**This product is not risk-free and contains nicotine,
is addictive. You should not use this product if you do not already use nicotine.
SUPPLIERS have received a lot of flack from retailers and within the pages of Retail Express, when they’ve needed to be held accountable for providing a poor service or for ignoring the needs of small shops.
However, we’re also happy to give praise where it’s due, and there are plenty of recent examples where rms have made positive changes.
Last month, Diageo and former Tesco chief executive Dave Lewis admitted the supplier’s support for the convenience industry had fallen short of where it needs to be.
To make amends, the rm recently announced it was embarking on a major recruitment campaign to double the number of reps visiting independent stores, while hinting at a new stock-ordering system for retailers.
I also recently spoke to milkshake supplier F’real, which admitted it had become a “forgotten brand” in convenience stores. In the past, the company received criticism for axing some partnered retailers from its free-on-loan equipment scheme.
However, the recent conversation I had with the rm was positive. It highlighted convenience as a major growth opportunity, using lessons from its highest performers to help turn around sales in slower-performing sites.
Both are refreshing examples of where major suppliers have acknowledged previous criticism, held their hands up and rea rmed their commitment to independent retailers.
Tobacco and Vapes Bill progresses towards law
ALEX YAU
THE proposed generational smoking ban has advanced further after the House of Lords rejected an amendment to the Tobacco and Vapes Bill seeking to raise the age of sale to 21.
Under the rejection made last month, peers voted 78 in favour and 246 against the
IT’S POSITIVE TO SEE THE COMMITMENT TO RETAILERS
If you have any similarly good (or bad) examples, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.
amendment. If approved into law, the bill will gradually raise the age of sale so that anyone born on or after 1 January 2009 will never legally be sold tobacco. The �irst group affected by the change will turn 18 next year.
Peers also agreed an amendment requiring businesses that sell vapes online to operate an age-veri�ication
policy, setting out the steps taken to establish the age of customers buying vaping products online.
Action on Smoking and Health (ASH) has welcomed the recent parliamentary vote. ASH chief executive Hazel Cheeseman said: “Today’s vote sends a powerful message that protecting children’s health rises above
party politics. We commend peers from across the House for backing this world-leading legislation.
“Smoking remains the biggest cause of preventable death and health inequality in our country. By phasing out tobacco sales to the next generation, the UK is showing global leadership and putting young people’s health �irst.”
THE government has been urged to set out support plans to help small shops tackle rising costs, after it was criticised for offering no support for retailers in its Spring Statement last week. Commenting after Rachel Reeves delivered the announcement, ACS chief executive Ed Woodall said: “Local shops will be disappointed that the chancellor has not taken this opportunity to mitigate the impact of cost increases coming in April.”
Deliveroo changes
DELIVEROO is to make its pricing more transparent as part of government changes to stop delivery providers adding “sneaky hidden fees”. From 6 April, the �irm will display the full price of an order straight away, rather
than adding additional delivery and service fees at the end of the ordering process. For convenience stores on grocery delivery platforms, this is likely to affect how and when extra fees are displayed.
BOOKER has launched a spring product development guide featuring 130 new lines and 16 products exclusive to the wholesaler.
Colm Johnson, retail managing director at Booker, said: “With more than 130 new lines, 16 group exclusives and nine market-�irst products, we’re giving our customers more ways to stand out, drive footfall and meet evolving shopper trends as consumer habits shift with the arrival of spring and warmer weather.”
THE £100 limit on contactless card transactions will be removed in just over a week. The cap will be scrapped from 19 March, allowing cardholders to set their own preferred restrictions on how much they can spend when they tap their card. However, several retailers had previously raised concerns with Retail Express that the removal could lead to higher rates of payment scams in stores, particularly around stolen cards.
Alex Yau, editor
THE Post Of�ice’s (PO) future has been cast into doubt, as retailers and trade bodies warned newly released government plans for the organisation will lead to “managed decline”.
Released last month, the government paper suggests that the mandatory 11,500-branch network access criteria should remain, despite subpostmasters calling for it to be axed in consultation responses.
The government recommended mandatory plans for at least half of 11,500 sites to be “full-time, full service-branches”, lower than the current 79% of sites that currently �it this criteria.
The branch network would also be reviewed if the cost of “uncommercial branches” exceeded 10% of PO’s total revenue.
In an open letter to PO minister Blair McDougall, representatives from Voice of the Postmaster (VOTP) warned that the government was supporting “managed decline in its recommendations”.
yet appear to have been sidelined. Without new revenue streams owned by PO, structural dependency will continue.”
VOTP hit back at plans to review uncommercial branches, arguing the organisation has “never been a commercially viable standalone enterprise”.
The government review was also criticised by the National Federation of SubPostmasters (NFSP), which claimed there was a lack of clarity, and accused the government of ignoring independent subpostmasters.
NFSP chief executive Calum Greenhow said: “There are a number of areas which we still need to understand. What does transforming larger of�ices into �lagship spaces mean?
The letter stated: “You have placed PO in a commercial marketplace without giving it commercial freedom. It has no meaningful business of its own – only short-term, thirdparty contracts. Proposals such as a Post Bank were raised during consultation,
“There is concern around the statement that going forward, only 50% of post of�ices are required to be full-time, full-service outlets. This comes on the back of PO’s recent announcement on [the removal of] proximity [restrictions], and we cannot have a situation where postmasters could be starved out of business.
“Despite recognising that there is a need for cultural change, there is very little that has been said on governance of the business that caused so much to so many people. Postmasters question whether it is right that the business that caused so much harm is the very organisation that will deter-
mine how the relationship between itself and postmasters will be determined.
“An area that the NFSP promoted on behalf of postmasters was in relation to business rates – and sadly, there is no inclusion of any thoughts on this cost that is borne postmasters.
“Yet again, there is a notion that the needs of postmasters are secondary to the corporate plans of the PO. Given everything that has happened in the past, the investment of postmasters in this network must be taken into account, and
no longer can the business place its interests before that of postmasters.”
The criticism comes as Retail NI and the NFSP released a separate plan this month to strengthen Northern Ireland’s PO network.
It recommends “enhancing access to cash” amid widespread bank closures, while restoring and expanding government services such as passport and driving licence applications. The report added Northern Ireland was disadvantaged compared with the rest of the UK with regards to par-
cel services.
Retail NI chief executive Glyn Roberts and NFSP NI non-executive director Jim McCafferty said: “Our plan is not just about revitalising our PO network; it is also about revitalising our high streets by generating more footfall for our struggling high streets.
“With the right policy support, expanded services and equal market opportunities, we believe the network can play a central role in revitalising both local communities and Northern Ireland’s high streets.”
“I WILL be switching from Premier to Costcutter, with the transition expected to be nished in spring. This is an incredibly exciting next step for us. We’ve had a fantastic journey so far, and are incredibly proud of what the store has achieved. The move to Costcutter allows us to strengthen our fresh and chilled o er, and take the business to the next level. We’re investing signi cantly in the re t.”
“SINCE joining Go Local, I’ve seen a real improvement in availability and flexibility. It wants to work with you. I can tell it what works for me and my store, and there’s more flexibility to provide the goods me and my customers want. There are also better margins. Previously, as a One Stop franchisee, my margins were sitting at 18-21% across the board, and now they’ve increased to 27.5%.”
Nathalie Fullerton, Go Local Dumbarton Road, Glasgow
“WE’RE opening a new Nisa under the symbol group’s revamped fascia at the end of March. It’s going to have a food-to-go section and the latest technology, in partnership with Retail AI. There’ll also be a community corner. It won’t be a full-blown café, but it’ll be an area where customers can buy a co ee and catch up with each other. As a coastal store, the product range will change with the seasons.”
Neil Godhania, Neil’s Premier, Peterborough
GOOD WEEK
DIAGEO: The alcohol rm is providing greater support to independent retailers by boosting its eld rep team. This includes doubling its dedicated on-trade and convenience team through the recruitment of 100 additional roles, with the process ongoing until the end of May. The rst new hires were placed in convenience stores last month.
For the full story, go to betterretailing.com and search ‘Diageo’
ILLY: Stores that stock Illy’s new On The Go co ee concessions could make an estimated £100,000 in pro t over a threeto- ve-year period, the Italian co ee giant has claimed. The rm told Retail Express convenience stores will play a part in its latest expansion plans, but stressed they will not be the “predominant” place.
For the full story, go to betterretailing.com and search ‘Illy’
BAD WEEK
PAYPOINT: A 3.8% increase in monthly fees from 1 April has been defended by the services rm. In a recent statement, the company said: “2026’s standard RPI-linked adjustment of 3.8% should be seen alongside the signi cant investment we continue to make to maximise retailer returns.”
For the full story, go to betterretailing.com and search ‘PayPoint’
CLOSURE: More than 80% of retailers either don’t have or are unsure of an exit plan if they suddenly have to close their business. In a recent Better Retailing Club Rewards (BRCR) poll, 58% said they had no exit strategy, while 25% stated they were not sure.
To share your views on the biggest industry topics, sign up for BRCR at betterretailing.co.uk/club-rewards
ALEX YAU
Neil Godhania
Daily shop abuse incidents down
VIOLENCE and abuse against shop workers fell annually from 2,000 daily incidents to 1,600 a day in 2025, but incidents remain higher than prepandemic levels.
The latest British Retail Consortium (BRC) �igures for 1 September 2024 to 31 August 2025 revealed shop theft remained the number-
one concern for retailers, with 54% of those surveyed placing it as their main worry. Home delivery theft is also on the rise, with losses of more than £100m.
Improvements in police response times, stronger relationships between retailers, the government and the police – alongside crime-tackling investment – have been attributed to the drop in daily incidents.
However, the BRC said “the scale of the problem remains unacceptable”, claiming the numbers are still higher than the 455 daily occurrences in 2019 to 2020.
BRC chief executive Helen Dickinson said: “The toll these incidents take on hard-working retail colleagues cannot be overstated. Whether it is verbal abuse, physical assault or a threat involving a weapon, the mental and physical scars
can last a lifetime, affecting the victims, their families, colleagues and customers.
“The hard work must not stop until the number of incidents is zero, and no one goes to work fearing for their safety. Retailers have been working to turn the tide, investing billions of pounds, and working with police and government on joint initiatives including Project Pegasus and the Retail Crime Action Plan.”
Rising chocolate the
SUPERMARKETS are now locking chocolate bars in plastic boxes to combat increases in theft.
According to the BBC, Sainsbury’s has begun using the boxes on products. The ACS added chocolate is now being targeted frequently by proli�ic offenders to sell on. Nishi Patel, of Londis Bexley Park in Dartford, Kent, told Retail Express he had also seen an uplift in shoplifters targeting more expensive bars of chocolate.
SPIN TO WIN ROLLOUT
UNITED Wholesale Scotland (UWS) is expanding its Spin to Win initiative to its entire symbol estate following an increase in sales across pilot sites. The promotion allows customers to spin a virtual wheel, giving them the opportunity to win prizes.
UWS managing director Chris Gallacher told Retail Express it reimburses the cost back to the retailer.
HND Month
HOME News Delivery (HND)
returns
Month is returning in 2026, with the Fed leading the scheme for the �irst time. The initiative is designed to help retailers attract new newspaper subscribers by providing them with lea�lets, posters, exclusive discounts and thousands of pounds in prizes. The Fed is also planning to extend the scheme from newspapers to the magazine industry for the �irst time.
ALEX YAU
WIIINGS FOR YOUR SPRING.
Bat your way to winning prizes
SHYAMA LAXMAN
PRINGLES and Cheez-It have joined forces with Bestway, Booker and participating buying groups to unveil a cricket-themed competition for retailersrunning until 31 March.
The promotion is offering 10 pairs of tickets – �ive pairs of VIP England cricket tickets and �ive pairs of VIP Vitality Blast T20 tickets for games at Emirates Old Trafford.
Winning retailers will be offered a VIP experience with access to The Century Lounge, meet and greet with a cricket legend, complimentary food and drink, designated seating and a live DJ.
Retailers enter by buying two cases of qualifying pricemarked pack (PMP) formats (one case of Cheez-It 65g
PMP and one case of Pringles 70g PMP) from participating wholesalers. Every two cases will receive one entry.
To enter the free prize draw, retailers need to scan the QR code on the case or visit the online entry site.
Jack Link’s joins forces with MrBeast
JACK Link’s has partnered with American YouTuber MrBeast to launch a range of cobranded protein meat snacks, available now to convenience retailers.
Nielsen data reveals the UK jerky and biltong category is worth £44m in retail sales value (RSV) and has grown 26% over the past three
years. However, just 6.7% of households are buying jerky and biltong products.
Jack Link’s is growing 24% year on year, exceeding £16m RSV. Between 2020 and 2025, the brand delivered 54% of total category growth, the data further states.
Grapes are not sour with Fanta launch
COCA-COLA Europaci�ic Partners (CCEP) has launched a grape-�lavoured Fanta.
Fanta Grape is available now in 330ml cans, 500ml PET bottles, and larger take-home and sharing 2l bottles and multipacks.
supported by a multimillionpound marketing campaign. Retailers can request point-of-sale materials.
Snacks to launch coated peanuts
KP SNACKS has announced the launch of two McCoy’s Coated Peanuts �lavours.
Flame Grilled Steak and Salt & Malt Vinegar peanuts will be available from mid-March in £1.35 PMPs. McCoy’s is worth £199.2m and growing ahead of the category at 5%.
worth £343.1m and growing by 5.4% ahead of the overall category.
According to Nielsen �igures, coated nuts is currently worth £41m.
The launch also taps into the strength of the PMP segment in the channel, which is
Holten’s has landed in a pickle
WHATEVER Brands has partnered with Van Holten’s, the creator of the original
Pickle-In-A-Pouch, to launch a range of pickle-�lavoured puffed snacks.
This Bueno launch is kind(er) dark
FERRERO UK has expanded its Kinder Bueno range with the launch of Kinder Bueno Dark bar.
Available to convenience retailers at an RRP of £1.15, Kinder Bueno Dark taps into shoppers seeking a more intense and premium chocolate option.
The launch builds on the
strong performance of Kinder Bueno within the ‘chocolate snack’ category, where the brand is now worth £89m, with 77% brand recognition across the UK, according to Nielsen data.
Fanta accounts for almost one in every �ive �lavoured carbonates sold in Britain. Its HFSS-compliant core range continues to fuel brand growth, led by Fanta Orange and Fanta Fruit Twist.
Fanta Grape will be
IMPERIAL Brands has launched a Creamy Tobacco �lavour for its Blu Bar kits and pods.
The launch brings the total number of �lavours available in the Blu range to 16. Available through independent and wholesale outlets, as well as online, Creamy Tobacco retails at £5.99.
It will be available as a Blu Bar kit, offering 1,000 puffs, and as a pod pack, including two replacement Blu pods delivering 2,000 puffs per pod pack.
Blu Bar unveils Creamy Tobacco line
Van Holten’s Pickle Puffed Snacks are available in three �lavours – Dill Pickle, Hot Pickle and Garlic Pickle. They contain 15g of protein per 100g, and are available at an RRP of £1.25. UK wholesale distribution of the snacks will be handled exclusively by Pulse SD Ltd.
retailers. The pricing is like the core Polo singles range, and at retailers’ discretion.
New KitKat Chunky to drive sales
KITKAT has launched KitKat
Chunky Caramel, celebrating the brand’s partnership with F1.
The chocolate bar is available in single and multipack formats. KitKat is also running an on-pack promotion giving consumers the chance to win exclusive F1 prizes.
Shoppers can enter by purchasing a participating product and scanning the on-pack QR code, or by visiting the competition
website and entering their details and the last four digits of the barcode.
Prizes include tickets to the F1 Pirelli British Grand Prix 2026 weekend plus £1,000 travel allowance.
Barr launches are full of Flava
BARR is set to launch a ‘Flava Explosions’ range, available to retailers for 12 months from mid-March.
Bebeto unlocks its 2026 Easter range
ASAHI UK is expanding its low- and no-alcohol offering with two new Peroni Nastro Azzurro 0.0% varieties, Limone di Sicilia and Arancia Rossa.
The brand’s �irst �lavoured alcohol-free beers are available in 4x330ml multipacks with a £5.50 RRP. They will be launching into
The �lavours include Berry Blast and Peach Punch, available in £1 pricemarked packs of 500ml and multipacks of 6x330ml cans retailing for £2.65.
The launch marks a series of new lines released by parent company AG Barr this year, including Rubicon Sparkling Cherry Burst and three launches under Boost.
Peroni’s fruity nonalcoholic flavours
Majestic Wine in May with more wholesale listings to follow.
Peroni Nastro Azzurro 0.0% is the leading contributor to no- and low-alcohol lager growth in the UK, according to Nielsen �igures.
Four Loko launches Remix RTD cocktails
RED Star Brands’ Four Loko has launched Remix – a duo of high ABV, vodka-based ready-to-drink (RTD) cocktails.
Four Loko Remix RTDs are available in two �lavours – Peach Pulse and Berry Blitza. Each has a 12% ABV and comes in a 330ml Tetra Pak at an RRP of £4.50.
The launch will be supported in store with a range of pointof-sale materials and FSDUs, as well as a
Britain-wide campaign across Instagram and TikTok channels, including gift boxes and personalised merchandise.
Vimto Energy goes tropical and cooler
NICHOLS has launched Vimto Energy Tropical Cooler. It is available in convenience and wholesale channels in 500ml plain cans at an RRP of £1.45 and pricemarked cans of £1.19.
According to Kantar, the energy drinks category in the UK is worth £3.8bn, with the category predicted to grow by £678m by 2030.
Within this, �lavoured energy remains a growing subcategory, representing one in �ive energy drinks sold, while tropical �lavours are growing 12% year on year.
BEBETO’s Easter 2026 collection is now available to convenience retailers who have a trade account with the confectionery manufacturer.
The full range includes two new seasonal products, Hoppy Squad Foamies, which have an RRP of £1,
and Easter Hunt Box, which has a £3.99 RRP, alongside the returning Runny Eggs, which retail for £1.
Rubicon Raw gets a cherry addition
RUBICON Raw is adding a cherry variety to its energy drinks roster.
Cherry Burst and Zero Added Sugar Cherry Raspberry �lavours are available from this month in 500ml cans, pricemaked at £1.
The launch will be supported throughout the year with a social media campaign reaching 8.8 million consumers, as well as a high-footfall sampling activity.
Retailers can also receive PoS.
Cruzcampo unveils Sevilla Orange
HEINEKEN UK has introduced a new Cruzcampo variety called Sevilla Orange.
The new �lavour has a 3.3% ABV and will be available in convenience channels from this month, in 4x440ml can format at an RRP of
£5.80. Launched in August 2023, Cruzcampo now commands a 2.7% value share within the beer category.
The launch will be bolstered by the multimillion pound ‘Choose to Cruz’ campaign from May through summer 2026, as well as a nationwide sampling activity.
GIN brand Hendrick’s has released Another Hendrick’s.
It’s the �irst new permanent addition to the brand’s lineup in nine years. Another
Hendrick’s has an ABV of 41.4% and is available via wholesale at an RRP of £33.
PRODUCTS
Dr Pepper unveils Cream Swirl
SHYAMA LAXMAN
DRPEPPER has launched
Dr Pepper Cream Swirl, a limited-edition variety available now until February 2027.
The new �lavour follows the launch of Dr Pepper Cherry Crush Zero Sugar, which has sold 11.8 million litres and is worth £21.3m.
Dr Pepper Cream Swirl is dairy-free and HFSScompliant, and available in the following formats: 330ml plain (RRP £1) and price-marked cans (85p);
multipack of eight 300ml cans (RRP £5.45); 500ml plain bottle (RRP £1.80) and price-marked bottle (£1.40); 2l plain PET (RRP 2.65) and price-marked (£2.15).
The launch is supported by the ‘Dare to Cream’ marketing campaign, including an on-pack promotion offering
Nik Naks is about to get Xtra Hot ’N’ Fiery
KP SNACKS has announced the launch of Nik Naks Xtra Hot ’N’ Fiery.
Nik Naks Xtra Hot ’N’ Fiery will be available in stores from 23 March in £1.35 PMPs.
According to Nielsen �igures, spicy �lavours remain on trend, with spicy crisps
accounting for more than 10% of total category sales, growing year on year.
Nik Naks Xtra Hot ’N’ Fiery also taps into the popularity of spicy �lavours within PMPs.
shoppers the chance to win ‘Dr Darey’ prizes through a QR code.
The campaign will also feature ‘Dare or Darey’ challenges across TikTok and Snapchat and sampling on the ‘Dr Pepper Cream Swirl Float’ experience.
Golden Wonder new flavour and PMPs
GOLDEN Wonder has introduced a new Bikers Cheese & Onion variety and expanded its PMP range Bikers Cheese & Onion is non-HFSS and retails at 35p PMP. It will be available from April.
Meanwhile Oinks, the ba-
Summer of Ribena Summer Fruits
EXCLUSIVE SUNTORY Beverage & Food
GB&I has launched Ribena Summer Fruits.
It’s available in various formats: an 850ml squash retailing at £2.79; a readyto-drink (RTD) 500ml plain bottle for £1.59 as well as a £1.35 price-marked bottle; and a 250ml carton, coming in 80p plain and 75p pricemarked packs.
Meanwhile, a six-pack 250ml multipack retails at £3.20.
con-�lavoured puffed snack, is now available in a £1 PMP sharing bag.
The brand has also brought back Saucers Sour Cream & Onion.
MENTOS has launched a berry-�lavoured variety called Feeling Berry Good.
The new �lavour is available via Dhamecha, Parfetts, United Wholesale Scotland and Filshill at an RRP of 79p.
IVG adds Pro 2 pod device into lineup
IVG has launched Pro 2, the next version of its Pro series.
Pro 2 is compatible with IVG’s full range of 33 nicotine salt pod �lavours, available in 20mg strengths, with some 10mg and 0mg varieties.
Pro 2 offers up to 10,000 puffs per pod. It is available from IVG’s wholesale and distribution partners at an RRP of £7.99 for the device, or £13.95 for a starter kit.
West Cornwall’s new rugby pasty lands
WEST Cornwall Pasty Co has introduced a new Steak & Guinness Pasty to mark the rugby season.
materials and a Sky digital advertisement.
It follows the launch of the Feeling Berry Good sharing bag in March 2025. Berry is one of the fastest-moving
Feeling berry good about this launch
�lavour segments in confectionery, now worth £179m and growing by 12%, with berry-�lavoured sweets growing by more than three times the rate of the total sweets category.
7 Days bakes a new treat with Oreo
CROISSANT brand 7 Days has partnered with Oreo to launch 7 Days Oreo Croissant.
It is available now to convenience retailers in a 70g pack retailing at 79p.
Convenience retailers with hot cabinets or towers can stock up on the new pasty (subject to availability) and order PoS by contacting Samworth Brothers.
The pasty is made in Cornwall before being freshly baked in store and served hot. The launch will be supported by a 360° campaign, targeted point-of-sale (PoS)
7 Days Oreo Croissant is the �irst launch for the brand since it was acquired by Mondelez International in 2021.
• Keep your dispenser fully stocked with the Deal or No Deal Scratchcard on sale
• Suggest the game to your customers
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
We’ve grown online sales by 30%
WEATHER: Has the sudden rise in temperature benefited you?
“THE start of the year has been slower than usual so far, but that’s what’s expected with the current economic situation and the post-Christmas slump. I’ve seen the sun come out in the area and a steady uptick in customers. Hopefully, this will continue.”
Simon Grewal, Premier Crabbs Cross, Worcestershire
“TRADE has been steady, which is what you’d expect from the �irst couple of months of the year. We’ve had some unexpected sun recently, which always has a positive impact on trade. It’s about making the most of these moments when you can.”
Alpesh Patel, Wheathampstead Post Of�ice, St Albans
ASIAN SNACKS: How are you generating sales?
“I’VE started stocking products from Joybuy, an online Asian retailer. There are viral snacks and drinks from Japan, South Korea and Hong Kong. I’ve generated £200 in additional sales so far at a margin of 40%. It offers single-pick as well, which helps with space and wastage.”
Nishi Patel, Londis Bexley Park, Dartford
“THERE are a lot of international students from Asia living near our main stores. We have an extensive range of Asian products, including viral lines such as Buldak instant noodles. We merchandise these near similar drinks and snacks to encourage customers to boost their spend.”
I’ve generated £200 in additional sales
SOCIAL MEDIA: How are you helping yourself and others?
“AFTER more than 25 years in independent retail, I now work directly with store owners to build high-performing local brands and pro�itable delivery operations. Through Digital Dukaan, I partner with store owners to launch delivery platforms and build strong social media that drives orders.”
Serge Notay, former owner of Notay’s Convenience Store, Batley
“WE have partnered with Empros to help raise the social media pro�ile of the store’s home delivery business. In just 30 days, we’ve grown our online sales by 30% and weekly in-store sales by 20%. Visibility and awareness have been key to that success.”
Daniall Nadeem, Spar Motherwell Road, Bellshill
How else would politicians understand?
LOCAL ELECTIONS: How are you engaging with MPs and councillors? There’s been an uptick in customers
“I RECENTLY had a visit with Samuel Kurtz, member of the Welsh Senedd. It was a really productive hour, and it’s always good to be engaged with our politicians. How else would they understand what the world of retail is like? I’d like to thank him for his time and valued discussion.”
Vince Malone, Tenby Stores & Post Of�ice, Pembrokeshire
“I RECENTLY hosted Liberal Democrat MP Lisa Smart at my store with the Fed. We discussed the complexity of the energy market, as bills rise to many thousands of pounds a year. In particular, we talked about the Fed’s work on rising government and commercial costs for businesses.”
Bhavna Patel, Go Local Nangreave Road, Stockport
Hamza Hussain, Abu Bakr Supermarket, Batley
LETTERS
‘Burglars
broke into my home and stole cash’
LAST month, we had a break-in at the shop where one member of a gang had managed to make it into the house. The other members of the gang distracted the staff member on duty, and he had sneaked in through the back door. I was away with my fam-
ily at a party. When I came back, I noticed the door was scratched. Upon further investigation, the bedroom had been ripped apart, and they had stolen £600-£700 in cash, and more than £1,000-worth of gold.
I’m grateful none of my family was in the house at
COMMUNITY RETAILER OF THE WEEK
Natalie Lightfoot, Londis Solo Convenience, Glasgow
‘Giving back to isolated residents’
“THE team recently spent a morning with some amazing residents from Baillieston Care Home. Since starting with Snappy Shopper back in 2020, we quickly learned about isolation. We’ve built solid relationships all over the east end with individuals who struggle to leave their homes. We couldn’t help but think about how we bring the sense of community back to the residents. What better way to begin by spending a morning playing games and eating cake? We le the residents and sta a new tablet they can use to connect with family and friends.”
the time, but it just makes you sick knowing someone has gone into your home. I know this is a part of being a retailer, but this is only the second time we’ve been broken into in my 45 years of running a shop. I shared details of the break-in with other retailers,
and I think it’s a gang not from the area. Other retailers said the same crimes had happened to them recently.
I’ve increased security since and I want to raise awareness for other retailers.
Vas Vekaria, Kegs N Blades, Bolton
RETAILER OF THE WEEK ‘I’m
Doing a re t the right way
WE recently reopened one of our stores a er a major re t. We had planned for it to happen last year, but then we bought the shop next door, so we renovated that rst and got it let out.
When that had settled down a er a few months, we went back to the planned re t for our Go Local. It took ve days, and we added new fridges and chillers, and installed a new fascia above it as well. They were in and out very fast.
We now have an extended chilled section and have also installed a milkshake machine. We’ve also reshaped the layout of the shop, which was something that needed doing. If you’re going to do it, you need to do it properly.
Then, we made sure we had a big party when we reopened. There were balloon arches outside and inside. The key thing was we received great support from our suppliers, who we got in touch with at the end of last year. Mondelez, Coca-Cola, Heineken and others all sponsored parts of it so we could make the event as big as possible.
We had goody bags with stock worth up to £40, which we gave to people who came in and spent more than £20. They also got a ticket to enter a ra le sponsored by Heineken for a TV.
Working with the suppliers ensured the whole relaunch had a much bigger impact. We support them throughout the year, with activations, stocking their products and adding value. When we asked for something in return, it was nice to see what they gave back and the gratitude they showed us.
Support your suppliers when they ask, but remember it’s a two-way street. Everything we do as retailers should be in partnership with other people.
“AS many will know, Bolton Hospice is very close to my heart, and it needs our help due to nancial constraints. I spent a 36-hour period raising funds for a £100,000 target, with all donations made doubled through match funding. The money will go towards the patients and their families. Bolton Hospice is there for people at the most precious time of all – the end of life. Whether someone has months, weeks or only days le , the hospice ensures every moment is lled with dignity, comfort and care. I am proud to support Bolton Hospice.”
Muntazir Dipoti, Todmorden News, Burnley
& SNACKS
CRUNCHING CRISPS AND SNACKS NUMBERS
SHYAMA LAXMAN speaks to retailers to understand what is driving crisps and snacks sales
Image credit: Getty Images/Kesu01
A CATEGORY THAT SELLS ITSELF?
A 2025 review of the UK convenience sector by sales-data company Talysis placed crisps and snacks in the “losing category”, experiencing volume loss of 5%-4% year on year. However, retailers aren’t fazed about the category’s performance.
Amit Vekaria, of One Stop –Duchy Stores in Salford, Greater Manchester, says crisps and snacks comprise around 35% of his business. In a four-
week period, his turnover was £3,657. Vekaria focuses on core flavours.
“If you don’t have any other flavours, you can guarantee these would sell,” he says.
Andy Campbell, from Go Local Hursthead Convenience in Cheadle Hulme, Greater Manchester, says the category is driven by well-known brands like Walkers, Doritos, Pringles and McCoy’s, adding that they put approximately £5,000
through his tills each month. Campbell runs regular promotions to keep his shoppers interested.
While Vekaria doesn’t “branch out” too far from the core, he o ers newer lines should customers request them. Currently, he stocks crisps from a brand called Lorenz. Retailing at £1.25 he sells around 15 units a week. That’s an extra £75 each month on a single brand.
*GB residents only. 18+. Opens 00:00 01.01.26 and closes 23:59 31.03.26. Purchase necessary. Promotion open to business owners and employees of trading businesses or sole traders who are registered customers of Buying Group, Bestway & Booker. Internet access and employee/employer consent required. To enter prize draw, purchase any qualifying PMP 70g case of Pringles or PMP 65g case of Cheez-It listed in the full terms and conditions, one entry granted for every case purchased, from any Buying Group, Bestway & Booker, scan QR code on case or visit www.kelloggsvantage.co.uk/en_GB/CRICKET26 and enter your full name, email address, mobile number and upload a photo of your receipt. Multiple entries permitted. There are 10x prizes available to be won: 5x Pairs of VIP Vitality Blast T20 Tickets and 5x Pairs VIP England Cricket Tickets. Retain receipt. Exclusions apply. For full terms and conditions visit: www.kelloggsvantage.co.uk/en_GB/tnc By entering this promotion, we will process your personal information for the purpose of administering the promotion in accordance with the terms and conditions. For further information on how your personal data will be compliantly handled visit: www.kelloggs.ie/en_IE/privacy-notice.html or email dataprivacyofficer@kellanova.com Promoter: Kellogg Europe Trading Limited ∙Pricing is at the sole discretion of the retailer.
CATEGORY ADVICE CRISPS & SNACKS
WHAT GOVERNS BUYING BEHAVIOURS
WHILE it’s important to o er price-marked packs (PMPs) as it keeps things competitive, Vekaria says consumers don’t “ask for anything speci c any more”.
“They used to when Takis wasn’t widely available except through private sellers at a higher price,” he says. “Now cash and carries have them
SUPPLIER VIEWS
Andy Brown, director, Envis Snacks
all the time, so that trend has gone,” he explains.
Currently, he sells between 40 and 45 units a week at an RRP of £1.25 taking between £200 and £225 each month.
Takis Blue Heat is the more popular flavour, he says.
From January this year, Vekaria also started o ering protein snacks from Palse.
It did well for a month or so, though sales have petered o since then, he says.
“It’s about trying to create space – o -shelf also, I’d say – for new products, while making sure you’ve a strong core to keep the non-switchers happy,” says Stefan Appleby, head of retail engagement at Newtrade Media. “Launches
“RETAILERS must carry a range including core lines –lines that o er di erentiation and launches backed up with good availability from a reliable wholesaler, as it is the key to regular sales.
“We generally work on providing everyday promotional pricing to wholesalers to then o er the same to retailers to reduce peaks and troughs in sales to also help maintain good availability and continue to o er good lead times on deliveries and market-leading bestbefore dates of up to six months.”
Ed Merret, wholesale controller, PepsiCo
“ANY main snacking xtures should be located close to other impulse categories. However, retailers should remain mindful of HFSS legislation and prioritise products that adhere to these rules by stocking nonHFSS products in key locations. Putting bestsellers at eye line will ensure they are easy for shoppers to spot, encouraging impulse and repeat purchases.
“Retailers should also block their main xture based on key missions to make it easier for shoppers to nd what they are looking for: for later (multipacks), for tonight (sharing), singles and PMPs.
“Sharing formats should be placed at the top of retailers’ main displays. Retailers could make use of point-of-sale materials, as these can also signpost shoppers towards core and innovations.”
are vital, but the trick is knowing when to get out of it, as much as being able to get into it quickly.”
Avtar Sidhu, of St John’s Budgens in Kenilworth, Warwickshire, says as sales of single packs has been in decline, he now only stocks 39p Space Raiders and 50p packs of Skips and Discos in that format.
RETAILER VIEW
Jonathan Cobb, Miserden Stores & Post O ce, Stroud, Gloucestershire
“WE don’t do any standard core brands. We stock a brand called Brown Bag crisps. We started o ering them, and only them, during Covid-19. The only time I have anything else is if I’ve run out and I must go to Booker to get an emergency supply.
“Retailing at £1.09, we sell around 80 packets a week. We turned to this brand because of availability and one of the big players had stopped selling PMPs. The price of Brown Bag crisps, at the time, was akin to a non-PMP of a bigger brand and better quality.
“Brands like Brown Bag Crisps can enhance your shop’s branding because you’re selling something that’s a bit o the wall.
“It’s very rare that somebody has come in for a packet of crisps and will walk out without one. I think that’s also because we’re a rural store with limited competition.”
HOW MANY FLAVOURS IS TOO MANY?
CAMPBELL says not all new flavours land with customers. For him, Walkers Sticky Teriyaki and Masala Chicken weren’t popular, but Cheetos Fiery Jalapeño and Cheese flavours sold well.
Sidhu says “spicy’’ is trending now, with Nielsen gures indicating that spicy crisps account for more than 10% of total category sales, growing year on year.
He predicts McCoy’s latest Flame Grilled Steak coated peanuts will be a good seller, not least because peanuts are exempt from HFSS regulations.
Vas Vekaria, of Kegs N Blades in Bolton, says brands should consider making smaller case sizes of new flavours so retailers aren’t laden with unsold stock.
“Doritos brought out six flavours of coated nuts and
only one flavour is selling,” he says.
When it comes to nuts, Booker’s own brand Jack’s does well, alongside KP Salted and Dry Roasted, he says. Campbell, who o ers a range of nuts and snacks –including pork scratching, scampi fries, bacon fries, Bombay mix – and takes £1,000 a month, says this sub-range tends to be “slow moving”.
For illustrative purposes only.®Reg. Trademark of Société des Produits Nestlé S.A. The F1 FORMULA 1 logo, F1 logo, F1, FORMULA 1, FIA FORMULA ONE WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP, GRAND PRIX and related marks are trademarks of Formula One Licensing BV, a Formula 1 company.
CATEGORY ADVICE CRISPS & SNACKS
OFFER PREMIUM WHERE POSSIBLE
SIDHU o ers crisps from Well & Truly and Sarriegui, sourced from Holley’s Fine Foods.
Retailing at £3.99, he sells around 12 packs of Sarriegui a week, across four to ve flavours, adding approximately £192 to his till each week.
Well & Truly, Sidhu says, is a gluten-free brand and because
they are baked and primarily made from corn, there is no VAT applied to them.
A ‘free-from’ option means you also expand your consumer pool. Retailing at £1.99, Sidhu sells between 15 and 20 packs a week.
Sidhu has ve dedicated bays for the category, exclud-
ing multipacks. While the core flavours are included as part of the meal deal, he second sites premium options with his Cook freezers
Arshpreet Sohal, of One Stop Gothering Stores in Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, works with Taste Merchants to o er Tyrrells and Eat Real crisps. He
PRODUCT NEWS
New products to look out for
KP announces Nik Naks Xtra Hot ‘N’ Fiery
KP Snacks has announced the launch of Nik Naks Xtra Hot ‘N’ Fiery. It will be available in stores from 23 March in a £1.35 PMP. Spicy flavours continue to perform strongly, with 51% of UK consumers stating they enjoy spicy food according to Nielsen gures. It also taps into the success of spicy flavours within the PMP format, representing the largest flavour pro le in PMPs and the third largest in impulse overall. It will feature in the Now That’s What I Call Music on-pack promotion
Jack Link’s x MrBeast co-branded meat snacks
Jack Link’s has partnered with US YouTuber MrBeast to launch a range of co-branded protein meat snacks. They are available now in 25g and 60g bags at an RRP of £1.75 and £3.60 respectively. According to Nielsen data, Jack Link’s is growing 24% year on year and has nearly tripled in value over the past ve years to exceed £16m in retail sales value. Between 2020 and 2025, the brand delivered 54% of total category growth.
McCoy’s coated peanut varieties
KP Snacks has announced the launch of two McCoy’s Coated Peanuts flavours. Flame Grilled Steak and Salt & Malt Vinegar peanuts will be available from mid-March in £1.35 PMPs. With PMPs driving 71% of bagged snacks sales in independent stores, the launch of McCoy’s Coated Peanuts in a £1.35 PMP is set to boost sales for retailers, the supplier said.
Walkers 85p PMPs
Walkers has launched 85p PMPs across its core impulse range. The PMPs join the brand’s existing £1.35 PMP portfolio and are available in 32.5g packs across Ready Salted, Salt & Vinegar and Cheese & Onion varieties. The move comes after PepsiCo unveiled its ‘Max Your Snacks’ guide last year, designed to help retailers optimise their savoury-snack ranges through practical, easy-toimplement advice.
Golden Wonder launches PMPs and new variety Golden Wonder has expanded its range of PMP snacks and introduced a new variety called Bikers Cheese & Onion. While Oinks, the bacon-flavoured pu ed snack, is available in a £1 PMP sharing bag, the brand has also brought back Saucers Sour Cream & Onion retailing at a similar price. Golden Wonder has also launched the non-HFSS Bikers Cheese & Onion pu ed snack retailing at 35p PMP, available from April.
sells around 36 packs of one flavour of Tyrrells in a week at an RRP of £2.99, taking around £100 a week. Sohal also o ers 12 flavours of Eat Real crisps. Retailing at £2.50 a pack, he sometimes ends up selling around 36 packs of one flavour in a week, taking up to £360 a month on a single flavour.
sells around 36 packs of one Real up packs a a
MERCHANDISING CRISPS AND SNACKS
AMIT Vekaria says new products are displayed on stackers at the front of the shop for up to four weeks, then moved into the category aisle and grouped according to brands.
Seasonal launches are also placed at the front of the counter to draw customers towards the launch.
Campbell multi sites snacks such as peanuts and pork scratchings inside beer chill-
ers, and Pringles with wines for incremental sales.
A year ago, Campbell moved his crisps section to the front of the store and increased sales by 35%-40% as a result.
Sidhu has witnessed an uptick in sale of nuts by placing them by the checkouts, aided by the fact they are also HFSSfriendly.
He also groups his meat snacks – such as Jack Link’s,
Caula and Peperami – together, which also plays on the protein theme and makes the decision-making process easier for shoppers.
Sidhu says this year’s World Cup tournament will be opportune to push sales in the category. “We’ll have big displays in store and cross-merchandise with beers. It’ll be more of an execution piece rather than bringing anything new in.”
WhatsApp Envis Snacks on 07843 782592 or sales@envissnacks.com for more information on the
TRENDING SOFT DRINKS
TAMARA BIRCH explores the so drinks category and what’s driving sales in convenience stores
SOFT DRINKS: AN OVERVIEW
THE soft drinks category is dominated by flavour, energy and healthier alternatives.
“Last year was shaped by cleaner labels, lower sugar and a clear move away from overly sweet, arti cial-tasting drinks,” says Mazen Baaklini, founder of Eauyes Water.
“In 2026, flavour-led hydration, functional cues and more healthy pro les are expected
to accelerate as consumers look for everyday drinks that feel considered rather than indulgent.”
The flavour trend is present in every subcategory. For example, Kate Abbotson, senior external communications manager for Coca-Cola Europaci c Partners (CCEP), says flavoured colas have contributed 18% of growth in the cola sector, and
remains a key route to value.
“Cherry variants in particular have delivered £270m in value sales over the past year,” she says.
Of course, value is important within soft drinks, and some retailers are balancing these with long-term promotional multibuys, or focusing on price-marked packs (PMP), as Amy Sohal, of Premier Ken’s
Convenience Store in Winsford, Cheshire, does.
“PMPs are a strong seller in soft drinks for us, even though they have lower margins,” she says. “Customers are looking for value above all else right now, so we need to shift our focus on that. We do lose out on higher pro t margins, but if you go for volume sales, it will balance out.”
SUPPLIER
VIEW
Kerry
Cavanaugh,
general manager, Mars Drinks & Treats
“THE so drinks market continues to thrive, with flavoured milk standing out as a key growth category. In convenience, flavoured milk sales are up 14.5% to £371.2m, with the convenience channel accounting for 44% of the total £838.5m category.
“While many flavoured milk drinks are ambient to support stock management, merchandising them in the chiller remains key to driving impulse purchases from those seeking a ready-to-drink refreshment.”
CATEGORY ADVICE SOFT DRINKS HYDRATION IS
TAKING OVER
HYDRATION is swiftly becoming a core shopper mission in soft drinks, especially as the NHS and UK health authorities recommend drinking sixto-eight glasses (1.5-2l) of fluid a day.
However, Amit Patel, of Go Local – Duchy Stores in Greater Manchester, says shoppers often nd drinking pure water boring, and has noticed an increased demand for flavoured water.
“While water sells yearround, we expanded our range to include the Highland Spring flavoured water range, and were surprised that it’s become a top seller for us,” he says. “Volvic Kiwi & Lime has stood out for us more speci cally.”
Sohal has had a similar experience with Volvic.
“We stock three flavours: Strawberry, Summer Fruits
and Lemon & Lime, which are good for us,” she says. “But it’s not just flavoured water shoppers are buying, but squash and juice drinks, too.” Oasis, Robinsons, Fruit Shoot and Jack’s own-label lines have all increased for Sohal as well. This increased demand all ties into the better-for-you trend, especially low- and no-sugar drinks, according to Filipa Roque, global marketing manager for Spraga Kombucha.
As a result, Roque recommends ranging by bene t or occasion.
“This includes gut-friendly drinks, low-sugar or adult refreshment drinks,” Roque says. “Use clear PoS in the chiller to highlight what’s new and why it’s di erent. Sampling remains one of the most e ective tools for new soft drink products.”
HEALTH, ADDED BENEFITS AND PROTEIN
PROTEIN is not a new phenomenon, but more shoppers are attempting to increase their intake, and shakes are a great way for them to achieve this.
Protein milk drinks, according to Kerry Cavanaugh, general manager at Mars, Drinks & Treats, are a fast-growing segment and now accounts for one in 10 flavoured milk drinks sold, with 48.7 million units sold in the past year.
“Convenience shoppers are increasingly choosing soft drink options that balance fla-
vour with functional bene ts such as protein, which continues to gain momentum across all demographics,” he says.
Sohal says Nurishment cans are a popular choice, along with other milkshakes and flavoured milk.
“We’ve stocked the basic flavours for years; it’s been a good seller and it’s a strong protein option, too,” she says.
Each can contains around 20g of protein as well as 13 essential vitamins and minerals, another trend that is coming
to the forefront of healthier alternatives.
A key added bene t coming to the market is Lion’s Mane. Tenzing has just announced Natural Energy+ Lion’s Mane. It marks the brand’s rst variant in its new subrange, with a second option that contains magnesium and vitamin D, which is due to launch in April.
announced which
Magnesium and vitamin D are prevalent in several soft drinks lines, thanks to its reported bene ts to help aid sleep and energy levels.
CATEGORY ADVICE SOFT DRINKS
THE ONGOING DEMAND FOR ENERGY
THE demand for energy drinks is showing no signs of slowing down. However, Patel says that within the category, convenience is more important than ever.
“Monster has answered this demand on some of its lines by including a mechanism that allows shoppers to flip the lid and prevent spillage,” he says. “It’s helped customers as it removes the stress of drinking it straight away and allows them to truly enjoy the drink.
SUPPLIER VIEW
Kate Abbotson, senior external communications manager, Coca-Cola Europaci c Partners
“No matter what, shoppers will consume that drink the same day, so we haven’t lost sales. It just allows them to put the can down safely in the car,” he says.
The energy drinks category is also being captured by new flavours, with emerging brands and launches getting attention, according to Ganesh Jillah, category marketing manager at Nutrabolt, which makes the C4 energy drink brand.
“Energy drinks will con-
tinue to drive total soft drinks and within that, we will see more demand for natural and functional products,” he says.
“Retailers should merchandise these by segment and sub-segment, helping shoppers to navigate the xture more easily.”
Jillah also says that with shoppers looking for healthier alternatives, focusing on products with added vitamins and minerals, as well as more natural ingredients, will meet these trends.
This is also backed by Abbotson, who says the category is projected to reach £3.8bn by 2030, and this year will focus on functionality and flavourdriven innovation.
“Monster has set the pace, delivering 61% of all energy innovation sales over the past year and strengthening its leadership through product launches, including Monster Ultra Fantasy Ruby Red and Monster Juiced Rio Punch,” she says.
“MIXERS continue to play a signi cant role in so drinks, particularly in at-home hosting occasions that are expected to remain popular in 2026 as consumers balance cost-of-living pressures with social enjoyment. Schweppes remains the nation’s favourite mixer brand, with Schweppes Classic Tonic, Slimline Tonic and Schweppes Lemonade as standout variants.
“The introduction of Schweppes Tropical Soda has added further excitement by tapping into consumer interest in adventurous, flavour-driven options as shoppers look to elevate at-home occasions without overspending.”
WORKING WITH SUPPLIERS
WORKING with suppliers is a strong way to drive sales. Last year, Patel worked with CCEP to introduce a Monster-branded chiller and try a new diamondshaped planogram.
“We were recommended the diamond-shaped planogram following some market research that CCEP o ers,” he says. Baaklini says that a wellcurated range that avoids excess choice, highlights flavour clarity and the latest trends is the best way to transition to a destination for soft drinks.
“Retailers stocking brands
with a clear purpose that feels more premium and more considered will shift soft drinks from a commoditised aisle to a destination, encouraging shoppers to choose quality-led options as part of their regular shop rather than as an occasional treat,” he says.
He adds that educating your customers can have a more positive e ect than discounting products. “Chilled visibility, sampling and clear messaging around flavour and lifestyle t help newer brands gain traction, without eroding value,” he says.
DRINKS
DRIVING SOFT DRINKS SALES AND LINKED PURCHASES
COMBINING a hot meal and a soft drink allows retailers to tap into year-round demand, according to new research from Carlsberg Britvic. In fact, 31% of consumers say lunchtime is when they’re most likely to buy hot food and a drink together.
“After the traditional summer hydration season, retailers
can maintain momentum and really drive sales by combining hot meals, such as quick-serve food items, with on-the-go soft drinks,” says Ben Parker, vice president of sales o -trade for Carlsberg Britvic.
“In fact, research shows that shoppers say they’d be even more likely to purchase if bundled o ers were available.”
If space is an issue or your meals aren’t merchandised near soft drinks, PoS and clear signage can direct shoppers to linked purchases.
They can also highlight relevant promotions and make it easier to pick everything they need in one visit.
In the summer, however, shoppers will be looking for
colder, lighter options to pair with their soft drinks. Examples of this could be fresh fruit, sandwiches, wraps or chicken pieces, with water, cola and carbonates or energy. With value such a prominent mission in soft drinks and convenience stores, a meal deal can help drive sales and encourage repeat purchases.
PRODUCT NEWS
Product updates you might have missed
Nichols launches Vimto Energy Tropical Cooler Nichols has launched Vimto Energy Tropical Cooler following a seven-week exclusivity period with Spar, which is available in 500ml plain and pricemarked cans. Angela Reay, marketing director at Nichols, says: “Flavoured energy and PMPs are delivering strong growth in impulse, and this launch brings both together in a trusted, mainstream brand.”
Barr to launch Flava Explosions
Flava Explosions are available for 12 months in Berry Blast and Peach Punch flavours in £1 PMPs and multipacks of 6x330ml (RRP £2.65). The launch is designed to bring new shoppers to the category.
CCEP launches Fanta Grape
Fanta Grape is available now in 330ml cans and 500ml PET bottles, as well as 2l bottles and multipacks. The launch will be supported by a multimillion-pound marketing campaign, including PoS and digital assets.
Red Bull Cherry Sakura Spring Edition
The new Spring Edition flavour has a delicate floral flavour, with ‘sakura’ meaning cherry blossom in Japanese. It is available in 250ml, 355ml, 473ml and 4x250ml formats. PMPs of the 250ml and 473ml can are also available.
Fruitz sparkling fruit drink
Premium soft drinks producer Belvoir Farm has launched Fruitz, available in Passionfruit & Mango, Cherry & Raspberry and Orange & Pineapple flavours, using 100% natural ingredients and real fruit juice. It also contains no added sugar and no sweeteners. The flavours are currently available in 4x330ml multipacks in Waitrose, with plans to expand to other retailers in 2026, but single cans are available now in wholesalers at a £1.35 RRP.
Eauyes enters the UK market
Eauyes is available in Pineapple Coconut, Raspberry Lime, Lemon, Sour Apple, Pink Grapefruit and Orange Blossom, with wholesale listings secured with DDC, Delicious ideas, Mr Lemonade, as well as CLF, CN and Epicurium, with a £1.29-£1.49 RRP.
Radnor Spring
Radnor Hills has launched Radnor Spring in four flavours of sparkling spring water with added B vitamins. These flavours are Black Cherry, Blackcurrant, Mango & Passionfruit, Pineapple & Grapefruit and Strawberry & Raspberry. Each bottle is available as a £1 PMP.
Irn-Bru refresh
Irn-Bru has begun a phased packaging refresh ahead of its 125th birthday. The new look highlights the brand’s distinctive brand assets, namely the strongman insignia, ‘Made in Scotland from Girders’ strapline and its orange colour.
Rubicon’s two new flavours
Rubicon has announced the launch of two new flavours: Tropical and Cherry Burst. The flavours are available in 500ml £1.29 PMPs and non-PMPs, as well as 8x330ml and 24x330ml multipacks and 2l bottles.
CATEGORY ADVICE NEXT-GEN NICOTINE
WHAT PEOPLE ARE BUYING VAPE EXPECTATIONS
With 74% of retailers expecting consumer demand for next-gen nicotine products to increase in 2026, SIMON KING reports on the post-disposables boom
AS the traditional cigarette market continues to decline, demand for smoke-free alternatives is growing in the UK.
The disposables ban forced a reset, moving shoppers, retailers and suppliers towards re llable devices, pods and pouches. This year is about education and habit building, helping adult customers choose legal alternatives that feel familiar but are compliant, reliable and supported.
Paul Dufourne, director of commercial operations at
Philip Morris in the UK and Ireland, says: “Adult nicotine users want more choice than ever. They want a variety of options that meet every need, supporting the switch away from cigarettes for good.”
Avtar Sidhu, owner of St John’s Budgens in Kenilworth, Warwickshire, says the disposables ban forced people into di erent subcategories within vaping, although some have retained the same habits with non-disposable varieties.
“Some have continued us-
ing the 600-pu products –buying the device with the pod – but then they’re coming back and buying a new device with a pod, rather than buying the pods,” he says. “We basically switched on to bigger-pu devices and the liquids have gone done really well.”
Fiona Malone, owner of Tenby Stores & Post O ce in Tenby, Pembrokeshire, says a lot of her customers are doing the same, essentially “using a re llable vape as a disposable”.
THE IMPENDING VAPE DUTY
THE UK government announced it is introducing a Vaping Products Duty and Vaping Duty Stamps scheme that comes into e ect on 1 October 2026, which is designed to curb youth vaping.
This will see a flat-rate excise tax of £2.20 per 10ml of e-liquid applied.
All nicotine and non-nicotine liquids will be taxed, and products must feature a duty stamp, with business registration for the scheme opening on 1 April. Many retailers are
against the new law, with Sidhu calling it counterintuitive.
“This category exists as a reduced-risk product to get people o more harmful products, such as tobacco and cigarettes,” Sidhu says.
“By putting a duty on – and lifting the price and closing the gap between those products – some people may consider carrying on smoking. It will make the illicit trade more appealing.” Malone warns that the vape duty is going to erode retailer
margins, which she says some shops are relying on to stay open. “There’s got to be some let-up and some support for retailers, because otherwise you’re just going to bury us under all of this legislation,” she adds. “Vaping has been a phenomenal margin driver, it’s been amazing.”
Jeet Bansi, owner of Meon Vale Londis in Stratford-uponAvon, Warwickshire, however, says he recently added an additional 40p-50p on top of liquids, without it a ecting sales.
A SPACE TO STOCK UP.
THE TOBACCO AND VAPES BILL
FURTHER legislation is incoming, with the Tobacco and Vapes Bill aiming to create a “smoke-free generation” by making it permanently illegal to sell tobacco products to anyone born on or after 1 January 2009.
The UK-wide bill further restricts youth vaping by regulating vape flavours, packaging and advertising, while introducing a licensing scheme for retailers.
Angelo Yang, associate general manager at Elfbar UK, says the Tobacco and Vapes Bill is still progressing through Parliament, so key details that will a ect retail operations and influence consumer behaviour are yet to be con rmed.
of a retail licensing scheme for vaping products and conrmation of a vape duty from October will place greater emphasis on compliance and responsible retailing across the supply chain, from sourcing and distribution through to retail,” Yang says. Sidhu adds: “We’ve coped with Challenge 25 on cigarettes, alcohol and other age-restricted products, and there’s no reason why vaping couldn’t be part of that.”
Malone adds: “If the government is going to create a completely new licensing scheme, why not piggyback o something we’ve already got – why not add it onto the alcohol licence?
“This is going to cause retailers more costs.”
“The expected introduction
SUPPLIER VIEWS
Lisa Anderson, marketing director, JTI UK
“AS well as stocking a full range of products, it is important that retailers always maintain good stock levels, so that customers have choice available to them.
“As the nicotine pouch category is rapidly growing, consumers will require guidance around the category, including what a pouch is, how to use it and which strengths are available.”
Paul Dufourne, commercial director, Philip Morris
“IN 2026, the smoke-free landscape will increasingly be shaped at the point of sale. As smoke-free ranges continue to expand and shoppers’ needs become more speci c, retailers who can con dently explain the differences between formats and strengths will be best placed to help adult smokers nd products that genuinely suit their needs, giving them greater con dence in their choices and supporting switching for good.”
THE RISE OF THE SUBCATEGORIES
NEXT-GEN nicotine is a varied category with pouches, pods, heated tobacco and more clamouring for attention.
Kelly Busby, owner of Seaborn Stores – Londis in Morecambe, Lancashire, increased her range of nicotine pouches and works with the bigger suppliers.
“They come in and do instore promotions, which helps,” she says. “Sales of
nicotine pouches are growing, although it’s hard to understand and recommend it.”
Nathalie Fullerton, of One Stop Dumbarton Road in Glasgow, says sales of nicotine pouches are steady, with no growth in sales after the disposables ban.
Mark Dudden, owner of Albany Road Stationery & News in Cardi , says that although he still sells a lot of heated to-
bacco, he is not expecting that category to grow in the future. In the pods and re lls subcategory, Busby says that most of her customers buy 20ml products. “Pablo is quite innovative and quirky,” Busby says. “Pablo has flavours such as Cherry Cola and Tropical Punch, whereas the main brands have flavours such as Ruby Berry, Cherry Ice, Peppermint and Spearmint.”
CATEGORY ADVICE NEXT-GEN NICOTINE
WORKING WITH SUPPLIERS
WHEN it comes to training sta on next-gen nicotine products, retailers turn to their suppliers for help because this is not a category you want to get wrong.
Malone says: “We rely on our suppliers to train the sta and we rely on people here that
vape themselves because they understand it better than I do.”
Fullerton adds: “We’ve left training up to the supplier reps. I’ve always said to the sta that if they’re not sure, don’t give advice.
“We go with the advice that the reps have given us, so that
we know that what we’re saying is correct, and we tell customers that we can only guide them on what the manufacturers have recommended to us.”
Busby says: “Sta say that JTI 360 is really good and interactive. They go on there and do quizzes about the products,
and they can actually win stu . “Philip Morris did the same with its Iqos website. Sta can do quizzes about the product and get £5 put into their account – it gives sta an incentive to go and read up about the products, because they’re getting something back.”
GETTING THE DISPLAY RIGHT
CENTRAL to the next-gen nicotine category is in-store merchandising and creating exciting displays.
Yang says: “Displays should be responsibly positioned, ideally behind the counter, to assist age veri cation while still being visible to adult smokers to support smoking-cessation e orts.
“Re ll pods and containers for pre lled pod kits should also be on display next to their compatible devices, as well as nicotine salt e-liquids for open pod systems where relevant. Space should be prioritised for top-selling flavours, with extra facings for fast-moving lines.”
Sidhu has ve shelves of next-gen nicotine products in his store at the moment, but is unsure of what it will look like by the end of the year.
“That category is in such a flux,” Sidhu says. “There are so many new things coming out.”
Fullerton’s display is on a colourful stand with LED lighting, with products merchandised in categories.
“We’ve got them in strengths, so everyone can clearly see what flavours there are, and what strengths they’re in,” Fullerton says. “We have a one-metre vape gantry, which is about 2.5 metres high.”
NEW PRODUCTS
The latest product launches
JTI UK launches strongest nicotine pouches to date JTI UK recently launched Nordic Spirit Frosty Mint Max (17mg), its strongest nicotine pouches to date, Available at an RRP of £6.50 per can, JTI UK says Max is the fastest-growing strength segment within the independents and symbols channel, accounting for 16% of nicotine pouch sales.
New Peach flavour from Juul Labs Juul Labs has recently launched a Peach flavour to further strengthen its o ering to adult smokers. The new flavour joins the Apple, Mango, Watermelon and Lychee flavours that were launched last October. Two-pack pods of Peach Juul2 carry an RRP of £6.99, and retailers can contact their Juul Labs representatives for point-of-sale materials.
New pod kit from Elfbar UK
The Elfbar JoinOne 15 Classic Pre lled Pod Kit includes a 2ml pre lled pod and 10ml re ll container. With an RRP of £12.99, the device features a dualbattery system: a 150mAh pre lled mini unit that can be used on its own, and a 1000mAh external battery that connects magnetically for extended use. Users can switch between base, mid and turbo modes to prolong battery life or boost flavour.
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Nicotine pouches are reshaping the smoke-free category, and ZYN leads the way1 by helping retailers meet growing demand for smokeand vapour-free nicotine products that offer a convenient alternative for adult smokers and nicotine users
HOW TO STOCK IT
WHY STOCK IT?
NICOTINE pouches are one of the fastest-growing nicotine categories in the UK, with Zyn gathering momentum as the world’s number-one
nicotine pouch brand2. With a broad portfolio of strengths, pouch formats and flavours, Zyn helps retailers attract adult smokers and legal-aged
nicotine users seeking choice, convenience and a smoke-free alternative that aligns with modern lifestyles while delivering satisfaction for users.
1 Place Zyn within your smoke-free o ering to support trade-up from cigarettes and vapes, and reinforce nicotine pouches as a smoke-free alternative.
2Merchandise the range by strength, from the new Zyn X-Low 1.5mg through to higher strengths, using the on-pack signposting to support navigation.
3 O er a flavour range that reflects top customer preferences such as mint-led and fruit-led options, while also o ering that all-important choice.
KEY TRENDS RETAILERS NEED
1 Nicotine pouch awareness continues to rise3, with strong growth driven by adult smokers looking for smoke-free alternatives. This presents a clear opportunity for retailers to expand their range and meet demand.
TO KNOW
2Lower-strength nicotine options, like Zyn X-Low 1.5mg, are increasingly important to help adult nicotine users trial the category for the rst time, while supporting flexibility and choice across strengths and flavours.
3 Poly-usage is the norm4, with nicotine pouches complementing other smoke-free alternatives rather than replacing them outright. Usage with other smoke-free options gives adult users more flexibility and choice.
In partnership with
1
Nicotine pouches must only be sold to legalaged nicotine consumers. Always apply Challenge 25 and age veri cation at point-of-sale.
2Only sell Zyn nicotine pouches that are lawfully produced for the UK. Check that there is a UK health warning, tactile labels and 18+ markings.
3
Responsible in-store visibility is essential, with communication around the products aimed at informing adult smokers and nicotine users only.
THERE is no one product that is suitable for all legal-aged nicotine users, which is why having a multi-category product range that delivers on quality is an opportunity retailers should capitalise on.
vidual needs.
2 Educate sta so they can con dently explain how nicotine pouches work and when they may be suitable across di erent usage occasions for a range of users.
Responsible visibility helps build awareness of this growing category in store; use compliant PoS and trained sta to highlight strength options, formats and the di erent usage occasions for your adult customers. Helping adult smokers understand where nicotine pouches can t into their lifestyle drives trial, repeat purchase and incremental sales without disrupting existing purchasing behaviour.
3 Include nicotine pouches within wider smokefree category education, only communicating about the products to legal-aged nicotine users.
this,
ADVICE
USING LOCAL SUPPLIERS
CHARLES WHITTING talks to retailers to nd out how local suppliers are adding to their business
1
Kiefer Shea-Godden, My Local Convenience Ltd, Newport, Gwent
“WE get a lot of our fresh stuff locally. We get deliveries from Peter’s Pies in Bedwas and Brace’s Bakery in Newport. We have sandwiches made by a local guy and we get locally sourced eggs as well. I tend to just stick to these basics rather than going for things like local cheeses and things that you might get at a farm shop.
“We can get them delivered any day of the week, which is really useful for essential products. They’re also much �lexible. In one of the shops, we have another local bread supplier, and they’ll come in every day, see what we need and deliver exactly that. It helps us manage our stock more effectively. You never know how much you’ll need, but with a local supplier who delivers daily, you can just order less. We’ve also got a small local cash and carry that supplies us with toilet rolls, tobacco accessories and some sweets.”
2
Raj Dhother, Whitminster Store, Gloucestershire
3
Nick Thornton, Sam’s Local Shopper, Puham Market, Diss, Norfolk
“I GET bakery goods from one local supplier, and then I get cheese and gammon pieces from another. They were already supplying the shop when we bought it and we’ve stuck with them ever since. They sell well and the people like that local edge. They know it’s local and they want to buy it.
“The companies are very easy to deal with and they always answer the phone. They tend to keep their prices down and delivery is never a problem.
“Ultimately, you do have to look at them from a pro�it perspective. We’ve had someone come in offering to supply us with local quiches, but the pro�it wasn’t there and we didn’t go with it. You can’t be sentimental about it. Local products mean you’re offering something different to the supermarkets, which is really important, but you have to remember that price point.”
“WE have quite a few local suppliers, especially for our essential products. So, we have local milk, eggs, bread and cakes. They all work well and although they’re not as cheap as getting it from Booker, the service is better and customers like to buy local produce.
“The deliveries are better and more �lexible. If you need something urgently, you’re more likely to get a positive response from a local supplier than a negative one. You can also get decent credit terms with local companies.
“I debated getting rid of them when I bought the shop, but I decided to keep them on and customers like to see these local suppliers. I get my cakes and bread delivered every day so they have that freshness, and they don’t have any preservatives in them, which a lot of the national stuff has. I don’t promote it in store, but I talk about it on our website and Facebook page.”
In the next issue, the Retail Express team nds out what retailers can do to make their shopfront more appealing. If you have any problems you’d like us to explore, please email
We use a baker from Stroud, but not much else. Are other retailers leaning into local more?
– Arjun Patel, Premier Cavendish Square, Swindon, Wiltshire
