Retail Express - 28 July 2026

• How newly revealed gov’t plans for tobacco-style display, packaging and flavour restrictions will hit your sales • Retailers warn legislation will

punish honest businesses

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28 JULY-10 AUGUST 2026 STRICTLY FOR TRADE USERS ONLY

ENERGY DRINKS

EVRI

PRODUCTS

Sales of high-caffeine products to under-16s to be outlawed from April 2027

Retailers threaten to axe parcel service following frustrations over pay cuts

Mondelez, Chupa Chups and Juice Burst drinks lead the latest major launches

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BACK TO SCHOOL

Cram these top tips to make your range pass with flying colours 20

ICE CATEGORY ADV BACK TO SCHOOL

PENCIL IN THE BACK-TO- D SCHOOL PERIO

28 JULY-10 AUGUST 2026 STRICTLY FOR TRADE USERS ONLY

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• How newly revealed gov’t plans for

tobacco-style display, packaging and flavour restrictions will hit your sales • Retailers warn legislation will

punish honest businesses P3

ENERGY DRINKS

EVRI

PRODUCTS

Sales of high-caffeine products to under-16s to be outlawed from April 2027

Retailers threaten to axe parcel service following frustrations over pay cuts

Mondelez, Chupa Chups and Juice Burst drinks lead the latest major launches

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our say

Alex Yau, editor

It’s a legislation minefield out there DURING my near-10-year tenure of working in the convenience trade press, I can confidently say the next two years will have the biggest impact on small shops when it comes to government legislation.

Consultations as part of the Tobacco and Vapes Act could potentially impose restrictions on vape displays, packaging and advertising. The impact on your trade should not be underestimated (page 3). Speaking to retailers at a recent roundtable, there were major concerns around a reduction in sales.

One store owner was worried that the proposals, if approved, would put them out of business entirely.

IT’S TOUGH There was a similar nervousness among vape suppliers and BEING A RETAILER distributors at the recent UKVIA RIGHT NOW Forum I attended. Alongside this, many attendees expressed frustration over the lack of clarity from the government and how it risks honest businesses like yours being punished.

This is only one of a myriad of other regulations coming into force. We can’t forget the generational tobacco ban, Deposit Return Scheme and recently announced under-16s energy drinks ban coming into force in 2027.

This minefield of legislation doesn’t make running a business any easier. On top of this, you’re facing pressures from rising costs, decreased spend and abuse from customers for simply doing your job.

Retail Express understands how tough being a retailer is. Whether through providing advice or simplifying complicated law, we will always be here to support you.

The five biggest stories this fortnight 01

Government confirms under16s energy drinks ban

RYAN BUTCHER

POPULAR energy drinks are to be hit by a ban on high-caffeine energy drinks sales to under-16s from April next year.

Under the legislation announced this month, drinks containing more than 150mg of caffeine per litre cannot

be sold to under-16s across all retail settings, including shops, online, cafés, restaurants and vending machines.

Tea, coffee and lower-caffeine soft drinks will not fall under the ban’s scope.

Fed national president Hemanshu Patel urged government to fully engage with retailers. “This remains a

challenging time for independent retailers because of rising costs and unprecedented regulatory change, which imposes a big compliance challenge on our members and their staff,” he said.

The ACS also urged the government to give retailers enough time to train staff and explain the new rules to

customers.

CEO Ed Woodall added: “It is essential the government invests in clear guidance for retailers, who will be the ones enforcing the law on a daily basis.”

Most major supermarkets and some independents already operate voluntary age restrictions on energy drinks.

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

@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/Aleksandr Kondratov/Seetwo

Sign up to gain free access to Retail Express online betterretailing.com/subscribe/re-membership

42,624

02

Smiths Frontline

SMITHS News has announced yet another exclusive appointment after securing distribution for Frontline and Seymour Distribution titles across Great Britain until 2037.

03

ACS barometer

The partnerships between “DODGY shops” are now the �irms – which begin among the biggest reasons in April 2030 – adds to people believe their local other recently announced high street is getting worse, agreements with News UK according to new research and Associated Newspapers from the ACS. Limited.

The ACS Community Ba-

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

04

Burnham’s promises

ANDY Burnham has been sworn in as prime minister, promising a “10-year plan” to help improve Britain.

In his speech on 20 July, the new PM said: “Later this year, I will bring forward a new

05

Co-op issues

plan for Britain, a 10-year NISA and Costcutter retailers plan laying out a path from have reported staf�ing and where we are now to where availability issues caused by I believe we all want Britain postponed deliveries. to be, wherever we’re comRetail Express undering from, whatever party we stands the issues have support.” stemmed from “increased

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.

rometer 2026 found almost one in three people (31%) blamed “dodgy shops” for high street decline. Empty shop units (63%) and competition from online shopping (32%) ranked higher.

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

For the full story, go to betterretailing.com and search ‘Co-op Wholesale’

demand”.

A Co-op Wholesale spokesperson con�irmed the issues to Retail Express and stressed that a recovery plan was in place to support affected retailers.

@retailexpress facebook.com/betterretailing

28 JULY-10 AUGUST 2026 betterretailing.com

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

Government announces vape crackdown plans ALEX YAU THE government has set out plans to outlaw colourful packaging, �lavours and visible displays on vapes in shops across the UK and Northern Ireland.

Subject to a 12-week consultation ending on 2 October, the tough regulations are designed to reduce vaping among children.

The most signi�icant measures for retailers mirror existing tobacco rules. These include plain white packaging, alongside bans on coloured text, imagery and branding. Boxes would only be allowed to show standardised safety information.

Vape devices may also be limited to white, black or grey colours, with no images, limited branding and cosmetic lights.

Screens would be restricted to safety information or battery levels.

Retailers would be forbidden from making vapes visible to customers on the shop �loor and instead be forced to keep them in closed gantries or hidden under the counter.

Clarity has yet to be provided on what products will be affected by potential �lavour restrictions. The consultation sets out plans to limit �lavour names to simple descriptions such as ‘apple’, while banning anything relating to confectionery, sweets, desserts

and alcohol.

According to insight �irm Talysis, analysis of the 100 bestselling vape lines found two products containing the words ‘Hubba Bubba’ would be banned. Six bestselling products, including Strawberry Burst, Cola Lime and Fizzy Cherry, may also fall under the scope of the restrictions.

The government has not clari�ied how descriptors such as ‘Ice’ and ‘Sour’ would be treated. Of the top 100 lines, 24 products include ‘Ice’, while 13 have ‘Sour’.

Retailers warned the restrictions would impact sales while punishing honest retailers who trade on the right side of the law.

Ken Singh, of Love Lane Stores in Pontefract, told Retail Express: “From a retail perspective, they’re just trying to kill us off slowly but surely. It’s a tough market anyway, and we rely on a lot of these types of sales.

Vapes have been very lucrative for us margin-wise.

“It is all well and good, but we need to make sure no one’s doing any illicit trade. It all works hand in hand. Instead, the honest retailer is getting more and more scrutinised. We don’t want to look like black and white shops. We need to make sure that we’re able to trade without looking like a boring shop.

“They’re not even implementing the current law. We’re getting to a

express yourself “I PROVIDE incentives for my store managers to choose where to prioritise staff wages, allocating them a 10% wage budget from takings to help with deliveries, promotional changes or what other tasks become relevant.

They are all given full control, and I’m just controlling the cash. It’s managed monthly or weekly because it’s a seasonal location and things are so weatherdependent here.”

Gary Batten, multiple Nisa stores, Cornwall

03

GOOD WEEK CO-OP WHOLESALE: The wholesaler paid out £6m more in rebates to Nisa symbol stores in its most recent financial year. However, Co-op Wholesale stressed the increase was partly due to contractual obligations with some partnered retailers, alongside increased loyalty and spending from its members.

For the full story, go to betterretailing.com and search ‘Co-op Wholesale’ NATIONAL LOTTERY: Tickets for the first UK Powerball game went on sale on 21 July, with the first sale conducted by convenience forecourt operator Sewell on the go at one of its sites in York. Operator Allwyn said retailers can earn 20p commission per £4 line sold, “alongside additional earning opportunities”.

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

BAD WEEK

stage where the honest retailers will make all the changes, but the dishonest retailers will just keep on trading in plain sight without any implications. Let’s start where the real problems are.”

Fed national president Hemanshu Patel said: “The biggest problem is the continued sale of illegal and illicit vaping products by rogue traders who ignore the law and sell to people of all ages.

“Law-abiding independent retailers already operate under strict age veri-

the column where you can make your voice heard

�ication rules, while those who deliberately break the law continue to do so with too little fear of enforcement.

“Rather than placing further burdens on responsible retailers, the government should focus on giving enforcement agencies the tools they need to target those operating outside the law.”

ACS chief executive Ed Woodall warned the ban would create challenges with space. He said: “A complete ban on vape and nicotine product displays

in shops will be costly and complex for retailers to implement in the limited space they have available behind the till point, and we question whether a display ban is necessary alongside proposed packaging restrictions.”

The consultation also proposes further restrictions on tobacco products.

These include extending existing plain packaging and display restrictions to all tobacco products, herbal smoking products, cigarette papers and heated tobacco products.

WORLDPANEL: Symbol and independent retailers’ share of the grocery market fell by 4.5% in the 12 weeks ending 12 July, according to the grocery analyst’s latest figures. The fall represents an annual drop of £23m in overall spend, while most of the major multiples saw an increase.

For the full story, go to betterretailing.com and search ‘Worldpanel’ SMITHS NEWS: Newspaper deliveries to hundreds of stores were delayed due to a surprise immigration raid at the wholesaler’s Gloucester depot on 15 July. The wholesaler confirmed to Retail Express that it has received “an unannounced visit from UK Border Force” and apologised to impacted retailers.

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

How are you making the most of staff ?

“BEFORE, if a customer asked someone a question at the till, a staff member might have to leave them there unattended while they went to get the answer from me. It didn’t look professional to the customer.

Now there’s no keeping the customer waiting as we use VoCoVo headsets. It helps our staff management and improves overall efficiency, as well as providing an extra security measure.”

Lewis Woodward, Nisa Local Colley Gate, W. Midlands

“I INSTIGATED a complete reorganisation of my storeroom one year ago, which saves upwards of five hours a week.

When deliveries arrive, every product is positioned in a specific place. The time it saves my team finding what they need for filling shelves saves at least four hours a week and at least another hour in the ordering. Efficiency is so much better now.”

Reuben Singh Mander, The Three Singhs, West Yorkshire

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

Reuben Singh Mander

NEWS

04

28 JULY-10 AUGUST 2026 betterretailing.com

Retailers threaten Evri boycott JACK COURTEZ

Est. 1919

RETAILERS are threatening to axe Evri services after the parcel �irm announced further cuts just months after slashing commission rates.

The parcels �irm con�irmed to Retail Express that stores’ August pay will be cut due to “a technical issue in our payments system, leading to an overpayment to some

shops for the period of 5 April to 31 May”.

A spokesperson for the company added: “The issue has since been corrected, with all impacted branches contacted to make them aware and advise them of the next steps, and shops with any questions can contact their Evri regional manager.”

The technical issue occurred as commission paid to retailers dropped from 20p to

Federation of Independent Retailers

15p for parcel drop-offs, and 25p to 20p on ‘shop-to-shop’ collections.’

“We highly value our ParcelShop network,” said Evri in its latest statement apologising for the overpayment and upcoming adjustments.

However, retailers said they did not feel highly valued by the company and its recent decision.

“This is a joke, now’s time to get rid of it,” said one inde-

pendent shop owner. “[Evri] makes us believe the service is very important in keeping shop turnover up, then it cuts commission or increases the work load,” said another retailer.

“I don’t actually think it makes �inancial sense to do parcels at this rate,” said a third, while another joked: “Very soon you will be paying [Evri] to keep parcels in your shop.”

&

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

Morrisons £2k bonus SYMBOL group retailers can grab £2,000 for changing to Morrisons Daily as part of the chain’s latest switching incentive.

Paul Dobson, Morrisons wholesale director, said: “We

are entirely committed to supporting their businesses by reducing operational costs and making the very best of Morrisons – such as our skilled teams – fully available to them.”

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

POST OFFICE PLUS LAUNCH POST Office has launched its Plus format, designed to bring additional footfall and potential remuneration for subpostmasters.

The pilot launched on 17 July in Derby, transforming the site into a community hub.

Customers can book face-toface appointments with utility firms and digital training providers. A site in Barnsley will be the second Plus site.

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

i-movo in Waitrose WAITROSE has partnered with PayPoint’s i-movo to become one of the �irst UK supermarkets to accept digital vouchers for newspapers.

From this month, thou-

For the full story, go to betterretailing.com and search ‘PayPoint’ RN Full page ad.indd 1

15/12/2023 11:20

sands of Guardian and Daily Mail subscribers will be able to redeem copies with their i-movo-powered subscription cards and subscriber apps in Waitrose stores.

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110909 LW Chocomel 300ml Advertorial Column - Retail Express.pdf

PRODUCTS

28 JULY-10 AUGUST 2026 betterretailing.com

07

Mondelez’s new Halloween range SHYAMA LAXMAN MONDELEZ International has introduced its Halloween range for 2026.

It is designed to help retailers make the most of the seasonal sales opportunities across different formats.

First up is the limitededition Sour Patch Kids Monster Heads, retailing at £1.25 for a 105g pack.

Sour Patch Kids Watermelon & Strawberry Treatsize returns this year following a successful launch last year, delivering £1.3m in retail sales value, according to Nielsen. It is priced at £3 for 350g.

Maynards Bassetts is also adding “seasonal fun” to the

�ixture with the returning Spooky Gums, priced at £1 for 110g.

The range also sees the return of the 223g Cadbury Treatsize Sharing Selection retailing at £4.75. The pack

contains Cadbury Buttons, Cadbury Crunchie, Cadbury Twirl, Cadbury Fudge and Cadbury Freddo. Other returning lines include Cadbury Dairy Milk Freddo & Friends sharing pack and

Cadbury Fudge treatsize pack both available at an RRP of £4.75, and orangecoloured Oreo Spooky cookies priced at £1.

LAUNCH

Quench your thirst Snü energises its nicotine pouch range with Juice Burst

NICOTINE pouch brand Snü has launched a new variant called Fizzy Energy, which combines tropical �lavours with the �izz of an energy drink.

Retailing at £3.99-£4.99, it is available in strengths of 6mg, 12mg and 18mg per pouch, as well as a 60mg per gram option in Snü’s extrastrong ‘Xtra High’ range.

The nicotine pouch category is valued at approximately £220m in the UK, according to Haypp, with Snü growing by 120% year on year.

JUICE Burst Drinks has launched Juice Burst Quench to drive sales growth in chilled juice.

It is available in three �lavours: Berry Fruits, Tropical Fruits and Citrus Fruits. The drinks come in 500ml bottles with an RRP of £1.75, as well as £1 price-marked format.

The brand has undergone a refresh to drive greater relevancy among younger consumers. The rebrand is supported by a £1m campaign, ‘It’s not that deep’ – a tongue-in-cheek

LAUNCH

LAUNCH

creative that pokes fun at the myriad drink propositions out there.

Republic Zig debuts nicotine pouch

Unroll metre-long fun with Chupa Chups

TOBACCO accessories supplier Republic Technologies is set to launch a nicotine pouch brand called Zig. It will be available from August. Priced at £4.50, the range comes in strengths of 8mg, 12mg and 17mg

CHUPA Chups has launched a one-metre sour belt inspired by a measuring tape.

Retailing at £1, the product comes in a carton that makes the format instantly recognisable and helps deliver theatre on shelf.

Chupa Chups continues to build momentum in sweets

strengths across six �lavours: Berry Cool, Citrus, Ice Mint, Peppermint, Power Mint and Tropical.

LAUNCH

beyond its core lollipop range. The brand’s sweets and gum portfolio is valued at £18.9m, with Chupa Chups jellies growing by 42%, according to Circana.

LAUNCH

1

1

PRODUCTS

08

Highland Spring duo launch SHYAMA LAXMAN HIGHLAND Spring has added two new variants to its Flavours still water portfolio.

The �lavours are Orange & Passion Fruit and Summer Berries and join the existing Apple & Blackcurrant, Lemon & Lime and Strawberry.

The new �lavours are available in two formats: 750ml bottle priced at 1.50 and 1.25l bottle priced at £1.20.

The brand is also set to ramp up its biggestever summer campaign this month with the launch of ‘Make Your Day Fruitier’.

The campaign follows

‘Nature Makes Us’, which launched in June.

Backed by a combined investment of £3.6m, both campaigns will work across high-impact media chan-

in stores. According to the latest issue of What to Stock – Retail Express’s sister publication – the 1.5l PET bottle is delivering £10.79 to retailers’ tills each week.

LAUNCH

Aero and Milkybar team up for launch NESTLÉ Confectionery brands Aero and Milkybar have teamed up to unveil Aero Milkybar.

Landing in convenience stores and wholesale depots from August, Aero Milkybar is available in three formats – a 145g bar (RRP £2.50), 90g retailing (RRP £2) and a 92g

nels to support Highland Spring’s core Still Water range and drive trial of its Flavours portfolio.

Highland Spring is among the top 25 water brands

pouch bag (RRP £2.15).

Earlier this year Nestlé also launched two Aero variants: Aero Pistachio and Aero Bubbles Caramel, and Milkybar Crunchy Pops White Chocolate.

LAUNCH

Haribo adds zing to its Balla Bites range HARIBO has expanded its popular Balla Bites range with the launch of new Haribo Balla Bites Zing!

They are �izzy, fruit�lavoured gums with a soft fondant centre. The new variant is available in strawberry, cherry, apple and lemon �lavours, in 140g sharing bags price-marked at £1.25.

Valued at £274.6m, share bags are in both volume and value growth and represent the largest format in the sector. They are also the second biggest selling format across the entirety of confectionery.

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VEGAN

28 JULY-10 AUGUST 2026 betterretailing.com

09

Crunchy Nut takes the biscuit

Ribena introduces £1 PMPs for summer

KELLOGG’S has added a Caramelised Biscuit �lavour to its Crunchy Nut Crunchies range.

The new HFSS-compliant product is available now at an RRP of £3.50 for a 420g pack.

The launch comes as caramel �lavour continues to grow in popularity among consumers.

Caramelised biscuit cereals have seen 52% value sales growth year on year, reaching £5.4m according to Circana �igures.

RIBENA has introduced a limited-edition £1 PMPs for summer.

Rolling out across all Ribena 500ml ready-todrink products, the move aims to help retailers maximise seasonal sales.

Nielsen �igures reveal that

in 2025, Ribena achieved 7.5% year-on-year growth, and is now worth almost £84m, outperforming the wider ready to drink (RTD) category. The launch will be supported by in-store activation and point-of-sale materials.

LAUNCH

Pip & Nut expands Stuffed Oat Bar PIP & Nut has added two new �lavours to its Stuffed Oat Bar range.

The �lavours are Peanut Butter Stuffed Honey Nut and Almond Butter Stuffed Cinnamon Bun. Each bar contains more than 20%

nut butter and 6g of protein. The bars are available from CN Foods at an RRP of £1.35 for a single and £3 for a multipack.

LAUNCH

Doves Farm drops Oaty bread flour DOVES Farm has launched Organic Oaty White Strong Bread Flour.

Retailing at £2.55 for 1.5kg, it is available from wholesalers like Suma, Essential Trading, In�inity Foods, CLF and CN Foods.

The launch comes as con-

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sumers enjoy baking bread from scratch at home, with �lour sales up 10.8%. At the same time, oat-based products remain popular thanks to their health credentials, giving retailers an opportunity to add interest to the �lour aisle.

O n n o sa w le !

BIGGEST LEGAL HOW TO DEAL WITH THE 10

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PRODUCT NEWS

28 JULY-10 AUGUST 2026 betterretailing.com

11

Kellogg’s giveaway SHYAMA LAXMAN MERLIN and Kellogg’s are celebrating the 15th anniversary of their partnership with a new giveaway.

Customers can receive 25% off online advance pricing for up to two entry tickets to some of the UK’s most iconic attractions, including Legoland Windsor Resort, Alton Towers Resort, the London Eye and Sea Life Aquariums nationwide.

The promotion runs across popular Kellogg’s lines such as Coco Pops, Corn Flakes and Rice Krispies Squares.

By scanning the on-pack QR code, customers can access offers across several partnership sites. The offer is valid until 30 June 2027.

Kellogg’s and Merlin are

also giving away 50 Gold Merlin Annual Passes worth £239 each exclusively on Kellogg’s Town. Parents can enter now for their chance to win up to 364 days of family adventures at more than 20 UK attractions. Entries close

on 30 September.

More than eight million Kellogg’s customers have redeemed a Merlin ticket offer in the past 15 years.

NEW CAMPAIGN

CCEP lowers price-marks on 2l Fanta line-up for limited period

COCA-COLA Europaci�ic Partners (CCEP) has launched £1.89 PMPs across its 2l Fanta range.

Available for a limited time, the promotion reduces the price of Fanta 2l PMP from £2.15 to £1.89 across Fanta Orange and Fanta Fruit Twist. Fanta Lemon is also available in a 2l PMP for the �irst time at the same price. The packs are designed to help retailers offer shoppers value ahead of the biggest sharing occasions of the summer.

Nielsen �igures show that PMPs deliver a nearly 48% higher rate of sale than plain-pack soft drinks in symbol and independent

stores each week.

Retailers can access PoS and downloadable digital

assets via CCEP’s online portal to spotlight the offer in store.

Nichols and THG team up to unveil functional drinks range

NICHOLS has partnered with THG, owner of Myprotein to announce the launch of a new functional drinks brand called Myprotein Clear Whey Protein Water.

Launching in September, Myprotein Clear Whey Protein Water will be available in two �lavours: Vimto and Raspberry Lemon, in 500ml bottles retailing at £2.99.

Nielsen �igures reveal UK functional drinks sales are now valued at £5.8bn and grew by 10% between 2025 and 2026.

LAUNCH

POWERBALL MONEY HAS LANDED Upload a photo of your Powerball POS by 9th August to earn £10!* *Promo and TNL Partners Hub Ts&Cs apply. Promotion period: 09:00 21.07.2026 23:59 09.08.2026. Visit www.TNLPartners.co.uk for full Ts&Cs.

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● REVE ALED : The major brand to supply local looking shops for the first time ● Everything you need to work 50% margin out if this opportunity is right for you Page 4 »

CATEGORY ADVICE

Alternative snacking brands

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

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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 VAPES: What impact will the proposed restrictions have?

RANGE

Your area’s top beers and ciders

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WHOLESALE

NEWS

Scottish symbol invasion

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

»

“IT’S not worked with cigarettes and tobacco, so how do they expect it to work for vapes? It has pushed more customers to illicit trade.

How are they expecting it to be successful with vapes?

It’s short-sighted and won’t achieve anything apart from sending people to illicit trade.”

● Get customers

adding more to their baskets with better deals and layouts

Mo Razzaq, Premier Mo’s, Blantyre

a world foods offer that gives shoppers more reasons to visit

STORE REFIT: How has your latest investment paid off?

We are seeing brilliant results already

Pricewatch: discover the most profitable price points on top-selling heated tobacco devices and sticks

“I RECENTLY switched from Spar to Shop & Go, and my weekly sales have increased by 15% to £18,000. Pricemarked packs are delivering real value for our customers, volumes are up and the profit margins are looking very healthy. The future looks incredibly promising.”

Stuart Riding, Shop & Go, Corby

“WE recently refitted our store in Hemingford to Budgens’ new flagship format.

There’s been a real focus on food to go and fresh produce in the shop. We had our launch party in July, and the reception from local residents has been fantastic. Booker has been really supportive.”

Seelan Thambirajah, Budgens Hemingford, Huntingdon

DRS: Why is it important to look at reverse vending machines now?

“DRS is going to be with us soon. Offering a service is what we do, and being a hub for our community is what we built our business on. We risk losing footfall if we don’t prepare. All I need now is for Welsh government to get in on the act.”

Vince Malone, Tenby Stores & Post Office, Pembrokeshire

“I’VE not got a reverse vending machine in the store yet, but it is something I’m keeping an eye on through the trade press. It’s going to have a huge impact on stores, and we don’t want to lose any potential customers to rival supermarkets nearby.”

Ken Singh, Love Lane Stores, Pontefract

It’s going to have a huge impact on stores FOOD TO GO: How are you innovating with your range?

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

Amy Sohal, Premier Ken’s Convenience, Wilmslow, Cheshire

How do the proposals expect it to work?

● How to create

EXCLUSIVE PRICING DATA TO BOOST YOUR PROFITS

“LOOKING at my top-selling pods and e-liquids, I think all of them are flavours like banana ice and cherry ice. So I don’t know what they’re going to do about that, or what is changing with them. It is going to have a big impact on all businesses because vapes generate a lot of sales.”

We’ve recently launched alcoholic cocktail sorbets

“WE’VE recently launched alcoholic cocktail sorbets in partnership with supplier Xin and Voltaire. There are a range of flavours available.

Candy Casillas has exceeded all expectations. They’ve been stored in our frozen vault, which has had huge demand in the heatwave.”

Kaual Patel, Nisa Torridon, south London

“FOLLOWING the success of our first Greens on the Go concept in Edinburgh, we’re delighted to bring our foodfirst convenience proposition to a second community. It brings together a self-serve noodle station with more than 50 varieties and everyday essentials – all under one roof.”

Harris Aslam, Greens on the Go, Edinburgh

LETTERS

28 JULY-10 AUGUST 2026 betterretailing.com

13

SOPHIE Premier Broadway, WILLIAMS Edinburgh

Letters may be edited

Women in Convenience excelled this year

Fed appointment congratulated by MPs

THIS House congratulates Nathalie Fullerton on her appointment as the deputy vice president of the Fed and commends her on being elected to this role by delegates at the organisation’s annual conference in Birmingham.

[We also] recognise that

her appointment is a re�lection of her hard work and leadership on behalf of independent retailers, acknowledging that Nathalie brings to the role a track record as an ambassador for the ACS, representing independent retailers on a national platform, and as a voice for Women

COMMUNITY RETAILER

OF THE WEEK

Priyesh Vekaria, One Stop Carlton Convenience, Salford

in Convenience, helping drive real change for women across the retail sector.

Nathalie’s election will further ensure that the voices of Scottish retailers will be represented.

[The House] also notes that the Fed represents members at government

and parliamentary level, and is the of�icial government referral body for the sector; and wishes Nathalie future success as she takes on this key leadership role.

Patricia Ferguson (Labour MP) and Jim Shannon (Democratic Unionist Party)

COMMUNITY RETAILER

OF THE WEEK

Kevin Polley, Kash Retail, Bedale

‘Mental health ‘Community is the support a no-brainer’ cornerstone’

“FRIENDSHIPS for life are not built only in the good times. They are proven when it truly matters. When PML trade activation lead Simon Keen reached out and asked whether I would sponsor him as he stepped into the boxing ring to raise awareness and funds for men’s mental health, it was an absolute no-brainer. Men’s mental health cannot continue to be brushed under the carpet. Too many men carry their struggles quietly. Too many feel they must remain strong for everyone else. Too many wait until they are at breaking point before asking for help.”

“WE are absolutely delighted to reach this incredible milestone of donating more than £25,000 to our local communities. Community support is the cornerstone of our business, and we are passionate about giving back to the people and organisations that make the north-east such a vibrant and supportive place to live and work.

Seeing the positive impact these donations have – from supporting vital services such as foodbanks to helping create inclusive spaces like the sensory room at Nature Time Nursery – makes us immensely proud.”

LAST month I had the pleasure of attending the fifth annual Women in Convenience event.

As an ambassador for this initiative, it is always one of my favourite events of the year; however, there was something particularly special about this year’s event.

The theme of the day was ‘resilience’.

This is something Each issue, one of seven top that retailers of all retailers shares advice to genders have in make your store magnificent abundance, and clearly, it affects us all in our personal lives as well as our work lives. The number of inspirational stories that the room heard from women across our industry on that hot day in Coventry was nothing short of mind blowing.

I was taken back by how bravely vulnerable all the speakers were, particularly Roopie Gill and Judith Smitham, who shared with us the most pivotal examples of resilience in both their careers and, ultimately, their lives. It is safe to say that there was not a dry eye in the room.

I was also extremely inspired by a panel hosted by Retail Express editor-in-chief Louise Banham, containing a mixture of female retailers and suppliers. It showed me that no matter where you are in your career, how old you are, how much experience you have, nothing takes away from the fact that everybody must find that resilience to keep going, and setting the boundaries you need or finding your own coping tactics are so important.

Retailers have extremely busy work lives, and it is difficult to find that work/life balance sometimes, but I was encouraged in the feeling that I am not the only one who struggles with getting that right.

My last key takeaway from the day was that you must find the people who you can rely on and lean on to help you through, whether that be a colleague, friend, family member or partner.

In my busy life, there is always one thing that remains true; I can always count on my Women in Convenience to support me. And you should, too. It really is the most supportive group of ladies I have ever found.

Get in touch

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

CATEGORY ADVICE SINGLE CONFECTIONERY

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28 JULY-10 AUGUST 2026 betterretailing.com

STRONG SALES FROM SINGLE SWEETS Single confectionery has been the cornerstone of convenience stores for years. TIM MURRAY reports on the changing tastes and trends within this category

THE STATE OF SINGLE CONFECTIONERY SINGLE confectionery has long been a staple of the convenience sector and despite changing trends and tastes, they remain popular.

“Sales are good and we do very well on confectionery,” says Shumaila Malik, from Costcutter Heathside Road in Manchester. “People are still buying chocolates at the counter. There might be a bit of seasonality, we might sell a little

less in the summer, but not drastically. People still want to buy a bar of chocolate in hot weather.”

Economic uncertainty means there is an increasing awareness of price and value, and when it comes to single confectionery, customers are now conversant with the concept of shrinkflation – decreasing pack sizes coupled with increased prices. This, coupled

with the cost-of-living crisis, may be pushing consumers towards multipacks.

“I’ve definitely noticed it and my customers have, too,” says Simon Dixon, from Premier Lower Darwen in Lancashire. “It’s been all over the news, shrinkflation is a word now. It’s helped multipacks sell better, and I’ve given up more space for them.”

However, Malik maintains

that shrinkflation isn’t having such a direct impact on sales of single lines.

“It doesn’t really enter their thought process when they want a bar of chocolate from a convenience store,” she says.

“Multipacks are important for family purchases as a treat and a top-up, but there are a lot of single people out there or people who’ve not got kids, and they’ll treat themselves.”

RETAILER

VIEWS

Shumaila Malik, Costcutter Heathside Road, Manchester “WHEN Dubai Kunafa Pistachio was going viral, we got those in. They were good, but as with all things that go viral, it’s a craze that does well and drops off faster.”

Simon Dixon, Premier Lower Darwen, Lancashire “THERE’S a move towards more international sweets.

It started with the American ones, and now it’s Dubai chocolate that’s doing well. People are prepared to pay a ridiculous price for it. It gives us good margins too, between 25% and 30%.”

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Visit www.promoterms.com/CadburyGrabPacks2026 for full T&Cs & Prize details. Promoter: Mondelez Europe Services GmbH - Uk Branch whose address is at Cadbury House, Sanderson Road, Uxbridge, UB8 1DH. Shopper Terms & Conditions: UK (excl. CI & IoM), 18+ only. All Retailers & Spar: 07:00 01/07/26 – 21:00 28/08/26. Co-op: 07:00 01/07/26 – 21:00 01/09/26. Purchase a Participating Pack (subject to availability) from a Participating Retailer, scan the QR code or visit win.cadbury/grabbags2026-consumer & enter your details incl. barcode, batch code & retailer your purchased from to find out instantly if you have won & to enter the relevant draw. All valid entries from all Participating Retailers will be entered into Prize Draw 1. Purchase required. Prizes: Winning Moments: 150 x £25 Amazon voucher, 50 x £50 Amazon voucher & 30 x £100 Amazon voucher. Prize Draw 1 (All Participating Retailers): 15 x £500 days out & 30 x £100 Red Letter Day Vouchers. Prize Draw 2 (Spar): 5 x £1,000 Michelin-star dining experiences. Prize Draw 3 (Co-op): 10 x £500 days out. Retain receipt. Internet access & email address required. Max 1 entry p/person p/week. Max 1 Prize type p/person. Visit www.promoterms.com/ CadburyGrabPacks2026 for full T&Cs & Prize details. Promoter: Mondelez Europe Services GmbH – UK Branch whose address is at Cadbury House, Sanderson Road, Uxbridge, UB8 1DH.

CATEGORY ADVICE SINGLE CONFECTIONERY

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28 JULY-10 AUGUST 2026 betterretailing.com

OLD FAVOURITES AND LIMITED EDITIONS FAMILIARITY is important in single confectionery, as trusted brands are among the top performers.

“It’s still the old favourites doing well,” says Malik, “Mars, Twix and Snickers are all very good, and KitKat is still there.”

However, brands such as Kinder Bueno and Twirl have built up a strong following as well, with the latter really boosting sales with several limited-edition launches.

Those one-offs and new additions clearly have a role. In fact, new flavours are growing ahead of the market, particularly when they are at the

forefront of a trending flavour.

Emma Shannon, shopper activation lead at Nestlé Confectionery, highlights how salted caramel, cookie and coffee flavours grew by more than 20% in 2025, ahead of the category.

“Launches and limited editions have an important role when they are stocked alongside the core range and given proper visibility,” says Mondelez’ communication manager Susan Nash. “When surveyed, 68.6% of stores said stocking launches alongside the core range helps sales rise, while 72% said launches drive incremental sales.”

However, Malik and Dixon

both state that, while new flavours and launches are important, they no longer have the same clout as they did, with customers quick to move on after the initial hype. Malik notes Twirl Orange and Hazelnut KitKats as particular successes for her in recent years.

“We struggle with space,” says Dixon, “If anything comes in new, something’s got to give. A launch usually ends up on the counter. But if there’s a new limited edition and a rep gives me a good deal, or there’s a promotional price or offer, I’ll squeeze it in. When it’s gone, I’ll revert to the traditional ones.”

NEW PRODUCTS

What’s new in confectionery?

World of Sweets World of Sweets has released a new range of Korean snacking and drinks products. The range includes mochi-led confectionery, including gummies and mochi filled with chocolate, Korean gummies, coated biscuit sticks and Koreanflavoured Oreos.

KitKat KitKat has launched a cookie dough flavour range, including a KitKat 4-Finger Cookie Dough alongside a sharing bar. It also launched a Chunky Caramelflavour chocolate bar, celebrating the brand’s partnership with Formula 1, which features a distinctive marbling effect.

Twix Twix has added Twix Hazelnut to its range. It has an RRP of £1.69 for an Xtra, £1.20 for a single and 89p in its price-marked form.

Flavour Flip Mars Wrigley has introduced Skittles Flavour Flip, which offers five different two-in-one flavour combinations – Strawberry & Watermelon, Lemon & Raspberry, Pomegranate & Apple, Lime & Cherry and Mandarin & Pineapple – in two pack sizes: Pouch (136g) and Treat (109g).

If I need to know the latest retail trends or industry news, I start by looking at Better Retailing Dave Hiscutt, Better Retailing survey, 2024.

We find the news and trends that matter, so you don’t have to.

Join thousands of successful retailers who rely on Better Retailing to stay informed, competitive and profitable.

betterretailing.com

CATEGORY ADVICE SINGLE CONFECTIONERY

18

OTHER TRENDS CONSUMERS are increasingly health conscious and aware of what’s going in their products. Lauren George, external communications manager at Mars Wrigley, says people are looking for items that cater to their specific needs.

“Personalisation remains popular, but not just in the form of customised packaging for special occasions,” she says. “We are seeing it take the form of consumers seeking out products that support dietary preferences and lifestyles. This means vegan options, reduced-sugar variants, and even functional confectionery with added benefits.”

Premium and adult flavours are also driving further

growth. “Unique flavours are a key differentiator for premium chocolate,” says a spokesperson for Lindt & Sprüngli. “There is interest in the UK market for more complex tastes, including sweet and salty and sweet and savoury combinations. Shoppers in impulse are moving away from standard flavour chocolate bars and increasingly looking for something new, more indulgent and more interesting at the point of purchase.

“Growth is being driven by distinctive flavours such as pistachio (up 186% in the past 52 weeks) and salted caramel, which offer a sense of treat and justify a premium price point.”

SUPPLIER

VIEWS

Emma Shannon, shopper activation lead, Nestlé Confectionery “THE total confectionery and chocolate biscuit bar market is worth £9.4bn annually, growing 4.2% in value year on year. This growth can be attributed to the classic ‘lipstick effect’. This trend often comes into play during times of economic uncertainty when moments of comfort are key; consumers seek small, affordable treats, making confectionery a resilient purchase.”

PROMOTIONAL ACTIVITY PROMOTIONS are a great way to maintain and grow interest in single confectionery.

It is therefore worthwhile talking to reps, suppliers and symbols to find out what sponsorships, promotional campaigns and special deals are currently happening within each brand and then find out

how you can get involved, either by getting hold of stock at a reduced price, being given free PoS and FSDUs or doing your own in-store activations in partnership with the brands.

Beyond brand-specific promotional campaigns, meal deals can help to give customers a sense that they’re getting

a good deal and contribute to more sales of singles.

“It acts as an anchor price in a cost-conscious market, helping consumers budget and control spend,” says the spokesperson for Lindt & Sprüngli.

“They encourage shoppers to buy all components together (food + drink + snack) which

means confectionery becomes a component decision rather than an impulsive add-on.

“We have observed a shift from fixed pricing to tiered pricing e.g. standard deals (entry) and premium tiers, which allows for premium lines to be included and drive trade-up within the meal deal.”

Lauren George, external communications manager, Mars Wrigley “WHEN it comes to ranging and merchandising advice, there are a few tips that retailers can follow to help them become the go-to destination for trending single confectionery.

“Placing confectionery at key impulse zones will help drive incremental sales by capturing the attention of shoppers.

“Eye-level displays are more noticeable and attention-grabbing, particularly in a busy retail environment with competing products and distractions.

Impulse purchases are often driven by visual cues and emotional responses, rather than logical decisionmaking. Placing impulse products at eye level increases the chances that shoppers will notice them and be motivated to make an unplanned purchase.

“Using creative PoS throughout your store, such as shippers and free-standing display units, will capture shoppers’ attention in otherwise redundant areas of the store.”

Susan Nash, trade communications manager, Mondelez International “SINGLE confectionery plays a different role to multipacks. Multipacks are usually more planned, value-led and focused on at-home consumption, while singles are about immediate consumption and impulse.

That makes them especially important in convenience, where shoppers are often on quick missions and need familiar, portable treats that are easy to buy alongside a drink, lunch or top-up shop.

“The opportunity is clear. The food-to-go snacking category is worth £5.7bn and forecast to grow 3.3% annually, with chocolate one of the top three categories purchased. More than half of shoppers, 53%, are looking for on-the-go snacking solutions, while 68% of Gen Z and Gen Alpha snack at least twice a day.”

betterRetailing.com

PAID FEATURE INDUSTRY CLOSE-UP

In partnership with

PREMIUM CHOCOLATE IS ON THE RISE Premium chocolate continues to outperform the wider confectionery category. ALEX HILLHOUSE, convenience and wholesale controller at LINDT & SPRÜNGLI UK, explains how retailers can drive sales by meeting growing demand for everyday indulgence

bringing together trusted favourites in a convenient format. The range is designed to satisfy multiple shopper missions, from everyday indulgence and on-the-go snacking to gifting and sharing occasions.

Retailers can maximise sales by creating clear premium blocks in store, ensuring products are highly visible and easy to shop. Secondary sitings near coffee, gifting fixtures or seasonal displays can further increase visibility and impulse purchases.

19

FIVE TIPS TO SUCCESS Prioritise premium positioning: Place premium chocolate at eye level and in high-traffic areas to maximise visibility and encourage shoppers to trade up.

1 2

Create a clear premium block: Merchandise premium chocolate together to improve navigation, strengthen impact and make the fixture easier to shop.

3

Stock a broad premium range: Offer milk, nut-based and dark chocolate options so there’s something for every taste and occasion.

4

Think beyond confectionery: Use secondary sitings near coffee, gifting and seasonal displays to capture additional impulse purchases.

5

Keep fixtures fully stocked: Strong availability ensures shoppers can always find their preferred products and prevents missed sales opportunities.

AFFORDABLE LUXURY

PREMIUM IS NOW EVERYDAY PREMIUM chocolate is increasingly becoming part of shoppers’ everyday baskets, creating a significant opportunity for retailers like you to drive value growth. Today, 61% of consumers view premium chocolate as an affordable luxury1, making it a category that encourages trade-up and higher basket spend.

To help you capitalise on this demand, Lindt, the number one premium chocolate manufacturer2, has developed the Lindt Treat range,

28 JULY-10 AUGUST 2026 betterretailing.com

THE new Lindt Treat range has been created to meet growing demand for premium chocolate across a variety of tastes and occasions. Bringing together bestselling favourites and exciting flavour innovation, the new range helps retailers appeal to a wider shopper base while driving category value.

Alongside Lindor Milk Treat Bar, the range includes the increasingly popular Lindor Pistachio Treat Bar, tapping into confectionery’s fastestgrowing flavour trend and

one of the category’s most exciting opportunities. Retailers can also broaden appeal with Nocciolatte, which delivers a premium nutbased chocolate experience, and Excellence, designed for shoppers seeking richer, high-cocoa chocolate.

Together, the range offers something for every premium chocolate shopper. Stocking a broad premium assortment can help you meet diverse shopper needs, encourage trial and trade-up and increase confectionery sales.

THREE LINDT TREATS

1 Lindor Milk Treat Bar – RRP: £1.20 The number one premium countline brand in the UK2, combining smooth Lindt chocolate with the iconic Lindor melting filling.

2 Excellence – RRP: £3.50 The number one dark chocolate bar brand3, offering rich flavour and high cocoa content for a sophisticated chocolate experience.

3 Nocciolatte – RRP: £1.20 A premium combination of smooth Lindt chocolate and hazelnuts, tapping into growing demand for nut-based chocolate.

Mintel UK Chocolate Confectionery Market Report 2025, 2Circana, 52 w/e 01.02.25, Total Market, Value Sales, 3Circana, 52 w/e 14.02.26, Total Market, Value Sales

1

Learn more about the Lindt Treat Range at hancocks.co.uk or contact your Hancocks representative

CATEGORY ADVICE BACK TO SCHOOL

20

PENCIL IN THE BACK-TOSCHOOL PERIOD TAMARA BIRCH talks to retailers about how they prepare for the back-to-school period

HOW TO PLAN AHEAD BACK-TO-SCHOOL purchases are both planned and bought on impulse, and retailers should plan accordingly.

Chloe Taylor-Green, of Spar Western Downs in Staffordshire, recommends having everything available at the start of the summer holidays.

“We’ve always followed the ethos of ‘be proactive rather than reactive’,” she says.

“Even the simple things you might think are trivial will be needed by parents. Tie it in with summer as many products bought will be similar.”

Taylor-Green has a private

school nearby and says that their holidays work differently to public schools.

“They have a shorter summer holiday because they’ll have a longer Christmas holiday, so the beginning of the summer is key for us,” she says.

Meanwhile, Jeet Bansi, of Meon Value Londis in Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwickshire, will add back-to-schoolspecific PoS and offers from mid-August.

“A lot of our back-to-school range is available year-round, so we’ll use Londis PoS and

introduce new offers,” he says. “You need to be aware of who your customers are, ensure high availability and ensure your store is ready to be shopped when the holidays begin.”

Make sure you know when your local schools finish for the summer holidays by asking them or checking the school website. Alternatively, check gov.uk/school-termholiday-dates. You can then plan your delivery dates and ensure you have the right back-to-school range for your customers.

28 JULY-10 AUGUST 2026 betterretailing.com

STATIONERY AND SCHOOL SUPPLIES OFFERING food and drink is only half of the back-to-school solution. Stationery and school supplies can boost spend and drive repeat purchase.

Bansi offers an extensive stationery range year-round.

“We have people doing parcel drop-offs, so this area is good for packaging needs, but

generally, it’s good for school shopping, too,” he says.

He adds that one product he’s found to be unique is offering iron-on name tags and marker pens for clothes. He has them on a clip-strip by the till area and says that they’ve become a top seller.

“We’ve had increased de-

mand for them over the years, and there’s no risk involved and it works for us,” he says. “We use an independent wholesaler outside of Londis, and the range goes hand in hand with our lunchbox fillers.”

Taylor-Green follows a similar strategy, but adds in additional school supplies during

21

SUPPLIER

VIEW

the summer.

“We’ve always kept our stationery section well maintained, but we add in geometry sets and other supplies like that. Sales are declining a little, though, as everything is done electronically, but we do what we can to provide for those who need it,” she says.

Susan Nash, trade communications manager, Mondelez International “VALUE remains one of the biggest drivers during seasonal shopping periods. More than half of retailers say deals and offers are the biggest drivers of seasonal sales, so clear price messaging, promotions and value-led formats should be central to back-to-school displays.

“Retailers can make the shopping experience easier for parents by grouping relevant products together, such as lunchbox snacks, soft drinks, bakery items and food-to-go products, helping shoppers complete the mission quickly.

“Merchandising will also be critical. Retailers should position lunchbox staples and portable snacks in high-traffic areas, with secondary sitings near drinks, food-to-go and meal deals. Shelf barkers and countertop units are rated among the most effective forms of point of sale by convenience retailers, helping stores signpost value, new products and seasonal deals.”

LUNCHBOX FILLERS MANY customers will want to do their back-to-school shop in one place, and retailers are well positioned to boost sales if they offer a full lunchbox solution. If you’re reviewing your range, look at the latest trends, such as health.

A 2025 survey by Yoplait found more than half (58%) of parents worry their kids aren’t getting the essential nutrients they need, with a further 70% worried about what their children are eating and who want them to consume healthy food.

“For retailers, the focus should be on championing health-led products that support children’s nutritional needs, while ensuring adequate space is allocated to kids’ yoghurt within the dairy fixture, for example,” says Grant Yates, sales director for Yoplait. “Expanding and clearly signposting this segment can unlock incremental sales and drive sustainable category growth during the back-to-school season.”

Bansi has leaned into this

health trend, increasing his order of yoghurts, jellies, small juice drinks and fruit. He merchandises the range in a highly visible area in his chillers, and has a dedicated stand near the front of the store for ambient goods.

Health also expands to protein snacks, as these keep children and teens fuller for longer, which is backed by Shaun Whelan, head of convenience at Jack Link’s.

“Protein-rich snacks offer a filling convenient option

that works across multiple occasions,” he says. “Products that work across multiple shopper missions will be particularly important for retailers.”

Taylor-Green, however, recommends shopping around and focusing on multipacks for those on a budget.

“This will be your point of difference. They might not come in often, but when they do, they’ll want to buy in bulk, and this gives us an edge on discounters,” she says.

CATEGORY ADVICE BACK TO SCHOOL

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28 JULY-10 AUGUST 2026 betterretailing.com

NEW PRODUCTS

What’s new in back to school Ribena launches £1 PMPs for limited time Suntory Beverage and Food GB&I has introduced a £1 Ribena 500ml price-marked pack (PMP) for the summer season. The move aims to help retailers maximise sales. It will be available for a limited time and will be supported by in-store activation and PoS materials.

Juice Burst Drinks launches Juice Burst Quench Juice Burst Quench is available in three flavours: Berry Fruits, Tropical Fruits and Citrus Fruits. The drinks come in 500ml bottles with an RRP of £1.75 and will be supported by meal deal participation where available, alongside a £1 PMP format.

Chupa Chups one-metre sour belt The Chupa Chups one-metre sour belt is inspired by a measuring tape and the carton aims to make the format instantly clear.

POST-3PM STOCK THE back-to-school period goes beyond September, and retailers can get an edge by focusing on the post3pm rush where school children will be coming out of school eager to purchase food and drink.

For Taylor-Green, her range includes having hot food to go ready, including sausage rolls and coffee and orange juice for visiting parents. Her staff also have built a strong confectionery bay that focuses on low-cost novelty sweets that change seasonally to maintain interest.

“We have Refresher and Tango bars that cost 10p, but our staff member likes to change our range depending on the season. We’ll have summer sweets and winter options, too,” she says.

Bansi also has a similar

range, but as it’s available year-round, he’ll signpost it as ‘back-to-school’. He’ll also merchandise novelty sweets at a lower level to capture their attention.

“We need to make it easy for them to pick up something, so a lower shelf is the best way to do this,” he says.

But it’s not just the range retailers need to think about. Bansi says to think about staffing levels, and increase the number of staff on shift closer to the start of the school term. TaylorGreen says to be vigilant for any theft. This means keeping a keen eye on stock levels and self-checkouts if you have them.

“We keep an eye on them to ensure children aren’t buying energy drinks, for example,” she says.

Dairylea Snackers expands with Strawberry Fruit Bites Dairylea has expanded its popular Snackers range with the launch of a Strawberry Fruit Bites variety.

It aims to help retailers tap into growing demand for healthier lunchbox options and family snacking products. It has a £1.65 RRP for a 64g pack.

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Stephanie Armstrong, marketing manager, Bear “HEALTHIER snacking mindsets are helping to drive growth across both adult and kids’ fruit snacking, which is now worth a combined £518m in retail sales and growing 10% year on year. For retailers, it’s a versatile and highly relevant format that’s easy to stock, easy to shop and appealing to a broad range of missions, from the weekly lunchbox shop to on-thego top-ups and impulse snacking.

“Back to school is always front of mind for parents and carers as they plan what to feed their kids when the new school year rolls round. Lunchboxes need to be convenient, healthier, great-tasting and, most importantly, something kids will actually want to eat.”

THE NO. 1 REASON FOR A LOST MAGAZINE PURCHASE IS BECAUSE CONSUMERS CAN’T FIND WHAT THEY’RE LOOKING FOR. DON’T MISS A SALE AGAIN Get your free Just Ask point-of-sale at betterretailing.com/just-ask

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Email marketing@newtrade.co.uk Or call Kate on 07886784465.

CATEGORY ADVICE FROZEN

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COOL PROFITS CHARLES WHITTING finds out how to use frozen options to boost sales throughout the year

NEW PRODUCTS

GETTING THE RIGHT FROZEN OFFER FOR YOUR CUSTOMERS FROZEN food can be a real winner for retailers with the right customer base, the right range and the right plan. At a basic level, frozen food means longer shelf lives and often a simpler cooking experience

compared to purchasing ingredients for cooking from scratch. This favours retailers serving customers looking for simple meal solutions.

“It’s easy for students to cook and it’s relatively

cheap,” says Bhavik Odedra, from One Stop Welford Road in Leicester, who has a large student customer demographic.

“We’ve got Ristorante pizzas, Birds Eye frozen fish and Aunt Bessie’s Yorkshire Puddings.

It’s a big variety.”

However, Odedra also stocks a wide range of frozen vegetables, such as mixed veg, garden peas and broccoli florettes because “not every customer wants chips”.

THE ICE AND ICE CREAM OPPORTUNITY TWO of the most important frozen products to stock, particularly over the summer months, are ice and ice cream.

With people having barbecues and summer parties, the demand for ice to cool down drinks skyrockets, and the product itself is also a highmargin addition to any freezer.

“Ice is a massive seller,” says Andrew Brace, from Costcutter Fairfield Drive in Worm-

ley, Hertfordshire. “It’s our number one frozen food. Who would have thought that 30 years ago?”

When it comes to ice cream, the summer months see onthe-go options leading the way in terms of sales, as people look for a cooling treat while out and about, but take-home options – in the form of multipacks and tubs – should not be ignored as they

can boost basket spend considerably.

“Take-home ice cream remains an important part of convenience, representing 49% of total category sales and has grown by 8% since last year, highlighting the opportunity for retailers to cater to at-home indulgence moments,” says Rhiannon Lines, retail execution lead at The Magnum Ice Cream Company.

“With tubs accounting for 29% of value sales in the channel, they are a key driver of spend within the category, reflecting a growing shopper preference for shareable takehome formats. Ranging the right mix of bestselling takehome options, such as Ben & Jerry’s, alongside newer formats, allows retailers to drive basket spend and encourage repeat purchase.”

New products in frozen Shana Paratha Toasties Shana Foods has expanded its frozen flatbread range with the launch of Paratha Toasties. The parathas are shaped to fit into standard countertop toasters and can be cooked straight from frozen and are ready in three minutes. It has an RRP of £2.75.

Cook Kids Frozen ready meal brand Cook has launched its refreshed Cook for Kids range. Sausage & Mash, Broccoli & Pesto Pasta, Chicken Dinosaur Pie and Honey-Roasted Duck Noodles. Updated favourites also include Beef Lasagne, Chicken Tikka & Rice, Cottage Pie, Fish Pie, Macaroni Cheese, Meatballs & Spaghetti and Pasta Bolognese. The entire range is available as part of a five meals for £16 offer.

Ristorante Pollo Dr Oetker has reintroduced its Ristorante Pollo pizza following strong consumer demand after the product was delisted. The relaunch is being supported by a consumer-facing campaign including a social film fronted by former Love Island star Chloe Burrows.

Pukka Pukka has relaunched its frozen range with a new packaging design aimed at an easier shopping experience and helping to drive frozen category sales.

28 JULY-10 AUGUST 2026 betterretailing.com

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NEW PRODUCTS

The latest launches in ice cream Volcanix Magnum has launched Volcanix, an ice cream stick with five layers. Available exclusively to Booker and Tesco Group retailers, the 80ml single stick ice cream has an RRP of £2.

Cornetto Max Magnum has also launched Cornetto Max, which comes in two flavours – Hazelnut & Chocolate and Pistachio. Available in a four-pack with an RRP of £3.99, the launch is supported with a £6m media campaign.

Twister Magnum has launched Twister Frrreeze – a blend of peach, raspberry-apple and orange flavours. Available in four-packs with an RRP of £2.75, the launch accompanies an on-pack promotion in partnership with Disney to celebrate the opening of the new World of Frozen at Disneyland Paris.

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Andrew Board Core Convenience Store, Durham “I DO keep quite a broad range of grocery. One of the most positive changes I’ve made is expanding my frozen section. I’ve put in an extra metre and a half of freezer and planning another three metres when I do the refit so we’ll have five metres when that’s done.

“There’s more demand, so I’ve got larger freezers in.

The products have got a lot longer life, so there’s less risk of waste.

“It’s key to keep reviewing the range you have and get rid of dead lines as quick as you can. Maybe just clear them out at cost to free up the space to put more profitable lines in there.”

PROMOTING FROZEN RETAILERS should focus on the long shelf life of frozen to convert customers. A report from Nomad Foods found that nearly half of European households discard fresh vegetables every month, compared to fewer than three in 10 for frozen equivalents, costing up to £539 a year.

Odedra offers meal deals with his frozen range to further boost the value credentials.

“We do deals that we get from One Stop like £7 for two sides and a main. We’re selling about 16 of those every

day – Chicago Town Pizza, McCain French Fries and a Viennetta log.”

Daran Hewitt, from Hewitt’s Stores in Sutton-InAshfield, Nottinghamshire, does the same, using deals from Premier.

“We’ll run whatever they’re doing at the time,” he says. “Two Goodfellas pizzas and a tub of ice cream for £5 sells well. And we’ve got two Chicago Deep Dishes for £4.50 – we sell them for £2.50 normally. They sell really well when they’re on offer like that.”

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Amanda Barker, convenience strategy and activation manager, Dr Oetker “RETAILERS can drive frozen sales through meal deals, freezer-filler promotions and cross-category bundles that support key shopper missions such as meal-fortonight, top-up shops and sharing occasions.

“Promotions pairing frozen pizza with sides, snacks, ice cream or drinks can increase basket spend and encourage repeat purchase, while major events such as the World Cup create additional opportunities for sharing-focused meal deals.”

ADVICE

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28 JULY-10 AUGUST 2026 betterretailing.com

MAKING MORE FROM NEWS AND MAGS CHARLES WHITTING finds out how retailers can bolster their footfall, sales and basket spend with newspapers and magazines

We don’t sell much in news and mags – sales are down.

What are retailers doing to boost their sales? – Karan Patel, Budgens Sherwood, Tunbridge Wells, Kent

1

Reuben Singh Mander, The Three Singhs, Selby, West Yorkshire

“WE’RE in an area where we have those core sales, and it’s just always been there for us. We’re in a mixed age area, so we have our fair share of retired customers who want their newspapers.

But in our location, we also have lots of builders and passing trade, so that’s another customer base.

“I just look at it as another in-store service we’re offering. But with our retired customers in particular, the basket spend we can build around a newspaper purchase is actually very valuable. These people are often big believers in local products, and they’re not fussed about the price tag that comes with it, so bringing these customers in with newspapers is very important.

“With magazines, we really only sell the TV guides, and those sales are quite low. Many customers are seeing the constant price increase and prefer to just get the Saturday paper and go off the inserts in them.”

2

Dipak Shah, H&R News, Camberley, Surrey

“IN terms of home news delivery (HND), it’s essentially a regular thing that you have to have going for you. We do lea�letting every six months and make use of the HND data. Footfall has remained steady, but it’s not increased – lots of people are doing their news reading online these days.

“But you have to take your customers’ orders and make sure it’s available regularly. People would rather go to a store where they know they can get a copy of their magazine reliably. A lot of these magazines are collectors’ items, so if they miss even one week, it will really put them out. You need a continual supply of whatever they’re collecting. We have all the TV mags, the royal mags, and then lots of car and sports magazines.

“Make sure you have the right choices of newspaper, because people always have their favourites.”

3

Sudesh Patel, Londis Coulsdon, Surrey

“NEWSPAPER sales are declining, but having newspaper delivery is de�initely helping. And with magazines, it’s about getting those specialist mags in. People might ask: ‘Can you get me the Farmers Guardian?’, and then I’ll go and reserve it for them. And they will come back again and again. Magazines are where a lot of retailers don’t concentrate their efforts. But if you talk to your customers and tell them they can get what they want from you, they’d rather come and buy it from you.

“We have so many magazines about all sorts of specialist subjects – magazines about piloting, farming, modern railways and more. We reserve it for customers who come to pick it up every month as part of their hobby.

“We don’t keep many copies of each of the mags. But even if it’s just one copy, that person will be coming to you every week or fortnight.”

In the next issue, the Retail Express team finds out how retailers are creating a point of difference in their store. If you have any problems you’d like us to explore, please email charles.whitting@newtrade.co.uk