Talking Shop ISSUE 136 – May-June 2025
The magazine for Premier retailers
Making a Scoot to success splash Festival fever
PLUS
Grow your sales and profits with Booker’s delivery app
Things are going swimmingly for new Lake District retailer Marcus Parkinson
The Premier Beer and Cider festival returns.
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Talking Shop | May/June 2025
Welcome Talking Shop ISSUE 136 – May-June
2025
The magazine
A very warm welcome to the latest jam-packed issue of Talking Shop as we move towards the all-important summer season – and what a blooming season of opportunity it is promising to be. We’ve pulled together a sizzling package of support to help you have the hottest summer yet – regardless of what the weather has in store. Rolled out just in time for the start of picnic season, Premier’s chilled and deli range reset serves up a fresh slice of tasty new products, new pack sizes, recipe upgrades and appetising PMPs. The range reset covers a variety of key summer categories, including soft drinks, pizzas and pastas, ready meals, sandwich fillers, sides, snacks, dips and more – all of which are guaranteed to set shoppers smiling come rain or shine. Kicking off later this month, Premier’s Beer and Cider Festival meanwhile will help you drink in additional sales and profits over the key summer sales period – with a barrel-load of NPD, Group Exclusive products and fantastic promotions to tempt your shoppers with. In this issue you’ll also learn more about Scoot – Booker’s brand-new rapid response delivery app that facilitates home deliveries to shoppers in as little as 30 minutes. Designed by retailers, for retailers, Scoot promises to help you make more and save more – an estimated £34,000 more profit each year to be precise! This issue of Talking Shop also includes a detailed look at the many exclusive deals and discounts available to you in our new Added Value Services brochure. We’ve also recently introduced a new B2B WhatsApp channel to help keep you up to date with exciting new product launches, upcoming events, pre-sells and category advice to help you grow your business. As ever, there’s also the usual mix of remarkable retailer profiles, cutting-edge NPD and key legislative updates to inspire and inform. It’s set to be a superb summer for Premier retailers, and I wish you all the very best of trading over the next couple of months.
for Premier retail
ers
Making a Scoot to success splash
PLUS
Things are going swimmingly Lake District for new retailer Marc us Parkinson
Grow your sales with Booker’s and profits delivery app
Festival fever The Premier Beer and Cider festival returns.
COVER STORY Young retailer Marcus Parkinson is making waves in the Lake District. THE THREE BIG STORIES 9 WhatsApp? Booker launches new B2B WhatsApp channel for retailers. 54 SUMMER SIZZLER Premier’s Beer and Cider Festival is back. 67 HOME RUN Grow your sales and profits with Scoot home delivery.
Share your shop news
If you’ve got news, tips or feature ideas, please get in touch with Talking Shop: EMAIL:
talkingshop@booker.co.uk DISCLAIMER:
Martyn Parkinson, Sales Director – Booker Wholesale
4 TalkingShop May/June 2025
Prices are correct at time of going to press, but may be subject to change.
87
Helping you to comply with new waste legislation
31 Opportunity knocks!
38
61
B&B Premier is wide awake in Basildon
Don’t miss the Winter Pre-Sell
7
9
Premier News
38 Hit parade
81 Booker Networks
Premier’s triumphs at The
B&B Premier has revitalised the
Shining the spotlight on The Booker
Convenience Awards 2025
parade of shops that serves
Group’s flourishing Colleague
Basildon’s Clay Hill Road estate.
Networks.
Booker WhatsApp Booker launches a new B2B channel for retailers
21 GroceryAid Update The industry charity has launched its first ever raffle.
22 Making a splash Things are going swimmingly for
48 Summer loving
Helping you comply with the new
deli range in time for summer.
Simpler Recycling Legislation.
54 Festival fever
Booker’s AVS brochure can help you
back with a bang.
make more and save more.
67 Delivering success Grow your sales and profits with
Parkinson.
Scoot home delivery.
75 New product round up
Premier retailers Kam and Lidia
Our pick of the hottest new products
Sahraee jumped at the opportunity
to hit the shelves.
to extend into the store next-door.
93 Adding Value
Premier’s Beer and Cider Festival is
Lake District Premier retailer Marcus
31 Opportunity knocks
87 Legislation update
Premier has refreshed its chilled and
75
Hot new products
PremierNews NEWS, ACHIEVEMENTS AND OPINIONS FROM ACROSS PREMIER
Girish’s@Barmulloch crowned Convenience Retailer of the Year Girish Jeeva took the top accolade at The Convenience Awards 2025.
INBRIEF PREMIER SCOOPS TWO HIGH PROFILE INDUSTRY AWARDS Premier was crowned ‘Britain’s Favourite Convenience Symbol Group’ at The Convenience Awards 2025. Hosted by awardwinning broadcaster Krishnan Guru-Murthy, the ceremony saw convenience store operators and suppliers gather to forge new connections, recognise excellence and celebrate together.
Glasgow-based Girish’s@Barmulloch was awarded the top accolade of Convenience Retailer of the Year
and most importantly, our incredible customers.”
In a second high-
Commenting on this year’s awards, Convenience
profile win, Premier
Store editor, Aidan Fortune, said: “The quality of
also claimed the title
Held at Manchester’s Victoria Warehouse in
entries for this year’s awards was extremely high
of ‘Britain’s Favourite
March, the awards celebrated the convenience
and it made it incredibly difficult for our judging
Convenience Store
industry’s most inspirational stores, retailers, staff
panel to decide on category winners.
Group.
at The Convenience Awards 2025.
and suppliers.
“The work that Girish has put into his business
The Convenience
The Premier store, which is owned by independent
has been outstanding – he’s successfully balanced
Awards 2025
retailer Girish Jeeva, also claimed the prize of
embracing technology and innovation while keeping
are powered by
Independent Store of the Year.
prices affordable for his customer base.
Convenience Store,
The judging panel of independent retail experts
“At a time when there is so much working against
praised Girish for his willingness to innovate while
retailers, it’s inspiring to see how many are striving
keeping the shopper experience a priority.
forward and growing their businesses. A massive
Commenting on his success, Girish said: “We
congratulations to all of our finalists and winners.”
proudly took home two awards, but the pinnacle
Other winners on the night included Julie Kaur,
of the evening was undoubtedly being crowned
of Premier Jules in Telford, who was named as the
Convenience Retailer of the Year. Words simply
‘Retailers’ Retailer of the Year.
can’t express the joy and gratitude we felt in that moment.
Lumina Intelligence and The Grocer.
In a new format for the awards, this prize was decided by retailer attendees to the event.
“This success wouldn’t have been possible without
Premier Racetrack Wishaw in Glasgow was also
the unwavering dedication of our entire team – our
presented with the prestigious New Store of the Year
fantastic in-store staff, our reliable delivery drivers,
award. May/June 2025 TalkingShop
7
Booker to launch official WhatsApp Business channel Premier retailers will soon reap the benefits of Booker’s new B2B WhatsApp channel which will enable it to deliver more personalised content. Booker
is
strengthening
its
customer communications with
WHY JOIN BOOKER’S OFFICIAL WHATSAPP CHANNEL? SPECIAL OFFERS Get instant updates on new promotions, special offers and events. FIRST TO KNOW Be the first to see new products and Group Exclusives.
the launch of a new WhatsApp Business channel for its symbol
INSIGHTS AND TIPS Get industry insights and category advice to help you grow your business.
group retailers. As one of the widest used platforms today, Booker’s new WhatsApp Business API will help to amplify its marketing muscle and ramp up retailer engagement.
STAY UP TO DATE Keep up to date on Trade Shows, pre-sells, order cut off dates, recalls and branch news.
The new B2B capability will enable Booker to deliver far more personalised content to retailers, in response to their fascia, region, branch and more. It will also facilitate more rapid deployment of promotions and enable it to send time- sensitive messages and alerts, including
JOIN HERE!
order cut-off times and distress
USE THE SIGN-UP LINK: APP.PROCONNECTPLATFORM. COM/JOIN/BOOKER
messages – such as branch closures and weather warnings. Retailers signed up to Booker’s official WhatsApp channel will
OR SCAN THE QR CODE
also benefit from updates on exciting new product launches, upcoming events, pre-sells and category advice to help them grow their businesses. Booker will also be able to send retailers digital vouchers, instant surveys, Trade Show news and Club information and more.
Retailers will be able to join the channel in a variety of ways, including email sign-up, online, or via a link or QR code. For more information, speak to your RDM. May/June 2025 TalkingShop
9
FROM THE BIGGEST LEMON & LIME BRAND @BritvicTrade
www.atyourconvenience.com
CommunityNews NEWS, ACHIEVEMENTS AND OPINIONS FROM ACROSS PREMIER
Premier store delivers flaming hot community support Tenby Stores and Post Office in Tenby, Wales has
PREMIER RETAILERS TASTE CHOC-TASTIC SALES
you for their services.
donated 10 cases of Lucozade Blue to the brave
Owned by Premier retailers Vince and Fiona
firefighting crews at Tenby Fire Station as a thank
Malone, the community-focused store has also started hosting regular Police Surgeries. Local shoppers were invited to come into the store between 10am and 11am on 24 March to meet local police teams, ask questions and air any concerns. Earlier this year, Tenby stores was announced as one of the 16 regional winners of Allwyn’s firstever Local Retail Champions awards – an accolade
Premier retailers across
which also saw it win £5,000.
the country are reporting
Commenting on the store’s many community-
sell-out sales of the new
focused feats, and its much-deserved award, local
Cadbury Dairy Milk
MP Henry Tuffnell said: “This fantastic community
Biscoff bar.
shop goes above and beyond – supporting local
The innovative tie-
schools with free fruit, helping out at the community
up combines smooth
fridge, and ensuring elderly residents get their
Cadbury’s chocolate
groceries with a personal touch.
with crunchy Lotus
“Small businesses like Tenby Stores are the
Biscoff biscuit chunks
backbone of our communities, and I couldn’t be
– and is causing a stir
prouder to see them celebrated. Well done to the
on social media, with
team!”
retailers who promote the bar online racking
Making a meal of it
up dozens of likes and
Girish’s Premier in Barmulloch, Glasgow recently offered its
Facebook, Premier
late night online shoppers an exclusive offer of one free ready
retailer Jaz Ali said: “This
meal included in orders made after 10pm.
combo is unreal! The
shares. Commenting on
Late night shoppers could choose from a delicious selection of
new Cadbury Dairy
Jack’s favourites, including Sweet & Sour Chicken, Chicken in
Milk Biscoff bar has
Black Bean Sauce, Macaroni Cheese, Beef Stew & Dumplings
landed at Jaz’s Premier
and more. The exclusive “one-time offer” came just weeks after
Grangemouth and it’s
store owner Girish Jeeva extended his Snappy Shopper delivery
flying off the shelves!”
service to 24 hours. May/June 2025 TalkingShop
11
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IndustryNews A DIGEST OF NEWS FROM THE INDEPENDENT RETAILING INDUSTRY
Booker’s Maria Clark wins high profile industry award for sustainability success The prestigious FPA awards recognise and reward innovation and excellence.
OLDER RETAIL WORKERS ARE HAPPIEST IN SECTOR Retail employees aged 54 and over are the happiest in the industry, with two in three (67%) reporting high satisfaction at work, compared to 62% of 25-34-year-olds. The findings from the State of the Frontline Workforce Survey, conducted by workforce management platform Quinyx, revealed that mature workers in the sector report high levels
Booker’s sustainability credentials and the key
industry, making her a deserving recipient of this
of job security, flexibility,
individuals behind them have been celebrated at a
prestigious award.
and engagement. This
glittering ceremony for the Foodservice Packaging
FPA Interim Executive Chair Anna Turner said:
contrasts with younger
“The quality of the entries this year was exceptionally
generations who cite
The prestigious industry awards are designed to
high, but Maria stood out as the worthy winner.
burnout and instability.
recognise and reward innovation and excellence
During her time at Booker, she has developed the
According to the
within the foodservice packaging industry.
company’s sustainability goals significantly and
survey, 46% of retail
worked hard to change the mindset of the company’s
workers aged 54 and up
stakeholders.
do not experience work-
Association (FPA)’s Awards.
Booker’s Sustainability and Technical Report Manager Maria Clark was presented with the FPA’s coveted Rising Star Award which celebrates
“Winning the Rising Star Award also entitles
individuals who have already achieved noteworthy
Maria to an automatic place at Sheffield Hallam
successes early in their careers.
University to study the four-year Packaging
their current role as a
Professional Integrated Degree and Apprenticeship
long-term career choice
course.”
and only 6% worry about
Maria has been a key driver of sustainability initiatives at Booker, spearheading several impactful
related stress. In addition, 60% view
projects that have not only advanced the company’s
On receiving the award Maria said: “I am truly
environmental goals but have also set a benchmark
honoured to be recognised for my hard work and
for industry standards.
dedication to sustainability, both within Booker and
a lack of scheduling
the broader foodservice industry.
flexibility while 54%
With a keen eye for detail and a forward-thinking
losing their job. Only 8% say they have
approach, Maria has contributed to the development
Sustainability has always been my passion, and
said their job has not
of sustainable packaging solutions that have made a
I am deeply inspired by my young family to stay
negatively affected
significant difference in the foodservice sector.
committed to making a positive impact and always
their mental or physical
doing what’s right.”
health.
Her leadership in promoting sustainability has earned her recognition within Booker and across the
May/June 2025 TalkingShop
13
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Industry calls for delivery drivers to be protected by legislation New shopworker protections should be extended to delivery drivers, industry groups insist.
RETAILERS AGAINST CRIME REPORTS 26% RISE IN RETAILER LOSSES
Retailers Against Crime
Usdaw and BRC have pushed for the protection
(RAC) has revealed
to be extended to delivery drivers, who are required
that overall losses for
to conduct age verification checks before deliveries
its retailer members
can be completed.
increased by 26% to
The union says that this can be a real flashpoint for abuse, threats and violence, and they deserve the same protection that their in-store colleagues will have.
£1.85m during the last year. Speaking at an RAC intelligence briefing for
At the second reading of the Bill in the House
retailers in Edinburgh,
of Commons, Home Secretary Yvette Cooper
the national retail crime
announced “a stringent two-step age verification
partnership said that
system for online knife sales, so that customers have
while the total number
to submit photo ID at the point of purchase and again
of offences reported
on delivery. It will be a legal requirement to hand a
had dropped 5% to
package containing a knife to the buyer alone.”
11,890, the number of
Addressing the Committee, Chris Morris, Usdaw
violent incidents had
Deputy Head of Research, said: “Delivery drivers
surged to make up
have to make age verification checks when delivering
14% of that figure, with
The British Retail Consortium (BRC) and retail
alcohol and other age-restricted products, which can
1,674 reported to the
trade union, Usdaw, have called for the Crime and
cause issues of violence, threats and abuse.
organisation during 2024.
Policing Bill to offer legal protections for grocery
“Order substitutions can also cause customer
delivery drivers, as the Bill reaches Committee stage
frustration. So, we would want to see these workers
ordinator Nataša Wilson
at the House of Commons.
covered by the new law as well.
flagged up the RAC’s
Intelligence Co-
The Bill, which will impact England and Wales, is
“This is something we will continue to engage
set to make abuse and violence against shopworkers
with the Government on, to ensure the Bill is as
tool, which allows
a standalone crime, as is already the case in Scotland.
effective as possible.”
users to share real-time
SentrySIS crime-fighting
information about thefts
New Neighbourhood Policing Guarantee welcomed The Association of Convenience Stores
has
named, contactable officers to tackle the issues
welcomed
new
facing their communities.
the
announcement
of
a
happening in the city with fellow retailers and the police. Wilson also presented
Neighbourhood Policing Guarantee from the
In addition, every neighbourhood in England and
footage of criminal
Government – which seeks to create dedicated
Wales will have dedicated teams who will spend
teams, showing how
neighbourhood policing teams in every community
their time on the beat with guaranteed police patrols
one member might
across the country.
in town centres and other hotspot areas at peak times
distract a shop assistant,
such as Friday and Saturday nights.
while another stole
It follows a manifesto commitment from Labour to put 13,000 more neighbourhood officers on
There will also be a dedicated antisocial behaviour
merchandise and a third
streets – an increase of over 50%, according to the
lead in every force who will work with businesses
hid them from view in a
Home Office.
and residents on bespoke action plans to crack down
premeditated plan.
The measures include each neighbourhood having
on the problem. May/June 2025 TalkingShop
15
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Vape rates stall and disposable use falls ahead of ban New UCL research indicates that vaping rates may have plateaued, while use of disposable vapes appears to be falling.
POST OFFICE ANNOUNCES MOVE TO FULLY FRANCHISED NETWORK The Post Office has confirmed that its last remaining 108 Directly Managed Branches (DMBs) will be franchised by the autumn. The Post Office confirmed in November that the future of its DMB network would be under review. It claimed that DMBs generate a fully allocated loss (including central and support costs) of over £40m each year. Nigel Railton, Post Office Chair, said: “By franchising these branches, we are protecting access to our services for communities right across the UK and realising £40 million worth of
Great Britain’s rapid rise in vaping rates appears to
– with the fall steepest among 16 to 24-year-olds.
savings that will enable
have stalled in the lead up to the ban on disposable
In this age bracket, the proportion mainly using
us to uplift postmasters’
products, a new study from University College
disposables has almost halved – from 63% to 35%.
remuneration by up to
London (UCL) suggests.
Lead author Dr Sarah Jackson said: “Action is
10%.
While the proportion of people vaping has
likely still required to reduce high vaping rates, but
increased by nearly a quarter each year since January
now that the situation has stabilised policymakers
will either stay in the
2022 – UCL research indicates that it may now have
may be reassured that it would be sensible to avoid
same location where
plateaued.
stricter policy options currently under review.
possible or be located
Usage of disposable vapes also appears to be
“The 108 Post Offices
“Our results also suggest that the Government’s
close to the existing
ban on disposables, coming into force in June, may
location, meaning
The study of 88,611 people noted a “substantial
have limited impact on vaping rates in general,
customers will continue
decline” in the proportion of vapers mainly using
given that vapers are already moving away from
to have access to a full
disposable e-cigarettes in the last year.
disposable vapes.
suite of products and
falling ahead of the UK-wide ban on 1 June.
In January 2024, nearly half (43.6%) of all vapers aged 16 and over mainly used disposables. This fell to less than a third (29.4%) a year later
“It seems likely that people using these products
services.”
will move to re-usable versions rather than stop vaping completely.” May/June 2025 TalkingShop
17
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Coming Soon
InPost acquires parcel delivery firm Yodel InPost has become the third largest agnostic logistics player in the country. Parcel locker firm, Inpost, has acquired delivery company, Yodel, to become the third-largest
now well positioned to do the same here.” Neil Kuschel, CEO of InPost UK added: “This
DPD UK TO ADD 8,000 PARCEL LOCKERS THANKS TO YEEP! LINK-UP Parcel firm DPD is to expand its UK out-ofhome network, by adding 8,000 parcel
agnostic logistics player in the country, following
acquisition is a game-changer for InPost’s operations
lockers over the next five
Royal Mail and Evri.
in the UK. Combining doorstep deliveries with
years.
The deal saw InPost acquire 95.5% of Judge
our unrivalled locker network, we are reshaping
The partnership with
Logistics Ltd share capital (‘JLL’), parent company
the future of parcel delivery. We will be able to
YEEP! will see DPD add
of Yodel Delivery Network (‘Yodel’), with PayPoint
provide customers and e-commerce retailers with
to its existing network
retaining a minority stake of 4.5%.
the reliability, flexibility, and efficiency they expect.
of 12,000 Pickup parcel
We’re excited to deliver more for the UK.”
stores and lockers across
The acquisition will enable the company to process around 300 million+ parcels annually,
The acquisition builds on the partnership
immediately expanding its merchant base to over
established between InPost and Yodel in October
The YEEP! network
500+ e-commerce stores and increasing market
2024, when Yodel began providing last-mile services
comprises open, battery-
share to approximately 8%, with 10,000 automated
through InPost’s “locker-to-door” service.
powered parcel lockers,
the UK.
parcel machines, totalling over 18,000 Out Of Home
enabling shoppers to
points.
conveniently pick up
Rafał Brzoska, Founder, and CEO of InPost Group,
and drop off parcels
said: “This acquisition marks a pivotal milestone in
within their local
InPost’s journey to revolutionise the UK delivery
communities.
market as well as the Group pan-European presence.
Elaine Kerr, CEO of
We have just fast-forwarded five years of organic
DPD UK, commented:
expansion in the UK and it is a clear reflection of
“By rolling out 8,000
our long-term commitment to this market, a market
additional lockers,
where we see enormous opportunity for growth. Our
we are creating more
logistics model has transformed delivery in other
accessible, efficient, and
European markets, and with this acquisition, we are
convenient solutions. We know UK
Gander enhances food waste reduction capabilities
consumers love their
Gander has improved food waste reduction and in-store experiences by integrating its reduced-to-clear
that remains our priority,
(RTC) technology with SOLUM’s Newton Electronic Shelf Labels (ESLs).
but we can also see that
The integration has enabled Gander to automatically display reduced-to-clear products to thousands of local customers actively searching for discounts.
home deliveries, and
our lockers are hugely popular with regular
By integrating the technology, retailers can maximise the reach of reduced-price items across a
users. We anticipate this
wide range of platforms including Olio, Google Local Inventory, Meta, retailer websites and loyalty
market to grow in the
programmes.
UK in the next five years,
The collaboration drastically reduces food waste, increases footfall to stores and helps recover lost profits. Mark Duckworth, Country Manager at SOLUM, said: “By eliminating the need for manual updates, it also reduces labour costs and human error while providing customers with up-to-date product information
as networks expand, and consumers become more familiar with the benefits.”
and pricing instantly.” May/June 2025 TalkingShop
19
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Give your team the chance to ‘win their summer’ with GroceryAid’s first ever industry-wide raffle! Industry charity GroceryAid has launched its first ever raffle in support of GroceryAid Day 2025, with a raft of hot summer prizes up for grabs.
WIN THIS SUMMER! For just £1.50 per ticket, you can give your colleagues the chance to win some incredible prizes this summer! l £1,000 grocery vouchers l Theme park trips and heritage days out l VIP event tickets and luxury getaways l Spa days, pizza ovens and state-ofthe-art TVs
Thursday 8 May will see grocery industry colleagues
To help you do just that, GroceryAid has put
from across the country come together in celebration
together a handy toolkit, providing you with physical
of GroceryAid Day – the annual day of awareness
and digital assets to share with your organisation.
designed to showcase the array of incredible support available to colleagues experiencing tough times. This year, on GroceryAid Day, the industry charity will be launching its first ever raffle to create even greater impact – and give grocery colleagues the opportunity to ‘win their summer’. For just £1.50 per ticket, you can give your
l Summer supplies and more!
The raffle toolkit includes: l An A4 poster to print and display around the workplace. l Digital assets for Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn. l Editorial content including a PowerPoint presentation.
colleagues the chance to win some incredible prizes
RAFFLE RULES The GroceryAid raffle opens on 1 May and closes on 31 May for digital entries and 6
this summer, including: £1,000 worth of grocery
GroceryAid Day 2025 and the industry raffle are
June for postal entries.
vouchers, theme park trips and heritage days out,
designed to raise awareness of the charity’s free
Maximum 20 entries
VIP event tickets, spa days, TVs, pizza ovens and
and confidential financial, emotional and practical
per person.
more!
services that are available to grocery industry
The raffle is a fantastic opportunity for you to reward your team and support a great cause.
colleagues 24/7, 365 days a year. If you, or any of your team, need immediate
Looking to buy 20+ tickets or have any questions?
Whether you’re buying for a small team or your
emotional support you can call GroceryAid’s FREE
Simply contact your
entire business, it’s the perfect way to recognise hard
and confidential Helpline on 08088 021122 and
Relationship Manager
work and say thank you – all while raising awareness
speak to a trained counsellor.
at GroceryAid
of GroceryAid and helping us provide relief to more grocery colleagues going through tough times.
YOUR RAFFLE TOOLKIT You can play your part in telling colleagues about
Support and further advice are also available
or email raffle@
through the website groceryaid.org.uk/get-help. The
groceryaid.org.uk
website has an accessibility toolbar which translates
to help you make it
the content into more than 100 different languages,
happen quickly and
as well as text to speech in 60 different languages.
easily.
the raffle so that everyone can have the opportunity
GroceryAid Day is the best way to help you
to get involved and have a chance to win whilst
ensure that your colleagues reach out for support
supporting and finding out about GroceryAid.
should they need it. May/June 2025 TalkingShop
21
CUSTOMER PROFILE | Windermere Convenience Store
Making a
splash Twenty-two-year-old first-time retailer Marcus Parkinson is making a splash in his Lake District hometown of Windermere.
22 TalkingShop May/June 2025
Store profile
Name: Windermere Convenience Store, Cumbria Retailer: Marcus Parkinson Size: 800sq ft Staff: 3 Services: National Lottery, Royal Mail parcel lockers Opening hours: 7.30am-8pm
I
n his LinkedIn profile, 22-year-old
university and get a degree. So I did all that.
community, as Marcus explains. “It has a lot
Marcus Parkinson describes himself
And then, once I left uni, with my degree
of hotels and bars, and in terms of retail there
as a business management grad who
in Business Management, I found myself
are a couple of supermarkets and some small
is “all about turning daily errands into
looking around and saying, ‘OK people, so
unaffiliated stores, but not much else – and
delightful experiences”.
what do I do now?’ And everyone was like,
certainly nothing out of the ordinary.”
And the entrepreneurial first-time retailer is
certainly walking the walk at his brand-new
‘Oh, that’s up to you now,’ which was quite overwhelming at first!
“My
time
at
Tesco’s
Bowness
On
Windermere store had taught me a pretty
Premier-branded convenience store in the
“Apart from working part time at my local
decent amount about retail and I’d enjoyed it.
Lake District town of Windermere, where he
Tesco during my studies, I didn’t really have
It’s such a dynamic industry and crucially, it’s
grew up.
any other work experience. I was clear that
all about people, and I’m a big people person.
However, as Marcus explains, he didn’t
I wanted to be my own boss though. My
“Next to the park where I play football, there
grow up knowing that retail would be his
university course had focused heavily on
was an old convenience store called PKs. The
bag – far from it in fact – but that’s certainly
entrepreneurship and my parents had owned
owner, known as PK, had run it for many years
not stopped him from bagging phenomenal
their own hotel business, so I had a good
and we often chatted. It was on the outskirts of
success with his first-ever store.
understanding of what that meant.
the town centre, close to where all the locals
“Growing up, I’d never envisioned myself
“I wanted to start my own business, and I
live but it hadn’t been invested in for quite a
doing something like this, or even working in
wanted to do it where I grew up in Windermere,
while, and the offer mainly focused on wine,
retail to be honest,” Marcus laughs.
where I knew there was an opportunity to do
cigarettes and papers. One day, after chatting
something different.”
to PK, it just hit me that maybe this could be
“When you’re a kid, you always get told what the next step is. You go to school, you
The picturesque town of Windermere is
my path. Owning my own convenience store
focus on your GCSEs, then you go on to sixth
a tourist hotspot, especially in the summer
would offer me a way to be my own boss, to
form and after that you’re advised to go to
months, but it also enjoys a thriving local
really achieve something – and to give back to May/June 2025 TalkingShop
23
my local community at the same time.” Following many more talks with PK, and with the support of Marcus’s family, a plan for him to take the store over was settled on in February 2024. “I shopped around the different symbol groups in the lead-up to taking the store on, but Premier’s offer just stood out,” Marcus says. “I was immediately attracted by the Premier structure and the level of support on offer, via its RDMs and RDCs. “Then I met my RDM Kelly and I just had a great feeling. Kelly and the Premier team laid everything out for me: all the support they could offer, the different sort of plans we could look into, and it was all just incredibly easy and never pushy at all. “Designing the store was also a lot of fun and we worked hard to develop a store plan unlike anything else here – one that was
The store has seen a 400% growth in sales since the development.
guaranteed to turn heads and bring shoppers rushing in. The Booker merchandising team were also exceptional, especially a gentleman called Neil who went above and beyond and continues to do so.” A jaw-dropping three-week refit of the old store began in June, entirely transforming its look, range and offer, ahead of opening in July 2024. “RK
Shopfitters
were
absolutely
incredible,” Marcus says. “I felt like they’d have moved the world for us if we’d asked. It really was incredible. “Initially, I think the community thought we we’re just giving the old store a lick of paint and sticking some more stuff on the shelves, so to say that they were blown away by the change would be an understatement! “One of the first things we did, along with ripping out the old floors and ceilings, was to let the light in! The old store’s windows were completely covered by vinyl so there was no natural light. Now, you can see in and out from almost every angle, which is fantastic. I especially love walking past at night when it’s dark and seeing that bright and inviting interior.” May/June 2025 TalkingShop
25
What are your views? Email talkingshop@booker.co.uk
That inviting interior includes a bold and
quantities, so shoppers are going mad for the
from the renowned Apple Pie Bakery in
bright Refresh@Premier zone at the entrance,
American brands – as well as other ‘viral’
nearby Ambleside.
featuring Coca-Cola and Fanta Freeze, Think
products such as freeze-dried candy, Korean
“The Apple Pie Bakery is very, very popular.
Fresh Shakes and Costa Coffee – all of which
noodles and Takis crisps – all of which we sell
Lots of people will travel to Ambleside just
have created “a huge stir” locally, especially
and make a big deal of on social media.
for the bakery, so I was so chuffed when they
the slush and shakes. And then there’s the Beer Cave – an utterly unique feature in the local area. “The initial reaction when shoppers first step into the cave is ‘Woah!’ Marcus laughs.
“I’m a local lad, so a lot of people around here know me, but I’ve worked hard at
agreed to let me sell their products in-store,” Marcus says.
engagement nonetheless and the biggest and
“They don’t tend to supply other stores but
most effective way of reaching out to people
when I reached out and explained my story,
is through social media.”
they were up for it, so it was a real win.”
“When we first opened, quite a few shoppers
The store’s social media feed is awash
The inside of the store also features a
said to me: ‘I can’t see any beer on the
with fun and engaging posts and reels about
number of further nods to its locality and
shelves.’ I’d grin and then say: ‘follow me…’
new products, competitions and promotions,
heritage, with rustic-looking slate-stone walls
“It’s like the best magic trick ever when you
including a regular run of ‘Power Hour’ and
inside the Beer Cave and old black and white
show them into the cave and see the surprise
‘Deal of the Day’ promotions offering shoppers
images of the store through the ages dotted
and delight on their faces! Shopping our Beer
irresistible prices on selected products for just
around the interior. “Having grown up here
Cave is an experience; everything has such
one hour, or day – a tactic which Marcus has
I thought it was really important to maintain
great standout on shelf and it’s all perfectly
found to be especially powerful for driving
a nod to the shopkeepers who had been here
chilled. We’ve also got cool LED ceiling
engagement and footfall.
before us,” Marcus says.
panels, featuring a tree canopy with blue sky above it.” The store and Beer Cave has also been
One category which lends itself especially
Elsewhere in the store, 10 doors have
well to engaging social media posts is the
been devoted to fresh and chilled products,
store’s mouthwatering range of local goods
including ready meals, fresh produce, and
fitted with a new Retail AI system which uses cameras to detect possible theft. They system also features a customisable radio station with music that changes throughout the day. It also plays customisable adverts and promotes Premier’s Mega Deals and new products, including on-trend US confectionary. Marcus’s impulse zone also features a whole bay of American confectionery, which, just like his US soft drinks, are selling “extraordinarily well.” “In Windermere, American products are few and far between,” he says. “You’d need to travel quite far out to find them in any great
{
The way I see it, all this hard work is a short-time sacrifice for a long-term gain and it’s a gain that won’t just benefit me but also this whole community – and that’s what I’m most proud of.
} May/June 2025 TalkingShop
27
% 3 3 h t i Now w E E R F Extra d squash drink *
ove l t s o m s ' n i day! y r e v Brita e k n u s dr e s s a l g n o i l 9 mil e squash* ervings ar ks s home drin t ! a ll a f o every day 31% g in w o r g V and £192m RS
M3
02
05
2
53
20
30
M
*NielsenIQ Scantrack 152 we 08.10.22; 252 we 27.05.23. **Recommended retail price. Based on RRP of 750ml.
What are your views? Email talkingshop@booker.co.uk
dairy and local milk. The chillers also star
further rack for red wine, but it’s white that’s
Premier’s Mega Meal Deal, offering shoppers
leading the sales charge.
five items for just £5.50.
“Vape is another big category for us. We
Since
opening,
store
turnover
has
skyrocketed by more than 400%, with the cost of the full store refit expected to pay back within its first year of trading.
“We also have a six-door soft drinks chiller
first opened with two bays of vape and three
with two whole doors devoted to American
of spirits behind the counter, but we’ve since
“Standing here today, I’m beyond happy
drinks, plus four doors for frozen. Interestingly,
changed it round so that there’s more space
with my decision and what we’ve achieved in
our frozen offer includes frozen roast dinners
for vape than spirits which is working much
such a short space of time,” Marcus says.
from Kershaws, which are incredibly popular.
better. I just had a feeling that the original mix
I’d never come across them until they arrived
wasn’t quite right. I called Premier and they
in-store and we’re selling loads!
immediately sent someone to help me change
“Don’t get me wrong, there are times
things around – another example of their
when I’m knackered, but you’ve got to look
exemplary support.
forward.
“It’s fascinating to see how locals are shopping the store and the types of products that they are buying – we’ve had some big surprises!” Sales to date are being led by fresh and chilled – the success of which has also taken everyone by surprise. “Even my RDM Kelly has been surprised at just how well fresh is performing,”
“The store is doing phenomenally well and we’re all so chuffed.
“The continued support is another thing I
“The way I see it, all this hard work is a
love about Premier – the team work so hard to
short-time sacrifice for a long-term gain
make your goals their goals too.”
and it’s a gain that won’t just benefit me but
And Marcus is certainly hitting the back of the net.
also this whole community – and that’s what I’m most proud of.”
Marcus says. “It already accounts for 40% of daily sales, which is massive in a store of just 600sqft. “It’s an interesting one but really shows how quickly local people have come to rely on us for their daily needs. “One thing I learned early on was to persevere with fresh and chilled. We did have wastage in those early weeks but that’s dropped now that awareness of our offer has grown. You’ve got to stick with it and keep on ordering, even if it’s not selling as fast as you’d like, because you have to keep those gaps filled and the shelves looking good.” Jack’s own-label products are doing “very well,” especially the ready meals, which have a full three shelves devoted to them. “Shoppers like the fact that it’s ‘part of the Tesco family’. It adds an enormous amount of trust,” says Marcus. “Another interesting product category is wine. Wine sales are significant in this store. Had I known just how well wine would do, I would probably have made the Beer Cave a Wine Cave,” he quips. “We have a three-door chiller for white and rosé wines, which forms the outer wall of the Beer Cave, so it looks great. There’s also a May/June 2025 TalkingShop
29
C id er Prof it Perfe ction
Stock up
on the UK’s no.1 strong cider brand * * Nielson Total Cider Market, Strong Can, MAT to 25.01.25 ** Aston Manor Sales Report to 31.12.24
Premier Hardham Road | CUSTOMER PROFILE
Magic number three!
Premier retailers Kam and Lidia Sahraee couldn’t be happier with their pictureperfect Premier store in Chichester, following another inspiring development.
T
here aren’t many retailers who can say they’ve been profiled three (yes three!) times in Talking Shop magazine – but then Premier retailers Kam and
Lidia Sahraee are pretty unique. For more than a quarter of a century, the
dynamic duo has been making a meaningful difference to local lives from their two Sussex-based Premier stores – both of which have been radically updated in the last year to showcase Premier’s new concept offer. As avid readers of Talking Shop will recall, last April saw the husband-and-wife team complete a transformative refit of their Premier store in Wishfield near Bognor. And there’s been absolutely no let-up since – with the couple embarking on an even more ambitious development of their original Chichester store just a few months later. “We’ve run Premier Hardham Road in Chichester for more than 25 years now,” Lidia explains, “and then last year the unit next door became available to rent. May/June 2025 TalkingShop
31
CUSTOMER PROFILE | Premier Hardham Road
“We
were
Kam and Lidia invested around £250,000 on the development of Premier Hardham Road. both
immediately struck by the opportunity that having both units could represent: the chance to create a much bigger store with a vastly expanded range of choice for local shoppers.” The couple’s admirable work ethic and strong community ties were certainly not lost on their landlord, who was only too happy to sign number 2 Hardham Road over to them too. “We have a great relationship with our landlord. We joked that she’d never get better tenants than us and she obviously agreed!” Lidia laughs. But then they hit a wall – literally. “There were a lot less laughs once we started to plan the build,” Lidia explains. “The problem was the party wall between the two properties. We wanted to knock through – but in order to do so, we needed a structural engineer, planning permission, building control approval and a brand-new fire control system fitted. “We’ve done refits before, but this was on another scale, there were so many regulatory hoops to jump through, so it was a challenging time! “Our saving grace was the incredible team of people who supported us throughout the process. From our landlord to the council, our builder, our accountant, the shopfitters and of course Premier, we were surrounded by so much fantastic support and advice.
32 TalkingShop May/June 2025
What are your views? Email talkingshop@booker.co.uk
“When everything was finally approved, I almost couldn’t believe it and we couldn’t wait to get going! “We used the same shopfitters that we did at Premier Wishfield and once again they and the Premier team did the most incredible job.” “A key aim of the development was to introduce a much larger range of fresh, chilled and frozen products to enable shoppers to complete full basket shops with us. “The store is based in the heart of a lovely residential estate, and close to schools too, so there was a big opportunity to deliver an outstanding offer for local people. “There’s also a lot of pets in the neighbourhood, so expanding our pet food and accessories range was another thing we’d wanted to do for a long time.” With lush green playing fields just across the road there was also an opportunity to expand the store’s food- and drinks-to-go offer. And that’s exactly what they’ve done.
{
I’m so happy with what we’ve achieved here. In this business you have to be in the market all the time – you need to invest constantly to keep winning footfall and sales. Lidia Sahraee
}
May/June 2025 TalkingShop
33
STOCK THE
ONLY PROTEIN
FLAPJACK with
PLANT PLANT PLANT PROTEIN PROTEIN PROTEIN
NATURAL NATURAL NATURAL INGREDIENTS INGREDIENTS INGREDIENTS
SOURCE SOURCE SOURCE OFOF OF FIBRE FIBRE FIBRE
CODE
DESCRIPTION
SIZE
M303134
TREK Biscoff® Flapjack - NEW
16x50g
M224712
TREK Cocoa Oat Flapjack
16x50g
M256443
TREK Salted Caramel Flapjack
16x50g
What are your views? Email talkingshop@booker.co.uk
Around £250,000 and one month later – brand-new Premier Hardham Road opened its smart new doors on 17 November. The first thing to greet shoppers is the store’s brand-new Refresh@Premier offer featuring a footfall-driving mix of Think Fresh Shakes, Jolly Rancher slush and coffee to go – all of which are selling strongly in the spring sunshine. “We’ve also got a range of hot food-to-go products from Country Choice which local shoppers love to grab on their way to work in the morning and at lunchtimes,” Lidia says. The vibrant Refresh@Premier zone then leads shoppers on to the store’s brand-new fresh and chilled offer – appealingly displayed across 10-doors of fridges that run along the store’s angled outer wall. “Shoppers are simply delighted by the breadth of our new range. From fresh meats to ready meals, pastas, cheeses, deli meats, fruit, vegetables and so much more, they can do a full basket shop,” Lidia says. The store’s frozen range has also been expanded to two three-door upright freezers, plus a further two-door upright freezer, offering local shoppers an unrivalled range of frozen meal solutions, desserts and special offers.
{
The Beer and Soft Drinks Caves work so well. We have a very strong neighbourhood trade, so this store is the perfect setting for them. Shoppers love to come in and browse the full extent of the range and it’s so much easier for us to keep the caves perfectly stocked – rather than constantly opening and closing individual chiller doors.
}
Lidia Sahraee May/June 2025 TalkingShop
35
£1
.15
What are your views? Email talkingshop@booker.co.uk
Five impeccably merchandised vertical gondolas at the centre of the store are home to the store’s brand-new bread and grocery offer, along with confectionery and snacks – and not forgetting pet food for local dogs and cats. Eye-catching promotional ends highlight the store’s great-value offer, including Mega Deals and seasonal products. At the back-right of the store – in what was the previous unit – dedicated Soft Drinks and Beer Caves now stand proud. The Beer Cave features 12 bays for a wide range of beers, ciders, wines and RTDs, while in the Soft Drinks Cave, shoppers are treated to 11 bays of choice, including a large range of international brands, functional drinks, multipacks and large bottles. “The Beer and Soft Drinks Caves work so well,” Lidia says. “We have a very strong neighbourhood trade, so this
Store profile
Name: Premier Hardham Road, West Sussex Retailers: Kam and Lidia Sahraee Size: 1,280sq ft Opening hours: 6am-10pm Staff: 9 Services: National Lottery, PayPoint, ATM, parcel collection
store is the perfect setting for them. Shoppers love to come in and browse the full extent of the range and it’s so much easier for us to keep the caves perfectly stocked – rather than constantly opening and closing individual chiller doors,” she adds. The store has also introduced a vast range of convenient parcel services including Amazon, Yodel, Royal Mail, DPD and more. “The reaction from the local community has been incredible, and so heartwarming,” Lidia says. “People are just so happy. We’ve been here for 25 years so lots of shoppers have grown up with this store and they are so thrilled at what it’s become. They can’t believe the transformation and are so grateful for what they now have on their doorstep.” And it’s not just shoppers who are delighted. “Our landlord’s face was a picture when she first saw it too,” grins Lidia. “Like us, she thinks it’s incredible. “I’m so happy with what we’ve achieved here. In this business you have to be in the market all the time – you need to invest constantly to keep winning footfall and sales.” “The key to our success has been teamwork though. My in-store team are a wonderful bunch and the support that I’ve received from my Premier RDMs has also been amazing. “If you have a good team behind you, I really do believe you can achieve anything – we’re proof of that!” May/June 2025 TalkingShop
37
CUSTOMER PROFILE | B&B Premier
Hit parade B&B Premier’s hot new offer is proving to be a smash hit with shoppers in Basildon.
F
or more than half a century, the small parade of shops that serves Basildon’s Clay Hill Road estate has been a magnet for shoppers in need of supplies and succour. And
now,
following
a
six-figure
transformation of the parade’s old drinks-led convenience store into a powerhouse of a Premier, its pull is stronger than ever. Bought by business partners P Bakeerathan and N Baheerathan in June 2024, the centrally sited unit had been run as a Bargain Booze for more than 20 years and “not been refitted in a very long time,” as Baheerathan (Bahi) explains. “There was a clear opportunity to offer local shoppers a radically different offer –including vastly improved fresh, chilled and frozen ranges, because there was almost nothing of these to speak of in the old deep-discount store,” he says. “I already own two Budgens stores in London while my business partner owns a number of Premier stores in Cambridgeshire, so between us we were very familiar with how the Booker Group operates.” Following a productive site visit from the local Premier RDM, it was swiftly agreed that Premier was the perfect pairing for the parade.
38 TalkingShop May/June 2025
What are your views? Email talkingshop@booker.co.uk
May/June 2025 TalkingShop
39
Vimto® is the squash brand* A Vimto® Sparkling is sold **
M106349 M284685 M284696 M284688 M275478
725ml Vimto® Original Squash £1.65 330ml Vimto® Original Can 75p 500ml Vimto® Original Fizzy £1.25 500ml Vimto® Original Still £1.25 2L Vimto® Original Fizzy £1.49
Vimto® is a registered trademark of Nichols plc. *Source: Nielsen IQ RMS; Squash, Flavoured Carbonates, RTD Still Juice Drinks, Flavoured Water, and Energy categories; 12-month period ending 22.02.25; Total Coverage. **Source: Nielsen IQ RMS data for the Flavoured Carbonates category for the 12-month period ending 25.01.25 for the Total Impulse. (500ml Sparkling products and 330ml Sparkling cans only).
What are your views? Email talkingshop@booker.co.uk
“The parade of shops is within a large
After weeks of strengthening stock levels,
housing estate and features a number of
work to revitalise the 1,750sq ft store from
popular takeaways and a pharmacy,” Bahi
shabby shell to modern marvel started in
explains. There’s also a school, local library,
December 2024.
community centre and a doctors surgery, just
“We decided to continue trading throughout the refit,” Bahi explains. “As the only store
a short walk away. What there wasn’t, however, was a comprehensive convenience offer. “There wasn’t anywhere else on the parade
the changes that were taking place. It was an exciting time for all involved.” And that excitement hit fever pitch on 4 January 2025 when the store officially ‘opened’ as B&B Premier – in homage to Bakeerathan and Baheerathan.
on the parade, local shoppers relied on it for
“The old store had been very run-down – so
essential products and services, so we couldn’t
when you invest in a big refit, it has quite the
cut them adrift by closing.
impact!” Bahi laughs. And brand-new B&B Premier certainly
or within easy walking distance that offered
“The work was carried out section by
local people the opportunity to do a full basket
section and the in-store team, most of whom
shop,” Bahi adds.
stayed on with us after we bought the store,
From its uplifting ‘blue sky’ ceiling panels
Cue the refit!
did a fantastic job of talking to shoppers about
to its smart new floors, wood-effect walls,
{
packs a punch.
The Refresh@Premier has been primely sited at the front of the store and it’s doing very well. There was nothing like this available before and nothing else like it locally, so it’s caused quite a stir!
}
N Baheerathan May/June 2025 TalkingShop
41
What are your views? Email talkingshop@booker.co.uk
Store profile
Name: B&B Premier, Basildon Retailers: P Bakeerathan and N Baheerathan Size: 1,750sq ft Staff: 12 Services: Lottery, PayPoint, parcel services, dry cleaning collection Opening hours: 5am-10pm
and polished Premier signage, the new store exudes proficiency and professionalism at every turn. Where once a meagre mix of fresh and chilled products sat in open-deck fridges, now stands a vast array of fresh and chilled meal solutions, housed within a 10-metre run of energy-efficient chillers with doors. From fresh meats and vegetables to cook up delicious dinners at home, to ultra-convenient Jack’s ready meals and not forgetting dairy, deli and desserts, B&B Premier now offers shoppers the chance to do a full basket shop. A new eight-door frozen offer, including pizzas, meat products, vegetables and more elevates the store’s valuable new offer even further. Shoppers after a great value ‘lunch to go’ solution can also make the most of the Premier Mega Meal Deal – offering them ‘5 items for £5.50.’ Another new addition to the store has been hot food to go, courtesy of the local bakery – May/June 2025 TalkingShop
43
AVAILABLE
NOW IN BOOKER
M302395
What are your views? Email talkingshop@booker.co.uk
with a tempting array of hot pastry products,
expecting things like the slush and milkshakes
including pies, sausage rolls and slices, all
to take off this summer,” Bahi adds.
available to take away from the store’s new
multi-pack products. “The old store sold a lot of cheap booze,
However, when it comes to chilled
but the margins were low – like around 12%
refreshment, the store’s crowning glory is its
so now with Premier our margins are much
Further local lovelies can be found in the
large custom-made Beer Cave which has sent
higher,” Bahi says.
bakery aisle – including pre-packed cakes
shockwaves of excitement across the parade
from Hunts Bakery and Cupcakes by Sophia.
and beyond.
hot Cossiga unit at the till.
Other margin magnifiers, including US products, play a starring role in the store’s brand-new confectionery offer.
A 3.75m run of chillers also house the
“Because of the store’s history as a Bargain
store’s thirst-quenching new range of soft
Booze we knew that BWS would continue to
“The reaction that we’ve had since officially
drinks which includes top-selling brands, new
be a key category in the store, so we’ve given
re-opening has been great. Sales are up more
products and hit international options.
it the space and impact that it deserves,” Bahi
than 20% since the refit and still growing,
says.
with shoppers loving the new fresh and chilled
And that’s far from all. For the first time ever, Clay Hill Road’s shoppers can also enjoy
With 14x800mm bays, the Beer Cave offers
offer and all the other footfall drivers such as
fresh coffee to go, courtesy of a Rijo coffee
shoppers a perfectly chilled array of choice
Refresh, hot food to go and of course the Beer
offer, along with Think Fresh Shakes and
across beers, ciders, RTDs and wines – the
Cave.
Coca Cola Freeze.
latter of which are housed in its refrigerated
“The Refresh@Premier has been primely
outer walls.
“They are also thoroughly impressed by the store’s look – both inside and out. The
sited at the front of the store and it’s doing
A strong promotional offer has been
shopfitters and Premier team have done such
very well,” Bahi explains. “There was nothing
maintained thanks to Premier’s pricing
a great job inside, while outside, the new
like this available before, and nothing else like
prowess –with the cave also home to a cool
Premier fascia and signage has brightened up
it locally, so it’s caused quite a stir and we’re
collection of special offers and Mega Deals on
the whole parade. It’s proving to be a real hit.” May/June 2025 TalkingShop
45
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FEATURE | RANGE RESET
Have a fresh
Tuck into even tastier sales this summer thanks to Premier’s chilled and deli range reset.
S
ummer’s here and bringing with
pizzas and pastas, ready meals,
it the promise of picnics, BBQs
sandwich fillers, sides, snacks, dips
and beach buffets, as shoppers
and more – all of which are guaranteed
ditch the dinner table in favour
to set shoppers smiling come rain or shine.
of garden get-togethers and park
playdates.
PLATTER PERFECTION
The warmer weather and associated rise
Shoppers looking to create a taste of the
in often impulsive outdoor eating occasions
holidays at home, will be able to add some
offers retailers a fantastic chance to grow their
pizzazz to their platters with new packs of
fresh and chilled sales – and thanks to a recent
Spanish Tapas and Italian deli meats from
reset of Premier’s chilled and deli range,
Charcutti.
doing just that, should be a walk in the park.
Featuring Serano Ham, Chorizo and Lomo,
Rolled out just in time for the summer
the new Spanish Tapas packs will enable
season, the range reset revitalises retailers’
shoppers to create picture-perfect antipasto
food to go, food for later and deli offers – with
platters, ideal for sharing with friends and
a fresh serving of tasty new products, new
family.
pack sizes, recipe upgrades and appetising PMPs. The range reset covers a variety of key summer categories, including soft drinks,
48 TalkingShop May/June 2025
Shoppers seeking a taste of far-flung shores can also enjoy exotic new Thai Style Chicken Bites from Delicatessen Fine Eating. With an RSP of £1 they’re shore to score highly.
Image by Ghasoub Alaeddin from Pixabay
What are your views? Email talkingshop@booker.co.uk
May/June 2025 TalkingShop
49
What are your views? Email talkingshop@booker.co.uk
MEALS IN MINUTES
pasta with some cheese shavings and a crusty
Premier retailers will also be able to offer
loaf of garlic bread?
their shoppers a taste of Italy thanks to new
Shoppers looking to fill up in a flash (of the
products from La Famiglia Rana – the quality
microwave) can also add new La Famiglia
fresh pasta brand that’s growing at 94% in
Rana Bolognese Lasagne slices to their
convenience.
baskets.
New products include fresh Tortellini pasta,
The first to market ready-made lasagne
in Prosciutto & Mozzarella and Spinach
portions offer shoppers a scrumptious slice of
& Ricotta flavours, along with Garlic &
fresh beef lasagne for an RSP of £4 each. A
Mozzarella Gnocchi.
Vegetable Lasagne option is also available. enable
A new range of lunch pots from leading
shoppers to whip up tasty summer meals in
sports nutrition brand MyProtein should also
minutes, also benefit from a long shelf life and
prove popular with shoppers seeking a healthy,
deliver minimum PORs of 25% for retailers.
flavour-packed, protein hit this summer.
quality
products,
which
To top it all off, a selection of fresh La
Available in flavours including
Famiglia Rana sauces, including Sundried
Chipotle Beef Chilli and Firecracker
Tomato & Pecorino Cheese, and Mushroom
Chicken, pots have an RSP of £4.25
& Roasted Garlic, are also available.
and deliver minimum PORs of
Why not remind your shoppers to pair their
New PMP packs are available across a range of picnic-perfect soft drinks, including Tropicana juices, with Tropicana Smooth Orange, Tropical Fruits, Multivitamin and Original Orange 250ml bottles all available in £1.50 PMP packs delivering a minimum POR of 22.5%. 300ml bottles of Copella Cloudy Apple Juice are also available in a new £1.50 PMP format, which offers retailers an equally refreshing minimum POR of 22.5%. Look out also for 850ml long life cartons of Tropicana Original, Smooth Orange and Tropical Fruits, all of which also come in a new £2.95 PMP format.
24.5%.
Image by phuong hoang thuy from Pixabay
The
ENJOY JUICIER SALES WITH NEW PMP PACKS
May/June 2025 TalkingShop
51
What are your views? Email talkingshop@booker.co.uk
CHILLED AND DELI RANGE RESET Including: l 59 new lines l Price mark changes l Recipe and price mark changes l New case sizes
Image by Mariya Muschard from Pixabay
Also look out for the exciting new fresh guide to be published soon!
SNACK ATTACK Premier’s Chilled and Deli Range Reset also includes a number of new products and PMP formats in the lucrative sides, snacks and dips market, which shines at this time of year. As demand for protein-packed snacks continues to soar, look out for new high protein Beef Jerky snacks from Jack Links, which has launched a new Teriyaki Beef flavour – along with Honey BBQ and Original Beef from the Wild West Jerky company – the ideal accompaniment to a cold drink on a hot day. Be sure to also stock up on brand-new Peperami Chicken Bites in Tikka and Roasted flavours too! Available in £1 PMP packs, the new meat snacks from the Peperami brand are made from 100% chicken breast and perfect
Recipes for success A number of key Jack’s deli products have been given a recipe refresh ahead of the key summer picnic season. PRODUCT
CASE SIZE
RSP
POR
Jack’s Tuna Sweetcorn Filler
6x200g
£1.99
29.7%
Jack’s Egg Mayo Filler
6x200g
£1.99
29.7%
Jack’s Coronation Chicken
6x200g
£1.99
29.7%
Jack’s Cheese and Onion
6x200g
£1.99
29.7%
Jack’s Potato Salad
6x200g
£1.39
28.2%
Jack’s Coleslaw
6x250g
£1.39
28.2%
for packing into picnics.
FEATURE | BEER AND CIDER FESTIVAL
Crate expectations
TOP TIPS
l Have small packs chilled and ready to consume to make the most of summer socialising. l Consider a mix of larger packs to meet the needs of bigger gatherings. l There is a clear trend towards berry and tropical profiles so focus on stocking sweet and juicy flavours for summer. l Make sure to support all Mega Deals with the relevant POS.
54 TalkingShop May/June 2025
NEW TO BOOKER!
THATCHERS JUICY APPLE
Give your sales some hop with the Premier Beer and Cider Festival, which is back from 21 May to 15 July.
Case size: 1x10x440ml Promo WSP: £7.05 Promo RSP: £10 (SCOT £11.44) POR: 15.4%
MADRI ZERO Case size: 6x4x330ml Promo WSP: £16.49
B
Promo RSP: £4.75
ees are buzzing, lawns are
POR: 30.6%
looking lush and the sun, for now, has got his hat on (with an umbrella underarm). It can mean only one thing:
Britain’s famously unpredictable summertime is here and ready to drench shoppers with its seasonal serving of showers and shine. And while the sporadic nature of British
REKORDERLIG WILD BERRIES
summertime can prove challenging for
Case size: 1x10x330ml
some sectors, for convenience stores, it’s an
Promo WSP: £5.65
opportunity to play to their strengths. From spontaneous garden get-togethers to impromptu BBQs, convenience store retailers
Promo RSP: £7.99 POR: 15.1%
are ideally placed to meet shoppers’ needs – and one category they can excel in, is beer and cider. Beer features in 65% of BBQ occasions according to BrewDog, while 66% of cider drinkers mainly drink cider in the warmer months, according to Mintel – highlighting just how important both categories are to summer sales. Helping retailers to make the absolute most of the opportunity is the Premier Beer and Cider Festival – back for 2025 with another refreshing serve of new and exclusive
PERONI 330ML CANS Case size: 2x10x330ml Promo WSP: £15.99 Promo RSP: £12 POR: 20.1%
products that are sure to drive footfall, sales and profits. May/June 2025 TalkingShop
55
YOUR CHANCE TO
Peroni Nastro Azzurro 6X4x440ml Can M285046
WIN 1 OF 5 LUXURY SECRE T ESCAPES
AND £€ 50 OFF HOTEL BOOKINGS
00S US 1
OF
R L E L T A N TRAVE
PL
M MIU ES E R P PRIZ
Peroni Nastro Azzurro 6X4x330ml Bottle M276878
PARTNERED WITH
Peroni Nastro Azzurro 6x4x330ml Bottle M278717
WITH EVERY PURCHASE *
*UK and ROI, 18+. Purchase Necessary. Retain Receipt/take photo of pint in outlet. Internet access required. Open: 08:00 GMT 01/05/25 – 23:00 GMT 30/09/25. Purchase any Peroni Nastro Azzurro promotional product in-store, online, or in participating outlets. Scan QR code on pack, promo materials, glassware or visit www.peronicompetitions.com/summer, play game of skill and enter details. Prizes awarded via leaderboard based on closest and fastest time to drop pin. Prizes: Five (5) holidays to Italian locations for winner and guest (both 18+), six hundred and three (603) premium Antler travel accessories. Any unclaimed prizes allocated via Mop-Up Leaderboard. Max one (1) entry per person per day. Max one (1) of each prize type per person. Claim one (1) x £/€50 Secret Escapes online promo code with your first eligible purchase to use on bookings over the value of £/€300 (Max one code per person. Max one code per booking). Use code within 30 days of issue. Exclusions apply. Promoter: Asahi UK Ltd, Griffin Brewery, Chiswick Lane South, London, W4 2QB, England. Full terms: asahibeer.co.uk/promotional-terms-and-conditions.
What are your views? Email talkingshop@booker.co.uk
Set to run throughout the NP4 and NP5
total impulse [Circana 12 weeks to 1 Sep] and
periods from 21 May to 15 July, the Premier
this summer retailers will be hoping for an
Beer and Cider Festival also includes a mighty
even better performance.
NEW AND EXCLUSIVE!
measure of Mega Deals across standard and
The Premier Beer and Cider Festival
premium multi-pack lagers, premium pints,
includes a number of exciting new products
low ABV products and more.
to help them do just that, including BrewDog
As ever, the Beer and Cider Festival will be
Orange Crush.
BREWDOG ORANGE CRUSH
supported with an array of high-impact POS
The new and exclusive IPA features tangy
which retailers can use to give their displays
citrus aromas and is available to shoppers in
even more clout.
multi-packs of 4x330ml for a promotional
Promo WSP: £23.49
RSP of just £6 during the festival period.
Promo RSP: £6
BEER O’CLOCK
With its light and refreshing characteristics,
Despite some disappointing temperatures
lager drove much of the Beer category’s
at times, beer performed strongly over the
growth last summer – and continues to hold a
summer of 2024 – up 2.2% in volume across
94% share of the category [ibid].
Case size: 6x4x330ml
POR: 21%
MOUTHWATERING MEGA DEALS PRODUCT
PACK SIZE
PROMO WSP
PROMO RSP
POR
Fosters
1x10x440m
£6.99
EWI £10/ SC £10.59
16.1%
Thatchers Juicy Apple
1x10X440ml
£7.05
EWI £10 / SC £11.44
15.4%
Strongbow
2x10x440m
£13.79
EWI £10.00
17.3%
Strongbow Strawberry cans
1x10x330m
£6.89
£10.00
17.3%
Kopparberg Strawberry Variety
1x10x330m
£6.89
£10.00
17.3%
Inch’s Medium Apple Cider
1x10x440m
£6.99
EWI £10.00
16.1%
Budweiser
1x10x440m
£7.49
EWI £10 / SC £12.87
10.01%
BrewDog Mixed Can
1x8x330ml
£6.79
£10.00
18.5%
Magners Cans
1x10x440m
£6.29
EWI £10 / SC £12.87
24.5%
Carlsberg
1x18x440ml
£8.49
E&I £11.99 / W £13.47 15.0%
May/June 2025 TalkingShop
57
What are your views? Email talkingshop@booker.co.uk
The Premier Beer and Cider Festival includes an array of sparkling deals on new and bestselling lager brands including Peroni, which will be available to Premier retailers in a new format of 10x330ml. With an RSP of £12, retailers will be able to drink in a POR of 20.1%. Look out also for Mega Deals on Fosters, Stella
Artois,
Budweiser,
Poretti
and
Carlsberg 10-packs – all of which are sure to prove popular with shoppers looking to cater for large gatherings.
SNACK ATTACK
Shoppers looking to snack while they sip will also be able to indulge in a new range of seasoned dried meat snacks from Hungry Boar. The new-to-Booker snacks are available in cases of 10x50 and in Chicken, Cheddar, Piri Piri and Pork varieties. Each protein-packed portion is available to shoppers for just £1.50 during the Beer and Cider Festival (normal RSP £1.99) – offering retailers an equally tasty POR of 26.7%.
DON’T FORGET CIDER
Mega Deals on a range of strawberry-
With 66% of cider drinkers mainly drinking
flavoured products from key brands including
cider in the warmer months, offering shoppers
Kopparberg and Strongbow.
a strong range of chilled ciders is also a must.
Strongbow Strawberry cans are available
There’s a clear trend towards fruity and
in multipacks of 10x330ml for an RSP of £10
tropical flavours at the moment – a desire which is further fuelled by warm and sunny days. And for 2025, strawberry appears to be the pick of the bunch. Helping retailers to respond to that trend, the Premier Beer and Cider Festival includes
and POR of 17.3%. The new Kopparberg Strawberry Variety packs also feature a promotional RSP of just £10 and an equally juicy POR of 17.3%. Shoppers will also be able to snap up new 10x330ml multipacks of Rekorderlig Wild Berries for just £7.99. May/June 2025 TalkingShop
59
WINTER PRE-SELL | FEATURE
Set your sales rocketing with the Booker Winter Pre-Sell The Booker Winter Pre-sell is loaded with new products, Group Exclusives and Seasonal must-stocks to help you plan for a profitable winter season. The Pre-Sell opens online on 21 May and closes on 23 June. WINTER PRE-SELL
O
l
10 Group Exclusive products
l
More than 130 lines new to Pre-Sell
l
Over 400 seasonal lines, including Halloween, Christmas and winter specific
l
More than 30 lines with at least 45% POR
specific goods.
n the rocky world of planet
Packed with a stellar selection of new
retail, planning ahead is
products, top-selling seasonal lines and not
And that’s far from all. In a bid to help
the launchpad to success.
forgetting Group Exclusives, the Winter Pre-
retailers to pump their profits up further, more
Successful convenience
Sell has everything retailers need to plan for
than 30 lines feature PORs of at least 45%.
store retailers have always
rocketing sales and profits this winter season.
This includes the Group Exclusive Toffee
got one eye fixed on the future as they seek to
Featuring 10 Group Exclusive products,
Crunch-flavoured Terry’s Chocolate Orange
prime their stores for profit and stay ahead of
they will certainly be over the moon with the
the game.
footfall-driving range on offer.
Ball. With a seasonal RSP of £3.09, the orange and toffee-flavoured chocolate ball is sure to
One especially effective form of forward
All 10 Group Exclusive products hail
planning is to take advantage of pre-sells –
from the lucrative confectionery category – a
something which Premier retailers serviced by
key player in the run-up to the all-important
Three separate Pumpkin Drops will also
BRP depots are able to do – and fortunately
Christmas gifting and sharing opportunity.
help retailers to carve out additional sales and
for them, Booker’s Winter Pre-Sell is set for lift off. The Winter Pre-Sell brochure will touch
bowl shoppers over this winter season.
The Winter Pre-Sell also includes more
profits over the autumn, with the first drop
than 130 new lines – guaranteed to help give
set for 6 October and the last, just ahead of
stores the edge.
Halloween on 20 October.
down in stores on 2 June, with the first of five
It also stars more than 400 seasonal
The Pre-sell opens online on 21 May and
drops set to land on 18 August – right up until
lines, including spooky Halloween-themed
closes on 23 June, so don’t delay, get your
22 December 2025.
products, Christmas classics and winter-
orders in today! May/June 2025 TalkingShop
61
STOCK UP ON THE #1 * BESTSELLING WATER SKU
Evian 75cl POR
51%
Circana, UK All Outlets, Value Sales of Bottled Water Drinks, L52W/e 27th July 2024
M204961
What are your views? Email talkingshop@booker.co.uk
GROUP EXCLUSIVES! TERRY’S CHOCOLATE ORANGE TOFFEE CRUNCH Case Size: 12x152g Seasonal WSP: £16.99 Seasonal RSP: £3.09 POR: 45%
BOUNTY CENTREPIECE Case Size: 6x350g Seasonal WSP: £23.25 Seasonal RSP: £6.00 POR: 23%
AERO CARAMEL BLOCK Case Size: 12x295g Seasonal WSP: £31.99 Seasonal RSP: £4.00
POR: 20%
ROWNTREE’S BOTTLES GIANT TUBE Case Size: 15x100g Seasonal WSP: £16.15 Seasonal RSP: £1.99 POR: 35%
Winter PreSell Brochure lands in store: 02/06/2025
Drop Dates DROP 1
LINDT LINDOR TIRAMISU Case Size: 8x200g Seasonal WSP: £28.25 Seasonal RSP: £5.65 POR: 25%
CADBURY TWIRL POUCH Case size: 8x270g Seasonal WSP: £27.49 Seasonal RSP: £5.50 POR: 25%
18/08/25 DROP 2 22/09/25 DROP 3 20/10/25 DROP 4
GALAXY MIXED POUCH Case Size: 10x260g Seasonal WSP: £27.99 Seasonal RSP: £4.50 POR: 25%
LINDT LINDOR SHORTBREAD Case Size: 8x200g Seasonal WSP: £28.25 Seasonal RSP: £5.65 POR: 25%
CADBURY DAIRY MILK VARIETY SELECTION BOX Case Size: 8x450g Seasonal WSP: £47.99 Seasonal RSP: £9.00 POR: 20%
CELEBRATIONS POP BOX Case Size: 6x185g Seasonal WSP: £13.75 Seasonal RSP: £3.75 POR: 27%
17/11/25 DROP 5 08/12/25
Pumpkin Drop PUMPKIN DROP 1 06/10/25 PUMPKIN DROP 2 13/10/25 PUMPKIN DROP 3 20/10/25
May/June 2025 TalkingShop
63
FEED URGE YOUR
FOR EPIC
SALES
MUST STOCK
RANGE
M279478 M239569
M279476 M199303
THE UK’S BESTSELLING
VARIETIES AS STOCKED
VARIETIES AS STOCKED
FROZEN PIZZA BRAND
AND THE UK’S BESTSELLING TAKEAWAY PIZZA BRAND IN S&I
CIRCANA 52w/e 25th January 2025 PROMOTION NP4-NP7
YOUR CUSTOMERS CAN
7
M29737
M290404
M2907
92
STOCK UP NOW TO CASH IN ON YOUR SALES *18+,UK. Purchase, Internet, email, phone & UK bank account required. Retain Receipt. 01/06-12/09. Scan QR code. 1 entry p/p p/day. 1 entry equals 1 x Winning Moments entry AND 1 x Prize Draw entry. Max 1 Prize Draw Prize p/person. Winning Moments Prizes: 1000x£5; or 10,000x£1. Draw 1: 01/06-05/07: 3x£1000; 1 x£5000. Draw 2: 06/07–09/08: 10x£500; 100x£100. Draw 3: 10/08–12/09: 1x£10,000; 2x£1000. Winners may be requested to take part in reasonable publicity in connection with this promotion. T&Cs: tangocashstash.com. Promoter: Britvic Soft Drinks.
HOME DELIVERY
Give your sales some oomph with Scoot Booker’s new rapid response delivery service can help you reach new customers and power up your sales and profits. May/June 2025 TalkingShop
67
STOCK THE #1 GIFTED MALT THIS FATHER’S DAY
#1
GLENFIDDICH 12 YO IS THE #1 BRANDED SINGLE MALT WHISKY AND #1 IN TOTAL OFF TRADE FOR FATHER’S DAY, DRIVEN BY ITS UNRIVALLED GIFTING APPEAL.
36
OF SHOPPERS BUY WITH PURPOSE, PRIORITISING FOOD & DRINK GIFTS, % MAKING GLENFIDDICH THE TOP CHOICE.
WATCH OUT FOR SPECIAL PROMOTIONAL PACKS AND ADD VALUE TO YOUR CUSTOMERS WITH A CHANCE TO WIN THIS FATHER’S DAY
STOCK UP NOW WHILE STOCKS LAST
Sources: IGD shopper vista (GB convenience shopper research Aug 24), Nielsen 12w to 05/01/25 vs YA
6 X 70CL M818360 1 X 70CL M818370.
What are your views? Email talkingshop@booker.co.uk
DID YOU KNOW? l Average delivered basket transaction is £27 – that’s three times more than in store! l One in three shoppers are interested in using Rapid Grocery Delivery l Key times for your shoppers to order are Dinner, Lunch and Evening snack and treats.
A
pint of milk, a loaf of bread, a couple of pizzas and
l The market is set to grow to £2.6bn by 2029 from £2bn. Its rise has already been nothing short of meteoric.
a packet of crisps – five
In 2019, just 12% of convenience stores
years ago, the vast majority
offered home delivery, according to the
of shoppers would have
Association of Convenience Stores’s (ACS)
popped to their local store to top up on such
Local Shop Report – but by 2024 and in the
items.
wake of the Covid-19 pandemic, that figure
These days, however, there’s a lot less
had soared to 47%.
popping and a lot more clicking – as shoppers’
Convenience stores’ use of social media,
love for on-demand home delivery services
the key medium for promoting home delivery
burns ever brighter.
services, has similarly surged over the same
A staggering one in every three shoppers is
period.
now interested in using rapid grocery delivery
In 2019, only 39% of convenience stores
services according to TWS data, with the
had a Facebook page, while just 11% were
market expected to hit £2.6bn by 2029.
on Instagram. But by 2024, those figures had
l 80% of orders are delivered within a mile radius. l The busiest days for shoppers to order are Thursday, Friday and Saturday. l The top three categories are Treats and Snacks 68% (including crisps, chocolate & sweets), Cold Drinks – including soft and alcoholic) 62%, and General Food 48% (top-up shop) [Source: TWS]
May/June 2025 TalkingShop
69
What are your views? Email talkingshop@booker.co.uk
MAKE MORE SAVE MORE WITH SCOOT! l Make an estimated £34,000 additional profit per year (based on weekly app sales of £2,500)** l Only 1% commission charged up to £4,999 of weekly retailer sales. l Zero commission once you reach £5,000 of weekly sales on the app.
RETAILER VIEW
l 0.7% card transaction fee*
GUPPY SINGH
Premier Ashurst, Lancashire
l Next banking day settlement at no additional charge (not included Saturday/Sunday)
“I was delighted to hear that Booker was launching Scoot and couldn’t wait to sign up. As a Premier retailer for more than 20 years, I trust Booker with my business, and for me, Scoot offered the whole package.
l Zero consumer charges giving you the ability to offer the service for free.
I’d never offered home delivery before, so the support and advice that I received during set up and launch was invaluable, and that support is ongoing. The marketing support that I am also receiving is another significant benefit.
* 0.7% is the average transaction fee.
We had a very successful launch week and I’m expecting sales to continue building over the weeks to come. We are already a very busy store and now home delivery is another string to our bow.”
** based on 26% gross margin.
climbed to 74% and 43% respectively – with
Scoot also offers an outstanding low-cost
support package – including point of sale,
15% on TikTok too – the ACS Local Shop
proposition.
digital assets and thermal delivery bags.
Report 2024 shows.
There are also no shopper charges – giving
They
also
benefit
from
upweighted
Today, rapid response home delivery
you the flexibility to offer the service free of
marketing support, including targeted social
services are widely regarded as a ‘must’ by
charge, should you wish – or set your own
media adverts, and a contribution towards
successful convenience store owners – helping
delivery, service or minimum order fees.
a full promotional wrap for their delivery
them to reach new customers and ignite sales and profits. Did you know that the average delivered basket transaction is £27? That’s a marginmaxing three times more than in-store! Helping retailers to make the most of the red-hot rapid response delivery opportunity
The
app
connects
shoppers
with
vehicles.
participating stores, enabling them to order
Colm Johnson, Managing Director for
from a range of products, curated by you, the
Booker Retail, said: “We’re always looking
retailer.
for new and innovative ways to help our
The secure platform also facilitates the
customers grow their business, so we are
ordering, payment, and picking processes, so
incredibly proud to announce the launch of
all you need to do is organise the delivery.
Scoot, to support them in doing just that.
is Scoot – Booker’s brand-new app that
Retailers who sign up to Scoot will also
“It’s a fantastic opportunity for our retailers
facilitates home deliveries to shoppers in as
receive support from a dedicated Business
to increase their basket spend, store sales, and
little as 30 minutes.
Development Manager (BDM) and their
connect with new and existing shoppers in their local communities.
Designed by retailers, for retailers, Scoot
existing RDM, who together will assist with
promises to help you make more and save
on-boarding, including product file set up,
more – an estimated £34,000 more profit each
training and live support.
year to be precise!* With only 1% commission charged up to £4,999 of weekly in-app sales – and zero commission once you hit £5,000 a week,
Your dedicated BDM and RDM will also help you to develop a plan to grow sales to £5,000 and increase your profitability. Retailers also receive an exceptional launch
“The feedback from our pilot test has been really positive and we look forward to welcoming more retailers to the platform over the next few months.” [*based on weekly app sales of £2,500 and 26% gross margin] May/June 2025 TalkingShop
71
What are your views? Email talkingshop@booker.co.uk
SCOOT FAQ’S WHAT COSTS ARE INVOLVED FOR RETAILERS WHO ARE INTERESTED IN INTRODUCING SCOOT TO THEIR STORE? Retailers interested in introducing Scoot to their store will incur a one-time setup fee of only £395. There is a 1% service charge on in-app sales up to £5,000 per week, however this is removed once a retailer consistently achieves over £5,000 in weekly in-app sales, over a four-week period. A card processing fee of approximately 0.7% will apply to all transactions. Next day settlement of all consumer transactions occurs, with the exception of the weekend and bank holidays. This means the money goes straight into the retailers’ account as opposed to being held for up to a week versus other platforms. WHAT IS THE SET-UP PROCESS LIKE FOR RETAILERS INTRODUCING SCOOT TO THEIR STORE? The setup process for retailers introducing Scoot to their store is designed to be seamless and nonintrusive, allowing them to continue trading as usual throughout the onboarding process. Once confirmed, retailers should go live on the platform within two weeks of the merchant ID being completed. WHAT LAUNCH SUPPORT CAN RETAILERS EXPECT? Key support and equipment includes: l A hand-held terminal to facilitate easy order processing. l Thermal bags to maintain food temperature during delivery. l A contribution towards vehicle wraps to help promote the service. l Digital marketing support with geo-targeted social media campaigns to reach the right audience. l In-store radio advertising. l Full Point of Sale suite to promote Scoot in-store. l The Scoot team will ensure that the retailer’s range is uploaded to the platform and the platform is correctly set up in advance of launch. l Market-leading and App Exclusive promotions.
To help retailers even further, Scoot has also partnered with the Eskuta brand. Retailers can receive a Scoot-branded SX-250 Series 4 eBike for easy weekly payments from only £30 a week. The cost includes damage and theft insurance, an eBike tracker, servicing at your store, and a helmet. To find out more, visit www.eskuta.com/scoot or call 02476 350 150.
May/June 2025 TalkingShop
73
New Products CHEETOS FIERY JALAPENO CHEESE Case Size: 12x70g WSP: £10.39 RSP: £1.49 POR: 30.3%
CHEETOS TWISTED SWEET AND SPICY Case Size:12x85g WSP: £10.39 RSP: £1.49 POR: 30.3% Case Size: 9x120g WSP: £12.85 RSP: £2.50 POR: 31.5%
BEBETO SWEET TUBS PARTY MIX, RAINBOW BELTS, FIZZY RAINBOW CABLES Case Size: 12x400g WSP: £16.99 RSP: £2.25 POR: 24.5%
MAS+ BY MESSI Case Size:12x500ml WSP: £13.29 RSP: £2.25 POR: 40.9%
May/June 2025 TalkingShop
75
New Products AU VODKA JUICY PEACH Case Size: WSP: £24.29 RSP: £36.49 POR: 20.1%
MURPHY’S IRISH STOUT
GORDON’S PREMIUM PINK GIN
Case Size: 6x4x440ml WSP: £19.99 RSP: £5 POR: 20%
Case Size: 4x6x250 WSP: £28.99 RSP: £11.00 POR: 20.9%
KOPPABERG STRAWBERRY VARIETY PACK Case Size: 10x330ml WSP: £8.19 RSP: £12.25 POR: 19.8%
LUCOZADE SPORT JUDE BELLINGHAM ICE KICK Case Size: 12x500ml WSP: £10.85 RSP: £1.50 POR: 27.7%
HENRY WESTONS1880 VINTAGE Case Size: 8x500ml WSP: £12.69 RSP: ‘Any 2 for £5.50/SC £2.75 POR: 30.8%
May/June 2025 TalkingShop
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Cocoa
SKU CODE M282995 M282994 M282997
YAZOO PRODUCT Strawberry £1.29 PMP Banana £1.29 PMP Chocolate £1.29 PMP
* NielsenQ Retail Measurement, Total GB Coverage, Sales Units, 52 w/e 15/09/2024
New Products
LS
E SUMMER BBQ FU
FUEL EXPRESS BARBECUE LIGHTING FLUID Case Size: 12x1ltr WSP: £32.99 RSP: £4.99 POR: 33.9%
FUEL EXPRESS BARBECUE CHARCOAL BRIQUETTES Case Size: 1x5kg WSP: £4.79 RSP: £7.99 POR: £28.1
FUEL EXPRESS INSTANT LIGHT CHARCOAL Case Size: 1x2kg WSP: £3.49 RSP: £5.79 POR: 27.7%
FUEL EXPRESS INSTANT DISPOSABLE BBQ Case Size: 12xsingle WSP: £22.99 RSP: £3.79 POR: 39.3%
JACK’S FIRELIGHTERS WITH HOTSPOTS Case Size: 24x15pack WSP: £16.99 RSP: £1.69 POR: £49.7%
May/June 2025 TalkingShop
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The Perfect Summer Shave
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BetterService IDEAS TO GIVE YOUR BUSINESS THE EDGE
Welcoming ways
The Booker Group’s four flourishing colleague networks seek to advocate, support and celebrate colleagues from all backgrounds and walks of life.
May/June 2025 TalkingShop
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HERE TO STAY
THE NO.1 FOR YOUR TURNOVER. RED BULL 250ML RANGE
HERE TO STAY
A
s community hubs and key service providers, convenience store retailers are keenly aware of the acute need to make their stores open, accessible and welcoming to all. That necessity for everyone to feel welcome is
certainly not lost on The Booker Group either – which is leading by example and championing inclusivity via four flourishing Colleague Networks that seek to advocate, support and celebrate colleagues from all backgrounds and walks of life. Including Women@Booker, Race & Ethnicity at Booker, LGBTQ+
The initiative promotes gender equality, enhances workplace culture,
at Booker and Disability at Booker - the four thriving Colleague
and contributes to Booker’s commitment to diversity and wellbeing,
Networks share three key objectives: Amplify, Celebrate and Consult -
benefiting both employees and the business.
with each striving to spark important conversations and foster a deeper sense of connection and understanding across the business. Open to all colleagues, these essential networks generate awareness, encourage learning and create safe spaces for sharing experiences via regular events, both on- and off-line, all year round.
WOMEN@BOOKER NETWORK
The Women@ Booker Colleague Network recently organised an in-person International Women’s Day event on 8 March which saw nearly 200 colleagues across the business come together to celebrate and reflect. In addition to supporting women, Booker Group also recognises the importance of mental health and wellbeing for all employees. Recognising the importance of Male Allies - the network strives to
Launched in 2023, the Women@Booker Network focuses on
drive gender equality for all – and also works closely with the men’s
empowering women within the company by fostering connection,
mental health and suicide awareness charity, Andy’s Man Club.
support, and professional development. Through Women@Booker, the company hosts a range of events,
LGBTQ+ AT BOOKER NETWORK
seminars, and workshops that focus on a variety of important topics
The LGBTQ+ at Booker Network is run by members of the LGBTQ+
such as leadership, career progression, work-life balance, and women’s
community and allies – and seeks to ensure everyone is welcome at
health.
Booker – regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity. May/June 2025 TalkingShop
83
M290318
*Nielsen Total Coverage MAT 29.03.25 vs 2021, Value Sales Growth, Carlsberg Britvic Defined RTD Tea Universe, ** Nielsen Total Coverage MAT 29.03.25, Value Sales, Carlsberg Britvic Defined RTD Tea Universe, *** Nielsen Total Coverage MAT 26.10.24 vs 2021, Value Sales Growth, Carlsberg Britvic Defined Iced Tea Universe. **Recommended retail price
STOCK UP NOW
supported and embraced numerous celebrations over the past year including Understanding Ramadan, Celebrating EID and Diwali and Black History Month. It’s also broken fast with colleagues in Booker’s St Pancras branch and celebrated Vaisakhi at the Gurdwara in Bedford.
DISABILITY AT BOOKER NETWORK
Created in 2023, the Network offers a dedicated space for LGBTQ+ colleagues to come together to share experiences and issues with each other. The LGBTQ+ at Booker Network also supports Pride events across
Launched in December 2024, Disability at Booker is the newest
the country and has supported a Vigil for Trans Day of Remembrance
Colleague Network –and aims to provide a safe space for disabled
and run sessions – to help allies understand how they can support
colleagues and allies to share experiences, knowledge and activities.
Trans+ colleagues. In February 2025, the network hosted two events in support of LGBTQ+ History Month – a time to celebrate the history, achievements and contributions of the LGBTQ+ community.
The Disability At Booker Network also keeps the wider business informed about disability initiatives and celebrates the contributions of colleagues with disabilities to promote understanding. The network recently hosted two key events in support of
RACE & ETHNICITY AT BOOKER NETWORK
Neurodiversity Week between 17-23 March. The events included
Created in September 2023, the Race & Ethnicity Network provides a
interactive listening groups providing a deep-dive into neurodiversity,
space to celebrate diversity, spark meaningful conversations, and help
including misconceptions and discussing how Booker could better
shape an inclusive future at Booker.
support neurodivergent colleagues.
With progressive Executive Sponsors, passionate Chairs and three dedicated committees focusing on Events & Comms, Colleague Feedback & Insight, and Talent & Development, the network offers a powerhouse of voices and ideas to drive change. The Network has
A separate virtual event explored the power of neurological differences and celebrated diverse ways of working. Attendees also had the opportunity to hear from three Booker colleagues about their experiences of being neurologically different. May/June 2025 TalkingShop
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BetterService IDEAS TO GIVE YOUR BUSINESS THE EDGE
Are you complying with the Simpler Recycling Legislation? New recycling legislation came into force on 31 March to help improve recycling rates – and Booker has an exclusive deal in place which can help you save up to 11% on waste management costs. New recycling requirements The four waste streams that need to be segregated under the new legislation are: l
Dry recycling (glass, metal and plastic)
l
Paper and card
l
Food waste
l
Black bin waste (to be sent to landfill)
FAQs
HOW DO I OBTAIN A QUOTE? Visit collectmywaste.com and use the code ‘BOOKERWASTE’ and your Booker customer number for a free, discounted quote, and follow the quick and easy steps. WHAT TYPES OF WASTE CAN I GET COLLECTED? General waste, dry mixed recycling, food waste and glass as well as one-off clearances. WHAT BINS OR CONTAINERS CAN YOU PROVIDE? A variety of wheelie bin and front-end loader containers are available in all sizes to suit your needs. A skip hire service is also available. ONCE I HAVE MY QUOTE AND HAVE AGREED TO PROCEED, WHAT IS THE NEXT STEP? Once your services are set up and processed, you will be contacted by your Collect My Waste Account Manager to discuss any further specific requirements. A welcome email will be sent confirming all relevant details such as delivery date, collection schedule and contact details. WHEN WILL I NEED TO MAKE MY FIRST PAYMENT? Your first payment will be taken by credit/debit card or Direct Debit shortly before the service starts. HOW CAN I REQUEST AN EXTRA COLLECTION OR ARRANGE FOR EXCESS WASTE TO BE CLEARED? You can request an emergency collection or arrange for excess waste to be cleared via your online account or by contacting the customer service department on 01992 765260. AM I ABLE TO VIEW MY ACCOUNT INFORMATION AND COLLECTION HISTORY? Yes. All information will be readily available to you via a quick and easy-to-use online portal where you can view all your important waste and recycling statistics. HOW DO I KEEP UP TO DATE ON THE PROGRESS OF MY COLLECTIONS? You can contact Collect My Waste at any time to discuss any issues but as soon as you’ve downloaded the app, you will receive notifications on the morning of each waste collection day indicating which collection(s) are due. Similarly, in the afternoon, notifications will confirm that collection(s) were made.
May/June 2025 TalkingShop
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NEW T HE U S’S FA S T E S T GR O W ING ENER GY DRINK ** NOW IN T HE UK
D I S C OV E R T H E F U L L R A N G E CODE M300453 M300452
PRODUCT PACK CELSIUS SUNSET VIBE PMP £1.79 12X1X355ML CELSIUS PEACH VIBE PMP £1.79 12X1X355ML
**CIRCANA – LAST 104 WEEKS SALES – TOTAL US MARKET
PMP £1.79 £1.79
Benefits: Instant quote showing best price for each service Booker Group exclusive discount on every collection Easy to use app that holds all your data and invoices in one place Connected, real-time updates about your collections Environmentally friendly with realtime analytics reported
T
he
UK
Government
has
been working on simplifying recycling processes as part of its commitment to moving towards a zero waste, circular
economy to create a future where we keep our resources in use for longer and reduce waste.
Save up to
The Simpler Recycling Legislation went live on 31 March 2025 for all businesses with more than 10 FTE employees and will also apply to all micro-firms with fewer than 10
employees) are at risk of
FTE employees from 31 March 2027.
receiving a compliance
It requires convenience stores in England that produce waste collected in customerfacing bins and from their business operations,
11% with Bookerexclusive deal*
waste, mixed recycling and much more. The service is available
notice from the Environment
via a simple, easy-to-use app
Agency. To help customers comply with
and website – collectmywaste.com
to separate their waste into the following four
the new legislation and cut the cost of doing
– which provides instant quotes showing
streams: dry recycling; paper and card; food
business, Booker has secured an exclusive
the best prices for each service, including a
waste; and black bin waste.
deal which will help you make significant cost
Booker-exclusive discount.
Businesses who do not comply with these
savings on waste management.
Simply choose the service you require, and
requirements by 31 March 2025 (or 31 March
Every penny that you can save on costs helps
you will be kept up to date in real time on
2027 for those with fewer than 10 FTE
boost profits and build stronger businesses –
the progress of your collection, helping you
and the Booker deal can deliver savings of up
organise your team and maximise efficiency.
to 11% for your business, subject to terms and
Collections are made by professional,
Quote ‘BOOKERWASTE’ along with your Booker customer number to claim discounted rates today!
conditions.
friendly drivers who know their way around
Working with its waste management partner
and can ensure fast, no-fuss pick-ups to let
Collect My Waste, Booker has secured a deal
you get back to the business of running a great
that helps catering customers gain access
store and focusing your attention on your
to better prices for the collection of general
business and your shoppers.
BOOK TODAY BY VISITING COLLECTMYWASTE.COM *Terms and conditions apply
May/June 2025 TalkingShop
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BetterService IDEAS TO GIVE YOUR BUSINESS THE EDGE
Retailers4Retailers:
a safe space for everyone Some of the UK’s leading independent retailers have joined forces to launch a new ‘safe space’ support platform where retailers can meet, talk and learn from one another about the unique mental health and wellbeing challenges they face.
A
s all retailers know only
questions were asked about what support
too
an
we had as independent retailers. We quickly
retailing
recognised that we didn’t have any support
business can be tough and
networks in place for retailers to access when
can place a huge burden on
they needed some help.
well,
running
independent
your mental and physical health. That burden
“In independent businesses, sometimes we
can leave retailers feeling stressed, exhausted
aren’t fortunate enough to find a supportive
and lonely – and this is precisely why a group
network. Many retailers can feel isolated in
of the UK’s leading independent retailers have
their towns and villages, and this was leaving
created a new support network that brings
many people in our industry feeling alone and
retailers together in a safe space to discuss the
struggling without support from others who
difficulties they are facing with other people
understand what they’re going through.
Meeting schedule
facing exactly the same issues.
“So, together with a few other independent
“Unless you have run an independent
retailers, we decided to start our own
retailing outlet and faced the unique and often
community, our own network, to make sure
intense challenges that convenience store
that all of our colleagues in the independent
Retailers4Retailers meet online on a weekly basis:
owners and colleagues face, it’s impossible
retailing sector have access to the help
to understand,” explains Natalie Lightfoot,
and support we need. We want retailers to
l Every second Monday at 7pm
a retailer in Baillieston in Glasgow and co-
know that they’re not alone. We are here for
founder of Retailers4Retailers. “And that’s
each other, and we are all facing the same
l Every second Thursday at 1.30pm
why we’ve created this new support network
challenges, so we understand what you are
and safe space where we can meet online and
going through.”
To join, simply visit retailers4retailers.co.uk and fill in the very brief form or follow retailers4retailers on Facebook where links to the meetings are published.
share our experiences and help each other.”
90 TalkingShop May/June 2025
Retailers4Retailers currently meet online
platform
on a weekly basis and all independent retailers
explains where the idea came from: “The
are invited to join in the conversation in a
Retailers4Retailers idea initially came from a
private, confidential, safe space.
A
spokesperson
for
the
video that was put together for World Mental
“We meet every second Monday at 7pm and
Health Day in 2023. From that video, several
every second Thursday at 1.30pm. This helps
{
We want retailers to know that they’re not alone. We are here for each other, and we are all facing the same challenges, so we understand what you are going through. Natalie Lightfoot, Retailers4Retailers
ensure that retailers with kids or dependents
things are in independent retailing – but we
who find it hard to make evening meetings can
don’t feel that it should be that way. This is
do the Thursday afternoon meeting instead if
a really intense career choice, and we believe
that fits their schedule better,” a spokesperson
that being part of our retailer network, our
explains.
retailer family, can bring enormous benefits
There’s no commitment and no requirement
and help people manage their mental health,
to attend regularly. “We just want retailers to
their physical wellbeing and their relationships
know that we’re here and if they want to drop
with colleagues, friends and family.”
into one or two meetings and just listen, that’s
Additionally, building
fine,” a spokesperson adds.
bonds
Retailers4Retailers with
organisations
is like
“Not everyone wants to share their
GroceryAid which can offer free, confidential
experiences or their challenges in front of
and professional support to retailers who feel
others, but we generally find that people who
like they might benefit from it.
}
Founding members Retailers4Retailers was founded by four independent retailers: l Sophie Towers, One Stop Burnley l Atul Sodha, Londis Harefield, Uxbridge l Neil Godhania, Neil’s Premier, Peterborough l Natalie Lightfoot, Londis Solo Convenience Store, Baillieston, Glasgow
come along just to listen and get a feel for
“We’re retailers and the group exists for us
the meetings often end up joining in pretty
to share our experiences of retail at the coal
quickly. We’ve tried to create a welcoming,
face. We’re not fully qualified mental health
open, warm environment where there is no
specialists or finance specialists or legal
judgment. It’s just about talking, sharing,
specialists or whatever – but we realise that
listening and helping each other. We’re all in
some retailers might feel like they need some
the same boat after all. And clinical research
extra help so we’re developing our reach so
overcome these challenges and can help them
clearly shows that even just being part of
that we can point retailers in the right direction
find a way forward.
something like this can make a big difference.
to make sure they get the support they need for
“We’re trying to create real solutions for
So many people have told us they feel lighter
whatever it is they are facing,” a spokesperson
real problems,” a spokesperson says. “If you
after joining the meetings, that they don’t feel
adds.
work in independent retailing, you know the
so alone. It’s working.”
Support is also provided by Nathan Hall of The Fed.
With tens of thousands of independent
challenges that face all of us every day in life.
The meetings are rapidly growing in
retailing outlets in the UK, Retailers4Retailers
What we’re doing with Retailers4Retailers is
popularity with upwards of 25 retailers
is providing the first industry-wide self-help
trying to put people in touch with people for
attending and the group hope that many
network where affiliations are put to one side
the benefit of all.
more will come along to see for themselves
because, at the end of the day, all retailers face
“If you’re a busy retailer, you know the
and become part of this network. “In most
the same challenges – and only retailers can
challenge: it never seems to be the right time
industries there are ready-made networks
understand those challenges and what they
or the right place to talk about the stuff that’s
available and all sorts of safeguards and safety
mean.
really worrying you, the stuff that weighs
nets but in independent retailing, that’s just not the case,” a spokesperson says.
The next phase of the development of
really heavily on you.
the network is the roll out of a one-to-one
“With Retailers4Retailers we’re creating
“Many retailers work extremely long hours,
mentoring scheme that allows retailers with
that time and that place – and we’re doing it
rarely take holidays and have literally nobody
specific challenges or problems with the
every week in life. So why not join one of our
to talk to about what they’re going through.
chance to spend time in a private, safe space
meetings and see what you think. You won’t
Often they just accept that as being the way
with retailers who have perhaps faced and
regret it.”
Find out more at retailers4retailers.co.uk May/June 2025 TalkingShop
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Did you know Ribena sells 137 bottles per minute / 2 bottles per second*. STOCK UP NOW!
RIBENA is a registered trade mark of Lucozade Ribena Suntory Ltd. © Lucozade Ribena Suntory Ltd. All rights reserved.
*[source: Nielsen, Total Ribena Volume, 52 weeks to 25th Jan 2025 – assumed average 750ml per bottle, 54mL sold annually]
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BetterService IDEAS TO GIVE YOUR BUSINESS THE EDGE
At your service! Booker Group Added Value Services
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£50Kr*
JOIN ‘000’s OF RETAILERS ALREAD BENEFIT Y ING
Make more and save more with Booker Added Value Services. Find exclusive deals and discounts with Booker’s business enabling partners inside.
*Based on a combination of potential preferential, exclusive rates and commission from store services.
121812 - Premier - AVS Brochure.indd 1
10/02/2025 16:16
Make more and save more with Booker’s Added Value Services, including exclusive rates and key discounts.
E
veryone loves getting a good
a fully-loaded feast of exclusive deals,
deal – and no-one more so
preferential rates and deep discounts from
than
retailers
more than 25 of Booker’s business enabling
who continue to battle a legion
partners – yet another advantage of being part
of legislative and cost-based
of a bigger group.
independent
challenges.
Available now, Booker’s AVS brochure is
Any opportunity to save precious pounds
packed from cover to cover with thousands
and build better sales and profits is guaranteed
of pounds-worth of retailer savings across
to be warmly welcomed to the table.
a wide range of disciplines such as energy
Cue Booker’s exclusive Added Value
saving, finance, sustainability, food waste
Services (AVS) brochure – which offers
management, Epos, marketing and cleaning. May/June 2025 TalkingShop
93
NOW available in 10x440ml & 4x440ml
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How does 15% off all DoubleCOOL doors sound? With energy cost savings of up to 60%, we think it sounds pretty – well, cool. What about an Exclusive Solar Panel and EV charging deal? Check out Hawley Energy’s special offer available to you. You
Get exclusive rates and discounts on over 25 selected suppliers.
can also protect your store, staff and profits with exclusive Booker pricing on Reliance Protect’s VT100 solution. Booker’s AVS brochure also includes a meaty serving of key opportunities to drive footfall into your store and make more profit too. Did you know that you can make between 70-80% profit per cup with Tango Ice Blast? Just two cups a day covers your lease fee. Or how about hosting an InPost Locker and earning a guaranteed base rate for the space. There’s no cost to you and 54% of InPost locker users also make a purchase when in store. To take a closer look at the many savings and margin-making opportunities available, simply log onto the website at booker.co.uk. What could be better than that?
Bespoke services tailored to your brand.
Benefits to beam about! The Added Value Services brochure offers Premier retailers the opportunity to make and save more than £50,000 in the following areas: l Home Delivery l Energy saving l Finance l Payments l Food To Go l Media Screens l Waste l Electronic SELS l Epos l Security l Licensing l Marketing l Store services
May/June 2025 TalkingShop
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For the Tobacco Trade Only
NEW
CHESTERFIELD FINE CUT
£ 20.50 RRP*
*POR = Profit on Return. All on-shelf prices are selected by the retailer alone. Margin is calculated on the stated RRP (recommended retail price). All pricing decisions rest with the retailer and therefore margin may be affected by the retailer’s chosen selling price. This material is restricted to those who are involved in the business of the sale or distribution of tobacco who are aged 18 or over. This material should not be made available to the public or sent to anyone else. (This is to replace “this communication is for the information of the tobacco trade only).
RECOMMENDED SUPPLIERS The new Added Value Services brochure features more than 25 recommended suppliers who can offer tailored support for your business in the following key areas: SECURITY
SUSTINABILITY AND WASTE
l Quail
l Olio
l Facewatch
l Fareshare
l Veesion
l CollectMyWaste
l Reliance Protect
l Valpak
ENERGY SAVING
EPOS
l Saffron Business Solutions
l Retail Data Partnership
l Hawley Energy
l ITS
l DoubleCOOL
l Point Four
IN-STORE TECH
STORE EQUIPMENT
l Media Group
l HL Displays
l Image Sound
l Project Display
l Koel & Hanshow
l Navarra Retail Systems
l Avery Berkel
l Formbar
DRINKS MACHINES
IN-STORE SERVICES
l Costa
l Paypoint
l Lavazza
l Cashzone
l Tango Ice Blast
l InPost
l Snowshock
l Quadient
l Polarkrush
l Eskuta
l Celtic Frozen Drinks l Blue Ice
SEE THE FULL BROCHURE AT BOOKER.CO.UK
May/June 2025 TalkingShop
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ACS Viewpoint | INCLUSION
James Lowman outlines the key changes you can make, so that everyone is welcome in your store.
Make your store accessible to all The ACS has revamped its Everyone Welcome guide, which sets out the key changes that stores can make to be accessible to all.
E
veryday activities such as shopping can present their
is welcome in our stores. The Everyone Welcome guide gives you and
own challenges for some colleagues and customers,
your colleagues the tools to be confident when serving customers or
and therefore it is important to ensure that our spaces
employing people with additional needs as a result of dementia, sight
are accessible and supportive for those who need them
loss, hearing loss and hidden disabilities, among others. It also covers
- particularly as not all needs are immediately apparent
how to ensure that you’re catering for additional accessibility needs
or visible. To help retailers equip themselves with knowledge about the
that some customers might need, such as those who use wheelchairs,
different needs that customers may have when visiting a store, we’ve
walking frames, or walking sticks.
revamped our Everyone Welcome guide which sets out the ways that
For those who have additional needs, it’s important that they know
stores can adapt their environment and processes to ensure that they are
they can go into your business and shop with confidence, so we’ve
providing the correct support for disabled and vulnerable customers, as
created a tool that you can use to shout about what you do in store.
well as those with additional needs.
You can generate a poster specific to your business which includes
We know that convenience stores are a community hub for all ages and demographics of customers, as well as a place where people can reenter the workplace or find work when they otherwise wouldn’t be able to, so it’s important that we as a sector highlight the fact that everyone
everything from baby change facilities, wider aisles and hearing aid loops to quiet hours, level access and being dog friendly. Just visit the ACS website (ACS.org.uk) and click on the Everyone Welcome link to get started. May/June 2025 TalkingShop
99
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*Total Market as measured by Nielsen & CGA – Coca-Cola Trademark (Coca-Cola, Diet Coke and Coke Zero) Volume in Litres, MAT to Oct 2024. © 2025 The Coca-Cola Company. All rights reserved.