C&I Retailing Magazine August-September 2021

AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2021

FASTEST GROWING MAINSTREAM WET CAT FOOD BRAND (28% MAT)*

Available in Singles!

Source: Nielsen Scan AU Grocery MAT to 30/06/21

Irresistible FELIX ™ As Good as it Looks AVAILABLE IN SINGLES! FAS GRO TEST MAIN WING ST WET REAM CA FOO D BR T AND (28% MAT )*

CLEVER CATS KNOW FLAVOUR WHEN THEY SEE IT

*Source: Nielsen Scan AU Grocery MAT to 30/06/21

DRIVE MAINSTREAM PENETRATION AND INCREASE SHOPPER BASKET** Offering variety to delight your shoppers across the FELIX As Good as it Looks™ range, to assist in driving penetration and AWOP

Single Serve Wet Cat Mainstream Shopper is the 2nd most valuable shopper to Supermarket

83% $6M 83%

of Wet Cat Shoppers are constantly looking for variety and new news

1 Additional Single Serve Wet Cat Product to shopper basket is worth $6M

Total FELIX brand growing at

21% vs YA – Aus Grocery

ITEM CODE

METCASH CODE

12458392

991036

1245841 1

991028

PRODUCT DESCRIPTION

SIZE

BARCODE

RRP*

FELIX® AS GOOD AS IT LOOKS Beef 85g

85g

9300605097162

$1.30

FELIX® AS GOOD AS IT LOOKS Tuna 85g

85g

9300605097117

$1.30

*Recommended retail price only. **Source: Nielsen Scan Grocery Data Australia MAT To 03/2020 / Nielsen Australia Homescan Data MAT to February 2020/ US 2018 Product Concept Research.

CONTENTS

EDITORIAL

August/September 2021

14 22

10

W

06 FACE TIME

Karim Sumar, QSR & New Concepts Director, EG Australia

10 STORE REVIEW

7-Eleven Melton in Victoria is food focused and digitally savvy

14 ICE CREAM

New formats and flavours are bringing innovation to the ice cream freezer

18 TOBACCO / VAPES

The convenience channel’s leading category continues to face new challenges

22 FOODSERVICE

Convenience is taking a fresh approach to foodservice

26 PRODUCT RANGING

We bring you all of the latest new product launches

elcome to the August/September issue of C&I Retailing Magazine.

As I write this month’s editor’s note, much of Australia is unfortunately either back in lockdown or adhering to some form of increased restrictions, as the nation struggles to contain the spread of the highly infectious Delta Coronavirus variant.

Greater Sydney including the Central Coast, Blue Mountains, Wollongong and Shellharbour are in lockdown with an ongoing high number of infectious cases being detected in the community daily. South Australia has just entered a seven-day lockdown and Victoria has also announced that its lockdown would be extended. It’s a reminder of how we need to remain agile, flexible, and well prepared for any challenges that come our way.

Whether it’s in lockdown or not, consumers are turning to the convenience channel when it comes to easily accessible ready made meals, with AACS CEO Theo Foukkare believing the foodservice category is on track to deliver close to $1 billion in 2021. In this issue we look at the foodservice

category and explore why it is now a crucial component of the store offering.

In an environment where convenience seeking behaviour is at an all-time high, the petrol and convenience market remains a critical sales channel for the tobacco category, but it’s a category that is facing new challenges, which we explore on page 18.

For our Face Time, we hear from Karim Sumar, QSR & New Concepts Director at EG Australia, who was recently awarded an AM on the Queen’s Birthday Honours List. And for our store review we look inside 7-Eleven at Melton in Victoria, which over-exceeds when it comes to using digital technology to better understand its customers.

We are also grateful to have opinion pieces from Theo Foukkare, Darren Park, Skye Jackson, Stephen Wilson, and Nic Moulis.

To our readers, stay safe, look after each other, and we hope you enjoy reading this issue of C&I Retailing Magazine.

Safa de Valois

Keith Berg

Cheers, Deb Jackson

52 OPINION

Theo Foukkare, AACS; Darren Park, UCB Stores; Skye Jackson, Ampol; Stephen Wilson, Strikeforce

60 INDUSTRY NEWS

Bowser Bean, C&I Expo Melbourne, AACS, Fine Food NZ Show

66 PETROL NEWS

Nic Moulis, Customer Relationship Data; Envirotank; 7-Eleven; Ampol

4 August/September 2021 | C&I | www.c-store.com.au

James Wells

Ben Curtis

PRIME TIME

Dare No Sugar Added Will Fix It When your body is a temple a Dare fix will fix it!

Dare Double Espresso No Sugar Added was launched to provide a better for you version of your beloved Dare products.

“We believe in providing consumers with choice, and this new product offering is a great way to offer fans of Dare Iced Coffee a range of options to suit their needs at the time of purchase. We know fans of Dare love the taste of Dare Double Espresso, so we’ve worked hard to ensure Dare Double Espresso No Sugar Added packs the same delicious coffee fix,” said a spokesperson.

Packed with twice the coffee, and made with no sugar added, Dare Double Espresso No Sugar Added is a delicious blend of Arabica and Robusta coffee, combined with fresh milk for a smooth flavour.

To order contact 1800 000 570 or email customersalesandservice@lionco.com.

Get more data for less with gomo mobile powered by Optus. With gomo mobile you only pay for what you need with no contracts and no hidden charges. It’s good to go mobile without all that other hoo-ha.

No worries mobile

Customers can set and forget with gomo mobile. They just download the app and activate the subscription without any of the usual telco malarkey. It’s simple to use or get help.

Backed by a trusted network, they are a simple straight-forward bunch so you get exactly what you want. It’s no worries mobile.

Tel: 02 8586 6292 Fax: 02 9660 4419 E: magazine@c-store.com.au

Darrell Lea has made two new flavours of Rocklea Road blocks available through the petrol and convenience channel: Traditional Dark Chocolate and Honeycomb Milk Chocolate.

From the first Rocklea Road invented in 1935, to today, Darrell Lea still uses the famous original recipe created by Darrell Lea’s father, Harry Lea. Soft marshmallow, blended with a mix of coconut and peanuts and then smothered in Darrell Lea’s smooth, creamy chocolate.

The three new block flavours join existing Rocklea Road block varieties such as Raspberry and Milk Chocolate and have an RRP of $5.00.

All Darrell Lea products are guaranteed 100 per cent palm oil free and all chocolate is made using 100 per cent sustainable sourced cocoa.

Morlife Dark Chocolate Range

Get more bang for your buck with gomo

Published by C&I Media Pty Ltd (A division of The Intermedia Group) 41 Bridge Road (PO Box 55) Glebe NSW 2037

Darrell Lea launches new Rocklea Road block flavours

Publisher: C&I Media Pty Ltd Safa de Valois Commercial Director: Safa de Valois Editorial Director: James Wells

The Intermedia Group takes its Corporate and Social Responsibilities seriously and is committed to reducing its impact on the environment. We continuously strive to improve our environmental performance and to initiate additional CSR based projects and activities.

As part of our company policy we ensure that the products and services used in the manufacture of this magazine are sourced from environmentally responsible suppliers. This magazine has been printed on paper produced from sustainably sourced wood and pulp fibre and is accredited under PEFC chain of custody.

PEFC certified wood and paper products come from environmentally appropriate, socially beneficial and economically viable management of forests.

The wrapping used in the delivery process of this magazine is 100% biodegradable.

DISCLAIMER This publication is published by C&I Media Pty Ltd (the “Publisher”). Materials in this publication have been created by a variety of different entities and, to the extent permitted by law, the Publisher accepts no liability for materials created by others. All materials should be considered protected by Australian and international intellectual property laws. Unless you are authorised by law or the copyright owner to do so, you may not copy any of the materials.

Indulge with a difference with the ultimate guilt free dark chocolate coated snack range now available through the petrol and convenience channel.

The market for chocolate products is continuously growing as consumers have an endless love affair for these delicacies. Morlife has focused on this tendency and created the ultimate nutrient dense chocolicious snack range.

Morlife’s research team selected succulent fruits, roasted nuts and superfoods and showered them with premium dark chocolate.

The range includes seven varieties, including Blueberries, Ginger, Goji Berries, Golden Berries, Five Berry Mix, Coffee Beans, and Five Nut Mix – all coated in delicious dark chocolate.

Morlife’s chocolate coated snacks are all gluten free, free from artificial sweeteners, colours, and preservatives for guilt-free snacking pleasure.

Visit www.morlife.com for more information.

Editor at Large: Keith Berg

Graphic Designer: Alyssa Coundouris

Managing Editor: Deb Jackson

Contributor: Claire Hibbit

National Sales Manager: Ben Curtis

The mention of a product or service, person or company in this publication does not indicate the Publisher’s endorsement.

The views expressed in this publication do not necessarily represent the opinion of the Publisher, its agents, company officers or employees. Any use of the information contained in this publication is at the sole risk of the person using that information. The user should make independent enquiries as to the accuracy of the information before relying on that information.

All express or implied terms, conditions, warranties, statements, assurances and representations in relation to the Publisher, its publications and its services are expressly excluded save for those conditions and warranties which must be implied under the laws of any State of Australia or the provisions of Division 2 of Part V of the Trade Practices Act 1974 and any statutory modification or re-enactment thereof. To the extent permitted by law, the Publisher will not be liable for any damages including special, exemplary, punitive or consequential damages (including but not limited to economic loss or loss of profit or revenue or loss of opportunity) or indirect loss or damage of any kind arising in contract, tort or otherwise, even if advised of the possibility of such loss of profits or damages. While we use our best endeavours to ensure accuracy of the materials we create, to the extent permitted by law, the Publisher excludes all liability for loss resulting from any inaccuracies or false or misleading statements that may appear in this publication.

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August/September 2021 | C&I | www.c-store.com.au 5

FACE TIME

Karim Sumar pictured with community members and Alex Hawke MP Minister for Immigration, Citizenship, Migrant Services and Multicultural Affairs of Australia and his wife, on Clean Up Australia Day Below right: Karim Sumar meeting His Royal Highness Prince of Wales

A HUMBLE HERO

Karim Sumar has been working in the convenience industry in Australia for more than 20 years.

He balances this with extensive voluntary work to improve and make the world a better place.

This year he was recognised on the Queen’s Birthday honours list. This is his story.

You will see some exciting offers appearing in our stores in coming months.”

– Karim Sumar

I

was born in Tanzania in Africa and later moved to Kenya with my younger sister. Our family immigrated to Australia in the early 1980s when I was 18 and had just finished Year 11 at school.

It was challenging for my family when we first arrived in Australia as my sister was still at school, and my parents were both middle-aged with no local experience. It was for this reason that my parents found it hard to find work but fortunately after two weeks in our new country, I found a job pushing trolleys at Coles Supermarket in Epping, Sydney.

After three weeks of pushing trolleys, the store manager came and told me: ‘You are the first person to stay in the job pushing trolleys up that ramp. Everyone else has quit.’ And so he offered me a Coles traineeship.

6 August/September 2021 | C&I | www.c-store.com.au

With me as the main breadwinner, these were challenging times for the family, but nowhere near as hard as what we had left in Africa.

My upbringing back in Africa was quite difficult, so it really made me want to give back to people who were underprivileged, because I myself was one of those recipients at one stage. So, I always wanted to do what I could to serve the community, and these days I laugh about it at work saying that my ‘work’ work is part time and that my community engagement is what is full time.

Today, I live in Sydney with my wife and life partner Ambreen, and we have raised three wonderful and successful young men, Navid, Akeel, and Zahir. I am very close with my family and enjoy spending time with my wife, our sons, and our family sharing a meal. That is how I find my relaxation.

FACE TIME I currently work at EG Australia as the QSR and New Concepts Director. I also served on the board of the Australian Association of Convenience Stores (AACS) for almost 12 years, and for four of those years I was the chairman.

I have been blessed to have had the opportunity to work with some of the most wonderful people and organisations in Australia.”

I balance this with extensive work serving the Ismaili community, a global, multi-ethnic community whose members comprise of a wide diversity of cultures, languages and nationalities and live in Central Asia, the Middle East, South Asia, sub-Saharan Africa, Europe, North America, the Far East, Australia, and New Zealand.

His Highness the Aga Khan is the 49th hereditary Imam of the Shia Ismaili Muslims, and in July 2015, the Aga Khan appointed me as President of the Shia Imami Ismaili Muslim Council for ANZ.

– Karim Sumar

In 2019, His Highness the Aga Khan became the Global Founding Patron of The Prince’s Trust, and later on, I was asked to join Prince’s Trust Australia as a Trustee. I have had the privilege to meet His Royal Highness Prince of Wales during his last visit to New Zealand.

I’ve been involved with my community work from a very young age back in Africa, which was a very informal and voluntary service that I did as a part of my community. Then once I had immigrated to Australia and settled into the new country, I started serving again.

I’ve had some amazing and interesting highlights over the years, but I would have to say that the main ones would be having met some incredible leaders from around the world, including His Highness the Aga Khan several times in private meetings and formal arrangements, His Royal Highness Prince of Wales, and Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa, the President of Portugal. Being invited into the Parliament of Portugal where His Highness the Aga Khan and the President were addressing the joint Parliament was a key highlight. I was invited as a member of the Ismaili leader’s international forum and was actually seated on the floor of the Parliament listening to all of the addresses.

For someone who came with nothing in Africa and now being able to do all these things are such cherished experiences. But what I really cherish the most are the number of volunteers globally who are silent workers. Whether they are in Australia or in different parts of the world, the amazing thing is that they may be a 12-year-old or an 80-year-old but they are all serving for the same purpose, and exemplifying Islam’s core values of service, peace, compassion, and care for the vulnerable.

In June this year, I was recognised on the 2021 Queen’s Birthday Honours List, being awarded an AM – Member of the Order of Australia, for significant service to the Ismaili community, and to the convenience retail industry. This was an unexpected and overwhelming honour; it was totally out of the blue and I didn’t have the faintest idea that I was even being considered.

This recognition is for all of the people who volunteer their time in any form to improve and make the world a better place. I am extremely lucky to have worked with so many people over the years that cannot be forgotten. I would like to thank them all, especially my parents and family who have supported me in all of my work.

Back row: Navid, Karim and Akeel Sumar Front row: Ambreen and Zahir Sumar

A CAREER IN CONVENIENCE Having come to Australia with nothing and starting as a trolley boy at Coles supermarkets, I have been blessed to have had the opportunity to work with some of the most wonderful people and organisations in Australia.

Post holding various roles at Caltex, I moved into my own consultancy business with some major projects and organisations.

I had found a balance to do more of the community work while consulting and I was done with working fulltime for large organisations. I was consulting to Woolworths Petrol when EG Group decided to buy the business. The EG management team ultimately offered me a role, which I was reluctant to take as I had found the balance and did not want my community work to take a back step. I was told that both Mohsin and Zuber Issa, the co-CEOs were very supportive to allow me to continue my community work while working for them, as they themselves do them same. This is how I got back to fulltime work. My initial role as Head of Convenience was to fix, improve and grow the EG Convenience business. Within 12 months, Mike McMenamin the CEO for EG Australia, asked me to move to the newly created role of QSR and New Concepts Director.

Since moving to the role in June 2020, my focus has been to set up foodservice for EG in Australia. This has meant that I have had to review what is happening in the market, understand the EG Group point of difference in all markets and establish a fit for purpose network of foodservice locations in Australia.

We have already created some strong partnerships with Vittoria Food & Beverages, Oliver’s Real Food, and Pizza Hut Australia to name a few. You will see some exciting offers appearing in our stores in coming months. C&I August/September 2021 | C&I | www.c-store.com.au 7

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STORE REVIEW

FOOD FOCUSED AND DIGITALLY SAVVY

7-Eleven Melton combines exceptional customer service with advanced digital customer interactions to provide an experience that is a cut above the rest.

Above L-R: Ashesh and Krunal Shah, Owners of 7-Eleven Melton

7-Eleven has iconic products and unique services, so it’s up to us to ensure that we present them perfectly; and build relationships with our customers that keep them coming back to our store…”

– Ashesh and Krunal Shah, 7-Eleven Melton

7

-Eleven at Melton in Victoria is a well-established store that has been owned by franchisees Ashesh and Krunal Shah since January 2019. Only one year into running their business, COVID-19 brought many challenges but by working with their 7-Eleven support team, the business has bounced back strong.

Over the course of the past year, Ashesh and Krunal have focused on growing the food and coffee offer at 7-Eleven Melton, making it as convenient as possible for their customers. They have also successfully integrated digital technology into their store, whereby they can collect real-time customer feedback, which they use to continually make improvements to their business.

Braeden Lord, General Manager – Channel, 7-Eleven, said that Ashesh and Krunal have worked hard to invest in their business during challenging times, and this investment has paid off by enabling them to attract new customers and increase sales.

“Many things changed in response to COVID-19 but the commitment of Ashesh, Krunal and their team to serve their local community remained strong,” said Lord.

“To keep the team and their customers safe, changes had to be made and responses had to be instant, especially with the many strict and constantly changing restrictions in Victoria.

“In early 2020, a new coffee island was installed with three new coffee machines and an extended food display space. The machines are working around the clock to dispense the great quality, freshly ground $1 coffee that 7-Eleven is famous for.”

Lord explains that the wider 7-Eleven group has been evolving its food offer for many years and that it would be a continued focus for the group over the next 12 months.

10 August/September 2021 | C&I | www.c-store.com.au

“Over the last decade, we’ve led the way through establishing consumer credibility in food on the go in convenience. We’ve invested in growing the coffee, sandwich, sushi and salad categories particularly.

“We’ve been able to grow our coffee offer from an average seven cups per store per day in 2009, to now selling more than 80 million cups a year. The work of the teams over time has made our stores a destination for coffee, and the convenience channel more broadly is now following on the work we’ve done to ensure that the coffee offer across our industry is of a very high standard.”

With the support of 7-Eleven head office, the hard work that Ashesh and Krunal have put in over the past 12 months at 7-Eleven Melton has maximised convenience for customers and lifted the potential of the store.

“Since the refurbishments, despite the impacts of COVID-19, the store has increased customer count and food sales performance,” explains Lord.

The store employs a team of 11 staff, mainly casual team members, and the team prides itself on being a part of the community in which it operates.

“We work hard to ensure our customers can access all the value available to them. We have focused on engaging with customers about the 7-Eleven fuel price lock and the savings it can bring,” explain Ashesh and Krunal.

The 7-Eleven fuel price lock system provides significant savings for customers in that it allows them to lock in a price when fuel is cheaper and they can redeem fuel at that price anytime over the following seven days when it is convenient for them to do so.

STORE REVIEW “We focus on providing exceptional service, and engage with our customers about the products and services that make our store different to our competitors. From the My 7-Eleven App rewards and savings to $1 coffee, fresh food, or services like 7-Eleven Parcelmate, we take pride in the offer we provide to our community.”

In 2020, 7-Eleven transitioned its popular 7-Eleven Fuel App to an integrated loyalty, fuel lock and rewards app. The app continues to allow customers to lock in their fuel price, but also provides personalised loyalty rewards and other offers to customers, and 7-Eleven at Melton has been particularly successful in integrating this technology into its local community.

“We have used a technology-led loyalty program provided to us by the 7-Eleven support office to drive transactions and create real value for our fuel customers,” say Ashesh and Krunal.

Since increasing its food display space in 2020, 7-Eleven Melton has boosted its customer count and food sales performance

7-Eleven Melton is also enabled with a digital customer live feedback system whereby customers can leave live feedback of their experience in-store.

“We have been actively using the data available to identify opportunities in-store and to implement changes that will delight our customers.

“Customers have really embraced the My 7-Eleven App with the rewards and fuel price lock in our store. For us, we think having exceptional in-store retail experiences supported by great digital interactions will continue to be something our customers are looking for.”

As Lord mentioned, Ashesh and Krunal have focused on improving their food offer over the past 12 months, and they say that this has proven critical for the success of their store, with customers seeking a diverse range of grab and go products.

“In terms of product trends, having a range of choices for customers will continue to be important,” they say.

“People still want to have a pie or a treat like a doughnut, but they also want to be able to choose sushi, a salad, or a plantbased food item. Having a good range is critical and we are focused on making sure our store standards, service and offer are the best in our area.

“7-Eleven has iconic products and unique services, so it’s up to us to ensure that we present them perfectly; and build relationships with our customers that keep them coming back to our store and increase their loyalty to the 7-Eleven brand. Those connections we have with our customers also help us to have conversations about new products, services, or offers, like the fuel price lock, so that we can encourage our community to give them a try.”

Ashesh and Krunal are looking forward to a COVID-normal future after the challenges of 2020.

THE EVOLUTION OF 7-ELEVEN Providing a great customer experience is at the forefront of the evolution of 7-Eleven, and Lord told C&I that the future of 7-Eleven would be digitally-led.

Having a good range is critical and we are focused on making sure our store standards, service and offer are the best in our area.”

– Ashesh and Krunal Shah, 7-Eleven Melton

“Our relaunched app, My 7-Eleven, our newest service 7-Eleven Delivery, as well as our e-commerce platforms, will help us to gain a better understanding of what our customers want from us,” he said.

“Our digital journey is about giving our customers a seamless experience that adds value to them, across both our digital and physical environments.

“As always our customers will continue to be our focus, and 2021 will be about enabling a digitally-led future of convenience retail, to bring customers the products and services they want, when they want them, where they want them.”

Lord says that store formats will also continue to be a focus for 7-Eleven as they test and learn about what their customers want and what convenience means to them.

“There are lots of questions we are working to answer as we learn more about where our customers want us to be. Is it train stations or in offices or delivering to homes? Or delivering to the local park or beach? Is it being present in more regional communities? It’s going to be fascinating to see the evolution in the channel over the next few years but a tech-led, format and food focused future will dominate 7-Eleven’s strategy.” C&I August/September 2021 | C&I | www.c-store.com.au 11

ICE CREAM

PLAYING IT

COOL New formats and flavours are bringing innovation to the ice cream freezer, writes Claire Hibbit.

I

ce cream remains a highly profitable category in the petrol and convenience channel (P&C).

According to Theo Foukkare, CEO of the Australian Association of Convenience Stores (AACS), the ice cream category backed up a strong performance in 2019 growing 5.6 per cent and adding more than $17 million of value over the last two years*.

Harry Hayward, Assistant Category Manager – Ice Cream, Unilever, says shifts in consumer behaviour during the pandemic have led to new shopper missions emerging within the convenience store channel, as well as the ice cream category within P&C. “If we have learnt anything from COVID-19, it is that consumers are living more flexible lives resulting in the 14 August/September 2021 | C&I | www.c-store.com.au

merging of once strict occasions such as working, leisure and consumption. Consequently, consumers are driven even more by convenience and fulfilling their ‘need state’.

“The ‘needs for today’ mission is the most prolific shopper mission for ice cream and as such consumers are favouring quicker shopping trips in nearby convenience channels to instantly satisfy their hunger or craving.”

According to Foukkare, the increase in ice cream spend was driven by single serve, which increased 32 per cent to $10.

Take home ice cream share increased from five per cent in 2019 to eight per cent in 2020, while the snacking mission being the main mission for ice cream shoppers increased six points to 40 per cent in 2020*.

ICE CREAM

According to Hayward, many other customer trends have emerged and have been accelerated due to changes in the macro environment over the last 12 months.

“It is expected this decrease in fuel consumption will continue due to the increase in the prevalence of fuel-efficient cars as well as the evolution of electric cars. However, this can be seen as both a challenge and an opportunity for the channel as it will increase the competitive landscape of those who install charging stations but also create a food consumption opportunity while the consumer is waiting for their car to charge.

“Firstly, we have seen ‘fluid living’ become a major trend where homes get upgraded to fluid hubs for work, rest, and play.

Secondly, as we experience a K Shaped recovery coming out of COVID-19, we are seeing diverging consumer behaviour between trading up and trading down with their purchasing.

“The retailers that will benefit from this increase in dwelling time in-store will be the ones that can increase the shopper’s basket size. We see this as an opportunity moving forward for ice cream and other snacking categories through bundling deals.”

“We have also seen considerate consumption take priority when it comes to consumers buying less but buying better. Lastly, consumers are now prioritising mindfulness and self-care as they look to move to a new way of living through the emerging expectation of permissible treats.”

INNOVATION AND CATEGORY GROWTH Innovation is integral to the growth of the category.

MARKET OPPORTUNITIES AND CHALLENGES

“The P&C channel is a growth engine for Peters and we have shown our commitment to supporting the channel and our retail partners through tailored strategies that meet the needs of our retailers as well as fulfilling our loyalist base that shop our category,” says Cascini

Romalie Cascini, Category Manager, Peters, says the company has also witnessed new consumer trends, including accelerated growth in the digital space.

“Driven by the physical separation caused by the pandemic, this has steered consumers towards digital experiences, gaming and increasing usage of delivery and online platforms.”

Cascini says there is increased local and domestic travel; motivated by a heightened sense of giving back, supporting local and Australian made products.

“The events of last year forced people to explore their own local surroundings which also created a real sense of belonging and community spirit.”

Consumers are also seeking more depth and meaning in their consumption choices.

“There’s been a major movement towards plant-based and better for you, better for the environment solutions, products that are ethically sourced.”

We have some exciting NPD coming to freezers that will tap into the strength of confectionery as well as leveraging the strength of pop culture.”

– Romalie Cascini, Category Manager, Peters

She says Peters has been focused on creating a core offering coupled with a solid innovation platform designed to encourage shoppers to keep coming back.

“The core offering represents 76 per cent of total category sales. Peters has three of the top five brands in the category and pleasingly, these brands are delivering both value and unit growth in the latest YTD read.

“Interestingly, the category has experienced an increase in average price over the last two years, as price continues to creep in the category, the category will be dependent on genuine consumption growth,” says Cascini.

Hayward says Unilever has consistently seen its iconic Golden Gaytime Original be the number one impulse product in Australian convenience, with the latest quarter no different.

The major opportunity to shift the dial for the P&C market moving forward is to increase the ice cream penetration rate.

“We are also really excited to see it is growing at over 23 per cent in this same period.”

“Currently, ice cream in P&C has about a seven per cent penetration rate in comparison to grocery where the penetration rate exceeds 93 per cent,” explains Hayward.

According to the company, the Magnum brand is the number one impulse brand in Australian convenience with the Classic, Almond and Double Caramel Ego being the top three indulgent products in the market.

“The keys to capturing this opportunity depend on the proper and effective execution of availability, visibility, and ranging.”

Another opportunity is the shift in shopper snacking tendencies through the uptake in take home ice cream through delivery services.

“The online food delivery platforms industry has grown 81.1 per cent between 2015 and 2020 and is expected to grow +12.1 per cent 2020-21. Therefore, we see this is a major opportunity for the P&C market to capture moving forward.”

According to Hayward, one of the challenges for the P&C market is the decline in foot traffic in-store due to the decrease in fuel consumption (14 per cent decline in 2020 or 3.5bn litres).

August/September 2021 | C&I | www.c-store.com.au 15

ICE CREAM

“Further, due to the highly seasonal nature of the ice cream market, we see the refreshment segment within ice cream greatly over index in summer where our Calippo Raspberry Pineapple is the number one product and growing by over 40 per cent.

“In saying this, through Ben & Jerry’s, the number one take home brand, we are trying to de-seasonalise the ice cream market by increasing sales in the winter months largely driven through our popular Half Baked, Choc Fudge Brownie and Choc Chip Cookie Dough products.”

NEW FLAVOURS AND FORMATS Cascini says shoppers are constantly seeking ‘new news’ and are excited by genuine format and flavour innovation.

“We have some exciting NPD coming to freezers that will tap into the strength of confectionery as well as leveraging the strength of pop culture.”

Unilever also has an exciting line up of new products hitting the market in 2021.

“Ice cream is currently experiencing great growth in the P&C channel, growing over eight per cent year to date and we expect this to continue. It is due to this growth, driven by changing consumer behaviours, that we consider the channel to be strategically important,” explains Hayward.

Unilever will also be delivering exclusively to market a Cornetto Dragon which will deliver a “multi-sensorial snacking experience through its highly differentiated flavours, textures and aesthetic”.

Last but not least, two Disney products will also be released this summer with the Paddle Pop Spiderman in a soft ice texture design as well as a Calippo Star Wars in an exciting lightsaber format.

When it comes to the placement of ice cream products in stores, Cascini says point of sale is crucial.

“Point of sale is used as a vehicle to engage with shoppers and a means of driving shoppers to the freezer. Once the shopper gets to the freezer, conversion is high, with ice cream being purchased more than 66 per cent of that time.

“Therefore, the key to conversion is getting shoppers to the ice cream freezer, and Peters continues to invest in a broad suite of POS and off location freezer solutions that help engage the consumer in-store across the entire path to purchase.”

For Unilever, it is critical that the company work in collaboration with retailers to ensure they have availability, visibility, and the most efficient freezer ranging in order to cater to the P&C shopper.

Building on from the recent success of its Golden Gaytime collaborations, Unilever will be releasing Golden Gaytime Kellogg’s Crunchy Nut.

“It is vital for retailers to have available stock and space allocated for their core products as core accounts for around 80 per cent of ice cream sales in P&C. Consequently, retailers must ensure core products are ranged, double faced, and have high stock weight under basket.

In addition, the company will be tapping into the pent up demand for overseas travel among Australian consumers by inviting them on a taste bud adventure through its new Magnum Las Vegas Caramel Choc Cookie. This will be a P&C exclusive product with an “exciting consumer prize promotion to go with it”.

“Further, it is also critical for retailers to drive disruption at store level through effective POS to bring people to the freezer and target the ‘need state’ of the shopper. This can be further maximised by ensuring the freezer is in the impulse zone to capture the attention of the shopper.” C&I

16 August/September 2021 | C&I | www.c-store.com.au

The ‘needs for today’ mission is the most prolific shopper mission for ice cream and as such consumers are favouring quicker shopping trips in nearby convenience channels to instantly satisfy their hunger or craving.”

– Harry Hayward, Assistant Category Manager – Ice Cream, Unilever

*Source: 2020 AACS State of the Industry Report

au org. acs. w.a ww theo@aacs.o rg.au

www.aacs .org.au

TOBACCO / VAPES

REMAINING RESILIENT

The convenience channel’s leading category continues to face new challenges, writes Claire Hibbit.

I

n an environment where convenience seeking behaviour is at an all-time high, the petrol and convenience (P&C) market remains a critical sales channel for the tobacco category.

“While frequency decreased, the tobacco shopper became more valuable in 2020, increasing spend by 17 per cent*,” says Foukkare.

“Tobacco consumers continue to use the convenience channel as their main destination to purchase their products.”

According to Theo Foukkare, CEO of the Australian Association of Convenience Stores (AACS), tobacco growth in 2020 was the highest in the last five years and maintained strength, even after the tobacco excise tax increased by 12.5 per cent in September 2020*.

Pradeep Kumar, Managing Director of TabSol Australasia, says the tobacco category has seen significant growth within the P&C channel during the pandemic.

Roll Your Own (RYO) grew on the back of the 15g pouch pack, which is approximately 10 per cent cheaper than the equivalent cigarette pack, while accessories such as filters and papers also experienced double digit growth following RYO growth in the channel*.

“The P&C channel had an unusual growth spurt due to pandemic-based lockdowns and a shift in consumer purchase behaviour. In 2021, we have seen a slight correction of volume growth within the category. However, reports indicate that organised convenience maintained its share of category.”

18 August/September 2021 | C&I | www.c-store.com.au

TOBACCO / VAPES

THE PANDEMIC EFFECT Brett Mather, Sales Director Australia, Imperial Brands Australasia (Imperial Brands), says the company has seen some major evolution within the convenience channel including store design and development, which has had a positive impact on the tobacco category through improved footfall and penetration.

“In the past year, the convenience sector has driven more than 71 million tobacco transactions and now accounts for more than 40 per cent of total shop sales.”

While Mather states that tobacco has lost about 10 per cent of its shopper base over the past 12 months, the convenience channel has been able to remain buoyant due to its nimble and innovative approach to retailing.

“In the early stages of the COVID lockdown period the convenience channel capitalised on government restrictions of staying local and minimising the distance of travel, delivering growth through this period.

“Post-COVID the challenge remained how to cycle this growth and retain the incremental consumers and increased basket size.

Given the convenience tobacco shopper has a higher average income and a higher employment status than the broader tobacco consumer, convenience has and continues to enjoy some solid category performance. Further leveraging these insights to drive increased category value through pack size trade up is a key opportunity moving forward.

“The convenience shopper has a stronger affinity for more premium brands, and this continues to be an area of focus for Imperial Brands – how we can use our brands with strong equity across both cigarettes and RYO to trade shoppers up and drive more value into the category.”

Kumar notes a shift of focus from the major suppliers towards the P&C channel.

“In the last 12 months, we have noted the launch of exclusive brand offers in some P&C accounts by the major suppliers, which traditionally would have been uncharacteristic.

“This refocus by majors is only good for the P&C channel and its consumers as it is additional investment into the channel.”

MARKET CHALLENGES In January 2021, the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) announced that from 1 October 2021 consumers would only be allowed to access nicotine e-cigarettes and vape products with a doctor’s prescription from a pharmacy, essentially locking out thousands of small businesses that have a proven history of responsibly selling regulated products such as tobacco, lotteries, and alcohol.

Under existing state and territory laws, the sale of nicotine e-cigarettes and liquid nicotine without a prescription, is illegal throughout Australia. Additionally, the possession or use of these products without a prescription is illegal in all states and territories except South Australia.

The decision handed down by TGA means that importing nicotine e-cigarette products from overseas websites without a valid doctor’s prescription will be illegal. The decision also means that consumers will only be able to purchase nicotine e-cigarettes either online or from a pharmacy, a decision which has been condemned by national retailing industry associations.

According to Mather, another challenge that the category continues to face is the illicit trade.

“The growing prevalence of counterfeit, contraband and ‘chop chop’ has now been exacerbated by the growth of illegal vape products. While our dialogue with the Australian Border Force will continue, the clear opportunity is how we can partner with our retail customers in a collaborative approach to minimise the impacts on the category.

“In the past 12 months we have seen suppression of category value due to floor pricing causing shoppers to trade down to smaller pack sizes and cheaper brands. While offers at the floor is a competitive necessity, highlighting the value equation through brand and pack size architecture will challenge consumer purchase choices and lead to increased basket size.

In the past year, the convenience sector has driven more than 71 million tobacco transactions and now accounts for more than 40 per cent of total shop sales.”

– Paul Mather, Sales Director Australia, Imperial Brands Australasia

“Without the historical government excise the continued increase of financial pressures on shoppers will ease and create a slowdown in category volume erosion. Now more than ever we need to be focused on trading up and retaining shoppers in larger pack sizes and in more premium brands to support ongoing category value growth.”

INDUSTRY RESPONSE AACS is aligned in its thinking with other peak industry bodies on the availability of nicotine e-cigarettes. Foukkare has been in discussions with the National Retail Association (NRA), the Australian Lotteries & Newsagencies Association (ALNA), and the Master Grocers Association (MGA) to advocate for members to be permitted to sell these products in retail channels that have proven they can sell traditional cigarettes.

“Both the Federal Health Minister Greg Hunt and the TGA in Australia have gone on the record in the public arena and stated nicotine e-cigarettes are less harmful than traditional cigarettes and may be helpful in assisting smokers to slow down and in time cease smoking altogether.

“What we don’t understand is why they collectively are making a product that is less harmful for consumers harder to access, while sitting still and not regulating the illegal importation of it – both from a nicotine and zero nicotine flavour perspective,” said Foukkare.

Kumar says TabSol has been “very vocal” on its position regarding the retail of nicotine vapes being restricted to the pharmacy channel.

“While we understand the reasoning behind TGA’s ruling, I draw the government’s attention to what is the current situation – nicotine vapes are readily available in almost all channels even though it is illegal to retail nicotine vapes anywhere in Australia.

August/September 2021 | C&I | www.c-store.com.au 19

TOBACCO / VAPES

Legislation that restricts the retailing to only the pharmacies and outrageous packaging guidelines will do nothing to combat the current issue of widespread prevalence of illegal nicotine products.”

– Pradeep Kumar, Managing Director, TabSol Australasia

How will the new regulation change this?

“Legislation that restricts the retailing to only the pharmacies and outrageous packaging guidelines will do nothing to combat the current issue of widespread prevalence of illegal nicotine products. It will in turn only make it even more lucrative and push it further underground. The key issue is totally being missed out.

TOBACCO ALTERNATIVE PRODUCTS Kumar anticipates there will be a significant volume shift to tobacco alternative products, with retailers encouraged to embrace the trend sooner rather than later in light of the TGA’s ruling.

He says flavoured zero nicotine vapes have noted “very high” adoption and repeat purchase rates amongst adult consumers and are proving to be the popular legal option.

“The tobacco category within the P&C channel accounts for close to 40 per cent of the store’s turnover. Therefore, it is a grave concern that nicotine vapes, which are within the smokers’ consideration set, will not be allowed to be retailed in the P&C channel. The lobby groups that are pushing for nicotine vapes to be available in other channels are fighting an uphill battle.

“We have a generation that is growing up knowing about vaping, not smoking. These adult consumers will possibly not take on smoking in the future. Strategies need to be put in place for this future potential shift in consumption within the category.”

“However, looking at trends in other developed markets, the consumer’s journey and evolution in many instances suggests that the smokers are moving to non-tobacco nicotine replacement options and then, to zero nicotine options.

“We have one of the fastest growing cigarette brands in Bravo 20s within the channel and have plans to launch additional value for money brands in the next few months. TabSol is also looking at other emerging opportunities within the category.”

“The P&C channel needs to take on this trend of harm reduction products and take on responsible vaping products.”

The company has partnered with Invibe Australasia to launch its ‘responsible vaping’ brand – TSV0 - Tribal Spirit Vapes (TSV0).

Mather says Imperial Brands is focused on ensuring safer alternative products are available in markets where responsible regulation is in place, such as the UK, Europe and the US.

“Whilst nicotine vapes are illegal to retail, zero nicotine vapes are legal. TSV0 is the first vape brand to adopt a warning, ‘Strictly for 18 Years and Over’, which is prominent on all packaging despite being zero nicotine vapes. We believe that this will serve as a reminder to retailers that the product is not for sale to under 18s.” C&I

“The Federal Government’s proposal to restrict availability of liquid nicotine from October will disadvantage the more than 500,000 vapers currently in Australia who have reduced or quit smoking with the assistance of vape products.”

Kumar says TabSol will continue to deliver better value offers within the various consumer categories.

*Source: 2020 AACS State of the Industry Report

AACS responds to TGA’s ruling on the sale of nicotine vapes Theo Foukkare, CEO, AACS, says the TGA’s ruling could be detrimental to the convenience channel.

“Globally e-cigarettes are perceived as a safer alternative to cigarettes and a way for smokers to be able to quit smoking altogether. Australia and Turkey are the only two developed countries in the world where nicotine e-cigarettes are illegal or with restrictions to only be able to purchase in a pharmacy, demonstrating that we are so far behind the global position on the benefits of vaping for the tobacco consumer.

“The government should be focusing its energy on strong regulation around what can be sold, who is permitted to import into the country, and how it is displayed and sold in retail outlets. Instead, they have created a system for consumers to access it legally which basically won’t be utilised.

“Additionally, the Federal Government is doing absolutely nothing to regulate zero nicotine vaping consumables, which is something that globally has been a focus. There is a lot of media around the increased vaping by teenagers in schools. A lot of this has to do with the fact that the flavours available to purchase of these legal products are in many cases attractive to children. AACS, along with other peak industry bodies strongly believe that 20 August/September 2021 | C&I | www.c-store.com.au

the flavours available need to be significantly restricted, along with who can actually import and sell these.

“Convenience stores around the world have seen a migration of cigarette smokers to the nicotine vaping alternative and if this also happens here it will be detrimental to the convenience channel due to its inability to sell the nicotine vaping products.

“AACS are playing a major role in working with State and Federal Governments on this significant issue. The Federal Government has a lot to answer for in my opinion.

We are only months away from nicotine liquid (pods, capsules to consume as e-cigarettes) being able to be prescribed by a GP and purchased at some chemists, however, there are more questions than answers currently.

“This new approach will see over 500,000 to 700,000 nicotine vapers in Australia have to visit a GP to get a script, and in the first instance the GP will have to send off an application to the Health Department to approve every single vaper. Not only will this cost the Australian taxpayers in excess of $300 million per annum to administer, but it will also add further congestion to an already congested GP system that should have one focus over the next six to 12 months – vaccinate, vaccinate, vaccinate.”

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FOODSERVICE

FOOD FOR THOUGHT

How the convenience channel is taking a fresh approach to foodservice, writes Claire Hibbit.

The loyalty created through exceptional customer service is critical to success in our channel.”

– Skye Jackson, General Manager Merchandise, Ampol

J

ust as consumers’ expectations of coffee in the petrol and convenience (P&C) channel has changed in recent years, so too have their expectations of foodservice, with the category now a crucial component of the store offering.

In response to these changing consumer expectations, convenience retailers are upping the ante. These days, retailers are having to find new ways to capture, as well as satisfy their customers’ changing needs and improve the overall store experience.

More recently, retailers have invested in new store fitouts, introduced barista made coffee, formed strategic partnerships with quick service restaurants (QSRs) and meal delivery services, such as UberEats, and launched fresh, ready-made gourmet food solutions.

WHY FRESH IS BEST According to Foukkare, the foodservice category grew at 8.6 per cent in 2020, which ended only slightly lower than growth of 2019 and added +$71 million in value*. Foodservice is now the third largest category in total sales, delivering $879 million in 2020 and delivering 9.5 per cent of total dollar share*.

Foukkare believes the channel will get close to delivering $1 billion in 2021.

“Although incremental growth was slightly down on 2019 ($73 million), the foodservice category has delivered more than $200 million incremental sales growth in the last three years*.”

According to Theo Foukkare, CEO of the Australian Association of Convenience Stores (AACS), store numbers eclipsed the 7,000 mark in 2020, with the channel passing $9 billion of in-store sales for the first time*.

Foukkare says bakery snacks was the only foodservice category to decline in 2020, impacted by the decline in mid-morning trade and the work from home situation, while traditional hot food such as pies and sausage rolls increased in penetration.

Other hot food remained stable.

“The agility of convenience retailers and suppliers during COVID has resulted in a 5.1 per cent growth in 2020*, despite reduced foot traffic and severely impacting fuel sales.

“Consumers are continuing to use the convenience channel more to buy a meal, whether it be something for now, in the office or at home – which is demonstrated by the growth in take-home meals.”

“Ten years ago, this impact would have resulted in a decline in store sales, however, the maturity of the channel offer and the investment over a number of years has seen an outstanding shop performance.”

He says take-home food has also benefited from a greater exposure to services such as delivery and greater penetration in stores with a +29.1 per cent, growth rate adding $43 million in value*.

22 August/September 2021 | C&I | www.c-store.com.au

FOODSERVICE Joanna Graham, Senior Manager, Convenience Trading ANZ, bp, says P&C is now omnichannel and believes the channel will continue to see growth of home delivery of grocery top-up, snacking, and meal occasions.

“Our customers are asking for fresh food, they’re expecting quality, and the channel has room to grow in terms of evolving the food on the go and food for later offers both in-store and online.”

Skye Jackson, General Manager Merchandise at Ampol, says fresh food is one of Ampol’s strongest growth categories.

“Customers have long enjoyed our range of food for now products, such as sandwiches and pies, and what we are seeing now is an extension into food for later whereby customers are buying into convenient meal solutions for consumption later, (but not much later).

“An example being a ready meal, such as a My Muscle Chef meal picked up for dinner on the way home. This provides us with an opportunity to provide solutions for our customers for shopping missions we’ve not previously serviced,” says Jackson.

She says the core range of sandwiches and pies will always be strong performers for Ampol, however, the company is seeing “great growth” in the ready meal category, where product quality has increased significantly in recent years. Jackson also notes the importance of having the right range in-store.

“Finding the right range is important, and the great thing about food is you learn very quickly if it’s resonating with your customers, or not. Keep a close eye on the results and adjust quickly when things aren’t working.”

Ampol has more than 300 stores available on UberEats, which Jackson says allows the chain to provide convenient meal solutions for consumers from the comfort of their home. It has also partnered with quick service restaurant chains, including Boost Juice.

Steve Cardinale, Retail Director at New Sunrise, says there is not a one size fits all approach in the convenience channel when it comes to foodservice.

“Food and beverage is all about the experience. No one complains about price if the food or coffee is delicious and fresh.

“Getting food and coffee right builds customer loyalty, creates purchasing habits, and increases customer frequency.”

However, he says while food and hot beverages are an important part of the modern P&C store mix, on their own they are not enough to meet customers’ needs, with service and store experience just as important.

“The ‘Sunrise factor’ is all about offering good food and good coffee that makes people feel good inside – that is, food and coffee orders taken with a friendly face and delivered with a friendly smile.”

Although incremental growth was slightly down on 2019 ($73 million), the foodservice category has delivered more than $200 million incremental sales growth in the last three years*.”

– Theo Foukkare, CEO, AACS

He says he is seeing a polarisation of foodservice offers in the channel, which are both relevant and successful, but play to two different markets.

“At one end, we have retailers that I regard as ‘high transactional, low experiential’. The store looks and feels like a traditional c-store and their offer is heavily price-based.

“They have great grab and go food offers such as fresh sandwiches, pastries and pies, as well as great apps and loyalty programs. However, they don’t provide a place for customers to sit and stay and have an experience.

“On the other hand, we have ‘high experiential, low transactional’ stores, whereby these stores look and feel like a cafe or bakery.

They have barista made coffee, freshly prepared food made instore, and have a place for customers to sit and recharge.”

“There is an abundance of easy meal solutions in the market now, from home delivered meal kits to subscription models for ready meals. These product offerings have grown exponentially in recent years and the quality of the products have also improved.

“We’ve been able to range these products to provide a convenient alternative for consumers who want to buy into this category at their own leisure as opposed to signing up to an online subscription.

“In the Australian market, partnering with established quick service restaurants and co-locating has been the more traditional approach to introducing food service into the P&C channel.

We’ve done this with Boost, as an example, and have found it has attracted incremental customer segments.”

STORE EXPERIENCE Despite the challenges faced during 2020, leading retail food service buying group, New Sunrise, reported double-digit sales growth across all major suppliers, grew in-store count as a group, and were recognised and rated by suppliers as the number one independent national retailer in Australia through CMA Pulse survey.

Ready meals such as My Muscle Chef provide solutions for Ampol customers that have not previously been serviced August/September 2021 | C&I | www.c-store.com.au 23

FOODSERVICE

Top left: New Sunrise’s Jill & Jack's cafe concept Top right: Jill & Jack’s is all about great service, fresh salads, fresh bread Bottom right: “The ‘Sunrise factor’ is all about offering good food and good coffee that makes people feel good inside.”

- Steve Cardinale, New Sunrise

Ampol’s Jackson agrees that in addition to serving quality food, customer service is one of the key ways retailers can differentiate themselves from the competition.

“The overall store experience is one of the key ways we can differentiate from competitors in our channel, with our team members being the familiar, friendly face that can make a difference to a customer’s day. The loyalty created through exceptional customer service is critical to success in our channel.”

UNTAPPED POTENTIAL Foukkare says foodservice is the single biggest existing category opportunity that is ahead of the channel.

“Our members represent 7,000+ individual shopfronts, so think about that for a minute. Are we distribution hubs? Can we operate 2,000 dark kitchens and fight directly against the QSRs? Will consumers complete their top up grocery shop with us? Will our forecourts have drone charging pads, will they be pickup hubs for food delivery?

“The food story has a lot to go through its evolution. In short, as we continue to develop our food offer – food for now, food for later, food for someone in your family – this is the single biggest existing category opportunity that is ahead of the channel.”

“The P&C channel can be as simple and complex as we make it,” he says.

“We just need to make sure whatever we do, we do it well. With the top five categories delivering nearly 85 per cent of shop sales, we need to ensure we execute these well ensuring shoppers keep returning to our stores.

“This being said, there is still a need to evolve our service model to align with the expanded role we play in our customers’ lives and the Australian retail landscape. We must become more than just an occasional shopping stop and capitalise on the new routines and behaviours now evident in the marketplace.

“Shoppers are coming to our stores for a wider range of products than before, so a retailer’s ability to meet their expectations, while surprising and delighting them with an appropriate selection of quality offers is essential.

“From increased, higher quality coffee, food on the go and meal solutions, to offering a wider range of convenience lines, it’s essential we continue to grow our understanding of the convenience shopper in order to guide our evolution with our trade partners.” C&I *Source: 2020 AACS State of the Industry Report

Darryl Cotter, General Manager Operations, OTR, predicts the foodservice offering will further evolve because of more domestic travel post-pandemic.

Getting food and coffee right builds customer loyalty, creates purchasing habits, and increases customer frequency.”

– Steve Cardinale, Retail Director, New Sunrise

“The convenience channel’s heartland products of bread, milk, chocolate, and chips are now moving more into carefully curated, occasion-based product offerings.

“We also see foodservice evolving to suit the road trip and domestic traveller, with overseas travel restricted for the year ahead. This has long been a focus of OTR, through our strong offer of quick service restaurants integrated within our convenience stores, to meet customer needs both now and into the future.”

Darren Park, CEO, UCB, says the convenience offering needs to move beyond the occasional shopping stop and capitalise on the new routines and behaviours now evident in the marketplace.

24 August/September 2021 | C&I | www.c-store.com.au

Monster Energy releases two new sugar free products The energy drink category in the petrol and convenience (P&C) channel is valued at almost $380m in annual sales and is the number one nonalcoholic ready to drink (NARTD) beverage category in the channel1. As Australian consumers continue to take active steps to reduce their sugar consumption, we have seen the recent emergence of a sugar free sub-segment within this dynamic category.

Sugar free energy drink sales have grown by 48 per cent over the past two years2 and one in five energy drinks purchases in the convenience market are now sugar free3. Sugar free energy drinks are currently growing almost three times faster than their full sugar counterparts and to help retailers capitalise on these emerging trends, Monster Energy will release two new sugar free energy products into the market in Q3 this year.

Innovation in the energy category is largely incremental, and Monster is the global leader in new product development. Monster dominates the sugar free energy segment in the Australian convenience channel with Zero Sugar Monster Ultra, the number one sugar free energy drink in 26 August/September 2021 | C&I | www.c-store.com.au

the market as well as Zero Sugar Ultra Rosa and Mother Original Zero Sugar, the number two and three sugar free energy drinks respectively3.

Complementing this market leading range, Monster Energy is proud to be launching Zero Sugar Ultra Fiesta Mango Flavour and Mother Zero Sugar Razzle Berry into the market from 30 August. Mango and Berry flavoured beverages are on-trend and are growing ahead of the total beverage market4. Most importantly, both products taste fantastic!

To further support our key retail partners, Mother Zero Sugar Razzle Berry will be launched exclusively into the convenience channel and will be supported heavily in-store with disruptive path-to-purchase point of sale and through digital and social media channels. For more information about either of these exciting new product launches, or for merchandising support requests, please contact your local CocaCola Europacific Partners sales representative.

IRI Convenience Scan (dollars) MAT 30/05/21

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IRI Convenience Scan (dollars) 104 weeks to 06/06/21

2

IRI Convenience Scan (dollars) QTR to 06/06/21

3

IRI Retail Sales, Total Market MAT 31/12/2020

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CE • C&I CHO OI IC CH

This year has marked a shift in Hype’s marketing strategy and global positioning, and following months of development, its new brand positioning has been unveiled.

In a statement, Hype Energy said: “We value the mindset of making up your own rules to enjoy your own freedom, free from society’s pressure to perform in a specific way; it’s all about having fun and enjoying every moment as much as possible.”

After developing significant awareness and sales in selected markets, Hype Energy heavily invested in product development and innovation to become a functional beverage company, offering a wide variety of beverage categories to meet a wider range of consumer demands.

The brand is currently rolling out its most successful flagship products in Australia, including Hype Energy MFP, Hype Energy Sugar Free, and Hype Energy Enlite.

HOICE • &I C C& •C I

Hype Energy’s new ‘Hack the Algorithm’ brand positioning is all about individuality and having the courage to “enjoy your own freedom” and not conforming to societal pressures.

This is an ethos that we at C&I can really get behind, and it’s for this reason, and also because of the great taste of Hype’s three flagship flavours, that we have chosen Hype Energy as our C&I Choice this month.

Hype Energy has unveiled its new ‘Hack the Algorithm’ brand positioning and launched a new marketing campaign to raise the profile of its energy drinks in the Australian market.

The brand was founded in 1993 and became well-known within the racing industry, especially through Formula 1. In 2000, former F1 racing driver Bertrand Gachot took ownership of the brand and started to redevelop the company’s objectives to achieve global distribution.

CE • C&I CHO OI IC CH

E

Hype Energy launches new brand positioning as it rolls out nationally

HOICE •C &I C &I •C

PRODUCT RANGING

zero sugar razzle berry

Exclusive to the C&P Channel from 30 August 2021 A refreshing blend of blackberries and raspberries, coupled with the classic Mother Energy Kick without the sugar.

motherenergydrink.com

ultr a fie sta bursting with flavour

INTRODUCING TO THE ZERO SUGAR FAMILY... ULTRA FIESTA! A JUICY MANGO FL AVOUR INTO THE ULTRA WE LOVE, FINISHED OFF WITH A FULL HIT OF OUR MONSTER ENERGY BLEND.

SLEEP LATER, CAUSE TONIGHT WE’RE GOING TO FIESTA LIKE THERE’S NO MAÑANA!

PRODUCT RANGING

TIKO – Jet and USB lighter specialist Since being introduced 10 years ago, Tiko lighters have made a significant impact to the current market. Tiko has grown substantially amongst customers and has become Australia’s leading brand in Jet, while also being the first on the market to showcase rechargeable USB lighters.

The sole motivation behind the Tiko lighter concept is to deliver customers the latest and greatest products. Each Tiko Jet and USB lighter is made from high quality materials with top of the line components, ensuring reliability and consistency, while being environmentally friendly.

Tiko delivers high quality, innovative lighters to ensure everybody’s style is catered to and prides itself in the use of high grade technology, unparalleled to any other on the market. The Tiko refillable Jet lighters are available in a huge range of strong single jets as well as powerful two, three and four jet lighters. The USB lighters use the latest coil technology and a newer dual Arc technology throughout the more premium ranges.

Currently, Tiko has over 100 models of lighters. In the Tiko USB line alone there are almost 20 different variations available. Both Jet and USB varieties come in standard and premium ranges.

Tiko lighters have the capacity to appeal to everyone, with their unique fashion designs, premium styles and high quality feel. Tiko lighters will find their way into the hands of all those who find themselves needing a lighter, from the friendly camper to sophisticated dessert maker to motivated entrepreneur – Tiko appeals to them all.

Residing in Victoria, Tiko caters to all states and stores across Australia, with Peleguy Distribution being the exclusive importer and owner of the range.

For more information about Tiko products please speak to your PeleGuy representative on 1300 377 341, orders@peleguy.com.au or visit www.peleguy.com.au.

Stay connected with Vodafone Prepaid Plus Vodafone has recently completed its merger with TPG creating a new telecommunications company with combined resources.

For the first time, Australia has a third, fullservice provider that can deliver more choice and value for customers with faster speeds and better performance for customers.

Vodafone Prepaid Plus comes with unlimited standard national calls and texts and lets you bank up to 200GB unused My Data.

Never run out of data with our $30 to $60 Prepaid Plus plans. First use included data and infinite data at speeds of up to 1.5Mbps 28 August/September 2021 | C&I | www.c-store.com.au

until your recharge expires. To find out more about speeds of up to 1.5Mbps, head to www.vodafone.com.au/prepaidspeed.

Save even more, get $5 off every automatic recharge on $30 and above Prepaid Plus plans.

Plus, standard international minutes to up to 37 selected countries on $30 to $60 Prepaid Plus plans – all for use in Australia.

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PRODUCT RANGING

Refresh your tastebuds with new Tic Tac Watermelon Mix

*IRI Scan data to the 06.06.21

Iconic mint brand, Tic Tac is set to release a refreshing new flavour, Watermelon Mix just in time for summer. Created to inspire fun and adventurous moments for Australians and Kiwis, Watermelon Mix will roll out on shelves in September.

A delicious new fruity combination, Tic Tac Watermelon Mix has a surprising cool side.

The brand’s latest innovation combines a delicious mix of two sweet and minty Watermelon fruit flavours. Adding a vibrant colour contrast to each pack, the pink Tic Tac pill offers vibrant notes of sweet and juicy watermelon, while the red pill adds fruity flavours to amazing mint freshness.

Tic Tac Watermelon Mix was inspired by the love for summer and aims to tap into popular flavour profiles during the warmer months. As the category continues to rebound strongly, Tic Tac fruit flavours have delivered double digit growth for the Mints category in the eight months to June 2021*.

Azzurra Puricelli, Marketing Manager for Tic Tac said: “As a brand, Tic Tac aims to encourage people to enjoy little moments of refreshment in their everyday lives. As the warmer weather approaches, our new Watermelon Mix flavour is the perfect addition to our range, offering consumers a delicious mix of cool mint and sweet fruit profiles. We hope our new Watermelon Mix flavour encourages people to take a break, enjoy a Tic Tac mint, and experience a refreshing moment this summer.”

Made at Ferrero’s Lithgow production facilities, the new Tic Tac Watermelon Mix flavour will be available in 24g packs. Stockists will include supermarkets and local convenience stores with an RRP of $1.99.

Australia’s number one pie brand is introducing two new flavours The much-loved Four’N Twenty range has expanded once again, reimagining an Italian favourite with the launch of the Four'N Twenty Traveller Pizza. This new format is bringing crowd favourite pizza flavours, Meat Lovers and Hawaiian, into a delicious, easy to eat hot snack for fans to enjoy anytime, anywhere.

With 67 per cent of consumers agreeing that they regularly seek convenient, all day grazing options, Four’N Twenty has reimagined a quick and easy variation, bringing all Australians the delicious flavour of pizza in the convenient on-the-go format of a Traveller.

Combining all the flavours of a Hawaiian Pizza the Four'N Twenty Traveller features melted tasty cheese, shredded ham, and juicy pineapple in a golden pizza pie. The mouth-watering Meat Lovers Pizza is packed full of shredded ham, bacon, and slow cooked beef in a smoky BBQ sauce with melted cheese in a golden pizza pie.

The Four’N Twenty Traveller is the top-selling range in convenience with customers reaching for it as an increasingly popular choice. Its unique shape is designed for convenient consumption, and it only requires one hand to eat making it perfect for snacking any time, especially on-the-go.

Four'N Twenty remains the number one brand in the Australian hot, onthe-go savoury sector, with recent launches including exciting new flavours and formats within the Four’N Twenty Traveller range really making the product accessible to a variety of eating preferences.

30 August/September 2021 | C&I | www.c-store.com.au

Whether you’re looking for a snack, lunch or something to tide you over between meals, the Four'N Twenty Traveller Hawaiian and Meat Lovers Pizzas are delicious and satisfying meals which will be great additions to every warmer, giving customers even more options to choose from.

Four'N Twenty Traveller Pizzas will be available to purchase hot from petrol and convenience stores from September. For pizza fans that can’t wait, the new range is available in the frozen section of Woolworths supermarkets.

PRODUCT RANGING

V Energy puts consumers at the heart of new range V Energy has evolved its product range to ensure consumers are getting the perfect amount of energy they need.

In putting consumers at the heart of its new energy range, V Energy asked its drinkers to tell them what they were looking for out of an energy drink.

“We’ve spent months delving into what consumers want from energy drinks,” says a spokesperson from Frucor Suntory. “The findings are clear that 90 per cent of consumers prefer cans to bottles and they’re consuming the whole can at once.”

Consumers tell us that: “Different activities require different levels of energy. When I need a quick burst of energy I drink a small V but when I have lots to do I go for a big can. I wish there was a middle energy option to cover all of my energy level needs.”

In response and to deliver that perfect mid size energy option, the brand has launched a new V 330ml available exclusively through the petrol and convenience and independent grocery channels.

V Energy has also launched a new V Energy 250ml multi-four-pack of cans, available in Green,

Blue, Raspberry Lemonade, Sugarfree, and Sugarfree Blue.

“Our new range is centred around meeting consumers’ needs, making it easy for them to grab the energy they need,” said the Frucor Suntory spokesperson.

The new range makes life simpler for consumers giving them a wider range of options and reduces complexity for retailers.

You will be seeing the new V Energy range everywhere with the brand spending $9 Million from August on through the line media in the second half of 2021.

What’s more, V Energy will be back on the big screen with a brand new campaign that dropped in July, just before the on shelf date for the new range, which was 2 August.

The launch is also being supported by an above the line core campaign and a interrelated proximity campaign, across TV, cinema, YouTube, catch up TV, bus shelters and roadside panels, buses, billboards, convenience store panels, and petrol pump screens.

Cashzone offers tailored solutions to retailers Managing a network of over 8,000 ATMs in Australia and New Zealand, Cashzone ATMs can be found in leading retail locations, petrol stations, convenience stores, gaming, and hospitality venues. Averaging with an uptime exceeding 98.5 per cent, Cashzone ATMs deliver reliable and secure cash solutions to your fingertips.

“We pride ourselves on providing an exceptional user experience with our sleek and modern design and simple to navigate solutions. With over 20 years of industry experience, our highly experienced team can provide tailored options and solutions to meet your unique business needs,” said a spokesperson.

Cashzone offers a wide range of products including the NCR 22e ATM along with solutions including: Gen 2.0 Software, contactless transactions features, and the newly launched Allpoint Utility Network.

The Gen 2.0 Software provides customers with bank grade services making access to cash simple, reliable and convenient for all.

Features available include: • Deposits and withdrawal transactions • Contactless transactions • Cardless cash transactions • Targeted on-screen marketing • Network advertising and more!

32 August/September 2021 | C&I | www.c-store.com.au

Contactless transactions

The contactless transactions feature bridges the gap between the physical and digital world.

Cardholders can transact on the NCR 22e ATM by simply tapping their card without the need to insert it.

This improves the customer experience enabling the ATM to perform the transaction seamlessly.

Cardless cash transactions

The cardless cash feature provides access to cash via a cardless solution that integrates the digital wallets feature available on smartphones.

Businesses can offer banking services beyond generic withdrawal, deposit and transfers making digital wallet transactions quick and convenient.

Customers can access cash anytime without needing to bring a physical wallet or bank card.

For more information visit www.cardtronics.com.au or call 1300 305 600 or email sales@cardtronics.com.au.

PRODUCT RANGING

TabSol and Invibe introduce TSVo Tribal Spirit Vapes - Australia’s first zero nicotine reponsible vaping range TabSol Australasia has partnered with Invibe Australasia to introduce what they say is Australia’s first responsible vaping range.

Pradeep Kumar, Director, Invibe Australasia, said the Tribal Spirit Vape range – TSVo – has been voted by retailers as the best quality and responsibly packaged zero nicotine products in the market.

“We carefully studied the market and had an internal sensory and focus group assessment before deciding on the best option,” he said.

“TabSol Australasia with its presence in the tobacco category was the obvious choice as the sole wholesale distributor in the market.”

The key elements that distinguish TSVo from other vape products in the market are: 1. Best quality disposable vape device – TSVo has a classy light polished metal encasing that makes it look elegant compared to other cheap plastic options.

2. The zero nicotine liquid is one of the best tasting e-liquids which is made from mostly natural ingredients.

3. Popular and innovative flavours – zero nicotine vapers seek tasteful flavour combinations. TSVo has 11 different flavours and is working with local labs to create more.

4. Leak proof functionality – the manufacturer’s sealing technology minimises any leaks during distribution and usage.

5. Better value – TSVo comes in 600 and 1,800 puff options.

6. Responsible retailing – all packaging comes with ‘WARNING: Strictly for 18 years and over’ – being the first vape brand to have this warning. Despite being nicotine free we believe that will remind retailers to only sell to adult consumers.

7. The disposable pod comes with extra-long battery life to ensure puff consistency.

8. TSVo has been designed to be a closed system, which is safer as no other substances can be added.

9. The packaging has been attractively designed to represent the flavours. It is also easier to retail as single units with individual barcodes.

Retailers can also combine their TSVo orders with TabSol’s popular Tobacco range.

To order online visit www.store.tabsol.com.au and get initial order discounts.

Or contact TabSol via email: info@tabsol.com.au or phone: 0413 690 069 or 02 90371478.

Jelly Belly introduces a new doughnut inspired mix With Jelly Belly in significant growth in the petrol and convenience channel, a new flavour mix catering to a booming consumption trend is set to turbo charge sales. Over the past year, Australians have increasingly turned to sweet indulgences to provide that joyful energy boost or as a reason to connect with friends and family, and the demand for exciting new flavours is greater than ever.

Of all the gourmet trends though, it is doughnuts that Australians just cannot get enough of. Riding this wave of gourmet, sweet goodness, Jelly Belly has introduced a new flavour mix, Donut Shoppe, which is sure to hit the spot for all those flavour explorers!

The assortment of doughnut flavours includes Glazed, Chocolate Glazed, Apple Filled, Strawberry Iced, and Blueberry Cake. Each Jelly Belly jelly bean in this assortment delivers the same depth of sweetness and full flavoured sensory bliss expected from a freshly made doughnut. The new Donut Shoppe Mix comes in a 28g pouch, the perfect grab and go format for a fun, flavour packed, pick me up.

Jelly Belly Candy Company boasts candy making credentials going back to 1869 with the famous Jelly Belly jelly bean hitting the market in 1976. Jelly Belly jelly beans are gluten free, dairy free, gelatine free, peanut free, azo-free and certified OU kosher.

Today, Jelly Belly is loved worldwide and known for their incredible selection of true to life flavours.

34 August/September 2021 | C&I | www.c-store.com.au

Did you know it takes 7-14 days to make every Jelly Belly jelly bean?

A large range of Jelly Belly formats and flavour selections are available now, including 28g and 70g Pouches, 35g and 100g Flip Top Boxes plus the new 60g Sour Chewy Candy bags.

The Donut Shoppe Mix 28g Pouch will be available to order from The Distributors soon. Please contact your local The Distributors member, email orders@the-distributors.com.au or visit the Grocery Corporation website www.grocerycorp.com.au, for more information.

© 2021 Energizer Brands.

WIN PRIZES

CHANCE TO RED BULL

RACING

JUST BY PURCHASING 2* ® ARMOR ALL PRODUCTS

TO ENTER

SCAN THE QR CODE or visit armorall.com.au/promotions/armor-all-fathers-day-promotion

*For full T&C’s visit armorall.com.au/promotions/armor-all-fathers-day-promotion © 2021 Red Bull © 2021 Armor All. Armor All is a trademark of Energizer Auto.

LOOKING GOOD MADE EASY

©2021 Energizer. Armor All is a trademark of Energizer Auto.

©2021 Energizer. Energizer, Energizer Character, and certain graphic designs are trademarks of Energizer Brands, LLC and related subsidiaries.

PRODUCT RANGING Pictured: Formula 1 racing legend Jenson Button

Armor All reveals two key global partnerships Armor All has announced two major Grand Prix related global partnerships to help raise brand awareness and grow consumer engagement internationally.

This partnership is momentous for Armor All as we look to make our brand accessible to more consumers globally, and connect and engage with people who share a love for their cars and racing.”

– Lori Shambro, Chief Marketing Officer, Energizer Holdings

A

rmor All has appointed legendary Formula 1 racer Jenson Button as its first Global Brand Ambassador.

The 2009 Formula 1 World Champion, will support Armor All as it accelerates its marketing efforts around the world spanning Europe, Latin America, and Asia.

Through the multi-year partnership, Button will appear in international marketing campaigns, Armor All branded video content, and social media. He will also share car care tips and advice on social media as well as make personal appearances at trade and employee events.

Button is excited by the partnership and says that as a life-long lover of cars, he knows first-hand how important high-quality car care products are.

“From the moment my father bought me a go-kart at the age of eight, through to winning the F1 World Championship, I've obsessed over the smallest details of the cars in my life and I'm delighted to be working with Armor All, a brand that shares that same obsession.”

Armor All has also announced a global, multi-year partnership with Red Bull Racing Honda, the four-time Formula 1 World Champion team. As the auto cleaning and care partner of Red Bull Racing Honda, Armor All will leverage the partnership to expand its international marketing efforts, grow brand awareness and connect with new consumers.

Armor All branding will appear on Red Bull Racing cars, in the garage and be worn on the gloves of the team's drivers, Max Verstappen and Sergio Perez.

Building on a legacy of innovation, Armor All will also collaborate with Red Bull Racing to explore opportunities surrounding the development of new products. The partnership will extend to stores wherever Armor All products are sold as well as consumer promotions that will offer fans opportunities to have a full race experience.

Christian Horner, Red Bull Racing Honda Team Principal commented on the new partnership: “We're excited to welcome Armor All to the team – a brand that very much like ourselves has a strong focus on innovation, development and producing high performance products for people who care about their cars. We look forward to a strong partnership and to providing the Armor All brand with a global platform to further its expansion in the international marketplace.”

The maker of Armor All, Energizer Holdings, is committed to building strong partnerships with customers and significantly growing brand awareness and distribution in new markets to ensure consumers around the globe can access Armor All products.

Lori Shambro, Chief Marketing Officer of Energizer Holdings, said they are thrilled to be joining forces with Red Bull Racing and Button.

“This partnership is momentous for Armor All as we look to make our brand accessible to more consumers globally, and connect and engage with people who share a love for their cars and racing.”

August/September 2021 | C&I | www.c-store.com.au 39

PRODUCT RANGING

Bringing Aero and KitKat Chunky together will play an important role in driving incremental value in the category by appealing to the unique KitKat Chunky shopper.”

- Nestlé spokesperson

Share a BUBBLY break with KitKat Aero Chunky Two chocolate icons have combined in the ultimate brand collaboration – the KitKat AERO Chunky.

The team at KitKat has brought together two Australian favourites to launch the latest in its multi-sensory filled range, the KitKat Aero Chunky.

KitKat Aero Chunky features three layers of crisp KitKat wafer, topped with iconic Aero peppermint aerated chocolate, all coated in deliciously smooth milk chocolate.

KitKat is the number one chocolate brand in the convenience channel growing +15.8 per cent, with the number one medium bar KitKat 45g growing +11.7 per cent*.

KitKat Aero Chunky will be launched nationally as a 45g bar, so it will play in a segment that is returning to growth as medium bars are growing +8.9 per cent*.

40 August/September 2021 | C&I | www.c-store.com.au

KitKat Chunky has grown +9.7 per cent* since 2018 as shoppers continue to indulge on the differentiated heavier eat offer verse the rest of the KitKat range. Meanwhile, Aero is an iconic brand with strong brand love, growing at +17.6 per cent.* A Nestlé spokesperson said: “Bringing Aero and KitKat Chunky together will play an important role in driving incremental value in the category by appealing to the unique KitKat Chunky shopper.”

The launch of KitKat Aero Chunky 45g bars will be supported with a high impact OOH, social and PR campaign to drive awareness and excitement through mass reach of the NPD. Launching nationally, it is activating in market from August.

*Source: AC Nielsen AUS Convenience Scan QTR to 06.06.21

PRODUCT RANGING

Beforeyouspeak Coffee

revolutionises RTD category Beforeyouspeak’s new range of ready to drink iced coffees offers all of the flavour with none of the nasties.

Beforeyouspeak’s newest range delivers a strong opportunity to revolutionise the RTD category by offering consumers a better for you beverage, bursting with natural flavour and functional ingredients, with no nasties.”

– Mel Kenneday, CEO, Beforeyouspeak Coffee

42 August/September 2021 | C&I | www.c-store.com.au

As people demand more benefits from the food and beverage they consume, Beforeyouspeak Coffee has launched its newest ready to drink (RTD) coffee range with a ‘healthy’ twist.

Beforeyouspeak Coffee, the healthy coffee company, has set its sights on revolutionising the RTD category with the release of its three new superfood infused iced coffee blends.

As Australia’s leading functional coffee company, Beforeyouspeak specialises in Colombian coffee blends supercharged with essential vitamins, minerals and superfoods; with a mission to help people get more out of their health and wellness goals.

At the forefront of an emerging category, the global natural health beverages sector is now worth more than $20 billion, with significant expansion forecasted as a result of the heightened emphasis on health due to the shifting attitudes and impact of COVID-19.

According to Global Trend Forecaster, WGSN, functional and fortified drinks with natural, dairy free ingredients have seen a major increase in demand as consumers look to advance their health routine beyond powder and capsule consumption.

Despite strong demand, you will not find these products in the current RTD aisle with most beverage options promoting a single ‘caffeine hit’ and flavour focus value proposition, boosted with artificial, sugar, and dairy heavy ingredients.

P&C retailers play a significant role in meeting the market by offering better on-the-go beverage alternatives that support consumers' ever-growing health and wellness goals.

Built to meet the demand of the influential health conscious consumer, Beforeyouspeak’s ready to drink coffee range delivers better for you beverages with ingredients that target performance and skincare.

“Beforeyouspeak’s newest range delivers a strong opportunity to revolutionise the RTD category by offering consumers a better for you beverage, bursting with natural flavour and functional ingredients, with no nasties,” said Mel Kenneday CEO, Beforeyouspeak Coffee.

“As ‘the healthy coffee company,’ Beforeyouspeak plays a significant role as trailblazers in a category that has traditionally focused on artificial and dairy heavy beverages with little to no health benefits beyond a caffeine hit.”

Beforeyouspeak’s RTD range is available in three varieties, including two Performance Blends: Double Shot Iced Long Black and Original Oat Milk Latte as well as a Collagen Blend: Mocha Oat Milk Latte.

The Performance Blend is supercharged with Siberian Ginseng & Turmeric and the Collagen Blend is infused with Marine Collagen & Biotin – among other essential ingredients.

“The RTD range is 100 per cent dairy free and low in calories and delivers consumers an indulgent drinking experience without compromising their health or wellbeing,” says Kenneday.

As global awareness surrounding the links between nutrition and health continues to rise, there is significant opportunity for P&C retailers to diversify their RTD offering to meet the growing demand for ‘healthier’ alternatives.

To find out more contact support@beforeyouspeakcoffee.com.

BLEND

FLAVOUR

ACTIVE INGREDIENTS

CALORIES PER 100ML

SIZE

Performance Blend

Original Oat Milk Latte

Siberian Ginseng, Turmeric (HydroCurc®) & Green Tea Extract

103kj (24.6 cal)

300 ml

Performance Blend

Double Shot Iced Long Black

Siberian Ginseng, Turmeric (HydroCurc®) & Green Tea Extract

35.3kj (8.7 cal)

300 ml

Collagen Blend

Mocha Oat Milk Latte

Marine Collagen, Camu Camu & Biotin

108.6kj (26 cal)

300 ml

PRODUCT RANGING

Aerial launches the ‘Big Ed’ collection Aerial recently launched its ‘Big Ed’ collection to target consumers with a slightly larger head. Some would argue the bigger the head, the bigger the brain, but Pacific Optics are passionate about getting the most practical range for every consumer at an affordable price.

Got a big head? All good, Pacific Optics has got an extensive range of on trend oversized sunglasses made to suit larger face shapes.

‘Big Ed’ sunglasses are unlike the rest in that they’re large and in charge, but they’re also quite stylish. They design large sunglasses that check off all of

the boxes – good looking, long lasting, affordable, and fit for style-lovers with larger heads.

The varied selection includes many cool frame and lens pairings, so you’re sure to find a style that’s tailor-made to your tastes. Perfect for men and women, casual and formal, beach and business, these great-fitting sunglasses are sure to become your new favourite pair.

The ‘Big Ed’ collection from Aerial is now available from your local Pacific Optics Rep. Not an Aerial stockist?

Enquire at orders@pacificoptics.com to find out more.

Mrs Mac’s unveils complete brand refresh Keeping with its tradition of being pie-oneers in the category, Mrs Mac’s Bakery is re-launching its product portfolio with a new bakery range in September. The brand will be rolling out changes to its core range, unveiling new pastry, new fills, and new branding that will showcase Mrs Mac’s Bakery heritage. The product changes were tested in consumer research, achieving preference scores vs competitor brands* and the launch reflects Mrs Mac’s commitment to continuous improvement.

The brand changes involve: • New pastry – In collaboration with local suppliers Pin & Peel and Mauri, Mrs Mac’s has developed new bakery pastry that is golden, flaky and palm oil free. The new pastry will be rolled out across the entire Mrs Mac’s range, including its famous pies, rolls, pasties, travelers, and new pastry bakes.

• New fills – Mrs Mac’s will transition its core range to chunkier meat fillings and the recipes will involve braising the ingredients to enhance flavour.

The core range will also use clean ingredients, containing no artificial flavour or colours.

• New packaging – A new look will accompany the product changes; this will see the brand leverage its bakery heritage and continue to showcase our first lady of pies, Mrs Mac. The new design will also include a family-owned bakery icon which recognises three generations of MacGregor family ownership.

44 August/September 2021 | C&I | www.c-store.com.au

• New brand campaign – The launch will be supported with a marketing campaign to build consumer awareness of the changes and drive engagement within the category. The campaign will kick-off from October and has been aligned with the new packaging rollout. *Consumer sensory evaluation, November 2020 & April 2021

PRODUCT RANGING

A strong launch from the Felix As Good As It Looks singles range The Felix As Good As It Looks singles range has experienced strong growth since launching into the convenience channel last year.

The Felix As Good As It Looks wet cat food singles range has enjoyed solid sales growth since launch, growing at 28 per cent vs YA*.

The total Felix brand is also showing strong growth of 21 per cent versus the same period a year ago*.

Nestlé Purina launched its popular Felix wet cat food in a single serve format last year in response to consumer demand for more convenient top up options.

Purina conducted research with Kantar and discovered that 42 per cent of pet purchases are made as an impulse or top up shop. It’s for this reason that the brand decided to make its Felix As Good As It Looks range even more convenient by launching it in an 85g single pouch format through the convenience channel.

Coral Grace, Nestlé Senior Business Manager, told C&I that these are the first single serve wet cat food pouches to be launched through the convenience channel.

“Felix cat food is fast becoming Australia’s favourite wet cat pouch product and until now it could only be bought in a multi-pack format,” she said.

“Until now you’ve not been able to buy a one-pack single serve format in the convenience channel for any wet cat food brand, so this absolutely 46 August/September 2021 | C&I | www.c-store.com.au

meets the needs of those shoppers that are looking for that impulse purchase on their favourite cat food brand.”

The Purina Felix As Good As It Looks singles range is available in three flavours; Beef in Jelly, Tuna in Jelly and Chicken in Jelly, with the Chicken in Jelly variety being suitable for both cats and kittens.

“Pets are very sensitive and so they need to have the right brands and ingredients, so we’ve found that shoppers are very loyal to the brands that they know and trust.

“What’s wonderful about Felix is the fact that the pouch format is becoming more and more popular. Once upon a time you would buy wet cat food in a multi-serve tin, but we now know that cats have 12 times fewer taste buds than that of humans, so that’s why cats are not necessarily fussy, but they do need variety. We also know that the pet population is growing and so we felt that it was important on launching these singles that we did have a kitten offer as well.”

The Felix As Good As It Looks single range has an RRP of $1.30 and offers a strong margin return for retailers. It’s available through Metcash and The Distributors. ■ *Source: Nielsen Scan AU Grocery MAT to 30.06.21

PRODUCT RANGING

Purina Supercoat launches convenient 1.5kg pack size Australia’s favourite dry dog food brand is now available in more convenient pack format.

New

1.5kg size

The market leader in dry dog food, Purina Supercoat, is now available in a 1.5kg pack format through the convenience channel.

The pet care category has been growing over the past 12 months with many Australians seeing lockdown as a great opportunity to adopt a new puppy or kitten.

During this time there has also been a trend towards premiumisation, with pet owners being inclined to spend more on products that they know are made with ingredients that provide better health benefits for their pet.

Coral Grace, Senior Business Manager Independent Grocery & Impulse, Nestlé Purina Petcare, said: “The pet care category has been growing year on year. Pets today are a much-loved part of the family, and we see that pet owners are spending more money on their animals.

“COVID-19 positively impacted the category and we saw an acceleration that sustained due to new pet acquisition. For families working from home it was a great opportunity to do puppy and kitten training, and for anyone that was living alone, they’ve found having a new pet to be great company. This trend increased baselines and now we’re seeing really good growth of about eight per cent on the last MAT. “We also observed right at the beginning of the COVID-19 lockdown periods in 2020, that a staggering 46 per cent of pet purchases were being made as a planned top up purchase.”

It’s with this in mind that the brand decided to launch a convenient sized 1.5kg pack format to cater to those top up shoppers.

“Because it is the number one selling dry dog brand in the market, we identified a need to be able to provide a smaller pack size to meet the needs of those convenience shoppers. Dry dog food typically comes in a really big bag, which isn’t very convenient for the small format channel,” she said.

Until now, Supercoat has only been available in larger pack formats that are better suited to the grocery channel (3kg, 7.5kg, 12kg, 18kg) and the brand has grown to have a 33 per cent value share of total dry dog food through that channel (Nielsen Scan Grocery Data Australia MAT to 6/12/2020).

Because it is the number one selling dry dog brand in the market, we identified a need to be able to provide a smaller pack size to meet the needs of those convenience shoppers.”

– Coral Grace, Senior Business Manager Independent Grocery & Impulse, Nestlé Purina Petcare

“Over the past couple of years, it has become apparent that we’re seeing a need for pet food in the convenience channel.

“We’re hearing from retailers and distributors that people want more relevant pet care products when they are doing their top up shops and that’s why we definitely felt the need to come up with a smaller pack size.”

Supercoat is an Australian product made with Smartblend technology using a tailored blend of nutrients that help to maximise whole body health for dogs. The formula precisely combines quality protein with natural ingredients to deliver the precise nutrition that a dog requires.

“We now feel confident that shoppers will be able to top up with their favourite dog brand quickly and easily through the convenience channel.”

The 1.5kg Purina Supercoat packs initially launched in the brand’s top selling flavour, beef, with an RRP of $10.

The product is now widely available through the Metcash network and The Distributors. It is being supported with an above the line marketing campaign on television and social media. ■ August/September 2021 | C&I | www.c-store.com.au 47

PRODUCT RANGING

Vittoria Coffee aluminium Nespresso* compatible capsules are now available market-wide Vittoria Coffee’s range of aluminium Nespresso* compatible capsules are now more accessible than ever. Having launched exclusively with Woolworths 12 months ago, Vittoria quickly became the fastest growing Nespresso* Compatible Manufacturer in Woolworths for the year^. Now the range is available in all Coles stores and independent retailers.

“We were met with an overwhelming response to our launch last year.

Increases in at-home coffee consumption brought an even greater demand

Raising a glass to zero alcohol beer Great Northern Brewing Co has raised a glass to the national release of its first-ever non-alcoholic brew, Great Northern Zero.

Great Northern’s Lauren Fildes said the company’s foray into the nonalcoholic beer market reflected the booming demand among Australians for alcohol-free beer options.

“At Great Northern, we believe Australia’s thirst for drinking in moderation should be celebrated so by working with our innovative local team of brewers, we have created a full tasting non-alcoholic beer that will now be readily available nationally.”

Zero alcohol beer has grown by 87 per cent throughout 2020 and is continuing to grow, with that part of the market expected to be worth $135 million by 2025. And this zero alcohol opportunity is one that convenience retailers are beginning to jump on.

“We have tested Great Northern Zero in Queensland and the Northern Territory over the past few months and the taste and brew has received overwhelming approval in the Great North. Within four months of launching, it became the number one non-alcoholic beer there and now beer lovers all over Australia will be able to enjoy it too,” says Fildes.

ABS data shows Australians are increasingly moderating their alcohol intake and research released this year predicts demand for low and no alcohol beverages in 10 key countries, including Australia, will continue to grow in the next five years.

Despite being non-alcoholic, Great Northern Zero is marketed to adults in strict accordance with the Alcohol Beverages Advertising Code.

Great Northern Zero will be available in cans and bottles, six-packs or cartons of 24.

48 August/September 2021 | C&I | www.c-store.com.au

for the category. It was clear consumers had been waiting for a locally produced, Nespresso* compatible aluminium capsule from a brand firmly rooted in Australian cafe culture. We’re excited to now offer these marketwide,” said Rolando Schirato, Managing Director, Vittoria Food & Beverage.

Australians can enjoy a range of 18 blends and single origins presented in premium aluminium capsules for freshness and reduced packaging. The range of 100 per cent Arabica coffees are the only locally roasted aluminium capsules available in Australian supermarkets. *Nespresso is a trademark of Societe des Produits Nestle SA. Neither that company nor its affiliates have manufactured or endorsed this product in any way and have no association to Vittoria Food & Beverage or the Vittoria® Coffee brand. Compatible with Nespresso original machines.

Source data: IRI Scan to 18/04/21

^

PRODUCT RANGING

Deliciou launches its plant-based meat range into retail

Introducing Violet Crumble Caramel Honeycomb Milk

Plant-based meat brand Deliciou is expanding its business model from direct to consumer and launching into retail across Australia and the US. The brand will initially be stocked in Coles and Woolworths stores across Australia and in more than 400 Whole Foods stores across the US, but there are also plans for it to expand into the convenience channel.

Deliciou CEO Kjetil Hansen says: “Australia is known for its food and wine culture, and we believe this focus on taste and quality is something that we will continue to bring into the development of our products, and that will continue to drive demand globally.”

The plant-based meat range includes Plant-Based Chicken, Pork and Beef and there is an expansive range of Plant-Based Bacon seasonings.

Display cakes and bakery goods in the new Orford Refrigeration Bakery Range Orford Refrigeration is well known for engineering, designing, and supplying innovate low energy consuming display refrigerators to the Australian market. The patented Orford EB Range of upright display cabinets lead the world in low energy consuming technology.

Responding to market demand, Orford launches the new ‘KK Cake & Bakery Series’ in September 2021.

Features of the Orford KK Range include a large product viewing area, LED lighting to illuminate products, rear loading sliding door for easy access, and digital controllers with easy read LCD readouts.

Orford Refrigeration has opened its new showroom at 39 Dunhill Crescent, Morningside, Queensland. The Showroom is open Monday and Tuesday by appointment. Phone 1300 673 673 or 0418 700 006 for appointment times.

Contact Orford Refrigeration on www.orford.com.au or sales@orford.com.au.

Building upon the success of the Violet Crumble Chocolate Honeycomb Milk that launched in October 2020, we are thrilled to provide Australians with yet another delicious collaboration between Bickford’s Australia and Robern Menz – Violet Crumble Caramel Honeycomb Milk! Combining two iconic Aussie favourites – caramelised white chocolate with honeycomb – mimicking the flavour profile of the much-loved Violet Crumble Caramel confectionery product. The product features a nine month shelf life, 100 per cent RPET bottle and no preservatives, artificial sweeteners, colours or flavours.

Great Temptations partners with Mondelez International Perth-based family operated baked goods manufacturer Great Temptations has secured a license to produce Cadbury Muffins and Cupcake products in Australia.

Under the agreement between Great Temptations and Cadbury’s parent company, Mondelēz International, Great Temptations can manufacture fresh cupcakes and muffins using Mondelēz brands including Cadbury Dairy Milk, Cadbury Twirl, Crunchie, Caramilk, and Oreo.

The contract began in March and already Great Temptations has launched its new Cadbury Dairy Milk Cupcakes six-pack and Cadbury Dairy Milk Muffins as a single serve or in two-packs and six-packs.

Carl Quarrell, Managing Director of Great Temptations, said: “This is a great opportunity to combine the number one cake brand and number one chocolate brand and bring a brand-new product range to our consumers.”

Sarah Calman, Mondelēz International’s Licensing Marketing Manager ANZ, said: “We are excited to partner with Great Temptations to launch high quality, fresh Cupcakes and Muffins for the first time in Australia.”

August/September 2021 | C&I | www.c-store.com.au 49

PRODUCT RANGING

Uncle Tobys Oat Slice continues to gain popularity Australian shoppers are continually seeking out local and trusted brands that represent great quality, while also being better for them. Ticking all of those boxes is the Uncle Toby’s Oat Slice range, which continues to drive incremental sales to the oat slice segment.

The range of perfectly portioned 70g, single serves Oat Slices were the most successful launch from Uncle Toby’s in 2020 and quickly secured ranging in many national retailers including 7-Eleven, Coles Express, BP, EG, Night Owl, Puma, NSG, IGA Express and through all major wholesalers, RRP $3.50.

Launched as a new way to enjoy nutritious and delicious oats while on the go, the satisfying snack is available in two flavours, oven baked to perfection: Apple & Cinnamon and Choc Chip.

The oat slice segment has grown +15 per cent over the past 26 weeks (AC Nielsen Scan 26 weeks to 9.05.21), and the Uncle Toby’s Apple & Cinnamon ranks as number six in the segment (AC Nielsen Scan YTD 06.06.21).

Combined the Uncle Toby’s Oat Slice products have driven $221k YTD across the convenience channel, with both flavours ranking within the top 10 oat slice products.

Delightfully soft and crumbly and full of Uncle Toby’s Oat goodness, they are hunger busting, guilt free snacks that pair perfectly with a coffee.

Made with more than 50 per cent wholegrains, they are also high in fibre and contain no artificial colours or flavours.

Even better, you can help support local and Australian manufacturing and farmers with every bite.

Nippy’s launches flavoured Oat Milk range Nippy’s has announced the launch of a new range of 375ml Oat Milk bottles with flavours including Dutch Chocolate, Colombian Coffee, and Golden Turmeric.

The Nippy’s Oat Milk flavoured range is Australian made and vegan friendly with no refined sugar and made with Australian oats. It is free of dairy, nuts, soy and GMO. Speaking recently to C&I, Justin Nel, Lead Consultant at IRI, said nondairy shoppers are a valuable group for convenience retailers and that when it comes to plant-based milks, oat milk is the variety to watch.

“Non-dairy shoppers are a very valuable group as they spend on average 26 per cent more than the average shopper,” he said.

Plant-based milks then represent a clear opportunity for convenience stores, particularly when these products have higher margins than cow’s milk and have significantly longer shelf life making them far easier to manage.

While soy and almond milk have been the key drivers of growth in the dairy-free space, IRI’s Nel has highlighted that oat milk will be a segment to watch over the next five years.

“This could be driven by consumer awareness of the negative impact that almond milk has on the environment due to the amount of water required in farming,” he says.

For more information visit www.nippys.com.au or speak to your local Nippy’s distributor.

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HEALTH BENEFITS OF OAT MILK • Helps balance blood pressure • Strengthens digestive system • Protects stomach health • Protects bowel health • Purifies from toxins to body

• Lowers cholesterol • Balances blood sugar • Supports weight loss process • Source of antioxidants Source: PlantsHospital.com

OPINION

POTENTIAL REPERCUSSIONS OF PRESCRIPTION VAPING

Prescription vaping has the potential to slow the COVID-19 vaccine rollout and entrench the black market, explains AACS CEO Theo Foukkare.

T

THEO FOUKKARE CEO AACS

As an industry, we need to make it clear to the Federal Government they’ve got it wrong.”

– Theo Foukkare, CEO, AACS

he Federal Government’s decision to push ahead with a prescription-based model for nicotine e-cigarettes has the potential to slow the vaccine rollout and entrench a black market for vaping products.

Australia lags most of the developed world in the rollout of the COVID-19 vaccine and is well short of its own targets.

By the Federal Government’s own admission, Australia’s vaccine rollout won’t gain pace until October – the same month it was supposed to be completed with much of this work falling on GPs. It therefore makes no sense that at a time when GPs and pharmacies workloads will be massively increasing, the government will be forcing 520,000 e-cigarette using ex-smokers into GP waiting rooms to obtain a prescription for nicotine.

The time of GPs and other health professionals is precious and finite, so it really must be queried if having 520,000 ex-smokers who are not sick and have already quit through vaping, is the best use of a their time, especially during COVID. The fact is e-cigarettes are less harmful than cigarettes.

It therefore makes no sense that they should be harder for responsible informed adults who want to quit smoking to obtain than cigarettes.

Besides stating that vaping is 95 per cent less harmful than smoking, Public Health England has also said, “vaping poses only a small fraction of the risks of smoking and switching completely from smoking to vaping conveys substantial health benefits over continued smoking”. The advice couldn’t be clearer.

To date vaping has helped more than half-a-million Australians give up or stay off cigarettes, and could help the current three million smokers do the same. But to achieve this, requires business and government working together, not policy on the run that locks out retailers, like convenience stores, which have a trusting relationship with their customers from the supply chain.

Let’s be clear, the Federal Government’s move to a prescription-based model risks the progress of those who have already quit smoking and will inevitably delay or halt any further progress on reducing Australia’s smoking rates.

These new laws take all of that away, and push the job onto GPs, many of whom will likely have an institutionalised

52 August/September 2021 | C&I | www.c-store.com.au

bias against the devices, let alone even know what a vaping device is and how it works.

The Doctor’s Union, the Australian Medical Association issued a statement only 12 months ago unequivocally stating “AMA supports continued ban on e-cigarettes and vaping”. These are the people that are now meant to be prescribing it? Give us a break.

On the odd chance they can get a prescription, users will then be forced to find a pharmacist who dispenses nicotine for vaping. Once again, the Pharmacy Guild of Australia has previously been on the record as stating, “the Guild is opposed to having these products in any schedule that would allow for sale in a pharmacy. The Guild does not support the sale of personal vapourisers in pharmacies, regardless of whether or not they contain nicotine”.

Inevitably, out of confusion or frustration, e-cigarette users may return to the more easily obtainable but more harmful way of consuming nicotine, specifically cigarettes.

If anything, the Government’s prescription model will only increase the prevalence and profitability of black market for shonky overseas online retailers who’ll supply e-cigarettes to anyone willing to pay for them – just like the illicit tobacco industry.

The 1 October deadline is fast approaching. We need to act now.

As an industry, we need to make it clear to the Federal Government they’ve got it wrong and we are done with our support being taken for granted.

As we’ve demonstrated before, we are a trusted industry.

We’ve accepted, led and implemented countless regulatory changes to protect minors and non-smokers from tobacco, including ID checks, product display bans, and plain packaging.

There is no reason why existing measures on tobacco control, along with a new code of conduct and consumer protections, would not work to ensure Australian smokers have access to a less harmful alternative, without the needless waste of clogging up GP clinics with people who have already quit smoking.

We are ready and willing to work with the Government if they are willing to work with us.

If they continue to ignore us, then they are the ones putting public health at risk. C&I

Save The Dates Association Partner

Reconnect - Renew - Rebuild

6 - 7 APRIL 2022 Convenience & Impulse New Zealand Expo 2022 The Cloud, Auckland

The Convenience & Impulse New Zealand Expo brings together New Zealand convenience retailers and suppliers from all banners and brands to gather for two days of education, networking and business building.

For more information visit www.candiexpo.co.nz

OPINION

CAN WE DO BETTER IN STRIVING FOR FAIRNESS?

While business and success is important, so is how we build a community for the better.

T

DARREN PARK CEO UCB Stores

he last year has been a year like no other, and we aren’t talking about the circumstances of living through COVID. In this opinion piece, I want to share some thoughts that I’m increasingly hearing spoken about within our industry – it’s fairness.

I was staggered to read that the number of billionaires on Forbes’ 35th annual list of the world’s wealthiest people exploded to a new high of 2,755, that’s 660 more than a year ago! If my maths is correct that is almost two new billionaires per day for 365 days. In Australia, Gina Rinehart has an estimated wealth of $31 billion and Andrew Forrest has wealth estimated at $27 billion.

This is not a piece on wealth envy, far from it. The good thing about our industry in general is that hard work, done well over time can be well rewarded. High incomes can be the reward for innovation or risk taking, which contributes to making our communities better off. For many convenience retailers, we know way too much about risk!

Fairness is about more than just economics or who gets paid what. For me, inequality is a problem when it offers opportunity for some (whether through wealth or some government position for example) to have undue power and influence over others.

For example, is it fair that the Queensland Chief Medical Officer can place at risk our COVID recovery, by talking down one COVID vaccine over another? Shouldn’t that be a doctor/patient discussion? There seems to be so

54 August/September 2021 | C&I | www.c-store.com.au

many different opinions from media commentators and political leaders which is very confusing to the general public. For politicians, it seems to be more about blaming each other than looking for a way out of this, whether it is the states blaming the Federal Government or the states blaming each other. What happened to us all being in this together? We now have health officers scaring people to make a headline.

Queensland's Chief Health Officer Dr Jeannette Young, said during a press conference: “I don’t want an 18-yearold in Queensland dying from a clotting illness who, if they got COVID, probably wouldn’t die.”

“We are not in a position that I need to ask young, fit, healthy people to put their health on the line (by) getting a vaccine that could potentially significantly harm them,” she added. (Source The Australia 1 July, Natasha Robinson).

Anyone listening to Dr Young’s comments would be left with the impression that a young person taking the AstraZeneca vaccine was a risky proposition.

So how did the Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation – the group whose advice Dr Young is insistent young people follow – quantify the risk?

These comments don’t help us out of the pandemic.

It's scaremongering allowing government to hold onto the ultimate power of closing the borders.

Looking at the above numbers, we have done a great job at minimising the cases with minimal deaths, but at

OPINION Looking at countries like the UK and Italy – the numbers below are for 29 June 2021:

Country

United Kingdom

Italy

Australia

Date

29/06/21

29/06/21

29/06/21

Cases

20223

929

34

Deaths

18

42

0

1st vaccination

44,719,762 = 67%

33,601,929 = 56%

Approx 6,243,880 = 24%

Fairness is the ideal I am aspiring to deliver against everyday and it’s one that I look for across our industry, in our political leaders, and in my team.”

Darren Park, CEO, UCB Stores

*John Hopkins University https://github.com/CSSEGISandData/COVID-19

what point do we get back to a somewhat 'normal' way of life. Is it about being vaccinated?

The UK and Italy are moving forward with a level of normalcy. What happens as soon as our borders open?

Do we go straight back into lockdown as COVID-19 will be throughout the rest of the world? Are borders conditional on us all, or at least the majority of us, to be vaccinated?

With leaders making outlandish statements and scaring people over vaccines, making statements like the one from Queensland's Chief Health Officer, we will be an island that will never open again as we will be too scared to open due to the fact we might get a case of COVID. The UK had 20,000 cases in a single day with 18 deaths, yet they are getting back to some sort of normal. We had 34 on 29 June with no deaths, and nearly half of the country was put into lockdown.

So, what is the answer? A young person pointed out to me recently what she called a fun fact; Australia has had 30,000 positive COVID cases since the pandemic started with 900 deaths, the UK is having an average of 24,000 positive test cases per day during July 2021, and they are about to open.

I checked and she was right. She asked when we will reopen and I didn’t have a credible answer, but what blew me away was the UK having as many positives per day as our total positives since COVID started in Australia in March 2021.

We are sending many Australian athletes to Tokyo for the delayed 2020 Olympic Games. Now, I love sport, I love watching Australians win. But is this the right time to spend so much money on a few, when there’s a need to support the many? What about business people that are losing businesses that they have worked for 20 years to build, people losing everything? What happens when the athletes get back? They take 400 seats on a plane from people that may have waited 12 months to try and get home. How is that fair? Many Australians have watched horrified as some state leaders stopped families from visiting loved ones, with very little time to live. In the same breath, just in May 2021, Australia allowed and estimated 115,600 overseas arrivals to land and allowed 108,300 departures, 52,000 were from NZ (Source: ABS).

Once again, how is that fair? 400 Olympians doesn’t sound much but what if it was your family member that was one of the 400 people that missed out to fit the Olympians to arrive back home?

Another question is how will rough sleepers across Australia be helped? Some of these homeless are people that have fought for our country, fought for the freedoms we all enjoy, yet nobody has a plan how we are going to help or offer them the vaccine.

Rev. Bill Crews has fought since December 2020 trying |to get the government to help. Finally in May, he was able to start a homeless vaccine program administering up to 250 jabs at Ashfield. That’s one small part but how will we help them all and our community with COVID vaccinations? How will we help them with housing and mental wellness support?

I know this will upset many but why couldn’t we have had a Zoom Olympics! Run the events in your own country and log the time. Diverting all that Olympic spending or even a part of it could make a big difference in Australia and in the world. Imagine the billions it costs to put the Olympics on. Imagine the vaccines that money could buy to supply to a third world country.

Now, I’m not getting old and grumpy here. I’m flagging that while business and success is important, so is how we build a community for the better. “A rising tide lifts all boats”, is a phrase I’ve really warmed to. It’s what we are trying to do as an industry for our communities.

As I continue on my journey of leadership both in the convenience and petroleum industry and my community, fairness has become a passion. It’s also the one tool that I have found that supports my growth and that of my team and colleagues.

Here are a few points that I am working on that might be useful to think about: • Hold all of your employees to the same standards; • Lead by example; • Establish the rules and make them crystal clear; • Don’t let bias affect your decisions; • Give employees a voice; • Apologise if you make a mistake In an ideal community or workplace, everyone should be treated fairly and have access to equal opportunities.

Fairness is the ideal I am aspiring to deliver against everyday and it’s one that I look for across our industry, in our political leaders, and in my team.

Until next time, Darren Park August/September 2021 | C&I | www.c-store.com.au 55

OPINION Ampol's CEO and Managing Director Matthew Halliday at one of Ampol's newly installed electric vehicle charging stations

SKYE JACKSON General Manager Merchandise Ampol

The sustainability movement There is a significant opportunity for retailers and suppliers to connect with consumers and drive further loyalty by being transparent about their sustainability goals.

I

There is certainly a great market opportunity for retailers to transition their business towards a more environmentally sustainable model…”

– Skye Jackson, General Manager Merchandise, Ampol

had thoughts of writing about post-COVID trends, and by the time I sat down to write this I’m doing so from yet another lockdown in Sydney. What this says to me, sadly, is that we’re not going to be on the ‘other side’ until we have enough of the population vaccinated and have a roadmap for opening our borders.

Outside of toilet paper panic buying and the rise of QR codes, it has been interesting to see how the COVID-19 crisis has acted as an accelerator for sustainability issues, with the pandemic being a humble reminder of the vulnerabilities of our natural environment. Not only have we seen technology shift towards low-carbon economies, but we’ve also seen increased government spending in this area through COVID stimulus and a greater strategic commitment from large companies, such as ours, who must start to pave the way for a ‘green’ future.

It seems every day in the news there’s a growing focus on future energy, and organisations talking to their sustainability commitments, such as Toyota, which recently committed to increasing its hybrid vehicle sales from 17 per cent to 40 per cent by 2025, or Woolworths committing to being powered by 100 per cent renewable energy. In May, we released our own Future Energy and Decarbonisation Strategy, which included a commitment to achieving net zero emissions operations by 2040 and investing $100 million in future energy projects through to 2025. We’ve already made some great headway and are working on lots of exciting new projects, including the pilot of a green hydrogen production plant and our new partnership with clean energy storage start up, Endua. We’ve also partnered with Tesla to pilot a virtual power plant to help reduce our Scope 2 emissions and are in the process of developing a strategy to transition with mobility customers by providing electric vehicle charging services at our sites – watch this space!

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More specifically, this sustainability movement has had a notable impact on the retail and convenience industries, with governments setting legislation to drive the agenda, including the Western Australia and South Australia state governments, which have announced plans to phase out single-use plastics. The ‘ban the bag’ movement, driven by social media activism and public debate, demonstrates the power of the consumer in this market. Consumers accepted the cost of buying them at the store and quickly adapted to taking their own ‘green’ bags (and remembering to get them out of the car on each visit).

A recent KPMG study found that over 90 per cent of millennials, as well as consumers over the age of 75 are prepared to pay more for ethically sourced products.

This is up from just 40 per cent pre-pandemic. Gen Z are also said to be key consumers driving the sustainability movement and are far more likely to make purchasing decisions based on their values and principles. Where previously the focus on sustainability seemed more prevalent in the younger generations, there is evidence to say this movement today is transcending the generations.

Another study in Australia late last year reported that nine in 10 Australians are more likely to purchase ethical and sustainable products, and that 85 per cent of consumers want retailers and brands to be more transparent about the sustainability of their products.

There is certainly a great market opportunity for retailers to transition their business towards a more environmentally sustainable model and connect with consumers in an authentic way that drives further loyalty.

It’s definitely an exciting time to be part of the petrol and convenience industry and to play a key role in adapting and evolving what will be in our customers’ shopping bags and vehicles in the future! C&I

OPINION

STEPHEN WILSON Category & Insights Manager, Strikeforce

SITUATION NORMAL

As the market begins to shift back to some semblance of 'normality' the challenge for brands to remain relevant and continue to resonate with shoppers is very real.

T

The jury is still out whether acceptable frequency and reach of activations prior to COVID is now going to get the same level of cut through with shoppers.”

– Stephen Wilson

his time last year we were in unchartered waters as we started to emerge from the initial threat posed by the global pandemic.

Australia was ‘flattening the curve’ giving a glimmer of hope that life would start to return to whatever ‘COVID normal’ is perceived to be.

Australia’s economy was predicted to contract by as much as 6.7 per cent with an average unemployment rate of 7.6 per cent in 2020 according to the International Monetary Fund.

Economic green shoots started to appear towards the back end of 2020 and the recovery was underway.

The speed and strength of Australia’s economic recovery underpinned by Government support has been nothing short of staggering. Despite the on again off again trading environment that continues to impact on the retail sector Australian retail turnover rose 0.4 per cent in May 2021 on a month-on-month basis and 7.7 per cent on a year ago, according to the latest ABS stats.

ABS stats for May 2021 state that food retailing grew 1.1 per cent ahead of other retailing and cafes, restaurants and takeaway food services – so the environment for growth is fertile.

Permanent trends have been identified particularly around in-home cooking, protecting and disinfecting, and holistic health and wellbeing products.

As the threat posed by COVID intensified in 2020 we saw a marked shift in FMCG merchandising from promotional support such as off-location display activity to a sole focus of stock replenishment and supply chain to cope with the unprecedented ‘panic buying’ driven by fear of supply shortages.

The pure focus on replenishment subsided over time as supply chain caught up to and moved ahead of demand.

The market slowly returned to ‘situation normal’ to a point where balance was restored and merchandising activity was focused on activations to amplify in-store presence for

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brands, reconnecting them with shoppers and reminding them of features and benefits that they enjoy.

So, what about now?

Shoppers have had time to reflect on what is truly important to them as households and individuals reassessed value. As a result, brands need to work as hard as ever to retain loyalists and attract trial.

Shoppers are more prepared to try new brands and substitute their ‘usual’ favourite as a result of being forced to do so through low or no availability at times during 2020.

Not only do brands need to work harder but they need to have a higher profile across a wider store network with a portion of the workforce no longer enduring the daily commute to the office or moving out of capital cities for a sea/tree change.

These seismic changes in commuting patterns have resulted in demand changing permanently, both increasing and decreasing depending on store location.

The jury is still out whether acceptable frequency and reach of activations prior to COVID is now going to get the same level of cut through with shoppers.

Brands need to assess whether running with a promotional end once a year supported by periodic price promotions is going to be as effective as it was previously.

They should consider running an integrated strategy of sampling, display activations positioned in-store on the shopper journey in both orthodox and unorthodox locations to attract trial and retain existing brand loyalists.

Supply chain and in-store support to facilitate an endto-end solution is critical to take advantage of opportunity created by this approach.

The challenge for brands to remain relevant and resonate with shoppers is real.

Remaining connected with shoppers and a consistent and strong in-store presence are critical to maintaining brand health and relevance. C&I

BUY PRICE $50 RRP $125 Get $125 worth of SIMs for $50.

Includes 5x $25 SIMs. Limit of two packages per store.

For a limited time while stock lasts, eligible new or current Optus Prepaid retailers can buy a discounted SIM package

25 BUCKS Mobile SIM Card + First $25 Subscription.

x5 Visit gomo.com.au

Call 1300 30 79 79 or email ppssales@optus.com.au and quote GOMO2021 to order Offer ends 31/8/21 Only available to stores that have a signed and valid PPS Retailer Agreement in place based on a valid company ABN. Items will be delivered to your store as per the terms of your Retailer Agreement. Returns policy: Please visit prepaidservices.com.au/pps-returns-policy or contact customer support on 1300 555 002.

18475IS GOMO AWO215856 Limit of two packages per store while stock lasts.

INDUSTRY NEWS

BOWSER BEAN PUSHES BOUNDARIES OF CONVENIENCE RETAILING Bowser Bean is in the midst of expanding and refreshing its network with a greenfield location set to open later in the year and several store refurbishments to be complete by the year’s end.

The latest refurbishment is Bowser Bean’s original site at Strathfieldsaye in Victoria, and the business came up with a nifty way to continue trading throughout the renovations.

Refurbishing an existing site to the Bowser Bean standard requires substantial internal upgrades, and generally speaking this will mean temporarily closing the site or limiting operations – but neither of these options appealed to Haydn Tierney, Managing Director, Vantage Fuels and Bowser Bean.

“When we close shop or operate with a limited offer while refurbing, customers will change their buying habits. In our case they might find alternate food and coffee options and it can take time and investment to win these customers back,” he said.

Hadyn Tierney says customers have been quick to embrace the temporary container store at Bowser Bean Strathfieldsaye in Victoria

To combat this issue Bowser Bean deployed a new temporary retail solution in the form of a 40-foot shipping container.

The purpose-built shipping container pop-up store, from Gary Pask Consulting, has enabled Bowser Bean to continue to serve its exceptional food and coffee offer to its customers while continuing to keep the fuel bowsers pumping.

“Customers have been quick to embrace our temporary container store at Bowser Bean Strathfieldsaye. Not only have we been able to continue to trade, but the container outlet also takes the pressure off our build team, ensuring our refurbs are completed accurately and on time without any delays,” said Tierney.

CONVENIENCE & IMPULSE EXPO IN MELBOURNE POSTPONED TO MARCH 2022 In light of the new COVID restrictions across Sydney and Australia, we have made the difficult decision to move the Convenience & Impulse Expo 2021 to Wednesday 30 and Thursday 31 March 2022.

As difficult as this decision has been for us, the health and safety of our community, our sponsors, attendees, and staff must come first.

Safa de Valois, Commercial Director of C&I, said: “We have a responsibility to our delegates, sponsors and staff, as well as to the wider public, and given the uncertainty around the latest outbreak of COVID-19 in Greater Sydney, and the current border closures, we felt it appropriate to postpone our event.

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“C&I has been delighted by the level of support from the P&C industry, with the exhibition almost sold out. The level of interest in attending the Expo has also been high from retailers Australia-wide. Clearly, this shows how highly anticipated the Expo is. But the health and welfare of these people, and the wider community is paramount. While it’s disappointing that we can’t hold the C&I Expo in 2021 when we had hoped to, we are grateful to our delegates, speakers, and sponsors for supporting our decision to postpone.

“We look forward to regrouping in 2022 once these unprecedented events are behind us.”

We are confident that the new dates in March 2022 will provide an opportunity for more companies to exhibit and a lot more people to attend.

C&I is aware that the new dates may be an inconvenience to some.

However, given the exceptional circumstances, we are all faced with, and in line with the developing government health guidelines around COVID-19, we feel that postponing the event is the most responsible decision to ensure a healthy and safe experience for all.

We would like to thank all our visitors, members, exhibitors, suppliers and staff for their patience while we work through this unprecedented and complex situation. We regret any inconvenience this may cause.

Thank you for your continued support of C&I Retailing Magazine & Expo and our amazing industry.

For clarity: C&I Expo will now take place at the Melbourne Convention & Exhibition Centre on Wednesday 30 and Thursday 31 March 2022.

Should you have any questions please contact Safa de Valois on safa@c-store.com.au or Ben Curtis on ben@c-store.com.au.

INDUSTRY NEWS

FELICITY NEEDHAM FROM COCA-COLA EUROPACIFIC PARTNERS APPOINTED TO AUSTRALIAN ASSOCIATION OF CONVENIENCE STORES BOARD The Australian Association of Convenience Stores (AACS) has voted to appoint Felicity Needham, Convenience & Petrol General Manager, CocaCola Europacific Partners (CCEP), as Supplier Board Director.

AACS supplier members were asked to nominate who they wanted to see representing them on the AACS Board and a shortlist of six candidates were named, with members ultimately voting on Needham’s appointment.

Needham has more than 10 years of leadership experience within the petrol and convenience channel and said that it is a truly exciting channel to represent.

“My experience throughout the years has allowed me to get an understanding of customers and the uniqueness of the customer base which varies by state and region and is important to acknowledge on the customer focussed journey,” she said.

“I would look to play a key role on the board to support the ongoing evolution of the channel to ensure future growth maintaining competitiveness and relevance in the face of channel blurring and changing consumer needs.

It is an exciting opportunity to support the board and their key focus areas moving forward.”

Theo Foukkare, CEO, AACS, congratulated Needham on her appointment and explained the importance of the position.

“The AACS constitution allows for three Supplier Directors to be the voice and represent the interests of all suppliers on the Board. AACS Board Members are leaders in the industry, respected by retailers and suppliers for their vision and passion of convenience retail.

“I wanted to personally congratulate Felicity Needham from Coca-Cola Europacific Partners in being elected to the role of Supplier Director.

“Felicity’s deep knowledge of the channel is second to none and she is one of the most passionate leaders that I know. The Board is extremely pleased that Felicity is joining us at a time that the Association has a renewed energy and focus.”

Felicity Needham, Convenience & Petrol General Manager, Coca-Cola Europacific Partners

Foukkare also thanks the five other nominated supplier candidates, including Xavier Shortal (Mars Wrigley), Ryan Price (Pacific Optics), Matthew Dodson (Patties Foods), Kirsten Dagger-Nickson (Imperial Brands) and Steve Wrightson (Suntory Coffee).

“The Board is very thankful for your interest in the role of AACS Supplier Director; you are all truly genuine leaders of the industry.”

NEW AACS APPOINTMENT TO HELP STRENGTHEN THE ASSOCIATION’S STRATEGY AND POLICY AGENDA The Australian Association of Convenience Stores (AACS) has made Ben Meredith, Strategy a new key appointment welcoming and Policy Advisor, AACS Ben Meredith into the newly created role of Strategy and Policy Advisor.

Meredith will be responsible for helping AACS manage strategy, policy development, government, and public relations, while providing guidance on the best approach to driving AACS’s change agenda.

AACS CEO Theo Foukkare welcomed Meredith to the team and outlined the new strategic direction of the association.

“AACS’s investment into Government Advocacy and Strategic Policy development is now five times greater than what we have traditionally spent per annum. We are extremely serious about changing the narrative of stakeholders to deliver on our strategic priorities, which are aligned to protecting convenience retail and ensuring we become stronger, more relevant and an even more important part of consumers’ local mix of retail offers.”

Meredith is an accomplished, progressive, and cross functional FMCG executive with more than 20 years of industry experience. He has worked extensively in leading successful whole of business development strategies, including commercial performance and brand development both domestically and internationally.

Government relations and partnership management have been integrated into his career path over the last six years, having worked in a cross-functional role in corporate affairs. He is passionate about disproportionate legislation being applied by state and federal governments, where the only losers from its implementation are retailers and in turn consumers.

Foukkare continued: “In the short time that Ben has been working with AACS, we have made significant progress in developing new relationships with Federal, State and Local authorities, along with other key industry associations.

“Ben is a major asset to AACS’s firepower, and I personally am looking forward to changing the game.”

August/September 2021 | C&I | www.c-store.com.au 61

INDUSTRY NEWS

Shore Mariner’s Prawn, Tuna, Mango and Seaweed appetisers

HIGHLIGHTS Convenience & Impulse Retailing magazine attended the recent Fine Food New Zealand Show in Auckland – here are the highlights.

62 August/September 2021 | C&I | www.c-store.com.au

INDUSTRY NEWS

F

ine Food New Zealand brought together the hospitality, foodservice, beverage, catering, and related industries in Auckland from 13-15 June.

The vibrant event attracted plenty of visitors and exhibitors who were keen to network, share their news and do business in person after the lockdowns and interruptions of the past year.

“There’s nothing quite like meeting real people, seeing real food, having a coffee or a beer, and discussing new or emerging opportunities,” said Brent Spillane, Managing Director of XPO Exhibitions which puts on Fine Food New Zealand.

In addition to literally thousands of products and services on display, the event offered more than 20 keynote sessions across three days.

This year’s show brought together more than 240 exhibitors and included multiple drawcard features, such as the SilverChef Seminar Series with a theme of getting businesses back on track; the Artisan Alley and the Networking Bar. Farrah’s served delicious tacos and shared samples of their wraps at the show; Meyer Cheeses had some of their

award-winning locally made cheeses on display; Proper Crisps promoted their gourmet cracker range; while the teams at Food Nation and Markwell Foods cooked up a storm to feed the crowds with their delightful products (to name just a few).

New features included the Vitasoy plant-based products area, the Gilmours One Stop Shop and NZ Chefs Skills Workshops.

Spillane says Fine Food New Zealand was a great opportunity to rekindle relationships, get some good old-fashioned face-time, grow supplier networks and get products and services in front of the right people.

With the world slowly opening up to travel as vaccines are steadily rolled out in key trading nations, Spillane says the darkest days are over for hospitality providers.

Fine Food New Zealand is a trade show and free to attend for all in the foodservice, hospitality, catering, hotelier, supplier and related occupations.

The next Fine Food New Zealand is planned for 25-27 June 2023.

For more information visit www.finefoodnz.co.nz C&I

Eco-friendly cups and recyclable packaging were popular themes

Omega Seafood offered delicious samples

Taco inspiration from Farrah’s team

Freshly squeezed orange juice at the Frankly stand

Proper Crisps promoted their gourmet cracker range

United Food showcases its products August/September 2021 | C&I | www.c-store.com.au 63

THE Calendar WEDNESDAY 30 MARCH 2022 10:00am – 12:00pm C&I Industry Symposium

Reconnect-Renew-Rebuild

30 - 31 MARCH 2022 Melbourne Convention & Exhibition Centre

12.00pm – 5.00pm

C&I Expo Day 1

4.30pm – 6.00pm

Networking Drinks

THURSDAY 31 MARCH 2022 9.00am – 11.00am

C&I Industry Symposium

11.00am – 4.00pm

C&I Expo Day 2

Now in its 30th year and with over 100 companies taking part, this is the largest and most popular specialist convenience industry trade show held in Australia.

Retailers directly involved in purchasing decisions

81%

*

See the latest in merchandising, foodservice, all kinds of major brand and lesser-known products for resale as well as retail store and forecourt equipment.

This is an event that no switched-on convenience or impulse retailer should miss. Bring yourself up to date with all of the new products, new suppliers and, most importantly, new ideas.

If you own or work in a convenience store, service station, independent supermarket, corner store or newsagency, this event is for you. It will help you grow your business.

Main reason for attending C&I Expo

83%

*

Experience new products and new equipment

67%

* Networking

Speakers at the C&I Industry Symposium include

Carolyn Creswell – Founder, Carmans Kitchen

Darryl Cotter – GM, OTR

www.candiexpo.com.au

Jonathan Morley – Head of Sales, Nestle Purina Petcare

1300 789 845

Rescheduled Dates For Australia’s largest and most important trade event for Convenience retailers

Kym Coventry – COO, Australian United Retailers Ltd.

Skye Jackson – GM Merchandise, Ampol

ORGANISED BY: Interpoint Events Pty Ltd in conjunction with C&I Media Pty Ltd 41 Bridge Road Glebe NSW 2037 | Ph: 1300 789 845 | Fax: 02 9660 4419 | Email: exhibition@c-store.com.au | www.c-store.com.au

Theo Foukkare MC – CEO, AACS

PETROL NEWS

BREAKING DOWN THE

MOTORIST’S MINDSET NIC MOULIS Director Customer Relationship Data

There are many factors that entice a motorist to a service station including location, brand, and price.”

– Nic Moulis

Y

Nic Moulis takes a look at the volume share of fuel sold in Sydney’s Campbelltown to gain a deeper insight into the behaviour of motorists.

ou may not have read it yet. However, the latest ACCC report into Australian fuel prices claims that independent petrol retail chains had the cheapest petrol in Australia’s eight capital cities in 2020.

This is probably not the most startling revelation for those of you who compete for fuel sales daily.

The regulator highlighted that in Sydney there were six independent chains with average prices below the market average price, representing about one-in-four of more than 800 retail sites.

The ACCC explains a motorist could have saved $455 in the year by choosing to fill up at the lowest-priced independent chain rather than the highest-priced major retailer.

In theory, the ever-vigilant motorist would think filling up at these cheaper priced independents was money for jam. But nothing is ever that simple.

To help you understand how the motorist is reacting, I took a look at Campbelltown in Greater Sydney’s outer southwest.

I chose Campbelltown to review because there is a strong spread of brands and ownership types. There are 39 service stations with majors operating 28 locations and independents 11. When it came to pricing in Campbelltown, for the month of April 2021, the data shows the independents were between 7.3 cents per litre (cpl) and 20.8cpl below the majors.

Right: There are many factors that entice a motorist to a service station including location, brand, and price 66 August/September 2021 | C&I | www.c-store.com.au

This tells us a lot about the competitors’ board price and concurs with the ACCC. However, none of this tells us much about where the motorist is buying their fuel. That is down to market share, which can be broken into two distinct metrics, service station share and more importantly volume share.

Station share simply tells us that independents control 28.21 per cent of the market compared to the majors at 71.79 per cent.

Metro was the largest independent by service station share with four locations or 10.25 per cent of the sites.

Westside has two service stations, with Budget, United and Speedway one each. There are two unbranded independents as well. As for the majors, EG Woolworths has the largest service station share of the majors at 20.51 per cent, eight locations. 7-Eleven and bp have six, Ampol has five and Coles Express has three in the area.

Volume share, based on the number of measured transactions, gives a deeper insight and goes directly to the motorist’s behaviour.

In Campbelltown, when it comes to actually selling fuel, bp and 7-Eleven are the best performing brands. Each holds a service station share of 15.38 per cent, while commanding a volume share of 23.82 per cent for bp and 23.41 per cent for 7-Eleven. The best performing independent brand is Speedway with a service station share of 2.56 per cent and volume share of 4.36 per cent.

Speedway was also the only independent to sell a greater level of volume compared to its share of service stations.

Other independents did not perform well on the ratio of service stations to volume share. Budget and United with a service station share of 2.56 per cent each had a volume share of 0.7 per cent for Budget and 0.9 per cent for United.

Westside with two service stations, 5.13 per cent station share, had 1.5 per cent volume share; with Metro holding 10.3 per cent of the sites only selling 4.9 per cent of the volume for the area.

Do not think that only independents sold less volume than their service station share should command. Coles Express with a service station share of 7.69 per cent, sells 4.74 per cent of the volume share. EG Woolworths were similarly below their service station share (20.51 per cent) when compared to volumes (19.18 per cent).

There are many factors that entice a motorist to a service station including location, brand, and price. Reviewing the Campbelltown market, where there is a strong mix of independents and majors, indicates that independents are failing to attract customers, even though they heavily discount their price. C&I

PETROL NEWS

Get your UPSS installation right with Envirotank Engaging the right people to install your underground petroleum storage systems (UPSS) will ensure they can be relied on to safeguard your considerable investment and provide an asset that effectively operates for the lifetime of the site.

“UPSS are involved and should be an engineered solution,” says Phil Quinan, Sales and Marketing Manager, Envirotank.

“Factors such as complying with regulation, standards and codes; modern fuel blends, additives and alcohol blends; and the introduction of low sulphur and premium diesel fuels have combined to impose additional and increased complexities and responsibilities on the retail petroleum industry.

“Despite increased regulation, Envirotank see examples where the UPSS is incorrectly installed or doesn’t meet minimum compliance standards – factors that usually result in extra monitoring, added and ongoing maintenance and reduced or limited operational life.

“No UPSS can be reliable unless it is designed and installed correctly,” explains Quinlan.

UPSS design and installation are critical and below standard design or incorrect installation can lead to reliability issues that plague the life of the system. In extreme cases component failure may lead to loss of containment causing safety and environmental issues.

Envirotank recommends selecting a UPSS designer that is fully compliant with all current regulations, standards and codes

Envirotank recommends selecting a UPSS designer that is fully compliant with all current regulations, standards and codes. Additionally, having a thorough understanding of component installation guides, products to be stored (including additives that may contribute to system corrosion), future functionality and the need to allow for and build in safety factors for the life of the system are all necessary considerations.

For system owners and operators, it is critical a suitably qualified and experienced installation contractor is engaged. Envirotank recommends owners seek a company profile, personnel resumes and customer references and award the installation contract on qualifications, experience and ability. They also recommend owners visit the site during critical steps of the installation such as the tank installation and compliance testing to ensure the job is completed correctly.

For more information contact Envirotank on 03 9550 0800 or Freecall (Australia only) 1800 818 354 or go to www.envirotank.com.au.

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Ü Envirotank double-wall tanks are fully compatible with all modern fuel types including alcohol blends & low sulphur diesel.

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Ü Two (2) structural walls provide the ultimate in leak prevention.

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proven hydrostatic testing system, that continuously monitors the integrity of the inner & outer tank walls in all installed conditions.

Corrosion-proof Fibreglass Underground Storage Tanks

Visit www.envirotank.com.au or call 1800 818 354 for more information

PETROL NEWS

7-Eleven to make $15m investment with 15 news stores in Far North Queensland 7-Eleven will be investing more than $15 million into entering the Far North Queensland market with around 15 stores set to open over the next two years.

The first stores will be opened in Townsville and Cairns before June 2022, marking the convenience retailers first entrance into the region.

The investment is expected to create more than 200 full time jobs during the building phase, with more than 150 additional ongoing local jobs created to run store operations.

7-Eleven Australia General Manager – Channel, Braeden Lord, said the company is proud to be making an investment that will create jobs and drive economic growth in Far North Queensland.

“Recent investments in our supply chain have made it possible for us to bring our offer to Townsville and Cairns and we are incredibly excited about the chance to serve the local communities in Far North Queensland,” he said.

“In addition to the jobs created to build the stores, each site will employ up to 15 team members in a mix of full-time, part time and casual roles. There will be a number of leadership positions available, and we hope to have Townsville and Cairns locals join us as leaders.

“We provide extensive training to ensure people are set up for success on opening day so previous experience in convenience, petrol and retail isn’t a requirement.”

While the company is yet to advise specific locations of the stores they expect to open, the company is confident that the new network will grow quickly in the next two years.

“We are continuing to work with landlords and developers to identify opportunities to secure the right sites to meet the needs of the community.

“We’re starting in Townsville and Cairns and will be continuing to explore the region which we feel has a huge potential for growth.”

The $15 million investment is expected to create more than 200 full time jobs during the building phase, with more than 150 additional ongoing local jobs created to run store operations

Ampol completes rollout of its upgraded Amplify Premium Fuels Ampol has completed the rollout of its upgraded and more environmentally friendly petrol and diesel product range, Amplify Premium Fuels.

The upgrade includes a new additive that helps increase fuel efficiency and reduces emissions by more effectively cleaning the fuel system when compared to fuel without the additive, as proven by a series of local trials.

The trials confirmed that the inclusion of the latest generation additive technology to Amplify Diesel improves fuel efficiency by up to four per cent,

Amplify Premium Fuels have been specifically formulated for Australian conditions

68 August/September 2021 | C&I | www.c-store.com.au

as well as reducing CO2 emissions by up to five per cent compared to the ongoing use of regular diesel. Similar trials with Amplify Premium Unleaded petrol yielded an improved fuel efficiency of up to two per cent compared to 91 RON unleaded petrol.

Ampol also tested the latest generation Amplify Diesel HD on local heavy duty mining equipment, where it delivered up to 3.9 per cent in fuel efficiency savings, up to 40 per cent reduction in particulate matter (PM 2.5 emissions) and up to 22 per cent reduction in hydrocarbon emissions when compared to ongoing use of regular diesel.

Patrick Luxton, Ampol General Manager Supply and Optimisation said that the upgrade of Amplify Premium Fuels forms part of Ampol’s strategy to deliver its customers world-class fuels.

“Amplify Premium Fuels have been specifically formulated for Australian conditions and our local trials have proven the inclusion of the new additive technology helps deliver a cleaner engine and reduced environmental impacts through reduced emissions.

“We have a long history of fuelling journeys for Australians, and we look forward to continuing to do so as we revitalise the iconic Ampol brand.”

The complete range of Amplify Premium Fuels are designed to help clean and protect the engine’s fuel system as you drive by removing power inhibiting deposits that form on the injector tips when using regular fuels.

Amplify Premium Fuels are available at all Ampol sites across the country.

More than 200 retail sites have been rebranded to Ampol since August 2020, with the entire network of more than 1,900 sites set to complete their transition by end 2022.

PETROL NEWS

7-Eleven’s investment in regional Australia continues

Ampol begins production and supply of Mobil lubricants Ampol has commenced with the production and supply of Mobil lubricants at its Queensland lubricant manufacturing facility.

The commencement of blending follows last year’s announcement that Ampol and ExxonMobil had entered a marketing alliance to blend, distribute, and market Mobil lubricants across Australia.

Under the agreement, Ampol will supply Mobil lubricants to retail and business customers through a combination of direct and distributor channels.

Brent Merrick, Ampol Executive General Manager, Commercial, said the commencement of blending is an important milestone in Ampol’s conversion to Mobil lubricants, with B2B customers expected to receive the new products in the coming months, and retail customers later in the year.

“Mobil’s lubricant technology is world-class, innovative and has decades of proven performance. Through our lubricants alliance with ExxonMobil, we are using our scale, Australian expertise, manufacturing capability and strong customer relationships to bring Mobil lubricants to Australian consumers and support our commitment to evolving our lubricants offer to meet changing customer needs.

“I look forward to bringing these products to our customers over the coming months as we complete our conversion to Mobil lubricants.”

Kum Fong Siew, ExxonMobil Asia Pacific Executive Director for South Asia Pacific Lubricants, said: “Over the last six months, we have worked closely with Ampol on their Lubricants Facility conversion to Mobil. Ampol’s robust quality control, testing techniques and adoption of ExxonMobil’s quality management system will ensure customers in the region will continue to receive advanced lubricants every time.”

The manufacturing, distribution and marketing conversion to Mobil lubricants is expected to be finalised by the end of the year.

7-Eleven Australia has opened its seventh store for 2021 in Woy Woy, NSW, continuing with its growth strategy, particularly across regional Australia.

The group has also announced further plans to open stores in Busselton in Western Australia, Shepparton in Victoria, and in Albury Wodonga on the Victorian and NSW border, before the end of 2021.

7-Eleven’s General Manager – Channel, Braeden Lord, said 7-Eleven’s significant investments in network expansion has created around 60 new jobs so far this year and there are many more to come.

“Regional expansion, like our new Woy Woy store, is a key priority for our business and is possible because of enhanced supply chain capability and innovation, which enables us to have the right store formats and offers available for customers,” Lord said.

“Our teams are working on a range of new formats and offers for customers.

In 2020 we piloted micro market format stores, launched our home delivery offer, and continued to experiment with new product ranges and digital services.

“The next 12 months will see us continue to adapt and trial a range of new innovations and formats in our network in partnership with our franchisees and suppliers.

“By investing in innovation, we provide new offers and opportunities for our franchisees to meet the needs of customers and to grow their businesses.”

The Woy Woy store follows the opening of stores in Metford NSW, Derrimut VIC, Rockingham Central WA, Willliam Street Perth WA, Eight Mile Plains Northbound QLD, and Mt Warren Park QLD earlier in 2021.

By investing in innovation, we provide new offers and opportunities for our franchisees to meet the needs of customers and to grow their businesses.”

7-Eleven has opened its seventh new store for 2021 in Woy Woy, NSW August/September 2021 | C&I | www.c-store.com.au 69

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