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FOOD & DRINK MACHINES

What you need to know before investing in this profitable equipment

P20

ICE CATEGORY ADV MACHINES FOOD & DRINKS

WHAT TO KNOW G BEFORE INSTALLIN A FOOD AND INE DRINKS MACH

25 AUGUST-7 SEPTEMBER 2026 STRICTLY FOR TRADE USERS ONLY

es how TAMARA BIRCH explor food and drinks retailers are using footfall and sales machines to drive

HINES ARE WHAT DRINKS MAC G IN? RETAILERS INVESTIN

machine “We’ve had a slush for 10 £3.50 per store “We sell them at from Snowshock in proposition to generates a 70% expanded to ofin it was a unique isn’t cup, which BO- years, but we after our refit RETAILERS are investing to offer my customers and it so even with the ve flavours else in the margin, still made fer fi offer food and drinks machines GOF promotion, we years ago. Now, we solu- available anywhere he says. “And three offer a full food-to-go stores UK at the moment,” he says. Lemon & Lime and Still a 35% margin,” their the Strawberry, of the tion and ensure Sedani stocks Fanta and with summer holidays and but we mix up three exsales will Cola, range drinks in Orange stand out. ongoing heatwave, flavours to keep the One Stop frozen varieties. The point likely increase, too.” Dee Sedani, of Strawberry says. he exfor the Pau, of citing,” cup for Matlock in Derbyshire,the first of difference for him is that Elsewhere, Kalpesh Cross Pau sells a small £1.75, ed, & Parson ample, has become stock a machine is non-carbonat a large for to drinks Kal’s Budgens South £1.25 and convenience store unlike other frozen machine Post Office in Sheffield, 70% margin. The ed, When the a slush ma- generating Fanta Still drinks machine. drinks machines. of- Yorkshire, has Blast, a coffee machine is self-maintain and Pau “Innovation in frozen need- launched in store, Sedani Ice fees, Tango service chine, no we with free dessert machines is hard, but we knew a buy one, get one We were fered paid for it outright. tri- machine and ed another machine. at Fro- promotion (BOGOF) to drive in store. team says he sold 20 drinks. intrigued when the it to us, as al and zen Brothers pitched

• Independent retailers and

supermarkets step up to help victims of extreme weather • Plus: the emergency government

measures impacting your business P3

PAYPOINT

CASH AND CARRY ROBBERIES

PRODUCTS

Retailers urged to stay extra vigilant against new cash payment barcode scam

Criminal gangs targeting high-value stock from delivery vans in spate of depot crime

Mondelez and Mars Wrigley announce their highly awaited Christmas line-ups

SUPPLIER

VIEW

Rachel Wells, commercial director, St Pierre Groupe

merchandised and sweet snacks “MORNING goods strong secondmachines deliver These alongside drinks sales for retailers. convenience ary spend and incremental a core part of the to trade up products have become encouraging shoppers better food-to-go offer, while still representing from standard options shops. value than coffee mealtimes continue traditional as “What’s more, mid-morning now stretches from the window for to blur, lunchtime ernoon, extending ensure drinks through to mid-aft should treats. Retailers and fully stocked, drinks and sweet maintained, clean machines are well and snacks kept looking fresh, goods throughout with morning up with bestsellers appealing and topped the day.”

our say

Alex Yau, editor

The climate change opportunity THIS month, I spent a day with Bestway visiting some of its flagship symbol stores in the south of England. The standards across the Best-one, Bargain Booze and Costcutter stores were impressive, but what really stood out was how prepared these retailers were for major legislation and significant global events. David Wyatt, who operates a Costcutter Bargain Booze hybrid forecourt, has already begun looking at how he can overcome any potential challenges proposed display bans would have on sales of his already extensive vape range. The simple change he’s examining is covering the display at the front so customers cannot see what’s available. RETAILERS HAVE However, staff will still be able IDENTIFIED THE to access the vapes from the back, reducing any obstacles IMPACT OF GLOBAL with remerchandising. Looking further ahead, Wyatt WARMING spotted an opportunity with the drier weather and lack of rain, and has begun offering more car wash services and products to customers. Similarly, Peter Patel, who runs multiple Costcutters across Kent, has also identified the impact global warming will have on his business from an operational standpoint. He’s invested in chillers which can withstand higher temperatures. Although a larger upfront investment, he says the benefits of preventing potential breakdowns and stopping sales losses are worth the extra cost. The intense temperatures are set to become a permanent fixture of the British summer, and a new sales opportunity for many independent retailers.

The five biggest stories this fortnight 01

PayPoint issues payment fraud warning to shops

RYAN BUTCHER

FRAUDSTERS are using a PayPoint barcode scam to trick shop staff into handing over cash when they should instead be taking payment. PayPoint has con�irmed it is aware of reports of the scam, which involves criminals pre-

senting retailers with a barcode on a mobile phone designed to resemble an i-movo cash-out transaction. Retail Express understands the barcode instead triggers a cash-in transaction, meaning the retailer would mistakenly pay cash out if caught unaware. PayPoint said its terminals

already display a warning when the barcode is scanned telling retailers: ‘Stop! Ensure you have taken payment from the customer. Do not give cash out.’ The company is now changing the message to make the required action clearer. The new warning will read: ‘Stop! Ensure you have taken cash

from customer. If not, cancel transaction.’ A PayPoint spokesperson told Retail Express: “We encourage retailers to remain vigilant and ensure they follow the correct procedures or terminal warnings when processing any transaction.” For the full story, go to betterretailing.com and search ‘PayPoint’

@retailexpress betterretailing.com facebook.com/betterretailing Editor Alex Yau alex.yau@ newtrade.co.uk 020 7689 3358

Associate editor Jack Courtez jack.courtez@ newtrade.co.uk 020 7689 3371

Editor-in-chief Louise Banham louise.banham@ newtrade.co.uk

News editor Ryan Butcher ryan.butcher@ newtrade.co.uk

Features editor Charles Whitting charles.whitting@ newtrade.co.uk 020 7689 3350

News reporter Kwame Boakye kwame.boakye@ newtrade.co.uk

Features & advertorial writer Shyama Laxman shyama.laxman@ newtrade.co.uk

Deputy insight & advertorial editor Jasper Hart jasper.hart@ newtrade.co.uk 020 7689 3384

Production manager Chris Gardner 020 7689 3368

Head of marketing Kate Daw 020 7689 3363

Finance manager Magdalena Kalasiuniene 020 7689 0600

Senior production & content editor Ryan Cooper 020 7689 3354

Head of commercial Natalie Reeve 07856 475 788

Managing director Parin Gohil 020 7689 3388

Copy editor Minhaj Zia

Senior account director Lindsay Hudson 07749 416 544

Head of digital Luthfa Begum 07909 254 949

Senior designer Jody Cooke 020 7689 3380

Senior account manager Tommy King 020 7689 3387

Designer Lauren Jackson

Cover image: Getty Images/Amguy/freedom_naruk

42,624

Asda Wholesale

ASDA has kicked off a new wholesale venture, which will see it supply independent retailers who adopt its ‘Asda Convenience’ format. In an exclusive interview with Retail Express, Joseph

Sutton, director of Asda Ex- THE National Lottery is repress, fuel and wholesale, viving the £10 scratchcard, said: “It’s a massive opportu- seven years after they were nity to combine great own la- scrapped over links with bel, extensive fresh access, a problem gambling. broad range overall and really Allwyn will begin trialgood pricing.” ling its new ‘When It’s Gold

For the full story, go to betterretailing.com and search ‘Asda’

lieves the theft was part of a wider pattern of criminals targeting retailers at cash and carry sites. He claimed the same group had struck at depots in Edinburgh, Glasgow, Aberdeen and Dundee.

Smiths News toys

INDEPENDENT retailers can now purchase toys, collectables and gifting products from Smiths News, with the wholesaler giving access to major brands including Mattel, Top Trumps and Ty.

Retail Express is printed and distributed by NewsAudit Bureau of Circulations July 2024 to June 2025 printers at Broxbourne and delivered to news average net circulation per issue retailers free by their newspaper wholesaler. Published by: Newtrade Media Limited, 11 Angel Gate, City Road, London EC1V 2SD Phone: 020 7689 0600 Retail Express’ publisher, Newtrade Media, cares about the environment Reproduction or transmission in part or whole of any item from Retail Express may only be undertaken with the prior written agreement of the Editor. Contributions are welcome and are included in part or whole at the sole discretion of the editor. Newtrade Media Limited accepts no responsibility for submitted material. Every possible care is taken to ensure the accuracy of information. No warranty for goods or services described is implied.

For the full story, go to betterretailing.com and search ‘robbery’

Outside’ scratchcard in selected stores from early September. The cards offer four £4m top prizes – double the current highest Scratchcard jackpot – and is targeted at seasonal gifting.

For the full story, go to betterretailing.com and search ‘Allwyn’

Retailer robbery

A RETAILER has warned others to stay vigilant after thieves stole stock and a four�igure sum of cash from his van while shopping at Booker Port Dundas in Glasgow. Kiran Atkinson Sood be-

New £10 scratchcard

For the full story, go to betterretailing.com and search ‘Smiths News’

The news wholesaler has launched a new online store for its existing newspaper and magazine customers, with no minimum quantity on most of the available lines and free delivery.

@retailexpress facebook.com/betterretailing

25 AUGUST-7 SEPTEMBER 2026 betterretailing.com

alex.yau@newtrade.co.uk 020 7689 3358

Retailers step up to give support amid wildfire crisis ALEX YAU INDEPENDENT retailers and supermarkets have rallied to support communities devastated by widespread wild�ires and extreme dry conditions across the UK. Over the past few months, parts of England, Scotland and Wales have been hit by extreme weather emergencies, with the �ires destroying homes and woodland. Fires have been blamed on a number of factors including the heatwave, arson, discarded cigarettes and disposable barbecues not being extinguished properly, with some �ire�ighters spending days tackling blazes. Stourbridge in the West Midlands was one of the worst-hit areas in August, with nearly 40 homes being either destroyed or severely damaged. Multi-site retailer Shiv Gill has a SimplyFresh store based in the area. He told Retail Express: “The shop is about a �ive-minute drive from where the wild�ire broke out. Some customers have been impacted and one woman who comes to the shop said her house was all burned down. “It’s all about consoling them where we can, really. There’s not much we can physically do at this moment, but we’re here to listen to them and offer any support we are able to when they come in.”

Another retailer based in the West Midlands area has been donating clothing to those who have lost their belongings after their homes were destroyed. Meanwhile, Julia Bywater, of Bywater Newsagents in Dudley, has been fundraising in-store for nearby animal shelter Brockswood. The extreme temperatures have dried out the grass used to feed the animals, while also damaging fencing and railing. Bywater added: “We’ve worked with them before because we try to help each other out as small businesses. There’s a collection tin in the shop and customers have been putting a few quid in each time to support them. We also share whatever they put out to raise more knowledge among our customers.” Elsewhere, supermarkets have also been playing their part in supporting those affected by the natural wild�ire crisis Posting on its Facebook page, Morrisons Newport said: “We were proud to make a donation to South Wales Fire and Rescue Service to support their vital work tackling wild�ires.” The supermarket donated electrolyte drinks, water and snacks to the �ire service. Similarly, Asda Elgin donated two large pallets of water to local �ire�ighters who had worked tirelessly to tackle a blaze in the area. Retailers looking to help

express yourself “WE’VE got nearly 1,700 followers on Facebook. It’s taken us nearly two years, and we’ve very much focused on the local people. We keep them engaged with little competitions all the time. Our best one was two tickets for £100 to a local Ibiza night. If people shared the post and tagged who they’d want to go with, they’d be in with a chance of winning the tickets. That won us 300 new followers.” Don Antony Manavalan, Nisa Local Northfields, Stamford, Lincolnshire

GOOD WEEK SPAR UK: The chain has appointed Jerome Saint-Marc as its new managing director. Saint-Marc, who succeeds Michael Fletcher, has held senior roles at Tesco, Morrisons, Wilko and, most recently, Co-op. Fletcher will step back from day-to-day responsibilities at the end of August before leaving the business in early November. For the full story, go to betterretailing.com and search ‘Spar’ DRS: More than half (55%) of consumers would be likely to spend their refunds in store during the same visit if it was issued as a voucher, according to new research from Danone. More than two-thirds (68%) would also be likely to return drinks containers as part of a shopping trip once the scheme launches next year. For the full story, go to betterretailing.com and search ‘DRS’

BAD WEEK

those impacted should be diligent about which wild�ire fundraisers they support. This month, Dudley Council warned of a rise in fake fundraising pages claiming to raise money for Stourbridge �ire victims. The aid comes as convenience retailers have been ordered by the government to stop selling disposable barbecues in store and online. The temporary measures have been designed to reduce the risk of further wild�ires breaking out. In a statement, the gov-

the column where you can make your voice heard

ernment said: “Disposable barbecues cannot be considered a safe product in the context of the ongoing weather and environmental conditions, and must not be made available for sale either in store or online at the current time.” The risks posed by disposable barbecues were highlighted by a blaze on heathland at Cannock Chase in July, which Staffordshire County Council said was started by one. Retailers were mixed about the ban, with some agreeing it was necessary

to protect the environment. Neil Godhania, of Nisa Heacham in King’s Lynn, told Retail Express: “It will affect our sales because the shop is based in a tourist area. There’s a campsite with space for 200 caravans. “I’ll need to look at the data in more detail, but most people are adults and most will use barbecues away from grass or anything else that risks catching �ire. We’ll have to look at promoting other products they can buy in the meantime to offset any impact.”

SAINSBURY’S: The supermarket has suspended live facial recognition technology at a London branch after a customer was falsely identified as a shoplifter and asked to leave. The supermarket has apologised for the error. Facewatch – the company behind the technology – claimed its system was not at fault and said the mistake was due to “human error”. GROCERY: Spending in symbol and independent stores has fallen year on year despite growth across the wider grocery market, new figures reveal. Worldpanel by Numerator data shows sales through symbols and independents fell 2.9% year on year in the 12 weeks to 9 August, from £516m to £501m. For the full story, go to betterretailing.com and search ‘Worldpanel’

How do you make your business stand out on social media?

“RETAILERS should look at and learn from what other people are already doing on Facebook. They should also make use of the analytics tools Meta provides to assess what is having the greatest impact. We monitor and evaluate our activations and promotions to see what’s actually driving growth and uplift. It’s trial and error, but we’re on that journey.” Bobby Singh, BB Nevison Superstore, Pontefract, West Yorkshire

“GOOGLE is very important. We’ve had new pictures of the shop taken following a refit and we’ll be posting them on Google. Make sure the small things like your hours are up to date. The last thing people want to see is the shop saying it’s open when it’s not. You can never stop a bad review being posted, but you can always simmer it down. If you can justify it, then do that. And if you can’t, then apologise and say it won’t happen again.” Amit Patel, One Stop Duchy Stores, Manchester

Do you have an issue to discuss with other retailers? Call 020 7689 3358 or email alex.yau@newtrade.co.uk

Amit Patel

NEWS

25 AUGUST-7 SEPTEMBER 2026 betterretailing.com

Retailer solar eclipse opportunity ALEX YAU

RETAILERS risked being scammed while others missed out on deliveries of solar eclipse sunglasses, as the rare event helped one store generate thousands of pounds in extra sales. The celestial phenomenon on 12 August led to widespread demand for the special protective eyewear, with customers asking for them

weeks in advance. Londonbased AM2PM Convenience bene�ited from the hype, with the store reportedly selling 6,000 pairs in one day. The retailer had to restrict the £5 glasses to just two per person, with customers queuing for hours. Other retailers spotted the opportunity but missed out due to delays in their orders. Vas Vekaria, of Kegs N Blades in Bolton, told Retail Express:

“Customers were asking if we were selling the sunglasses a couple of weeks in advance. To be fair, we were a bit late in ordering them and had to cancel as they were due to come a day after the eclipse. I remember the last eclipse in 1999 generated a lot of interest and the newspapers were giving away free protective sunglasses. “For future events, you’ve just got to keep an eye on the

news. Traditional wholesalers won’t have these products, so you’ve got to look elsewhere, such as specialised suppliers or Amazon.” Multi-site Best-one retailer Kay Patel urged retailers to check their suppliers carefully for future events. He added: “Some suppliers I contacted thought it would be acceptable to sell standard sunglasses for the eclipse, which would have been dangerous.”

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Fraud crackdown HMRC says it will carry out more than 30,000 interventions against tax fraud and illegal high street activity this year as retailers and the public are urged to report suspicious businesses.

The crackdown will target criminal networks involved in tax fraud, labour exploitation, and the sale of illicit tobacco and vapes. Reports can be made anonymously. For the full story, go to betterretailing.com and search ‘HMRC’

BESTWAY SALES SUPPORT BESTWAY is improving the way it works with symbol retailers by offering bespoke business plans to help boost sales. The support will be available to all of the group’s fascia customers from September. Business development managers have received extra training, enabling them to sit down with a retailer and identify areas where sales are lagging.

For the full story, go to betterretailing.com and search ‘Bestway’

Immigration rules RETAILERS who previously recruited staff from abroad say tighter immigration rules have made it harder to �ill vacancies. Introduced by the Home Of�ice in July, the changes

Scan the QR code to get started or visit tinyurl.com/club-rewards to ﬁnd out more

For the full story, go to betterretailing.com and search ‘visas’

raised the salary threshold for skilled worker visas to at least £41,700 and removed eligibility for many non-graduate roles, including shop workers. Existing visa holders are unaffected.

All grants are nonrepayable

We help shop staff as well as business owners NewstrAid’s Retailer Support Scheme • Do you work in a shop that sells newspapers and magazines?

For more information, contact us for FREE on 0800 917 8616 email mail@newstraid.org.uk

www.newstraid.org.uk/retailer-support-scheme/ NB. Financial support must be for commitments outside the business and will be subject to eligibility checks.

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PRODUCTS

Mondelez launches X-mas line SHYAMA LAXMAN MONDELEZ International has unveiled its 2026 Christmas range, which features new lines and returning favourites. The new entrants are Cadbury Biscoff Filled Centres available as a single (98p) and in a three-pack multipack (£3.29), Cadbury Dairy Milk Biscoff Pouch (£6.29) and Cadbury Dairy Milk Smash Bauble (£2.70), �illed with Buttons or Freddo pieces. The supplier also identi�ies three stages of Christmas sales – a ‘fast start’ in September when retailers must prepare for more big-night-in occasions by stocking up on self-eat treats and sharing

formats like Cadbury Puds, Cadbury Mini Snowballs and Cadbury Dairy Milk Robins. In the countdown to Christmas, gifting blocks become key. Retailers can choose between the classic Cadbury Dairy Milk 345g bar and the returning Cadbury Dairy Milk Biscoff. Other options include Cadbury Mini Snow Balls and Cadbury Dairy Milk Winter Wonderland. The gifting �inish sales, taking place in December, form 37% of total Christmas sales in the channel, with Cadbury Medium Selection Box and Cadbury Milk Tray proving popular. In addition to Cadbury Dairy Milk 90g Advent Calendar and the Cadbury Dairy Milk

Biscoff Advent Calendar, the brand has also brought back Cadbury Dairy Milk Coins.

conscious customers looking for full strength cigarettes. The introduction of Players Classic marks a milestone for the brand, which is chosen by one in 10 smokers in the UK.

YOPLAIT has launched its �irst-ever Yop 500g bottle – price-marked at £1.59 – in its popular strawberry �lavour. The launch comes as the brand looks to expand its share in the impulse channel. According to Nielsen, Yop is currently worth £10.3m and growing year on year in value and volume, at 4% and 10%, respectively. Furthermore, almost seven million bottles of Yop were sold in 2025. Earlier this year, the brand underwent a refresh to ensure it stands out on shelf and appeals to its target audience of teenagers and young adults. The new PMP is available from Eden Farm, Parfetts and Bestway Wholesale.

ENERGY drinks brand C4 has teamed up with The Magnum Ice Cream Company‘s Wall’s to launch a variant called C4 x Twister Pineapple. The drink combines Twister’s blend of strawberry, lime and pineapple with the C4 formulation. It is available from Wholesale Sweets, in a 500ml can, with an RRP of £1.65. The product is also available via Amazon. In January 2025, C4 expanded its co-

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EBF S&B Japanese range additions EMPIRE Bespoke Foods has extended its S&B range of Japanese ingredients in response to growing consumer demand for Japanese cuisine. Four products are now available for the �irst time in the UK: Umami Toppings in two �lavours – Crunchy Garlic Mild and Crunchy Garlic

Spicy both priced at £3.75, and Salt Pickled Plum Paste – also known as Umeboshi – and Yuzo Miso Paste each retailing at £1.99. Kantar �igures reveal Japanese food now accounts for 7.3% of the World Foods category and growing at 12%.

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branded range with confectionery brand Millions by launching C4 Millions Apple.

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Imperial Brands adds Yoplait unveils its first-ever Yop PMP value to Players IMPERIAL Brands has added a new full-strength value cigarette to its Players portfolio called Players Classic. Retailing at £14.60, it is available in Kingsize and Superking formats. The launch is aimed at helping retailers attract and retain value-

C4 joins forces with Wall’s Twister

Curry Smugglers drops Desi Lager SOUTH Asian snacks brand Curry Smugglers has tapped into the craft beer space with the launch of Desi Lager. The brand has introduced two �lavours – a 4.2% ABV vegan and gluten-free

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Basmati Rice Lager inspired by India’s brewing heritage, and an alcohol-free Mango Mirchi Lager that combines Alphonso mangoes with habanero chillis. Basmati Rice Lager retails at £4.99 whereas Mango Mirchi Lager is priced at £4.50.

Yoplait launches Frubes yoghurt

Topps taps into Premier League fever

YOPLAIT has collaborated with the �ilm KPop Demon Hunters. Flavour packs for Strawberry, Red Berries and Peach will bear K-Pop Demon Hunters characters for a limited time. The back of the packs features a card collection which fans can match and swap with friends. Each

TOPPS has launched its Flagship Premier League 2026/27 trading card range ahead of the upcoming football season. It features players from all 20 clubs, including Erling Haaland, Declan Rice, Cole Palmer and Junior Kroupi. The range also has all-new case hits, including The Rise, Perfect Storm and Home Pitch, alongside the return of Chrome Classics. The cards are available in formats including display box, starter pack, super tin and value box. The prices range from £13.99 to £88.

Frubes tube will be designed with a different character and include fun facts. There’s also a surprise for shoppers who �ind Derpy Tiger in their packs.

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25 AUGUST-7 SEPTEMBER 2026 betterretailing.com

Origin Coffee debuts Jaffa Cookies RTD iced black available to indies ORIGIN Coffee has launched its �irst ready-to-drink (RTD) Iced Black Coffee, available in a 250ml can. The launch is backed by an exclusive 24-pack wholesale trade case retailing at £43.60. The RTD coffee category is valued at more than £367m and growing at 10.5% year on year, according to Circana �igures. Meanwhile, Kantar data reveals the category is driven by Millennial and Gen Z consumers, with iced coffee now ranking as the third-

most-popular drink for 1835s. Origin’s latest product seeks to respond directly to this demand.

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EXCLUSIVE: Pladis’ latest iteration of McVitie’s Jaffa Cakes, called Jaffa Cookies, is now available at wholesalers serving convenience stores. According to information seen by Retail Express in a wholesaler’s brochure, McVitie’s Jaffa Cookies come in a case size of eight, in plain and £2.50 price-marked packs. It is expected to bring retailers 25.1% pro�it on return. It initially launched in Asda Express stores, ahead

of rolling out in Asda stores nationwide from 25 June, followed by grocery retailers from 20 July.

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Grace Foods expands Kwenched launches Saké-Tini RTD Dunn’s range GRACE Foods has expanded its Dunn’s River portfolio with the launch of Jamaican Green Seasoning. Retailing at £2.95 and available through cash and carry wholesalers, it combines a blend of scallions, thyme, garlic, onion and mild Scotch peppers. The brand has also refreshed its Dunn’s River seasonings range with a new pack design featuring bolder colours and Caribbean-inspired graphics. The supplier says the new look aims to help the product stand out on shelf.

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EBF expands Master Cook range EMPIRE Bespoke Foods has extended its panAsian Master Cook range with the addition of three new easy-cook Indian meal kits and two Korean condiments. The lines are ‘just heat and eat’ dal and rice combo meals (£2.50/300g) in three �lavours – Northern Tarka Dal, Delhi Dal Makhani and Punjabi Chana Masala. Also joining the Master Cook line-up are Korean-style Gochujang Ketchup (£2.19/285g) and Gochujang Paste (£2.09/135g).

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EXCLUSIVE: Independent drinks brand Kwenched has launched a range of saké-based RTD cocktails called Saké-Tini. Retailing at £4.50 for a 150ml can, the cocktails are available in three �lavours: Matcha Passionfruit, Lychee Elder�lower and Jalapeño Chilli Lime with an ABV of 8.4%. To support retailers, Kwenched is also offering point-of-sale materials alongside in-store

sampling to help drive trial and educate shoppers about the category.

EXCLUSIVE: Starbucks’ latest RTD �lavour is now available via wholesale. According to listings seen by Retail Express in a wholesaler’s catalogue, the new Starbucks Matcha Latte is available in a case of 10 retailing at £1.25 each. It is expected to bring retailers 16% pro�it on return. The brand also launched a Strawberry Matcha Latte earlier this month, which, along with Matcha

Latte, was �irst available in supermarkets and grocery stores across the UK, and are permanent additions to Starbucks’ RTD range.

Gummi Popz enter UK via Spar SPAR has become the �irst retailer to introduce American candy brand Gummi Popz in the UK for an exclusive two-month period, running from 27 August to 27 October. Retailing at £1.79, Gummi Popz comes in two �lavours: Wild Berry and Citrus Sour. It combines gummies, candy gel and popping candy to deliver a multi-sensory candy experience. Gummi Popz will be widely available from No-

vember once Spar’s exclusivity window ends.

MCCOY’S – the of�icial Savoury Snacks Partner of the NFL UK and Ireland –

has launched an on-pack promotion. Running until 8 November, the promotion spans the full McCoy’s range, including PMP, sharing bags, grab bags, multipacks and the new McCoy’s Coated Nuts range. The headline prize is an all-expenses-paid trip to the Super Bowl LXI in California next year and £5,000 cash. Runner-up prizes include cash, TVs and NFL London game tickets.

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McCoy’s rings in NFL with new promo

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NEW CAMPAIGN sponsored

Starbucks’ new RTDs Refresh your RTDs available to c-stores with Smirnoff Crush

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FOLLOWING the success of the original Smirnoff Crush Lemon & Lime and Mango & Peach varieties, Diageo has expanded the range with the launch of Smirnoff Crush Blueberry & Pomegranate. The new �lavour gives convenience retailers another exciting option within the fast-growing RTD category, helping retailers capitalise on growing shopper demand for convenient, �lavour-led drinks. Available in 440ml cans (6% ABV), it has an RRP of £2.99. For more information, sign up to Diageo One online or via the app

PRODUCTS

Mars drops 2026 X-mas lines SHYAMA LAXMAN MARS Wrigley has expanded its Christmas 2026 portfolio by adding three new products. First up is Crispy M&M’s Mini Santas – a small sharing bag of crispy, creamy Santashaped pieces, alongside the original single ‘self-eat’ option. This is an extension of the brand’s Crispy M&M’s Santa range, which debuted last year and offers shoppers an accessible festive treat ahead of peak gifting season. The brand is also looking to grow the Selection Box format, by launching The Snickers & Friends Selection Box. Combining Snickers, Twix, Mars and Snickers Creamy

Duo, it is the �irst Snickersled gifting solution, aimed at recruiting male consumers who are under-indexed in the selection box gifting segment. NIQ �igures reveal that December is the strongest month for seasonal confec-

tionery, with shoppers turning to larger sharing formats. Therefore, The Snickers & Friends Selection Box will increase revenue opportunities for retailers by expanding audience demographic. Mars Wrigley’s second eve-

ryday boxed confectionery launch, Maltesers White Box, targets under-35-year-old shoppers who over-index in white chocolate.

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25 AUGUST-7 SEPTEMBER 2026 betterretailing.com

Ritter Sport and Haribo partner up RITTER Sport and Haribo have partnered to launch a co-branded line called Ritter Sport x Haribo Balla Bites. The limited-edition 100g chocolate block combines Ritter Sport’s milk chocolate with chewy Haribo Balla Bites, priced at £2. Supported by Ritter Sport UK’s largest-ever retail activation programme, the launch will feature more than 4,500 branded shipper displays to increase in-store visibility. A further 21,000

distribution points across grocery, wholesale and convenience are also expected to be introduced.

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Rollover rolls in with Asahi encourages to Time to give away with Cadbury seek, find and win Chicken Snack Box ROLLOVER has expanded its hot food-to-go range with the launch of the Chicken Tenders Snack Box, available alongside a hot honey dip. Retailing at £3.50, the new addition comes as chicken is now the second-most popu-

lar food-to-go option. Meanwhile, boneless is people’s preferred way of enjoying fried chicken. Furthermore, the protein snack category has grown by more than 50% in the past four years.

PoS and merchandise. The promotion runs until 30 September.

CADBURY’S ‘Giveaway Give Away’ campaign returns for a second year across Cadbury, Sour Patch Kids, Maynards Bassetts and Trebor lines after its 2025 debut. A £25,000 grand prize and several smaller cash prizes are up for grabs. Shoppers must buy a promotional pack and either scan the QR code or visit the competition web-

site and enter their details. If selected, they can nominate someone to receive their cash prize instead. Cadbury is urging retailers to stock up on participating lines to drive footfall and engagement.

NEW CAMPAIGN

LAUNCH

KitKat expands sharing bars range KITKAT has widened its sharing bar portfolio with two new �lavours: Milk Chocolate and Brownie. The new �lavours join the existing range, comprising Hazelnut, Salted Caramel, Double Chocolate and Cookie Dough. They are available now in wholesalers across

ASAHI Super Dry has launched its ‘Seek, Find & Win’ campaign, giving premium beer fans a chance to win prizes. New limited-edition bottles and cans have been rolled out across multipacks of Asahi Super Dry 12x330ml bottle, 4x440ml can and Asahi Super Dry 0.0% 4x330ml can. Consumers who discover the unique bottle or can within these packs will win one of several trips to Tokyo for themselves and a guest. Retailers can avail exclusive

the UK in plain and £1.50 price-marked packs. According to Circana �igures, KitKat Sharing Bars are now the �ifth bestselling sharing bars brand in convenience, having hit £18.4m in value.

LAUNCH

Bluey snack bars available to indies

Join The Club with Coca-Cola

EXCLUSIVE: KELLOGG’S new HFSScompliant Bluey-themed snack bars are now available at wholesalers serving independent convenience stores, Retail Express can reveal. The bars are available in two varieties: Chocolate and Strawberry & White Chocolate. Each pack contains four bars and are available in a case size of 10. While the supplier’s RRP is £1.75, the wholesaler’s recommended retail price is £1.50, and expected to bring retailers 17.7% pro�it on return.

CCEP has refreshed its 500ml Coca-Cola Supercan range and launched a shopper loyalty platform, The Club, as the Premier League season commences. It has also brought back its Superfan promo as part of the new ‘Taste Every Second’ campaign. Running until 31 October, it spans the Supercan format of Coca-Cola Original Taste, Zero Sugar, Diet Coke and Cherry. Promo packs feature a code. Shoppers can scan the on-pack QR code and enter their code in the Coca-Cola app to join The

LAUNCH

NEW CAMPAIGN

Club and unlock rewards. Prizes include Premier League hospitality tickets, VIP stadium tours and Sky Sports packages.

WIN £250 OF GRENADE STOCK ENTER HERE

Full terms and conditions can be found at www.betterretailing.com/competitions

AILERS ENCE RET D CONVENI NEWS AN G TITLE FOR THE LEADIN

THE LEADING

RANGE ADVICE

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CATEGORY ADVICE

Alternative snacking brands

Eight brands and 10 launches in healthie snacking deservin r on your shelves g space Page 34

IMPROVE YOUR

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 WEIGHT-LOSS DRUGS: Has increased demand hit your sales?

RANGE

Your area’s top beers and ciders

Make sure you’re not missing out on bestselling lines in your region Page 28

WHOLESALE

NEWS

Scottish symbol invasion

KeyStore expands efforts to convert more English store owners to its brand Page 5

“ONE of my customers openly talks about weight-loss drugs, so I’m aware of it. She still comes in to buy items for her kids, but buying for her own consumption has disappeared – things like energy drinks and chocolate. She told me: ‘I’m just not hungry anymore.’”

● See where you

could be making more from your soft drinks offer

Ferhan Ashiq, Levenhall Village Store, Musselburgh

● Get more from

“MEAL-PREP dishes are selling really well, particularly meals under 500 calories. We’re also seeing more people choose lighter snacks, such as Popchips, Skips and Quavers. These are customers I’ve known for years. Some have been open about taking weight-loss drugs.” Natalie Lightfoot, Londis Solo Convenience, Glasgow

We’re seeing more people choose lighter snacks

your wholesaler with better prices, promotions and support

DEPOSIT RETURN SCHEME: How are you preparing for the legislation?

The meeting about DRS was positive

“I MET with Senedd Member Shav Taj to discuss the Senedd’s decision to not yet appoint a deposit management organisation, the uncertainty this will create and the government’s continued push to include glass. The meeting was positive, and we agreed to continue working together.” Mark Dudden, Albany Road Stationery & News Cardiff

“I’M going to install machines across all my stores, and this process will probably begin six months before DRS kicks in across England. I need to ensure there’s a good timeframe to get customers educated on DRS. There’s a risk I could lose them to a rival store if I’m not prepared.”

Peter Patel, Costcutter Bargain Booze Meopham, Gravesend

DISPOSABLE BBQS: Do you back the government’s temporary ban?

EXCLUSIVE PRICING DATA TO BOOST YOUR PROFITS Pricewatch: discover the most profitable price points on top-selling hot beverages

“I STOPPED selling disposable barbecues three years ago after two local �ires were caused by barbecues placed on dry grass. There were two instances where disposable barbecues were put straight on the ground and scorched a much bigger area.” Christine Hope, Hopes of Longtown, Herefordshire

“IT’S the times we’re living in now with the dry spells. It makes sense, but generally, all year round, people can use it as a quick convenience. I don’t think banning them in general is a good idea. In extreme weather, it makes sense to restrict that sale.” Tarven Singh, Nisa Local Courthouse Green, Coventry

It makes sense to restrict that sale LOCAL EVENTS: How do you set these up in your community?

KNOW MORE ● SELL MORE ● MAKE MORE ORDER YOUR COPY from your magazine wholesaler today. Find out more at bit.ly/RNMagazine

It has already brought in an extra £2,000

“WE have a pizza truck here every Thursday night and we put picnic benches out there, and people can come along, buy their pizza from the van, and then buy alcohol and ice cream from us to go with it. It’s been going for four weeks and has already brought in an extra £2,000 in turnover.” Paul Thomas, One Stop Main Avenue, Bridgend

“I HAD spent £1,200 on radio advertising in Cornwall for my business, but this year I spent that money over a single weekend on a stall at The Bath & West Showground at the start of July. After that weekend, we had hundreds of new followers on Instagram over the following days.” Stuart Kirk, Betty’s News, Mawgan Porth, Cornwall

LETTERS

25 AUGUST-7 SEPTEMBER 2026 betterretailing.com

Harj Wilmcote Village Stores, Dhasee Warwickshire

Letters may be edited

A new approach has changed my shop

‘Police’s retail crime response is a lottery’

CONSERVATIVE leader Kemi Badenoch suggests it is better to grant early release to shoplifters. This is an example of politicians opening their mouths before engaging their brains. Early release of criminals is Badenoch’s answer to relieve overcrowding of prisons.

In the same week, an independent report said that reoffending after early release is on the increase. This is simply stating the obvious. Will she explain the point of catching the criminals in the �irst place? Retailers are deterred by the police from tackling the criminals. Shop

COMMUNITY RETAILER

OF THE WEEK

Sunita Aggarwal, Spar Wigston, Leicester

assistants and security guards have been charged for simply doing their job, crime prevention. Some have even lost their jobs. How absurd. Police response to the retail crime is like a lottery. Start with �lurry of activities followed by two months of silence.

Whenever the courts award �ines to compensate the victims, they fail to collect the full amount imposed by the courts. This is adding insult to injury. Clearly all laid out for the criminals, not the victims. Rama Varambia, Snutch News, Leicester

COMMUNITY RETAILER

OF THE WEEK

Priyesh Vekaria, One Stop Duchy Stores, Salford

‘The support makes a real difference’

‘The sacrifice has never been lost’

“THIS year’s Raj Aggarwal charity fundraising day raised £22,000 for the Boparan Charitable Trust to support its work with disabled and seriously ill children. The annual event was established in memory of my late husband Raj Aggarwal, who passed away during the pandemic. This year’s edition included a quiz hosted by The Chase star Darragh Ennis and a World Cup-inspired cocktail-making experience. The support we receive each year means we can continue making a real difference to children and families who need it most while honouring Raj’s memory.”

“DUCHY Stores is ours. Today, I couldn’t be prouder of my younger brother Amit Patel as he takes the business forward and raises the bar once again. But Amit’s story deserves more than simply being described as the next generation taking over. Years ago, when our parents needed him most due to health reasons, Amit made the decision to step away from further education and put his own plans aside to support them and the family business. That sacrifice has never been lost on me. I’m incredibly proud of you, Amit.”

WE purchased our store five years ago, and it was a CTN doing about £4,500 a week. We ran it but we weren’t giving it much love, improving things here and there, and ultimately getting it up to weekly sales of around £12,000. It was time for a change. We effectively knocked it down and rebuilt it at the start of the year. It’s looking a Each issue, one of seven top lot fresher, but the retailers shares advice to main change was make your store magnificent the focus on the range itself, which came with a change in symbol. We looked around and tried other symbols, ultimately going with Spar. And that was because they had good offers when it comes to chilled goods, because we want to be a chilled-led store. We could order single picks of them, get late ordering – up to 8pm for next-day delivery – all of which really helped us grow the chilled side of our offer. We need to get the right product range to change shoppers’ habits within the village so they would come to us for their chilled shop. We joined Spar earlier this year, and our weekly sales are already up past £16,000. It’s been built around tailoring the range. It’s the same with wine and spirits, where Spar will allow us to purchase single lines, which means we can have a wide range without having to hold a large amount of stock. When you’re looking at joining a symbol, don’t just think about the availability, the pricing or the promotions. Those are key things that you’ll need, but you want something more from a symbol partner. Look for unique things each symbol will offer that will help you tailor your business better to your plans. If we’d joined another symbol group with our chilled plans, we would have been killed on the wastage as we tried to build the offer.

Get in touch

@retailexpress betterretailing.com facebook.com/betterretailing alex.yau@newtrade.co.uk 020 7689 3358

CATEGORY ADVICE BIG NIGHT IN

HOW TO GET BIGGER SALES FROM BIG NIGHTS IN The concept of the big night in is now firmly established, and as money worries continue, it now cuts across all different age groups and is widening even further. TIM MURRAY reports

BIG NIGHT IN GETS BIGGER THE big night in has become something of a British institution, as cost-of-living issues have hit households and continue to play a part in home decision making. “Since the pandemic and with the ongoing cost-of-living crisis, more and more customers are having big nights in,” says Peter Robinson, from

Robinson Retail in Pembroke. The same cost pressures facing retailers – increased rents, energy costs and wage rises in hospitality – mean that eating and drinking out are becoming increasingly costly, with partying at home growing. “As shoppers continue to feel the pinch from rising living costs, many are re-

thinking nights out – with eating and drinking out increasingly viewed as prohibitively expensive and 69% of occasions now taking place in the home,” says Aston Manor head of marketing Grace Anthony. “Consumers still want to socialise and enjoy themselves – they’re just doing it differently.”

25 AUGUST-7 SEPTEMBER 2026 betterretailing.com

Stock more Lindt. Sell more Lindt. No.1* Premium bars and snacking brand

Lindt Treat Range Premium chocolate. Stronger sales. *Source: Circana, 52 w/e 21.03.26, Total Market

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CATEGORY ADVICE BIG NIGHT IN

WIDENING THE DEFINITION ‘BIG night in’ is an all-encompassing phrase that covers any major socialising occasion at home. “A big night in can be anything from a night on the sofa with a partner, watching sport, a movie or your favourite Saturday night TV show, to a group of friends gathering for a celebra-

tion,” says Georgia Ladbrook, shopper marketing manager at BrewDog. “Although the big night in was perhaps once the preserve of seasonal or big sports events, it’s moved beyond that,” adds Empire Bespoke Foods brand manager Akash Mittal. “Key cultural events including TV

show launches, football tournaments, major sporting finals and school holidays also act as powerful triggers for group nights in. These shared experiences often revolve around convenient meals, fun snacks and indulgent drinks.” “The criteria for a big night in will vary from customer to

25 AUGUST-7 SEPTEMBER 2026 betterretailing.com

NEW PRODUCTS customer,” says Brioche Pasquier national retail sales manager Duncan Chappell. “While for students this may involve drinking and games, families often take a more relaxed approach with entertainment for kids, drinks for adults and everyone coming together over an impressive selection of food.”

Launches from high-margin categories BrewDog BrewDog has extended its PMP range, adding Lost Lager (£7.35) and Cold Beer Pint Can (£5.49) fourpack PMPs to the existing Punk IPA and Hazy Jane four-packs. Mother’s Recipe Empire Bespoke Foods has launched the Mother’s Recipe range, already an established brand in India, taking in more than 75 different products. Swizzels Swizzels has launched Atomix Refreshers Sour and Atomix Rainbow Drops, giving a fresh twist to old favourites. Both are price-marked at £1. Skittles Mars Wrigley’s latest addition to the Skittles family is Flavour Flip, available in a 136g pouch and 109g treat bag, including five flavours in one bag – Strawberry & Watermelon, Lemon & Raspberry, Pomegranate & Apple, Lime & Cherry and Mandarin & Pineapple. Brioche Pasquier Blueberry Pitch is a new addition to Brioche Pasquier’s range of filled soft brioche rolls. World of Sweets World of Sweets has launched a number of entertainment-related products perfect for a movie or TV night at home, taking in The Traitors confectionery range, Gumi Yum Surprise Minions & Monsters, and PEZ Toy Story and PEZ Spider-Man. Barbequick Barbequick, which says year-round barbecues are growing, highlights the instant lighting charcoal and instant barbecues that were part of its brand refresh allowing for spontaneous entertaining and at-home events. Praveen Kumar Praveen Kumar is continuing to help stores create a takeaway experience for customers at home with its Curry Night Sorted initiative and is working with Kingfisher on curry night promotions. AG Barr AG Barr has renamed its Xtra variant Irn-Bru Zero, highlighting its zero sugar, and has added its IrnBru Ice Cream to the Zero range, further launching a Irn-Bru Zero Cherry offering. The company has also launched Rubicon Sparkling Tropical and Still Tropical, as well as Sparkling Cherry Burst under the Rubicon banner, and Berry Blast and Peach Punch as part of a new Barr Flava Explosions range.

THE FAKEAWAY AND PICKY BITS THAT widening definition of what constitutes a big night in, and the reason for it, has seen new concepts coming in to play, with people looking to find ways to recreate on-trade experiences in their homes. “One of the most prominent trends is the continued growth of the ‘fakeaway’, as consum-

ers recreate takeaway-style dishes at home using convenient and familiar products,” says St Pierre Groupe customer development director, UK, Josh Corrigan. Customers are replicating the dining out experience even further, as Praveen Kumar, founder and CEO at his eponymous com-

pany, concurs. “At Kumar’s, we regularly see customers buying three-to-four meals at a time for family curry nights.” Meanwhile, with summer still in full swing, the ‘picky’ bits concept, as used in M&S advertising, is also growing, as Chappell notes: “In recent years, this focus on food has

grown with the increased emphasis on ‘picky bits’ – ie a selection of low-effort, shareable snacks that come together to form a meal. “Picky bits often include classic British picnic items alongside additions inspired by global cuisines, including charcuterie and tapas.”

All Shook Up Global Brands has added a Cosmopolitan and a Margarita to its All Shook Up RTD range. The launches join the existing Passion Fruit Martini and Mojito. Parfetts Parfetts is “actively expanding” its Go Local own-brand range, which now includes more than 250 lines. Heineken Two major launches from Heineken UK this year have been Cruzcampo Sevilla Orange and a premium apple cider in Inch’s Reserve.

Your customers can unlock more with every sip.* When they buy 500ml Superfan Cans. Stock Up Now!

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CATEGORY ADVICE BIG NIGHT IN

SUPPLIER

FOCUS ON MEETING VALUE ALTHOUGH financial issues mean customers are looking for savings rather than an expensive night out, they don’t want to go too cheap. Promotional activity will work at one end of the scale, but it’s not just about cost effectiveness. “Affordability does not simply mean choosing the cheapest products,” says St Pierre Groupe’s Corrigan. “Shoppers are still prepared to trade up

for products that feel more generous, convenient or special, particularly where the total cost remains lower than an evening out. Retailers should focus on communicating overall meal value rather than relying solely on individual price points.” It’s particularly important with alcohol, too. “As more consumers look to recreate the out-of-home experience

in their own homes, seeking higher quality and fullerflavoured options that feel more special, there is a clear opportunity to encourage trade-up into more premium beer and cider choices,” says Heineken UK commercial strategy director Sarah Duncan. “To capitalise on this, stock a strong range of premium and world lagers.” Drinks (and other items) can

25 AUGUST-7 SEPTEMBER 2026 betterretailing.com

VIEW

also become a conversation starter. “Often, drinks will become a key talking point during these occasions, making it essential that retailers stock premium alcoholic beverages,” says Otter Brewery MD Patrick McCaig. “This is even more important as customers are becoming increasingly adventurous with their choices, and drinks from regional, artisanal producers always stand out.”

Lauren George, external communications manager, Mars Wrigley “SHOPPERS are also looking for affordable indulgence. Larger formats which can easily be passed around among friends and family are key to the big-night-in occasion, while share-sized formats and multipacks support group enjoyment. Confectionery plays a central role in these occasions. “Retailers can capitalise on this by merchandising confectionery alongside complementary big-night-in categories, from premium soft drinks and snacks to film night and games night fixtures. Cross-category promotions, meal deal-style bundles and themed in-store displays around key occasions help drive incremental basket spend and reinforce the ‘treat-at-home’ mindset. With sharing formats and pouches particularly well suited to group occasions, confectionery offers retailers a reliable route to tapping into a trend that shows no sign of slowing, even as discretionary spending pressures remain.”

RETAILER

VIEW

Peter Robinson, Robinson Retail, Pembrokeshire

COMPLEMENTARY ITEMS RETAILERS should look at putting together complementary products in store, says Diageo licensing manager Declan Hassett. “A shopper may enter the store intending to buy a single item, but well-planned cross-category merchandising and clear, engaging signage

can prompt them to discover complementary products from brands they already know and trust,” he says. “Use signage to guide shoppers to complementary areas of the store, such as the chiller for cream to accompany desserts, encouraging exploration and

drive additional purchases.” “A successful offer requires a comprehensive selection across several key categories,” says John O’Neill, retail operations controller at Parfetts. “Crisps, snacks and nuts are vital impulse lines, alongside confectionery and premium choco-

lates for sharing. Chilled beers, ciders and wines are essential, together with a strong range of soft drinks and carbonated mixers. Main meal solutions, like pizzas and easy dips, complete the experience. Larger sharing bags, multipacks and pricemarked packs are essential.”

“WE have One Stop and Morrisons shops, and they do frozen meal deals where you can get three products for a fixed price – pizzas, that kind of thing – specifically targeted at the big-night-in market. You see it during the week and especially at the weekend. When families are watching the pennies, they’re more likely to use that kind of deal than perhaps go out for a restaurant meal, or even a takeaway. It’s good value when you get a large pizza and a dessert. It’s driven by people’s desire to have little treats, but not break the bank. “We have sections for these kind of deals, say, in our frozen cabinets. The deal might change, but its location doesn’t. People get used to looking in the same spot. And we’ll have PoS to promote it. We always have alcohol deals, there’s always products on promotion across beer, wines and spirits. They’re all sited around the stores with promotional activity, same for snacks, so it works.”

O n n o sa w le !

BIGGEST LEGAL HOW TO DEAL WITH THE 10

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Discover the laws most stores are unknowingly breaking

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CATEGORY ADVICE HOT BEVERAGES

BREWING UP BIGGER HOT BEVERAGE SALES CHARLES SMITH explores how retailers are focusing on the traditional bestselling take-home hot beverages while keeping pace with the latest trends

HOW TAKE-HOME HOT BEVERAGES HAVE EVOLVED THE coffee-shop boom shaped consumer preferences, but traditional take-home favourites remain essential buys. “Tea and coffee have been reinvented in the supermarkets in recent years,” says Sunny Patel, at Lutterworth News in Leicestershire. “But the core hot drinks are a stable market that isn’t going away.

The bestsellers keep being updated and promoted, and account for around 70% of our hot beverage sales. We put them in a two-metre grocery bay near biscuits. Bread’s on top, then sugar, then hot beverages, and below that, cereal. “You must know what your customers are buying. There’s a drive to premium, and a broad

SUPPLIER

VIEWS

Eleanor Morris, marketing manager Café Direct “ETHICAL and responsibly sourced tea and coffee are increasingly seen as the norm. Consumers are willing to pay a bit more for drinks with added benefits such as wellness, energy or a better overall experience, and there’s growing interest in functional drinks offering healthier choices, led by trending products such as matcha.”

Maria Kabalyk, head of demand acceleration, JDE Peet’s “COFFEE is the largest ambient grocery segment, overtaking breakfast cereal. Three-quarters of in-home coffee consumption is instant, presenting growing opportunity for premium instant products delivering rich, indulgent taste with minimum fuss, at a significantly lower cost per drink than a typical coffee shop order.”

take-home hot beverages range will draw in younger shoppers, but older people and those buying for workplaces will pay for tea and coffee in local stores regardless of price because they want something specific.” Amish Shingadia, from Londis Caterways & Post Office in Horsham, West Sussex, says his take-home coffees are sell-

ing strongly, at just £1 more for a jar than a takeaway option. He offers Nescafé 90g for £4.85, the same as the local Co-op. “Instant coffee’s more pricesensitive than tea,” notes Patel. “But shoppers accept it’s more expensive in convenience stores. We stock Jack’s Coffee at £2.99, but charge £6-£9 for premium Nescafé products.”

sales advice JDE Peet’s top tips to drive coffee sales Space Give coffee displays good shelf space to maximise visibility. Offer a breadth of brand choices to meet evolving shopper needs, ideally two facings per line. Value Put more affordable options, such as instant granules, on the bottom shelf, more premium instant products above them, and frothy coffees and machine pods on top. Signage Use eye-catching signage and PoS to attract shoppers and encourage sales.

RETAILER

VIEW

Amish Shingadia, Londis Caterways & Post Office, Horsham, West Sussex, “WE have a one-metre bay with eight shelves and 80-to-90 lines. Horsham’s a traditional area with relatively few people working from home, so they don’t buy that much ground coffee and herbal teas, unlike iced coffees and espressos, which we sell cases of every week. “People here aren’t trading up, so PMPs are important. Products on promotion often sell three times the usual amount. We stock various new brands, but traditional hot drinks make up 95% of our takehome sales.”

25 AUGUST-7 SEPTEMBER 2026 betterretailing.com

LAUNCHES

What’s new in hot beverages? Kenco Kenco has expanded its coffee range with Kenco Vanilla and Strawberry Matcha Latte, which have an RRP of £2.99, and Kenco Espresso Concentrate, in Unsweetened, Mocha and Caramel, which has an RRP of £5. Nescafé Nestlé has launched two new Nescafé frothy coffees, Nescafé Kitkat White Flavour Latte and Nescafé Lion Flavour Mocha. They have an RRP of £2.35 for seven sachets. Lipton Lipton Teas & Infusions’ Pukka brand’s latest organic launches are Night Time Apple Chai and Citrus Yebra Green Tea. They have an RRP of £4.99 for 20 and are available to independents from Amazon. Twinings Twinings has introduced accessible QR codes to its tea packaging to make its products easier for blind and partially sighted consumers to navigate, starting with Twinings’ Black Tea range.

BOOST YOUR COFFEE AISLE WITH

ESPRESSO CONCENTRATE CONSISTENT YEAR-ROUND SALES OVER £3M IN MARKETING INVESTMENT RECRUIT THE NEW GENERATION OF COFFEE DRINKERS

tea trends

What’s trending in tea? Twinings’ research reveals younger consumers are drinking less alcohol but still want great tastes and experiences, confirming there’s scope to offer a wider tea range. Almost half of Gen Z participants in Twinings’ recent study have replaced alcohol with tea for a pick-me-up, versus 25% of baby boomers, while 62% of Gen Z make cups of tea to prepare for everyday moments from work and exercise to social plans, compared to 40% of older shoppers. Make your shoppers look afresh at your teas by offering a wide choice. Sunny Patel stocks big brands such as Yorkshire Tea, PG Tips and Typhoo, which many shoppers buy as nostalgia products, but he also includes Teapigs. “They’re not fast sellers, but keep people coming in and generate a higher basket spend,” he says. Pratik Patel, from Jay’s Budgens in south London, says matchas and herbal teas are doing well. “Thirty-to-50-year-olds are the biggest buyers, but sales vary by variety,” he says. “People buy ginger teas as a pick-me-up, and calming teas such as fennel and camomile help with sleep.”

CATEGORY ADVICE FOOD & DRINKS MACHINES

WHAT TO KNOW BEFORE INSTALLING A FOOD AND DRINKS MACHINE TAMARA BIRCH explores how retailers are using food and drinks machines to drive footfall and sales

SUPPLIER

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WHAT DRINKS MACHINES ARE RETAILERS INVESTING IN? RETAILERS are investing in food and drinks machines to offer a full food-to-go solution and ensure their stores stand out. Dee Sedani, of One Stop Matlock in Derbyshire, for example, has become the first convenience store to stock a Fanta Still drinks machine. “Innovation in frozen drinks is hard, but we knew we needed another machine. We were intrigued when the team at Frozen Brothers pitched it to us, as

it was a unique proposition to offer my customers and it isn’t available anywhere else in the UK at the moment,” he says. Sedani stocks Fanta Still frozen drinks in Orange and Strawberry varieties. The point of difference for him is that the machine is non-carbonated, unlike other frozen drinks machines. When the machine launched in store, Sedani offered a buy one, get one free promotion (BOGOF) to drive trial and says he sold 20 drinks.

“We sell them at £3.50 per cup, which generates a 70% margin, so even with the BOGOF promotion, we still made a 35% margin,” he says. “And with summer holidays and the ongoing heatwave, sales will likely increase, too.” Elsewhere, Kalpesh Pau, of Kal’s Budgens & Parson Cross Post Office in Sheffield, South Yorkshire, has a slush machine, Tango Ice Blast, a coffee machine and dessert machines in store.

Rachel Wells, commercial director, St Pierre Groupe “We’ve had a slush machine from Snowshock in store for 10 years, but we expanded to offer five flavours after our refit three years ago. Now, we offer Strawberry, Lemon & Lime and Cola, but we mix up three of the flavours to keep the range exciting,” he says. Pau sells a small cup for £1.25 and a large for £1.75, generating 70% margin. The machine is self-maintained, with no service fees, and Pau paid for it outright.

“MORNING goods and sweet snacks merchandised alongside drinks machines deliver strong secondary spend and incremental sales for retailers. These products have become a core part of the convenience food-to-go offer, encouraging shoppers to trade up from standard options while still representing better value than coffee shops. “What’s more, as traditional mealtimes continue to blur, lunchtime now stretches from mid-morning through to mid-afternoon, extending the window for drinks and sweet treats. Retailers should ensure drinks machines are well maintained, clean and fully stocked, with morning goods and snacks kept looking fresh, appealing and topped up with bestsellers throughout the day.”

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THE FOOD MACHINES RETAILERS ARE INVESTING IN PAU sets his store apart with dessert machines in store that offer milkshakes, waffles and cookie dough treats. “You have to give customers a reason to come into your store, and these dessert machines give them that reason,”

he says. “They might come in for one of our desserts, but they’ll buy a drink from our slush or coffee machine, so spend will increase.” Pau introduced this range three years ago after his refit because desserts and sweet

treats were trending among consumers. Many retailers have installed Rollover machines as part of a wider food-to-go offer, with retailers offering burgers and the brand’s recently launched Pizza Twists. The range comes

in two flavours, Italian Margherita and Pepperoni Twists, and has a £3.50 RRP. Nishi Patel, of Londis Bexley Park in Dartford, Kent, would recommend the Rollover machine as a named brand, and it was free for him to install.

ASKING THE RIGHT QUESTIONS NOT every food and drinks machine will be best for your store, and it’s important to ask the right questions and do the right research before committing. Sedani says retailers need to understand the target audience of these machines in addition to knowing the demographic they’re trying to target. From

here, he says retailers need to know the cost and understand the leasing aspect of introducing a new machine. “With slush, for example, if you turn the machine off in the winter like we do, you need to work out your potential sales based on six months of selling,” he says. “So, if you have to sell six cups a day for a year,

work out how many that is over six months. Anything above that will be your profit.” Retailers also need to ask about maintenance. You might be able to do some minor repairs yourself, but for larger repairs, find out the process for this. Understand how quickly they need to undertake repairs, who you need to contact

and whether there’s any cost involved. Also, check whether maintenance costs are included in your lease. Though Sedani says most leases will have this built in. “It’s very rare for a lease not to offer maintenance repairs. It’s usually included as long as you buy the product from them,” he says.

CATEGORY ADVICE FOOD & DRINKS MACHINES

GETTING THE POSITIONING RIGHT WHERE you position your food and drinks machines will depend on your store’s layout, so work with your supplier to find what’s right for you. Pau has positioned his drinks machines on the counter by the till because he has a longer shop. However, he plans to change their location next year when he plans another refit. “The coffee machine and our other drinks machines aren’t getting the customer attention

new products Top machines and product launches Rollover Pizza Twists In March, Rollover launched Italian Margherita and Pepperoni Twists to help retailers capitalise on consumers looking for more unique and elevated experiences. The 180g Pizza Twists have a £3.50 RRP. To support the launch, Rollover also launched a suite of PoS and in-store theatre to make the range unmissable. F’real brings back Birthday Cake Milkshake for limited run F’real has brought back its Birthday Cake Milkshake variety for a limited time. The flavour initially launched in 2022 and became one of the supplier’s most popular lines. It consists of a rich cake batter flavour blended with multicoloured sprinkles. iSqueeze introduces on-the-go smoothie maker Smoodi to UK convenience Juice machine supplier iSqueeze has introduced US-based smoothie dispenser Smoodi into UK convenience. Smoodi offers six flavours: Strawberry & Banana, Tropical, Green Matcha, Mango Lassi, Very Berry and Choco Boost. Customers simply pick up and scan a 400ml cup containing the frozen fruits and a bit of apple or orange juice. It is then placed on the machine to be blended with cold water ready for immediate consumption. On-the-go smoothie concept Smugo launches in forecourts Entrepreneurs Roy Wainwright and Ed Morris have launched a self-service smoothie machine called Smugo, currently available to forecourt retailers. There are three flavours currently available: Cool Refresh, a red berry and goji berry smoothie; Protein Boost with 20g of organic pea protein powder; and Green Revival, which contains kale and ginger. To use the machine, customers simply choose a cup from the freezer, peel the lid and scan it at the machine. They need to place the cup in the blender, and blend for 60 seconds, after which they can pay at the till.

they need to thrive,” he says. “So, we plan on moving them closer to the door when we do a refit next year.” Sedani also positions his coffee machine, his Tango Ice Blast Machine and his new Fanta Still solution by the till, which made installation quicker, too. “It’s on a work surface by the till and while the machines usually come with a trolley, we didn’t need it, so it made

it quicker to install,” he says. “It helps customers notice the machine and boosts impulse sales, too.” However, as part of the positioning, retailers need to think of the sales opportunity with linked purchases. This can be breakfast items or snacks next to your coffee machine, or soft drinks and fresh food to go products close to your slush and other drinks machines. According to Rachel Wells,

commercial director at St Pierre Groupe, retailers should take cues from foodservice by treating the drinks machine and any fixtures, like bakery, as a destination in its own right. “Offering a tight, brand-led range of premium, individually-wrapped products, such as St Pierre’s Parisian cafe-style sweet bakery treats, allows retailers to deliver a highquality experience on the go,” she says.

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STAFF AND CUSTOMER TRAINING EVEN if you’re in the store from opening until close, it’s vital to train your team on how to operate any food and drinks machine in store. This is also part of delivering strong customer service. “We trained our teams to use each machine and how to clean them when they need to do it,” Pau says. “This also means staff can show customers how to use it if they don’t

know how to.” Pau’s training also includes how to make minor repairs to the machine. “All our staff are able to undertake basic fixes and can reset the machines as needed,” he says. “This means we also don’t lose out on sales.” Sedani also trains his team on using the machine, but says the emphasis is on cleaning them.

“Some machines are selfcleaning, but staff still have to put them in cleaning mode, so we trained them on that,” he says. If you’re unsure where to start on training, ask the manufacturer if they have any guides or information you can relay to your team. Your team should know about the product, the pricing, and how to use and maintain the machine.

ADVICE

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REDUCING WASTAGE CHARLES WHITTING finds out how retailers are cutting back on food wastage in their stores

What are retailers doing to reduce the amount of stock they’re throwing away? – Harris Ameen, Day-Today Bute Street, Gourock, Inverclyde

Don Antony Manavalan, Nisa Northfields, Stamford, Lincolnshire

“WE have Too Good To Go bags, which help us to clear things. We also have a scale of price reductions as things get closer to their sell-by date. It’s 10% off in the morning, then up to 30% and �inally 50%. Most of the wastage comes from the chilled section, but we also check our ambient goods at the start of every month. If it will be out of date by the end of that month, we’ll start moving it to a special promotional bay and take 30% off the price. “We’ve brought our wastage down from £400 a week to £300 through these reductions. Ordering is the key to reducing wastage, though. The managers look at the wastage reports to see what’s going in the bin. If it’s happening too much, we put a red dot on that line, and that means we need to replace it with a different line because it’s not selling well enough.”

Bobby Singh, BB Superstores, Pontefract, West Yorkshire

“EVERY retailer hates wastage, but if you try to order accordingly, you can keep it as low as possible. Sometimes, though, it’s unavoidable. That’s where apps like Too Good To Go come into play to ensure you actually do still get something for it. “But you also can’t shy away from wastage. Sometimes, you have to take a punt on stocking up on products for special occasions and events. And even with experience, you’re only getting it right eight times out of 10. “Our EPoS systems now alert us when products are getting towards being short-dated well in advance. So, that means we can really give them a prime spot and try to get them sold with a bit of promotion – and a reduced price towards the end. There are lots of tools out there to help you control these things to a certain degree. And I can say that our wastage is down since we started using them.”

Stuart Kirk, Betty’s News, Mawgan Porth, Cornwall

“WE’RE really strict with stock dates. When we’re �illing up shelves, staff have to check the dates and make sure products with the shortest shelf lives are put at the front and the longer ones at the back. We check the dates on all our deliveries as well, because it’s surprising how many come in with just a week left on the sell-by date. We had some tonic water recently that was actually out of date, but we were vigilant and able to get onto the supplier straightaway. “My business is super seasonal, so it’s important that we change our ordering when summer or winter comes in. But we’ve found suppliers that will deliver things such as pasties and sausage rolls every day, so we can work out a nice rhythm. We don’t like to overload the hot cabinet at the start of the day. We make sure it’s topped up little and often so it doesn’t look overfull or ever tired, and we don’t throw any away.”

In the next issue, the Retail Express team finds out how retailers are making small changes with big impacts. If you have any problems you’d like us to explore, please email charles.whitting@newtrade.co.uk

Retail Express - 25 August 2026