pastes (300g RRP £1.89), cooking sauces (400g RRP £2.49), ready-to-heat meals (280g and 300g RRP £1.99) and dipping sauces (190g-210g RRP £1.49).
FERRERO has added a Fruit Fusion �lavour to its Tic Tac roster.
It is available to independent retailers from One Stop and Co-op Wholesale until September. Retailing at £1.70, the product comes in a 49g format with 100 Tic Tacs.
Nobody is Barr(ed) from a chance to win
BARR has launched an onpack promo in partnership with Sony Pictures’ SpiderMan: Brand New Day, set to release on 29 July.
and strong media support. The promo runs until midAugust.
Sneak has sneaked into Bestway
The limited-edition launch consists of a range of fruit �lavours with multi-layered coating. It is available with an accompanying clip strip to help retailers drive incremental and impulse sales.
Appearing on more than 4.4 million packs, the promo runs across Barr’s 500ml and 2l formats, alongside it’s 24x330mlcan multipack, giving shoppers the opportunity to win a holiday to New York City.
Retailers and wholesalers will be supported with in-store and indepot activation, alongside eyecatching creative, clear messaging
LOST Sheep has expanded its RTD coffee range with the launch of a decaf version called Sugar Cane Iced Decaf Latte with Fibre.
Retailing at £2.35 for a 250ml can, its available via wholesalers such as Cotswold Fayre.
SNEAK Energy has secured a new listing with Bestway Wholesale, which sees three of its �lavours available from the wholesaler.
DELICE de France has launched a trio of Wildfarmed traycakes, bringing the total count to six.
The energy drink supplier’s Purple Storm, Raspberry Lemonade and Cherry Limeade varieties are now available to Bestway customers in £1.70 PMPs.
Currently, the wholesaler’s website shows a 49.47% margin per unit for the range.
It will also be available on a promotion via Bestway Vans until 17 July.
The launch coincides with an increasing demand for decaf, with more than one in four Brits (26%) increasing their decaf coffee consumption over the past year.
The range includes Vietnamese Iced Coffee Traycake, Peach and Turmeric Traycake and Dirty Chai and Matcha Traycake. Each traycake arrives pre-portioned into 18 servings.
KELLANOVA has launched a new retailer competition across its Pringles and Cheez-It lines. Retailers who buy large sharing formats of Pringles 165g PMP and Cheez-It 120g PMP will be entered for the chance to win up to £10,000. Those who also stock the single-serve line-up comprising Pringles 70g PMP and CheezIt 65g PMP, taking their total to four qualifying lines, will be entered for the chance to win up to £25,000. The promo runs throughout July.
They are supplied frozen and can be defrosted in two hours, with a shelf life of �ive days. Other �lavours in the range include Red Velvet, Lemon & Blueberry and Carrot Cake.
Stock more to win more says Kellanova
7Up gives shoppers a £5k upli for summer the QR code and submit their details. The top prize is £5,000 cash for one lucky shopper, with more than 200 instant win prizes in the form of reward choice e-gift cards.
7UP has launched its summer on-pack promotion, live until 30 September. It runs across eight-can multipacks, 500ml plain packs and 2l plain pack bottles of 7Up’s zero-sugar range, including Pink Lemonade. Shoppers must purchase any promotional pack, scan
HELPING RETAILERS MAKE MORE PROFIT
BESTWAY RETAIL is celebrating the success of this year’s Retail Showcase on 14 May at the Coventry Building Society Arena, which helped retailers and suppliers to collaborate and grow their businesses
RETAILERS AND SUPPLIERS
THE number of attendees at Bestway’s 2026 Retail Showcase was up by 10% compared to last year’s event. Retail customers from Costcutter, Bestone, SimplyFresh, Bargain Booze and Xtra Local symbols, as well as retailers considering joining the Bestway family, all made the journey to the event.
These retailers were able to bene t from the presence of around 130 suppliers across a range of categories. One lucky
retailer also went home with £1,000 in Bestway credit, with two runners-up also taking home prizes of £500 each.
Suppliers also o ered exclusive on-the-day deals for attendees to capitalise on.
“It was a great opportunity to speak to Bestway retailers and see what they’re doing,” said one prospective Bestway retailer who attended. “We obtained some insight into new products exclusive to Bestway and
the Bargain Booze network.” Another added: “I encountered suppliers who I’d never
heard of and struck up relationships with them, which was great.”
RETAILER FEEDBACK
Retailers who attended this year’s showcase give their views on the day:
“It was great to catch up with other retailers and suppliers.”
“I made good new supplier contacts.”
“The afterparty was an extra networking opportunity.”
“We sat down with the new development team ahead of joining Bestway.”
GETTING WORLD CUP READY: PREPPING FOR SUMMER SALES
NOW in its fourth year, the showcase’s focal point was Retail Hub, aimed at helping retailers improve their sales and margins. The year’s central theme was being ‘World Cup Ready’ through stand activations, relevant new products and category insight to ensure retailers were ready to maximise sales during one of the year’s biggest trading moments. Store support teams provided actionable advice around ranging and summer trading, as well as e ciency and cost reduction.
The Bestway New Business Team were also on hand to provide guidance on store expansion and opportunities for retailers looking to join the Bestway Retail family, while marketing support teams delivered guidance for retailers looking to improve their digital and local marketing strategies.
Also on display was more information about the wholesaler’s Best-in own-label range, which is now in its third year of availability to every Bestway customer.
On the trade show floor, at-
tendees could enjoy exclusive on-the-day deals from brands including CCEP, Mars Wrigley, Red Bull, Diageo, Phoenix2Retail, AG Barr, Philip Morris and more.
“It was great to interact with retailers and suppliers and get their knowledge about what’s going on in the industry,” said another attendee. “It’s one of the only times you can meet everybody in one day.”
“The energy in the room was outstanding,” said Bestway’s managing director Dawood Pervez. “Retailers came ready
to do business, suppliers came with meaningful support, and together we created a Showcase that was focused not on theory, but on action, value and growth.”
After the showcase, attendees were treated to a festivalthemed afterparty with food, drinks and entertainment, as well as further networking opportunities. “The afterparty was a good extra networking opportunity,” said one attendee. “I met some retailers interested in selling stores and arranged to meet with them.”
PERVEZ HAILS SUCCESS
“THIS year’s showcase was a fantastic demonstration of what Bestway does best – bringing retailers and suppliers together to create real commercial opportunity,” said Pervez. “This year’s focus on being ‘World Cup Ready’ gave the event a powerful purpose. Major sporting moments can drive signi cant shopper demand, but retailers need the right support in place to max-
imise that opportunity.
“That is exactly what the showcase delivered. Retailers were able to access exclusive deals, supplier innovation, category insight and practical guidance they can take straight back into their stores.
“At a time when independent retailers are working harder than ever to protect margins and remain competitive, the event delivered what
they need most: strong deals, actionable insight, supplier access and tangible opportunities for growth.”
He added: “At Bestway, we are committed to going beyond supply. We are here to support retailers with the expertise, partnerships and opportunities that help them thrive, and the Retail Showcase brings all of that together under one roof.”
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
LOTTERY: Has the revamped Lotto game been well received?
“I WAS taken aback by the backlash to the new game under the new format. People are coming into the shop talking about how much they’ve won on the new Lotto game, then you scan the ticket and you have to be the one to tell the customer that they’ve won a lot less than they thought.”
Ali Awan, H & A Convenience Store, Gateshead
“SOME have reacted negatively, but it’s given us the opportunity to engage with our customers, which is what you want. People always say to us, ‘wouldn’t it be nice if more people could win?’, so we make sure to say that these changes will make lots more millionaires.”
It’s given us an opportunity to engage
The same promotions are being churned out
SERVICES: What new ideas are you implementing?
“FRESH Wonder is here in London. An independent grocer at heart, stocked with everyday essentials at Morrisons prices, plus local artisan finds, great coffee and food from The Good Bagel and Ohba Leaf Sushi. Independent, but supercharged by Morrisons.”
Elliot
James Brundle, Fresh Wonder, Hackney, London
We sell a case and a half per week
PRODUCTS: Are suppliers playing it safe with releases and promotions?
“AS retailers, we’re taking a punt on new products as well. We have to buy the new products and make a display or two for them on our shelves. Sometimes we win and sometimes we lose. If suppliers are too scared to take a punt, then we’ll just end up taking our money elsewhere.”
Suki Athwal, Shop Around the Clock, Tenterden, Kent
“A LOT of promotions are just very run of the mill now. We don’t own the promotions, but we need the support to get a better margin. The problem is the same old promotions are being churned out. At the end of the day, if your bottom line isn’t healthy, then you’re not investing.”
Harj Dhasee, Spar Wilmcote, Warwickshire
It’s about making our shops a destination
SOFT DRINKS: What is working for you and your store?
“REIGN is doing really well for us. While the brand has been around for years, we’re noticing quite a bit of movement. We sell a case and a half per week. It helps that electrolytes have gone viral on social media, and customers are actively seeking out products that offer this ingredient.”
Amit Vekaria, Go Local Duchy Stores, Salford
“DRINKS such as Huel have become really popular. Social media plays a role in its success as it’s a trending product, and when people see their favourite influencer drink it, they immediately want to try it, too. Customers still look for full-sugar soft drinks, however.”
Faraz Iqbal, Premier Linktown Local, Kirkcaldy
Vince Malone, Tenby Stores & Post Office, Pembrokeshire
‘Worried
I’M all for the introduction of the Deposit Return Scheme (DRS) next year, as it will be important in improving sustainability. However, I’d like some clarity from scheme administrator Exchange for Change on how it is supporting retailers who sell imported
about DRS abuse’
drinks. My store is based in west London and there is a large international base living and working in and around the area.
I have a very large demographic of customers from Eastern and mainland Europe and I sell a lot of drinks from these regions. I also get a lot
COMMUNITY RETAILER OF THE WEEK
Priyesh Patel, Londis N16, London
‘Supporting learning charity’
“SINCE the end of last year, we’ve been working with The Gate – an arts centre in Shepherd’s Bush for adults with learning disabilities – to design a T-shirt featuring an original drawing of our shop made by one of their artists. It’s been really fun to connect with the artists over the past few months. They did site drawings at the shop, I went to a music show of theirs and also saw them rework clothes for a fashion show. We’re super grateful to the team who helped coordinate it all, too. A h of the pro ts will go to The Gate.”
of Turkish customers and sell a lot of drinks from this area. There is a concern from me that these will be out of scope from the scheme. If these products are out of scope, I do fear that I will face abuse from customers when they are informed they cannot return the bottles.
There is already a language barrier as many of them cannot speak English.
Ravi Raveendran, Colombo Food & Wine, Hounslow
Exchange for Change failed to comment as Retail Express went to print
COMMUNITY RETAILER OF THE WEEK
Kent Gu, Spar Monument Place, Liverpool
‘Opening Spar is a big opportunity’
“IT has been a long journey getting here as I rst planned to convert my Myrtle Street eJoy store into a Spar back in 2021. As plans progressed it became clear it was not going to work. Then the opportunity came to lease this unit in Monument Place, and I nally agreed that in 2024. We have apartments above us and the conversion of the former TJ Hughes building next door is taking place, which will become a large apartment complex. Monument Place itself is going to be improved and we are in a busy, central location in the city.”
Getting extra customers through the door
WE all have a local customer demographic, but not every single person in your area is going to be currently visiting your store. We’re based in a large neighbourhood store and there are customers who might only come in once a week. We want them to come to us more o en. But these days it’s so easy for people to get what they want at the click of a button.
You need to look at your range with this in mind.
It depends on the area and the value you serve to the customer. And value is more than just the price on the shelf. That’s not how I always determine value. Do you o er parcel services or a free ATM? The whole o er of the shop contributes to that sense of value.
You need to nd o ers that your customers can tap into. I don’t want to be a simple bread, milk and cheese store, I want good healthy baskets and for people to use us as part of their daily routine.
Constantly appraise your range, availability and ongoing basket spend. Are you making the most out of every opportunity? I know that Halloween and Christmas are still miles away but you need to be thinking about them. And right now, teacher-thanking has become a big thing these days. So we put up a big display of teacher thank-you cards and best teacher rosettes and paraphernalia for that. It’s another opportunity for us to make good money and margin.
Look at your o er all the time to make sure it’s relevant. It might not help you tap the customers that are six miles away, but what about those customers who live within a mile who aren’t currently using your store?
And consider what’s actually going to be making you money. Rather than looking at £10,000 in your till, maybe look at getting products on the shelves that will bring in £8,000, but with much better margins. Ice cream is a great example of this. The hot weekend was a great opportunity and we are already getting stocked up for the next one.
Each issue, one of seven top retailers shares advice to make your store magni cent
BOOST YOUR SOFT DRINKS
TAMARA BIRCH talks to retailers about their latest so drinks sales tactics and how they’re preparing for DRS
ENERGY AND FUNCTIONAL
SOFT drinks has always been a fast-moving category and, unsurprisingly, retailers say that energy is o ering the biggest growth opportunities. In fact, according to a Red Bull spokesperson, sports and energy continues to outpace the wider soft drinks market, contributing 35% of overall growth.
However, within energy, there’s been a clear rise in functional energy, especially as health becomes more of a priority. Vidur Pandya, of Kislingbury Village Store & Post O ce in Northamptonshire,
DRINKS
says he’s making more room for this subcategory.
“We started by adding more flavours of Celsius, but have always stocked Purdey’s, and we also have Huel,” he says.
“We also have Trip and tried a Mango and Passionfruit flavour that did well.”
Pandya says that clean energy or functional energy works for any type of customer, but says he notices higher sales among gym goers.
This insight is backed by Alpesh Mistry, sales director at Suntory Beverage & Food
GB&I, who says 61% of soft drink purchasers would like to see more soft drinks with additional health bene ts.
“This desire for something extra is particularly strong among young adults, with interest in functional drinks peaking at 77% among 16-to24-year-olds,” he says.
The functional drinks trend spans across the soft drinks category, but Pandya says that these drinks are often picked up in addition to another soft drink, like still or fruit-flavoured water.
DRINKS
THE RIGHT FORMATS: CHILLED OR NOT CHILLED
THERE’S long been a debate about whether large-format soft drinks should be merchandised in the chiller, but both Pandya and Priyesh Vekaria, of One Stop Carlton Convenience in Salford, Greater Manchester, say they don’t do this.
Vekaria says: “According to One Stop, we have to put 1.25l in the chiller, but we
don’t. Instead, we use that space for other formats. These formats aren’t for immediate consumption, so why are we chilling it?”
However, some of his largeformat soft drinks can be bought slightly chilled, and this is possible because his alcohol chillers don’t have doors on them, so the air is circulat-
ed towards them. Pandya adds that the margins don’t justify fridge space.
“Because they’re take-home formats, it’s less likely that they are going to consume it straight away,” he says. “They also take up two shelves’ worth of space, which would stop me from stocking additional products, and no customers have
asked for them chilled.”
With summer to be almost in full swing, picnics or barbecues will likely happen, and larger formats are likely to be in higher demand.
It might be worthwhile to place them in the chiller to cater to those making lastminute purchases for such occasions.
SUPPLIER VIEW
Rob Long, category controller, Highland Spring Group
“AS shoppers continue to move away from high-sugar beverages, they are demanding more from their water. They want natural, locally sourced brands that o er exciting, premium flavour pro les.
“Consequently, we are seeing rapid new product development and innovation within the flavoured still segment designed to capture these shoppers and drive growth.
“Draw shoppers in using Highland Spring as a recognised brand. Block by water type and brand to boost standout. Because water is o en an ‘and’ drink, retailers must use secondary locations to drive incremental impulse purchases.”
“RETAILERS can maximise summer sales by making sure key so drink lines remain chilled and prominently displayed to drive instant refreshment purchases. Sharing packs should be easy to nd in aisle ends, tapping into demand for barbecues, garden gatherings and sporting moments. Crosscategory merchandising also plays a powerful role during the warmer months. Place so drinks alongside snacks, bakery or picnic essentials to inspire bigger baskets and support on-the-go missions.
“Shoppers are o en more active, outdoors and occasion-driven in summer, so thoughtful placement and occasion-led signposting can help capture incremental sales across the store.”
TOP PRODUCTS
Top product launches
Limited-edition Monster Energy Lando Norris Zero Sugar gold can
The new can marks Lando Norris’ rst Formula 1 World Championship title and builds on the success of Monster Energy Lando Norris Zero Sugar. Rolling into stores nationwide, the limited-edition can features a bold metallic gold design and has launched ahead of this year’s Formula 1 British Grand Prix at Silverstone.
Tenzing’s Natural Energy+ White Peach
The new flavour will be available from Amazon and wholesalers, including Booker and Unnu. It marks the second release in the successful Natural Energy+ sub range following its Lion’s Mane variant in March, which has had 48% growth month on month.
Boost limited-edition Tropical Punch
Boost Tropical Punch is available now in £1 pricemarked bottles of 500ml, and will be supported with digital activation, sampling and bespoke tools for retailers.
Pepsi launches ice-cream-inspired flavours
Carlsberg Britvic has expanded its Pepsi range with Cherry & Vanilla and Raspberry Ripple flavours, with an additional Salted Caramel currently only available in Tesco. The flavours are designed to give retailers a fresh opportunity to attract a generation of younger shoppers. The launch will be supported by an outdoor campaign and sampling activity.
Red Bull Summer Edition Citrus Zest
Available now, the new Red Bull Summer Edition Citrus Zest includes flavours of Japanese Sudachi Lime. It is available in single 250ml plain and PMP cans, sugar-free 355ml and 473ml cans, as well as 4x250ml sugar-free can multipacks. The launch is also the focus of a ‘Work O . Summer On’ campaign, which includes outdoor ads and social media, as well as in-store sampling to drive trial.
CATEGORY ADVICE SOFT DRINKS
MERCHANDISING ADVICE
HOW you merchandise your soft drinks range will be dependent on your planograms and your most popular lines.
For example, Vekaria merchandises his range according to One Stop’s planogram.
“As customers enter the store, they’ll be met with all of our dairy drinks, juice and water, followed by our cola and carbonates range and then into energy,” he says. “We put dairy, juice and water so it creates a better flow from our meal deal.”
Elsewhere, Pandya leads with energy drinks as they are the most popular subcategory within soft drinks.
“We have 2.5 metres’ worth of space, or ve shelves,” he says. “One shelf is for water, then it leads into isotonic sports drinks, and cans are at the bottom. Energy is front and centre.”
A Red Bull spokesperson says that applying “perfect store principles” will help drive impulse purchases
and ensure the category performs to its full potential.
“These include things like strike zone placement, brand blocking and ease of navigation to transform into a high-performing part of your store,” they say.
Merchandising soft drinks e ectively, though, is only half the battle. Having the right promotional tactics in place can drive impulse purchases and boost basket spend. For Pandya, this is o ering price-marked packs as he’s relying on additional spend through impulse lines.
“Impulse is there for topup purchases within grocery spend for our area, but for a shop near a train station, a meal deal might be a better o ering,” he says. Meanwhile, for Vekaria, his strongest promotions are One Stop’s multibuys. “We o er two for £2.75 on all lowsugar soft drinks and two for £3.20 on full-sugar drinks, and it’s great value for our customers,” he says.
THE DEPOSIT RETURN SCHEME: WHAT DO YOU NEED TO KNOW?
THE Deposit Return Scheme (DRS) is due to come into e ect in October 2027, and will add a refundable deposit to the price of eligible drinks when empty containers are returned to participating shops or reverse vending machines (RVMs).
However, with 21% of retailers telling Better Retailing Club Rewards that they haven’t heard about the DRS at all, and a further 40% claiming they don’t understand the details, it’s unsurprising that reactions
from retailers are mixed.
“I’m undecided on the DRS. I’ve seen how the RVMs work and I’ve spoken to two manufacturers on their available solutions, as well as the new fees that retailers would get, but I’m yet to be convinced by the cost versus the return on investment,” says Pandya.
Another concern Pandya has is the added cost to his energy bills and the space he’d have to give up to install an RVM.
“Things could change, but
if we get 5p back as a retailer, will that turn into 15p by year three?” he questions. “That’s the uncertainty we have with this scheme.”
Pandya has noticed some potential positives, however, turning the scheme into a community event.
“We’re the only retail store in our village, so we could create a school recycling day where they can collect bottles, bring them to the store and I could o er £10-£15 vouchers
to spend in store,” he adds.
Vekaria welcomes the news of the scheme and says it will play a huge role in community involvement.
“We want to engage schools and encourage them to recycle more and then use the funds we raise as a donation to schools, as well as for local causes,” he says. “We aren’t banking on those funds as a store – we just want to be a destination store that is an early adopter for DRS and drive footfall.”
DRIVING REPEAT SALES OF MINTS AND GUM
Mints and gum are a must-stock item in all stores, driving incremental sales. SIMON KING explores how retailers can increase them further
CATEGORY OVERVIEW
THE refreshment category is worth £611m and represents the second-biggest sub-sector within sugar confectionery. Central to the category’s performance is HFSS compliance, as 73% of sales already come from sugar-free mints and gum.
“With health-conscious shopper behaviour continuing to grow, the sugar-free segment is where the opportunity lies,” says Mark Roberts, marketing and trade marketing director at Perfetti Van Melle.
Roberts says Smint is the UK’s number one sugar-free mint brand, with a 36% share of the sugar-free mint segment and is growing at three times the rate of the category.
Nishi Patel, owner of Londis Bexley Park in Dartford, says Hubba Bubba is in decline, while Extra – the classic spearmint and peppermint – is one of his top sellers within gum. Trebor Mints and Mentos are his top-selling mints. He says the older generation are buying mints, while the chewing gums are most popular with secondary schoolaged kids.
Fiona Malone, owner of Tenby Stores & Post O ce in Tenby, Pembrokeshire, says: “It’s smokers that tend to go for the chewing gum; younger people are going for the minty taste rather than chewing gum, because with chewing gum, the flavour goes quickly.”
WHAT ARE THE CURRENT TRENDS?
WHILE some think mints and gum don’t see much change compared to other categories that have more product launches, there are still changes that retailers can make to their range to better cater to new customer demands.
Lauren George, external
communications manager at Mars Wrigley, says: “The snacking and confectionery category is evolving at an unprecedented pace.
BB Superstore in Pontefract, West Yorkshire, say tubs of gum are more accessible and growing in popularity. Both have seen a “massive rise” in the tub format.
Mark Dudden, owner of Albany Road Stationery & News in Cardi , and Ken Singh, of
“This shift in snacking behaviour reflects how consumers are seeking moments of indulgence and convenience while balancing economic realities. Snacking today is shaped by social media virality, health-conscious choices and a desire for a ordable indulgence.”
“I keep a four di erent options in tubs to give customers that option,” Singh says.
CATEGORY ADVICE MINTS & GUM
LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION
CONFECTIONERY is one of the top ve categories purchased on impulse in convenience stores and mints – and gum is among the most impulsive of all. Malone may stock mints and gum elsewhere in the store, but it is at the till where they sell best.
Patel says: “It’s an impulse thing in my store, with stands near the till. We have a chew-
ing gum stand, with mints underneath. You need to have a good range, including 10-packs and tubs.”
Singh says it’s impossible to stock every possible option, so it’s important to stock what you can and position them in impulsive locations to maximise that possibility.
“People don’t come into the stores primarily to buy mints
– they’re here for something else, and they pick up the mints as well, so impulse is key. That means it has to be in an impulse position.”
Jeet Bansi, of Meon Vale Londis in Stratford-uponAvon, Warwickshire, recommends stocking a simple range that o ers a couple of options both in terms of brand and format.
“Make sure you have di erent choices, including a stick, a tub and, if possible, a multipack,” Bansi says.
George adds: “Unmissable PoS displays are crucial in high-impulse zones to drive awareness and sales. Retailers should ensure 90% visibility of key lines, as sales can double compared to stores with only 50% availability.”
SUPPLIER VIEW
Paul Robinson, controller – convenience and wholesale, Perfetti Van Melle
Mars Wrigley’s new premium gum range Extra Plus is a new premium gum range with new ingredients. The new flavours are: Extra Plus Chill in Watermelon flavour, with Niacin (Vitamin B3); Extra Plus Hydro in Peppermint flavour, with Quadro Blend; and Extra Plus Deep Clean in Spearmint flavour, with Xylitol and Mint Scrub.
BACKING NEW PRODUCTS
WHEN it comes to launches, Patel recommends giving everything a good chance because it’s always possible to delist and start again if they’re not selling.
Vidur Pandya, of Kislingbury Post O ce in Northamptonshire, introduced Extra Plus Chill in Watermelon and says sales are progressing well, attracting a younger audience.
Dudden adds: “I’ve got Extra Plus Hydro and Extra Plus Chill, and sales are OK. Embrace the innovation – I don’t know whether or not they stay as a permanent line, but people are trying them.” Additionally, Singh has introduced Extra Plus Chill, Hydro and Deep Clean, and says sales are doing quite well, although he notes that Airwaves are on the decline.
“SMINT’S HFSS compliance means it can be positioned anywhere on the shop floor – a key advantage over non-compliant competitors.
“I advise retailers to focus on three shopper missions: refreshment, indulgence (fruit flavours) and on the go. Position countertop units at arm’s reach from the main till to drive impulse sales; use front-of-store PoS at eye level to capture attention before shoppers reach the xture.
“Carry a variety of formats – tin, bottle and dispenser – to appeal to di erent mission; ensure sugar-free products are clearly signposted; HFSS compliance is a key driver of placement flexibility.”
RETAILER TOP TIPS
Top tips from retailers
Vidur Pandya, Kislingbury Post O ce, Northamptonshire
“Always make sure you’re fully stocked and priced correctly, and have a nice display. You don’t want someone to walk out without their favourite mint or gum.”
Fiona Malone, Tenby Stores & Post O ce, Pembrokeshire
“If sales are down, ask your customers if there are products they’re looking for you’re not stocking.”
Mark Dudden, Albany Road Stationery & News, Cardi “Grasp the innovation, including the tubs and the new products coming to market.”
CATEGORY ADVICE NEXT-GEN NICOTINE
ONE YEAR ON FROM THE DISPOSABLES BAN
A year a er the ban on disposable vapes, TIM MURRAY looks at what the change has meant for retailers and where the market is heading
INITIAL REACTION TO THE BAN
ELFBAR has carried out research into the sector and its survey of 6,000 UK adults found that 90% of daily vapers had adapted to reusable devices.
Ask retailers for an instant reaction, however, and you’ll get a di erent answer from each one.
“It has de nitely hit my bottom line,” says Ketan Lakhani, from Jack in the Box in Stoney Gate, Leicestershire. Peter Robinson, with stores in Pembrokeshire, agrees, and says his sales have been drasti-
cally a ected because even if he’s not losing customers, the kind of custom has changed to lower basket spend. “The price on the re lls is lower than the disposable vapes we were selling,” he explains.
“What’s not changed is how much we’re selling. The individual number is probably very similar to what we were doing this time last year, but the value is down by 20-25%. We’re making signi cantly less money.”
Craig Etchells, from C&W
Etchells in Stockport, Greater Manchester, says his sales have decreased, but that some people are treating the re llable devices as disposables rather than buying re lls.
“It’s the amount of devices we sell that’s dropped,” he says. “I would have expected to sell 10 re lls for every device, but it’s more like 50/50.”
“We’ve still got the same sort of margins and we’re still getting a decent mark up, but what we’re selling doesn’t cost as much. They are cheaper, so it
TRENDS TO LOOK OUT FOR
ONE of the most noticeable trends since the legislation has been a slow move towards nicotine pouches.
“It’s now clear that one of the big winners following the vape ban last summer has been the nicotine pouch category, which has enjoyed huge growth over the last 12 months and shows little sign of slowing down,” says Prianka Jhingan, head of marketing at Scandinavian Tobacco Group UK, highlighting its own data, which shows UK sales of £230m and growth of 55% year on year, with convenience stores the fastest-growing sector with 63% growth.
“Our nicotine pouches have started to sell now,” says Bywater. “A lot of the younger market are now seeing the bene t of pouches. They can do it at work, getting the nicotine hit without vaping or smoking.”
Javier Soria De Vicente, senior international sales manager at Klinsmann, has noticed this trend, too, highlighting how vape growth is slower than nicotine pouch growth.
“Vape sales in convenience stores have grown by 12.7% year on year, while nicotine pouches have increased by 60%,” he says.
“Dual usage across vapes
and pouches is also becoming increasingly common.”
Another trend within vapes is the move towards big-pu devices, with Elfbar research showing “pre lled pod kits now dominate the vaping category, with high-pu -count formats accounting for around 60% of the market and driving category growth”.
Sales of big-pu rechargeable formats and products have risen from just under £40m to £55.8m over the past year.
“Demand for big-pu vapes continues to build, supported by more awareness of vaping as a tobacco alternative and a shift
does have a downward e ect in terms of your total pro t.”
Others are less sure, with Julia Bywater, from Bywater News in Dudley, West Midlands, saying sales have simply switched around with not much of a noticeable change to the money coming into her tills.
“It’s swings and roundabouts, really,” she says. “A lot of them switched to the rechargeable ones with the pods. Sales are just about the same – a lot of people just converted and got used to it.”
towards longer-life formats,” says IVG UK commercial director Jacqueline Hoctor. “Rather than short-term movement, performance reflects a broader shift in how the category is being managed at retail level, with a clearer focus on consistency, value, and repeat sales.”
However, Richard Cook, UK commercial director of Juul Labs, warns against an overreliance on big pu , however, noting that its lower value has contributed to a 22% decline in value of e-liquid sales, and that its flavour and packaging may encourage under-age use – and further legislation.
SUPPLIER VIEW
Andrew Malm, marketing manager, Imperial Brands UK
“IT’S important to understand what customers are looking for in terms of flavour, format and vaping experience and to stock accordingly. Retailers should analyse customer buying habits and stock flavours that sell best locally. We’d advise engaging with customers to understand key trends within your store and take notice of the products and flavours that customers are frequently purchasing. This will also help you to re ne your vape o erings over time.
“While re nement shows a personal touch, o ering a variety of products and flavours is important, too. Stocking products such as Blu Bar kits, as well as replaceable pods in a variety of flavours and essential accessories, will help appeal to customers and drive returning business. Additionally, providing sta education through training on pod-based systems is crucial to assist customers so they know what product is best for them.”
Image credit: Getty Images/georgeclerk
ONE DEVICE. DAYS AND DAYS OF FLAVOUR!*
CATEGORY ADVICE NEXT-GEN NICOTINE
ILLICIT ISSUES FACED BY STORES
ELFBAR’S research suggests illicit vape products are an ongoing problem, with almost one in 10 adult vapers still buying single-use devices and nearly a third reporting they have knowingly purchased illicit products.
“Illicit trade continues to be a signi cant challenge in the post-ban landscape,” says associate general manager Angelo Yang. “These ndings reflect the continued presence of illicit products and underline
the need for ongoing enforcement and education to protect compliant retailers and the legitimate market.
Robinson also believes that illicit sales are on the increase, whether it’s next-gen nicotine or tobacco products.
“We’re already seeing a substantial reduction in tobacco and cigarette sales, down 20 to 30% year on year, and that’s not because less people are smoking. Nobody thinks it’s bad to buy o the black
market, in a pub or under the counter.”
Andrew Malm, UK market manager for Imperial Brands UK, says the illicit trade remains a huge challenge, but says tackling it requires collaboration between retailers, distributors and manufacturers.
“We strongly encourage retailers to report any potential illicit trade activity in their area to our sales teams, who can then report it on our trade platform,” adds Malm.
The key to avoiding illicit products on your shelves is to ensure you are getting your supply from trusted and legitimate sources.
Most retailers trust their cash and carries to give them the kind of product that follows legislation.
“Everything we do is compliant,” says Etchells. “For a lot of retailers, there is enough margin in vapes to not be bothered with nding other suppliers who may not be compliant.”
SUPPLIER VIEW
Richard Cook, UK commercial director of Juul Labs
“THE Tobacco and Vapes Act gives the UK government new powers to ban advertising and regulate hardware, flavours, display in retail, product registration, retail licensing and packaging. Public consultations due to be launched by the government will help shape the secondary legislation necessary to implement new changes for the industry. Crucially, the measures introduced by the Act will help to raise the bar on responsibility within the industry ensuring that it remains focused on supporting adult smokers in their journeys to switch to less harmful alternatives.”
“ONE year on from the disposable vapes ban, retailers have had to rethink how they maintain nicotine category revenue. Nicotine pouches have emerged as one of the fastest-growing next-generation nicotine categories with a year-on-year growth of 60%1. Successful retailers are focusing on flavour innovation, clear xture navigation and consumer education.
“As adult consumers move beyond traditional mint flavours, beverage-inspired and fruit-led pro les are driving trial and repeat purchase. At Snü, we’ve seen gross sales grow by 120% year on year, alongside a returning customer rate of 60%2. Retailers should work closely with suppliers that provide category education, tailored PoS and ongoing support to maximise long-term growth opportunities.”
WHAT’S NEXT FOR NEXT-GEN?
FOLLOWING the passing of the Tobacco and Vapes Bill earlier this year, this autumn will see duty being imposed on vapes, meaning a potential price hike.
“People adapt again,” concludes Bywater. “They’re either going to continue vaping and just take the hit or try and give up.”
Robinson sounds a note of caution, however: “The vape market hasn’t disappeared, but the autumn will bring another major change. My fear is that it will result in lower pro t margins. I think retailers will ultimately absorb some of the price increases.
And the pressure to absorb those, because customers will assume that retailers are pro teering, will be instead of making 35%-40% margin, it’ll be closer to 20%-25%.
“It becomes a big issue because it’s chipping away at pro tability for retailers. It takes time for this to work through the system, but vapes o er a revenue stream that has helped retailers in recent hears.
“Many would have closed without the pro ts that vapes have given them. They’ll either have to nd new sources of pro t or cut their costs to be able to survive.”
Javier Soria De Vicente, international business development manager, Snü
ADVICE
MAKE THE MOST OF A HEATWAVE
A er the sunny bank holiday, CHARLES WHITTING nds out what retailers need to do to ensure they’re prepared for the next bumper weekend
1
Dean Holborn, Holborn’s, Redhill, Surrey
“YOU can never have too much ice. At this time of year, we’re already carrying extra stock and putting in good promotions on things that are going to sell. But we’re also trying out new things. We have just put in a range of paddling pools and handheld fans that my wife got from a supplier, and that’s been very popular.
“We have a local butcher and are making sure we’ve got good stock of meats for barbecues and lots of charcoal as well. But you’ve got to make sure your staff are rotating drinks in the fridge and not just sticking warm ones in front of the colder ones. Having drinks chilled makes a difference. If they reach in the fridge and it’s warm, they’re not going to know the stuff behind it is chilled. But also things like check your fridges. Make sure the grills are cleaned and hoovered so they’re working in the heat.”
the next issue,
Retail
you have any problems
2
Suki Athwal, Shop Around the Clock, Tenterden, Kent
Vijay Aanasane, Foxhole Premier, St Austell, Cornwall 3
“WE’VE been stocking products like Budweiser and Coors Light for the World Cup, but we had it available on the bank holiday weekend with good promotions and people who wouldn’t normally come to the shop were coming in and buying them.
“You can’t �ill the fridge up fast enough, so we have some chillers in the back where we keep our milk and chilled goods. But we’ll put spare cases of water and Coke, different sizes of our core lines, so that when we’re restocking fridges at the front, they’re going in cold and will be chilled for the customers. It’s good practice for us.
“Nisa does give you a weather forecast with every delivery. We get our fresh fruit and veg delivered from local suppliers at a day’s notice, so if it’s going to be hot, I’ll do an extra order of raspberries and strawberries. We’ll get through two or three cases of strawberries on a hot weekend.”
“WE check what the weather will be like for the weekend constantly on the various weather apps. From there, we’ll start building our delivery order and preparing our barbecue range. We do everything from charcoal to disposable knives and forks. It is really important to have a lot of ice in store. We get six to 10 boxes in our back storage because it’s so important.
“Alcohol is a big seller in our shop, and when the weather is good, it’s about the bigger packs – 10-packs and 18-packs. We’ll even put some of them in the fridges if we can. We might get in 100-150 10-packs if we see the weather is going to be good, and we’ll dedicate more space to alcohol to make sure we’ve got the full range. We’re actually investing in a beer cave underneath the shop so we’ll be able to offer all our alcohol chilled.
“We can see a £5,000 increase in sales on a sunny weekend, so it’s very important for us.”
We give out free water during heatwaves to support customers. What do other retailers do? –Gav Singh, Charlie’s Convenience, Worcester
