C&I Retailing Magazine February-March 2022

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CONTENTS

EDITORIAL

February/March 2022

14 26 06 FACE TIME

Andrew Poore, General Manager Sales

Australia & New Zealand, Pacific Optics

10 STORE REVIEW

International spotlight: Z service stations 14 CONFECTIONERY Nothing beats a sweet treat

18 PLANT-BASED MILK

Demand is growing for plant-based alternatives in the milk fridge

22 GENERAL MERCHANDISE

A less traditional approach to retailing general merchandise

26 SUSTAINABILITY PART TWO

The challenges, opportunities, and

importance of creating a sustainable future

30 PRODUCT RANGING

We bring you all the latest new product launches

76 OPINION

Theo Foukkare, AACS; Darren Park,

W

elcome to the February/March issue of Convenience & Impulse Retailing.

The team here at C&I is so excited that the time has finally come, and we are gearing up to host the long-awaited C&I Expo on the 30-31 March.

We have got an incredible line-up of speakers for our Symposium, including Skye Jackson, General Manager Merchandise, Ampol, Carolyn Creswell, Founder, Carman’s Kitchen, Kym Coventry, COO, Australian United Retailers, Leah Barroccu, Head of Field Sales, Nestle Australia, and many more. And Theo Foukkare, CEO, Australian Association of Convenience Stores, will be hosting the Symposium.

The two-day event will feature more than 100 stands with suppliers showcasing all of the latest NPD, and we are very excited by the number of visitor registrations that have been flowing through, so I look forward to meeting a lot of our valued readers and supplier partners there.

This issue of Convenience & Impulse Retailing brings the latest trends in confectionery, plant-based milk, general merchandise, and we bring you part two of our sustainability feature.

And, as always, we are very grateful to share valuable opinion pieces from Theo Foukkare, CEO, AACS, who discusses how the accessibility of vaping products on the black market is exploding because of the prescription policy. Darren Park, CEO, UCB Stores, discusses the evolution of service stations to roadside retailers, saying: “With non-fuel basket sizes growing, it’s time to further explore improving the in-store experience for your customers, because your business stands to win!” And Alexandra Kelly, Policy Manager, Electric Vehicle Council, discusses what the Federal Government could be doing to encourage the adoption of more EVs. We would like to thank everyone who was involved with this issue of C&I Retailing, and we look forward to seeing you all in Melbourne for the C&I Expo!

Cheers, Deb Jackson

UCB Stores; Alexandra Kelly, Electric Vehicle Council

82 INDUSTRY NEWS

Metro Petroleum; NZACS Peter Jowett winners; Menz Confectionery; Nestlé; ABS; AACS

92 PETROL NEWS

Dan Armes, ServoPro; United Petroleum;

Shell UK; Electric Vehicle Council; Ampol; OTR

4 February/March 2022 | C&I | www.c-store.com.au

Safa de Valois

James Wells

Keith Berg

Thomas Oakley-Newell

PRIME TIME

New software creating savings for suppliers and wholesalers MyBrandz Product Management Software delivers cost savings for suppliers and Wholesalers across the FMCG channel.

Developed by Karen Campbell over the past six years, MyBrandz has quickly become a ‘Must Have’ selling tool for The Distributors sales team.

Suppliers also get the benefit of access to ‘Widget World’ – a catalogue generating link to the MyBrandz PMS. To take a tour of everything MyBrandz simply go to www.mybrandz.com.au and click on the PMS link.

For more information contact Karen Campbell: Karen@mybrandz.com.au

Mars Wrigley Australia launches M&M’s Brownie

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

Group Publisher: C&I Media Pty Ltd Safa de Valois

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

Commercial Director: Safa de Valois

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.

IPL Retail Group introduces the Exotica collection with a wide range of heavenly fragrances, all made in the USA. Each mesmerising product in the collection is formulated by traditional and modern blends of fragrances and is made available in the form of sprays, gels, mists, vent bottles, hanging pouches and hanging strips to let you enjoy a relaxing and long-lasting freshness, be it at home or while travelling in your car. The Palm Tree Hanging Cards being the elite one for its versatile use and availability in a plethora of scents.

To jump into the world of exotic freshness visit: www.iplretail.com.au.

What a shot from Remedy!

Mars Wrigley Australia is delivering on its promise of customerled innovation from its Ballarat production facility with the launch of M&M’s Brownie.

M&M’s Brownie features a chocolate brownie centre wrapped in milk chocolate and coated in M&M’s classic thin crisp shell.

It is one of two new products to be launched by Mars Wrigley Australia over the past month, with the world-first recipe, Maltesers Popcorn also exclusively hitting Australian shelves recently.

Both are now available through the petrol and convenience channel and are the first of many new products expected to be released by Mars Wrigley Australia throughout this year.

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.

IPL presents heavenly Exotica Fresheners from the USA to the world

Remedy’s range of 60ml shots provides an incredibly efficient way to get a direct hit of wellness.

The sugar-free shots come in three flavours – Remedy Immune+, Remedy Digestion, and Remedy Energy. The shots provide a tasty way to receive benefits such as an immunity boost, easy digestion, or delivering an energy kick.

Rachel Lees, Marketing Manager at Remedy, said given the shots contain no sugar means they can be stored in or out of the fridge, providing retailers with a lot of flexibility on how they merchandise the product.

Remedy Shots are available now around Australia in major and independent supermarkets, 7-Eleven and a growing range of independent retailers.

Associate Publisher: Deb Jackson

Journalist: Thomas Oakley-Newell

Editorial Director: James Wells

Production Assistant: Natasha Jara

Editor at Large: Keith Berg

Graphic Designer: Alyssa Coundouris

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.

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Copyright © 2022 - C&I Media Pty Ltd.

Average Total Distribution: 21,108 AMAA/CAB Publisher Statement Period ending 31 March 2019 PROUD MEMBERS OF:

INFORMATION PARTNERS:

February/March 2022 | C&I | www.c-store.com.au

5

FACE TIME

Andrew Poore and his son Hunter modelling some Pacific Optics workwear socks back home in New Zealand.

FROM ESSEX TO OZ!

We get to know Andrew Poore, General Manager Sales Australia and New Zealand, Pacific Optics.

I’m a big fan of all sports, and now having moved to Australia I’m looking forward to finally attending my first AFL game.”

M

y name is Andrew Poore, and I was born in Essex in the United Kingdom – the home of reality TV show, The Only Way is Essex (TOWIE Real Life TV).

Growing up, I lived with my mum, dad, my younger sister Kerry, plus a very old cat that seemed to live forever!

I attended Hylands Comprehensive School, where you would always find me on the football (soccer) field kicking a ball around. As a child my life revolved around football, and football is still a constant in my life today, playing it or watching the English Premier League. The team I follow is Tottenham Hotspur.

I’m a big fan of all sports, and now having moved to Australia I’m looking forward to finally attending my first AFL game.

– Andrew Poore

I’ve come to Australia via living in New Zealand for many years with my beautiful wife, Tonya, and our two children.

6 February/March 2022 | C&I | www.c-store.com.au

Our daughter Sydney is currently studying her Masters in Criminology, and our son, Hunter, is in his final year of a Marine Engineer Apprenticeship. We lost our handsome German Shepherd in 2021, so currently we have no pets.

I’ve been fortunate enough to do a lot of traveling over the years and have seen many parts of this great world – but I’d have to say that California and the Greek Islands are my favourite places to visit.

I’m currently living in Queensland and have taken up the role of General Manager Sales Australia and New Zealand at Pacific Optics. But the role is really not so ‘new’ to me as my history with the company dates back to 2005. Most recently I was working as the General Manager of Signature Marketing NZ, which is the New Zealand based sister company to Pacific Optics.

FACE TIME

Andrew with his lovely wife Tonya Poore.

Modelling Aerial sunglasses.

I’ve worked in the route channel for more than 16 years, supplying general merchandise products through Signature Marketing NZ, and daily fresh foods when I was with Goodman Fielder. This is all a far cry from my childhood dream, which was to become a police officer when I grew up!

I’ve had many highlights throughout my career, but if I had to name just a few, one would be when I was named Most Valuable Staff Member at Goodman Fielder, and another would be Signature Marketing NZ being voted as the number one best supplier by Coalface NZ a few years ago.

In my new Trans-Tasman role, I will continue to lead the New Zealand business while residing in Australia and leading the Australian National Accounts team.

Pre-Covid, in my role as the General Manager of the NZ business, I was traveling to Australia at least once a month, so while I am already very familiar with the market, I am enjoying getting out and meeting customers. For me, the priority is always the customer and figuring out what we can do to improve our customer satisfaction. It’s about getting back to basics and truly understanding what our customer is looking for – because every customer and every business is different. Once you understand your customer, their needs, and their business plan, it’s then that you can figure out how we can help them to be more successful.

Building strong customer relationships is my passion and has been pivotal to the success of our NZ business. I hope to be able to inspire my new team at Pacific Optics Australia to share in that passion, and that together we can continue to build strong and successful partnerships with our customers.

Technology evolves at such a rapid pace that we need to make sure that we’re getting all our products to market at exactly the right time for our customers. It’s the same with our sunglasses, which are constantly changing with styles, colours, and lens variations.

Andrew Poore's children Sydney and Hunter Poore.

The Poore family's handsome German Shepherd Ryka sadly passed away in 2021.

In general, the convenience industry is continually changing and I’m loving the direction that it’s going. Service stations are now so much more than just somewhere to grab a pie and a drink! Our general merchandise products should be part of this grocery top up basket, particularly as we see more people working from home.

Our greatest test is to continue growing the convenience retail opportunity. We have benefitted from converting grocery shoppers into more regular convenience shoppers. So, the next challenge is to grow the size of that opportunity. The transition from being seen as a service station with a convenience offer to now being seen as a true convenience retail destination, is the greatest opportunity – and one that we are here to help our customers with.

For me, the priority is always the customer and figuring out what we can do to improve our customer satisfaction.”

– Andrew Poore

This all keeps me pretty busy, so I don’t have a lot of spare time at the moment, but when I do find some down time, you’ll find me kicking a football with mates, socialising, boating, or at the gym. If I could see myself anywhere in five years’ time, it would be traveling the world aboard my own boat! C&I February/March 2022 | C&I | www.c-store.com.au

7

If you supply goods or services to, own or work in independent grocery, a convenience store, service station, dairy, corner store or mini-mart, C&I Expo NZ is the one trade event you cannot afford to miss in 2022.

Attendance is FREE and you can register now at candiexpo.co.nz For an Exhibitor Prospectus or to discuss Stand options, please contact: Safa de Valois Group Publisher & Commercial Director safa@c-store.com.au +61 405 517 115

C&I Expo NZ will bring together convenience suppliers and retailers from all banners and brands for two days of education, networking and business building. You will taste, touch and see the very latest in NPD and merchandising services for the convenience industry.

For more information visit www.candiexpo.co.nz Association Partner

Silver Sponsors

P: 0800 455 785 | E: exhibition@candiexpo.co.nz

THE FUTURE IS Bright FOR C&I After 28 years of successful expos in Australia, the C&I NZ Expo made its debut in Auckland in September 2019. It was a huge success with incredible support and enthusiasm for the show from the NZ industry.

“We were absolutely blown away by the industry support for the inaugural C&I Expo NZ. The debut expo featured 70 exhibitors, huge foot traffic and over 220 industry professionals attended the Industry Symposium. We are looking forward to bringing the Expo back to Auckland in 2022 even bigger and better!”

– Safa de Valois, C&I Commercial Director

The Cloud, Auckland

STORE REVIEW

INTERNATIONAL SPOTLIGHT: Z SERVICE STATIONS

Z service stations will continue to evolve in 2022 with an updated design, layout, and food and beverage offering.

Above: Z service stations saw a 17 per cent growth in food and 12 per cent in coffee sales in 2021.

S

retail network in particular became much more important for neighbourhoods and communities as a safe, convenient way to buy food, coffee and household supplies such as bread and milk without having to confront a socially distanced supermarket.”

There are 197 Z service stations across the country, spread throughout towns, cities, and state highways. They are conveniently located within local communities and provide consumers the ability to park on-site, offering the option to both re-fuel their cars and themselves at the same location.

Irving said they have seen this trend continue as lockdown restrictions have eased and have recorded growth of 17 per cent in food and 12 per cent in coffee sales last year, but a real highlight has been the significant growth in their pre-order coffee through the Z App, which saw a 25 per cent increase from last year.

Abby Irving, Head of Convenience Retail at Z, said since Covid they are seeing more of their customers ‘living local’.

“Through the Z App customers can pre-order coffee and a range of other hot and chilled beverages before approaching a retail site, prepay for it through the app and simply collect and go.

While this has been around since 2018, we’ve noticed a greater reluctance from Kiwis to queue since the emergence of Covid and measures such as social distancing.

ince rebranding from Shell to Z Energy in 2011, Z service stations have been evolving their in-store offer to cater to the changing needs of consumers across New Zealand.

“Communities have become increasingly important since the pandemic began, given people were unable to leave them for relatively long periods of time during lockdowns. The role of Z’s 10

February/March 2022 | C&I | www.c-store.com.au

STORE REVIEW

Z service stations offer a safe, convenient way to buy food, coffee and household supplies.

Pre-ordering coffee through the Z App has grown by 25 per cent from the same time a year ago.

Z service stations offer an impressive range of vegan food, sausage rolls, smoothies, and award-winning pies.

“By listening to what our customers were telling us, we’ve been able to effectively promote our app-based coffee offer. This is proving an increasingly popular offer with sales via the app growing rapidly. It now accounts for around 20 per cent of our coffee sales.”

The fuel offering at Z has also been adapted, with Z building an ecosystem of ways for customers to pay according to which one suits them best at that time, which includes the pre-order coffee within the Z App. “We are continuing to look at ways for how we can use innovative technology to enhance the customer experience, including for our retail offering.”

The Z services stations food offer is also impressive, with a great range of vegan food available, from sausage rolls, smoothies, and award-winning pies.

“We are continuing to develop our food and coffee offering, and are planning to expand our fresh, healthy food range, alongside our existing and much-valued current offer.

We are continuing to look at ways for how we can use innovative technology to enhance the customer experience, including for our retail offering.”

– Abby Irving, Head of Convenience Retail, Z

“Everything on our menu is designed to be enjoyed on the go.

Whatever your tastes, there’s sure to be something that will fuel you up and get you going.”

In what was an uncertain year, Irving said they are incredibly proud of their retailers and teams who stayed open to fuel the emergency and essential workers, regardless of the Covid alert level restrictions.

Z service stations will continue to grow in 2022, with Irving revealing they are currently going through a “refresh” of their sites, working on updating the design, layout, and food and beverage offering.

“With fewer people travelling across the country and no international tourists, our highway sites have been impacted since the emergence of Covid. While this has been something beyond our control, we have taken the opportunity to prioritise some of these sites as we begin our refresh of the next generation retail stores. This will mean they are ready with a new layout and design to welcome customers back as restrictions ease.” C&I February/March 2022 | C&I | www.c-store.com.au

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CONFECTIONERY

SWEET SUCCESS

People may be more health conscious than ever, but nothing beats a sweet treat, writes Thomas Oakley-Newell.

W

ith the current movement towards better for you offerings, you could be forgiven for believing that the confectionery category is in dire straits, but you would be wrong.

Despite consumers now being more measured in what they’re putting into their bodies, the desire for a sweet treat will always be there.

That need from consumers is evident through the 11.4 per cent growth the category experienced in the first half of 2021, as displayed in the AACS 2021 State of the Industry Half Year Report.

While all sub-categories helped drive the category’s growth over that period, the biggest improver was sugar confectionery, up 22.1 per cent and 22.9 per cent in the second quarter.

Guy Bennett, Brand Manager at GC Brands (recently rebranded from Grocery Corporation), said that consumers aren’t necessarily looking to abstain from treats but are just making more considered choices.

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February/March 2022 | C&I | www.c-store.com.au

“Innovation offering functional benefits catering to those with dietary requirements is a huge space, and two of GC’s biggest launches into convenience in the next six months; Jelly Belly Vegan Chewy Candy and NOMO Chocolate are both vegan and allergen friendly.”

Stuart Alexander & Co., distributors of products such as Mentos, Hershey’s, Fisherman’s Friend, Werther’s, and Reece’s, is another company that is using the better for you trend to drive innovation.

Amanda Monzo of Stuart Alexander and Co. said they’ve noticed the emergence of the zero-sugar trend that has played out in beverages now reaching confectionery, as well as better for you products that have an absence of negatives.

“We’ve responded to this consumer trend with new Mentos Candy Sugar Free Chews 45g, available in two classic Mentos candy flavours ‘Peppermint’ and ‘Fruit’, made with no artificial sweeteners and in a recycle friendly cardboard flip top box. However, the trend to treat and indulge also continues to have an important role to play in helping consumers find balance in health and wellbeing.”

CONFECTIONERY

Innovation offering functional benefits catering to those with dietary requirements is a huge space.”

- Guy Bennett, Brand Manager, GC Brands Another trend recognised by GC is a consumer desire for brands with a nostalgic value, and with all that’s happening in the world it’s no surprise Australians are looking to reconnect with brands and products that remind them of a happier, simpler time.

“As with many categories over the past few years, Australians are returning in droves to brands they know and trust.

This is particularly felt for brands with strong heritage and nostalgia value. Amongst GC’s portfolio—Nerds, Jelly Belly and Gobstopper are brands which have gone from strength to strength over the past two years.

“Nerds’ core products, the 45g Grape/Strawberry box and 26g Rainbow Rope continue to delight sweet lovers while Jelly Belly’s range of 28g mixes have proven a hit with consumers who love to explore new flavours.”

THE YEAR UNWRAPPED Navigating the past 12 months hasn’t been easy for suppliers due to the obstacles presented by Covid, such as lockdowns and pressure on the supply chain in not only Australia, but around the world.

The AACS 2020 State of Industry Report revealed that although there has been a decrease of 7.5 per cent in merchandise transactions and fewer shop visits per week (2.4 down from 2.8 in 2018), when consumers do visit shops in the P&C channel, they are spending 8.4 per cent more per transaction.

Stuart Alexander & Co. is excited about the opportunities 2022 presents and has a range of new products hitting the market such as Mentos Sugar Free, Mentos Candy Circus Fun Roll, Chupa Chups Incredible Chews, Reese’s Nutrageous, and Reese’s Sticks.

“Mentos Sugar Free Chews 45g are available in two classic Mentos Candy Flavours 'Peppermint' and 'Fruit', made with no artificial sweeteners and in a recycle-friendly cardboard flip-top box. The new Mentos Candy Circus Fun Roll is a delicious treat with three well-loved circus inspired candy flavours: Swirly Mega-Pop, Toffee Apple, and Raspberry Snow Cone.

“Chupa Chups Incredible Chews 45g are a delicious, longlasting, soft chew available in popular Cola and Strawberry flavours, in a convenient stick format with each chew individually wrapped, representing an opportunity to attract incremental shoppers into the novelty category through expanding the lifecycle of Chupa Chups targeting tweens and teens,” said Monzo.

The addition of the two new Reese’s products comes as no surprise given Reese’s strong growth of +123.2 per cent over the past half-year.

“Reese’s Nutrageous is a milk chocolate peanut bar packed with whole peanuts, peanut butter and caramel. Perfect for a quick on the go snack. While Reese’s Sticks are a lighter eat, delicious milk chocolate coated crispy wafers, layered with Reese’s famous peanut butter.”

February/March 2022 | C&I | www.c-store.com.au

15

CONFECTIONERY

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

encourage engagement and trial, which can lead to building a lasting relationship between consumer and brand.”

P&C offers a vital platform that allows us to creatively communicate our exciting innovation directly to consumers.”

- Amanda Monzo of Stuart Alexander and Co.

EASE OF ACCESS The importance of the P&C channel to confectionery cannot be understated, and Bennett says it is vitally important to GC on several levels.

“Firstly, the bottom line. As a business with a strong confectionery portfolio, P&C makes up over 20 per cent of confectionery revenue making it significant to the bottom line. As a brand building business, it is even more important. For young brands P&C outlets offer the opportunity to reach new consumers and offer products in impulse formats to shoppers who are likely in a different mindset vs that of their grocery shop. For established brands, being available everywhere you go is crucially important to staying top of mind and appearing popular.”

Monzo said the P&C channel is especially crucial to Stuart Alexander & Co. as it is the homeland for its gum and mint brand Mentos.

“P&C also offers a vital platform that allows us to creatively communicate our exciting innovation directly to consumers.

With the support of retailers, we utilise in-store assets to

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According to the AACS 2021 State of the Industry Half Year Report, gum, mint, and medicated bounced back from an 11.4 per cent decline in 2020 to +14 per cent in the first half, which was driven by a very strong +33.1 per cent growth in the second quarter.

Offering advice to retailers, Monzo said retailers should stock brands and products that meet current sugar reduction and better for you trends, as well as those indulgent products that offer a small moment of joy into consumers days and enhance their sense of wellbeing.

“Beverages are also one of the most shopped merchandise categories in the P&C store, so help encourage impulse purchase by locating confectionery on your shopper’s path to the cold beverage fridges.

“Additionally, help build your shopper’s basket by encouraging a plus-one purchase via bundling complementary products such as coffee and mints, coffee and an indulgent chocolate or water with a sugar free treat.”

The AACS 2020 State of Industry Report showed that the channel has performed an increased role in the purchasing of ‘essential’ items with 47 per cent of shoppers using convenience stores instead of supermarkets, meaning a higher exposure to confectionery stocked within P&C. C&I

www.aacs.org.a u

PLANT-BASED MILK

MILKING THE MOMENT More and more plant-based milks are turning up in fridges, so why are people turning towards these plant-based alternatives, asks Thomas Oakley-Newell.

D

emand for non-dairy milk has risen over the past few years, with a growing number of plant-based options becoming available to consumers.

Where once it was just soy, there is now a fridge full of plant-based alternatives including oat, almond, coconut, rice, and even hemp.

This demand has been fuelled not just by consumers’ concern for their wellbeing, but with a desire to purchase a more ethical and sustainable product.

A study by the University of Oxford found that producing a glass of dairy milk creates nearly three times the amount of greenhouse gas emissions than any plant-based alternative and uses nine times more land.

David Tyack, Managing Director at Vitasoy Australia, believes there is a number of reasons why Australians are turning away from traditional dairy milk.

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“Consumers are choosing plant-based products for a wide variety of reasons, including sustainability, lifestyle choices or even taste preference. Plant-based milk is no longer niche, and now exists in over 40 per cent of Australian householdsi.”

Bex Sanders-Clarke, Head of Sales at Inside Out, says non-dairy milks are no longer just for those who are lactose intolerant, and while that could still be a reason, there are many others.

“There are the environmental factors. Plant-based milks tend to be lighter and lower in calories and saturated fat than dairy, so there is the health side. Also, given that the quality of non-dairy milk products has improved significantly over the last few years, a lot of people are now choosing it due to a taste preference.”

A new company that has identified the recent rise in plant-based milk, is hemp-based milk alternative h.alt, founded by Lauren Chapman, a long-time passionate influencer and campaigner for plant-based nutrition.

PLANT-BASED MILK

“I think people in the mass market are now looking for alternatives to dairy, but they have big expectations. Switching them to plant-based milk must start with coffee. They rightly want to retain their coffee ritual without changing taste or texture. They want health benefits (especially low in sugar), and they are looking for dairy alternatives that are better for them as well as better for the planet. I discovered hemp could deliver on all of this.

“One trend I have noticed when talking to people is the shift towards a more flexitarian or plant-based diet. A lot of people I know are doing meat-free Mondays or only drinking dairy milk on weekends to help reduce their carbon footprint and live a healthier, more balanced life.”

CATEGORY GROWTH Of all the variations available, Tyack says that oat milk is emerging as the biggest trend in plant-based milk, doubling in size over the last 12 monthsiii, while total plant milk in the P&C channel accounts for roughly $1 million in annual retail salesiv.

“Vitasoy Australia has 48 per cent market share in this space and is growing ahead of category value on an MAT basis to 26/12/2021 (16.3 per cent vs. 14.5 per cent)v. Our white milk take-home and flavoured milk on-the-go portfolios contribute equally to this,” says Tyack.

Sanders-Clarke agrees that oat milk has had the biggest impact in the category in recent times.

Chapman, knowing the health benefits of hemp, began making her own at home to go with her morning coffee, but quickly saw the gap in the market that her home-made milk could fill.

“Soy milk was the original non-dairy milk, but about six years ago, almond milk popped up as the new kid on the block. More recently still, oat milk has been the biggest disruptor in the category.”

“I knew for hemp milk to gain mainstream adoption we would need to create two products tailored to the most important usage occasions – one crafted with baristas to go perfectly with coffee and one that was developed with nutritionists for everyday use at home, in smoothies, cooking and poured on cereal.”

An obstacle Chapman believes she will face in getting h.alt to shelves, is convincing retailers and coffee shops why they need another plant-based alternative when they already have so many varieties.

The need for a plant-based milk to complement coffee is something Vitasoy has recognised, with penetration of plantbased on-the-go coffee options rising from seven per cent in 2017 to 24 per cent of all milk-based coffeesii.

“Given coffee is a key recruitment area for triallists, it’s critical that the milk used complements the coffee bean as well as the techniques and technology being used by both baristas and self-serve options. This has seen the rise of specially formulated plant-based products, which strive to deliver a perfect plant-based coffee, like the Vitasoy Café for Barista range,” explained Tyack.

“We believe hemp offers something the other alternatives have never been able to due to the natural limitations the other ingredients come with. H.alt hemp milk has the ideal taste and texture to complement the perfect coffee and from initial feedback – baristas and consumers are saying it’s the best tasting plant milk they have tried. Furthermore, it delivers on all the health and sustainability expectations from today’s consumers being low in sugar and carbon footprint.”

Consumers are choosing plantbased products for a wide variety of reasons, including sustainability, lifestyle choices or even taste preference. Plantbased milk is no longer niche, and now exists in over 40 per cent of Australian households.”

- David Tyack, Managing Director at Vitasoy Australia

Tyack believes the biggest challenge in the coming year will be how businesses respond in the current Covid environment and ensuring their business continuity plans are maintained and relevant. Despite this, Tyack says there is definitely opportunity.

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PLANT-BASED MILK

Soy milk was the original nondairy milk, but about six years ago, almond milk popped up as the new kid on the block. More recently still, oat milk has been the biggest disruptor in the category. ” - Bex Sanders-Clarke, Head of Sales at Inside Out

“The biggest opportunity remains the ongoing recruitment into plant-based milk via oat milk to leverage one of the biggest macro food and beverage trends, being plant-based nutrition.”

Whereas Chapman sees the fact that h.alt being one of the first to market hemp milks, is a great opportunity, as she has only come across four brands worldwide that offer hemp milk, but believes they represent the best of what hemp milk has to offer.

“I think our biggest opportunity is that we are the first to market hemp milk that has been crafted for baristas to really hero the taste of coffee. Our hero ingredient hemp has so many health benefits as well as being a carbon-negative crop, making h.alt milk a better option compared to other milk on the market.”

Sanders-Clarke believes they are lucky to be working in the plant-based category, which is seeing demand increase organically and that with the right strategy in place for its core range, and NPD, there is real headroom for growth.

“With more players in the category, consumers are looking for products that are more than just plant-based, they are looking to trusted brands and products that don’t compromise on taste, so the advice to retailers is to ensure you range trusted brands that taste great and offer non-dairy drinkers a variety of options.”

Chapman also acknowledges how brand loyal consumers are.

“We’ve identified that consumers of plant-milks are very brand loyal compared to other shopper segments and they will often hunt down their plant milk brand of choice and leave a cafe or retailer that does not stock their preferred brand.”

Sanders-Clarke says the P&C channel is very important to Inside Out as it has significant reach and forms a large component of the company’s plans. She also offers some advice for retailers when it comes to positioning and selling plant-based milk.

ALWAYS SPACE IN THE FRIDGE

“We’ve seen it work well when there’s a dedicated and central healthy/vegan destination in-store because the health-conscious consumer often isn’t visiting the standard drinks fridges.”

The P&C channel has long been a traditional stomping ground for on-the-go milk products and Tyack says that it still holds incredible importance in the plant-based milk category.

The sector will always play a key role in the behaviours of the Australian consumer, concludes Tyack.

“Given coffee is a big recruitment ground for plant-based milk triallists, this presents a huge opportunity for the P&C channel.

In a similar sense, the on-the-go format is also a massive opportunity to recruit new consumers using traditional iced chocolate and iced coffee offerings with popular plant milks including soy, almond, and oat.”

The category’s growth and prevalence due to Australia’s changing dietary preferences make it an important category for convenience, explains Tyack.

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“We’re seeing this increase post-Covid as people shift away from the mass supermarket experience. Having a credible portfolio that delivers on taste will naturally recruit both avid and curious consumers.” C&I Sources: i IRI Aztec, IHP Total Soy & Grain Household Penetration % MAT to 07/11/2021 ii Café Pulse Report: AUSTRALIAN CAFE MARKET PULSE REPORT 2021 iii IRI Aztec T. AU Grocery Value (000s) MAT to 26/12/2021 iv IRI Aztec T. AU Convenience Value (000s) MAT to 26/12/2021 v IRI Aztec T. AU Convenience Value (000s) MAT to 26/12/2021

TRY NOW Glycaemic Index (GI) value = 25

GENERAL MERCHANDISE

MAKE WAY FOR MERCHANDISE

Why a less traditional approach to buying general merchandise is good news for convenience and roadside retail, writes Thomas Oakley-Newell.

C

onvenience was king for consumers during the pandemic, with travel restrictions in place and a desire to avoid high-traffic locations, it was no surprise that we saw an uptick in the amount of people looking for items at convenience stores that they normally wouldn’t.

Daniel Avrahami, Director, Smooth Wholesales, has noticed an increase in “less traditional” products such as toys, activity sets, puzzles, kid’s books, LED torches and general novelty products.

“We attribute this to a change in how consumers view petrol and convenience (P&C) locations. In the past, consumers would see a petrol station as a place to fill up their car, get some milk and the newspaper and be on their way.

“Those days are gone, and consumers demand more from P&C operators. More specifically, they expect a well-rounded product offering that includes, attractive food and drink options, a wide range of mobile phone, smoking and auto accessories, the latest sunglasses designs, toys, games, novelty products and the list goes on!”

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Ben Coleman, General Manager of Commercial and E-Commerce at Pacific Optics, also recognised that customers who moved over to the channel for the first time over the pandemic were continuing to shop there.

“Customers who migrated and experienced the convenience channel for the first time during Covid are now staying with the channel since realising what was on offer. In particular, practical items such as reading glasses and work from home essentials like cables and headphones are being picked up by the new customers in the channel.”

Coleman said the P&C channel is what it what Pacific Optics is founded upon and what they are passionate about.

“The P&C channel is dynamic, and we are built around being agile to meet our customer and the channel’s needs.”

Yaniv Peleg, Director of Peleguy Distribution, said the P&C channel is extremely important as it currently generates 95 per cent of its business.

GENERAL MERCHANDISE LOOKING AHEAD With the future looking uncertain as ever, it will be curious to see whether consumers continue to shop within the P&C channel for their less traditional items or transition back to shopping centres and other retail outlets.

Woodland said Ampol sees the opportunity over the next year to keep the range relevant to their customers’ shopping missions.

“Whether that be the spare pair of sunglasses for the road trip, or the picnic cutlery on the way to the BBQ, our range of general merchandise products can service a number of unique customer needs. We’ve also recently updated our picnicware range, proactively ahead of state legislation, and see this being another opportunity in the year ahead to identify areas where we can reduce waste with a thoughtfully sourced range.”

Avrahami said that the channel had its fair share of challenges in 2021, such as supply-chain issues and rising prices, and while they expect this to continue throughout 2022, Smooth Wholesales did experience significant growth over the year and has forecast this to continue into 2022.

Customers are happy to spend money on a product that they wouldn't expect to find at a P&C store, such as toys, puzzles, games etc.

“This industry is where we excel, and we aim to help our customers make thousands of dollars in revenue every month.

We achieve this by having regular store visits and supplying a large range of products that are in high demand.”

“We see our growth being contingent on several factors, such as continuing to build strategic partnerships with Australia’s leading FMCG distributors in order to provide quality products at affordable prices. We are also working on growing the size of our account management team so we can provide the highest level of service to our increasing customer base.”

Peleg has noticed that customers seem to be happier to spend money on items they would not normally purchase from a convenience store or petrol station.

The current problems regarding the supply chain will certainly prove a hinderance over the next year, but Peleg believes that there are always opportunities in the market.

“People are starting to go to their smaller, local stores more often instead of the big supermarkets and shopping centres, even spending money there on their everyday groceries. We’ve also noticed that buyers get a much wider range of products at the P&C stores these days, such as phone chargers with wireless charging technology, Bluetooth earphones and gifts, which are usually more expensive than your everyday range.”

People are starting to go to their smaller, local stores more often instead of the big supermarkets and shopping centres, even spending money there on their everyday groceries.”

Jason Woodland, Delivery Services Manager, Ampol, said they have also noted a change in consumer behaviour across the channel more recently.

– Yaniv Peleg, Director, Peleguy Distribution

“Customers are shopping a wider range of our general merchandise category, with many Australians exposed to the offer for the first-time during lockdown. We’ve showcased to customers that we have a moderate range of general merchandise, and our convenient locations mean they can get in and out very quickly.”

Given the large number of Ampol service stations across the country, including the company’s 684 controlled retail sites and 1,881 branded sites, approximately three million consumers are exposed to their product range each week. When these customers encounter items that they may not expect to see, such as apparel, it can drive impulse purchases across the category.

“Segments of our apparel range have been performing well this year as we’ve found synergies with our sponsorships, including Ampol State of Origin and Red Bull Ampol Racing, to integrate supporter merch and novelty collectibles in-store. We have also seen products within recreational segments, such as fishing, recovering quite well from the previous year.”

Fuse Airbudz are a popular product distributed by Pacific Optics.

February/March 2022 | C&I | www.c-store.com.au

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GENERAL MERCHANDISE your customers is a sea of supplier stands and clip strips making your store look more like a messy market stall. It needs to be easily shoppable for the customer, so the task is effortless.”

Avrahami offered similar advice regarding the stocking of Smooth Wholesale products, including always keeping displays full and to order enough stock to keep up with customer demands.

“Always display product prices as customers want to know how much they are paying. If you have a promotion (e.g. ‘2 for 1’ or ‘50 per cent off’), then make sure this is displayed clearly and prominently. Display your fastest selling products in more prominent and convenient locations, for example on or next to the front counter.

Peleguy's Tiko Lighters are popular because they’re attractive, colourful, and functional.

Coleman said these supply chain issues will prove to be a problem for most businesses in the coming year, as well as the increase in costs of raw materials and logistics but have put in place measures to help counter the difficulties that may arise.

“We have dedicated teams here and overseas that help navigate the difficult waters and ensure continuity in our supply and timeliness of supply.”

“One of the biggest challenges will be to ensure we get enough stock from our suppliers when they do have stock, because there are currently issues in the market everywhere. We have also been having issues with courier companies not delivering some products on time.

“However, as always, there will be plenty of opportunities to increase the business. There are always new products that come to the market, new technologies and new fashions. We monitor the industry and global trends closely to be able to think ahead of the game and be able to supply and be a part of the next new thing. If you can analyse and predict the next must have product and you can find a way to bring it in time for the market requirement, the rewards will be significant.”

The best performing products at Peleguy are its phone accessories, such as its Vibe USB cables, explains Peleg.

“They are colourful, funky, and come in a variety of sizes to accommodate any style. Due to their versatility, the cables sell out from the stores time after time, generating a stable revenue for the shop owners.

Customers are shopping a wider range of our general merchandise category, with many Australians exposed to the offer for the first-time during lockdown. ” – Jason Woodland, Delivery Services Manager, Ampol

“It is vital for P&C operators to have a well-rounded product offering that expands beyond the traditional products that you would find in service station or convenience store. Consumer demands have changed, and they expect more from operators.”

Ensuring the products that Peleguy supplies and offers to its customers perform well is very important to Peleg.

“We educate the store managers about which products sell the fastest and advise them to have plenty of back up stock for those.

We tend to find that this is most necessary for phone accessories, lighters, air fresheners and pharmaceuticals as these are in very high demand at the moment.”

While the products are obviously very important, Peleg said the way retailers position these products certainly comes into play in driving sales.

“Make the shelves look attractive and eye catching, keep the products neat and clearly visible. Shelves must be full, always stock up on the more popular products to avoid the shelves looking empty. Don’t be afraid to over-stock on fast moving items, you don’t want to be left without stock and having customers asking for sold out items.”

Coleman shared the sentiment that placement is most definitely key, and that with consumers now becoming more familiar with QR codes they are now seeing these appear on more products.

“We would recommend staff in store scan these and learn a bit more about our products making it easier to field questions when customer come in.” C&I

“Not far behind these amazing products are our Tiko Lighters, both the Jet and USB range. Tiko Lighters are popular because they’re attractive, colourful, and functional.”

THE RIGHT FIT An important part of selling general merchandise is ensuring you have the correct products in the correct locations, something Woodland advises retailers to do when positioning and selling general merchandise in-store.

“My key message would be to understand the segments you want to play in and execute them well, ensuring you’re placing the right range in the right stores. The last thing you want to present to 24 February/March 2022 | C&I | www.c-store.com.au

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SUSTAINABILITY PART 2

GOING GREEN Companies examine the challenges, opportunities, and importance of creating a sustainable future for their business and the planet, writes Thomas Oakley-Newell.

26 February/March 2022 | C&I | www.c-store.com.au

SUSTAINABILITY PART 2

F

ollowing the interest in the sustainability feature in our December/January issue, C&I has decided to continue to talk to companies about the methods in which they are attempting to create a more sustainable, greener future for their business and the planet.

Now more than ever consumers are aware of the interconnected nature of our food system – its impact on our planet, its support for our communities and its ability to provide nourishment.”

Businesses and their sustainability models and targets are now being seen not as something companies can choose to be a part of, but as a necessity in ensuring the longevity of the world we live in.

Across the world, we are witnessing the effects of climate change and businesses are starting to take notice by implementing procedures that lessen the impact their model has on the environment.

KEY COMMITMENTS

- Colin Matthews, APAC Sustainability and ANZ Engineering Director, PepsiCo

PepsiCo has launched initiative PepsiCo Positive, which Colin Matthews, APAC Sustainability and ANZ Engineering Director at PepsiCo, said is the company’s strategic end-toend transformation with sustainability at the centre of how the company will create growth and value by operating within planetary boundaries and inspiring positive change for the planet and people.

PepsiCo Positive will drive action across three key pillars – positive agriculture, positive value chain, and positive choices, which are outlined by Matthews.

“PepsiCo is working to spread regenerative practices to restore the earth across land equal to the company’s entire agricultural footprint (approx. seven million acres), sustainably source key crops and ingredients and improve the livelihoods of more than 250,00 people in its agricultural supply chain.”

The PepsiCo Positive value chain will help build a circular and inclusive value chain. In 2020, PepsiCo committed to transitioning to 100 per cent renewable electricity globally by 2040 – PepsiCo ANZ is committed to 100 per cent renewable electricity by the end of this year.

By the end of 2022, consumers in Australia will also be able to recycle all their PepsiCo snacks packaging via their home curb side recycling bin for cardboard and plastic trays and REDcycle collection bins for soft plastic packaging.

“PepsiCo continues to evolve its portfolio of food and beverage products so that they are better for the planet and people. Last year, PepsiCo ANZ launched Smith’s Baked – a chip with 50 per cent less fat when compared to our Crinkle Cut potato chips.

And in 2019, we moved from palm oil to Aussie grown canola, removing 1,700 tonnes of saturated fat from Australia’s food supply per year. Seventy per cent of our snack portfolio complies with our goal not to exceed 1.3mg of sodium per calorie,” Matthews said of PepsiCo Positive choices.

Another company committed to bringing about change is Mars Petcare, whose key commitments include reaching Net Zero emissions by 2050, sustainably sourcing its ingredients, 100 per cent of its plastic packaging to be reusable, recyclable or compostable by 2025, as well as a social mission of increasing access to food, care, and homes for pets in need.

Colin Matthews, APAC Sustainability and ANZ Engineering Director, PepsiCo. Marika McCauley Sine, Global VP Sustainability, Mars Petcare said the company is on a mission to create a better world for pets, the planet, and people by bringing even more innovative, sustainable choices and services to pet owners around the world.

“We are transforming the way we work, from how we source raw materials like fish, beef and soy to our own operations – all with the aim of helping people and the planet thrive. At the same time, we recognise that addressing these issues is a generational challenge, which is why we are building lasting partnerships with NGOs, governments, and industry to help transform systems at scale.”

McCauley Sine said since 2017, Mars Petcare has played a leading role in the Cool Soil Initiative, which by 2023 aims to increase soil health and improve farm resilience across 700,000 hectares of land in north-east Victoria and southern NSW.

FACING CHALLENGES Many companies have now announced emission reduction pledges and environmental goals, with these targets not only reducing their impact on the environment but increasing their reputation in today’s society.

A growing number of consumers now demand that products are created in an environmentally sound manner, so it leaves the question, can companies afford not to have a public sustainability roadmap?

“Now more than ever consumers are aware of the interconnected nature of our food system – its impact on our planet, its support for our communities and its ability to provide nourishment.

Drastic shifts such as climate change threaten the health of our planet and communities and present challenges for our business.

As a company that sources crops from over seven million acres of farmland in 60 different countries, PepsiCo has deep roots in the global food system,” said Matthews.

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SUSTAINABILITY PART 2 To generate and drive innovation surrounding sustainability, Coles created Coles Nurture Fund, a fund which provides grants of up to $500,000 to small business to develop new marketleading products, processes, and technologies.

Since its inception in 2015, the Coles Nurture Fund has provided over 80 businesses with more than $28 million in financial support to help them introduce ground-breaking technology, establish new products, and drive innovation and sustainability.

Sally Fielke, General Manager Corporate Affairs, Coles, encouraged businesses with fewer than 50 full-time employees and turnover of less than $25 million in annual revenue to apply.

Mars Petcare is noticing a growing interest in sustainable products and services among pet owners.

We are transforming the way we work, from how we source raw materials like fish, beef and soy to our own operations – all with the aim of helping people and the planet thrive.”

- Marika McCauley Sine, Global VP Sustainability, Mars Petcare

By PepsiCo adopting these sustainability initiatives it will make the company better, faster, and stronger in the long run, according to Matthews.

“Working to transform the way we create shared value by operating within planetary boundaries and inspiring positive change for the planet and people will make us a better company, with purpose more deeply integrated into our business strategy. It will also make us faster and stronger, enabling accelerated growth and continued investment in our people, business and communities.”

McCauley Sine said Mars Petcare is noticing a growing interest in sustainable products and services among pet owners.

“Take alternative proteins as one example. According to a recent RaboResearch report, demand for insect protein as an ingredient in pet food could hit half a million tons by 2030, up from 10,000 tons today. In fact, our own survey of 1,500 cat owners across the United Kingdom found nearly half (47 per cent) would consider buying insect protein.

“In 2021 we launched Lovebug, the first insect-based cat food in the UK. These insects are grown on a farm that runs on 100 per cent renewable electricity and they are fed on 100 per cent surplus veggies and plants, reducing food waste.”

FOR THE FUTURE While we are already experiencing the effects of climate change right now, it will only get worse if nothing is done about it.

These companies, amongst others, are taking steps that many governments are not.

“We believe that there is an opportunity to change how the world produces, distributes, consumes and disposes of foods and beverages to tackle the shared challenges we face. We aim to use our scale, reach and expertise to help build a more sustainable food system; one that can meet human needs for nutrition and enjoyment, and continue to drive economic and social development, without exceeding the natural boundaries of the planet,” said Matthews.

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“At Coles, we aim to drive generational sustainability in Australia and one of the ways we believe we can do this is by funding innovative projects which make a significant difference – whether it’s increasing recycling and renewable energy, reducing water use or supporting the local production of Australian food and beverages.”

Past projects funded by the grants include Australia’s first quinoa processing facility, fence posts made from recycled plastics, and a state-of-the-art factory to grow grass indoors.

NSW agricultural businesses, Sawmill Circuit, was the beneficiary of a $455,000 grant in 2021, which allowed it to purchase a vacuum truck to collect manure from 18 dairy farms in Nowra so it can be transported to a biogas plant being built in the area and converted to renewable energy.

David Ryan of Sawmill Circuit said the support they received from Coles Nurture Fund will make a significant difference to the way in which dairy farms in the Nowra area manage effluent and encouraged other producers to apply if they needed funding for a unique or ground-breaking idea.

As part of PepsiCo introducing regenerative practices, Matthews explained that in South Australia, Mark Pye, who has been supplying potatoes to PepsiCo, which sources 100 per cent of its potatoes sustainably, has implemented an impressive composting system on his 600-acre farm.

“The composting system utilises waste to enhance the soil the potatoes are grown in. The compost (a mixture of wood, fibrous material, manure, straw, and water) is made on site with large mounds scattered across the farm that are managed closely – the compost is ‘cooked’ and turned at just the right time to ensure its efficacy. When added to soil the compost delivers nutritional, conditioning and water holding capacity benefits that result in higher yields and increased crop uniformity.”

McCauley Sine said Mars Petcare being family-owned allows it the independence to think in generations, not quarters, so they can invest in the long-term future of the business, its people, and the planet.

“Take renewable energy for example. There is a significant timescale involved in these types of deals, some of which span multiple decades and territories across the globe – we approach them with a mindset of delivering societal impact and making financial sense. This ladders up to our Net Zero ambitions which we’re looking to achieve by the year 2050.” C&I

C&I CHOICE

E• IC O

OICE • C&I C CH H &I

Started in the 1920s, the Duracell brand and company was acquired by Berkshire Hathaway Inc. in 2016. The iconic Duracell brand is present in more than 150 countries around the world. Its products serve as the heart of devices that keep people connected, protect their families, entertain them, and simplify their increasingly mobile lifestyles.

With a continued focus on innovation, Duracell has launched lithium coin batteries (sizes 2032, 2025 and 2016) with child protective technology with a bitter taste coating to the battery cell to help reduce the risk of children swallowing the battery.

Duracell has also embarked on lithium coin battery safety initiatives to raise awareness amongst parents and caregivers on the importance of practising lithium coin battery safety throughout the home.

30 February/March 2022 | C&I | www.c-store.com.au

C

Duracell: Providing power since the 1920s

C&I CHOICE •

Here at C&I, we love our cheesecake so we couldn’t go past the conveniently packed and delicious, Signature Desserts single-serve and twin-pack fruity cheesecakes as this month’s C&I Choice. They really are the perfect grab-and-go snack for customers wanting a cheeky treat and moment of indulgence.

Stocking Signature Desserts’ refrigerated fruity cheesecakes enables retailers to capitalise on the growing fast-food market and meet the consumer demand for innovative, ready-to-eat desserts.

When you order from Signature Desserts, you’re buying a slice of Aussie history.

It’s a family-founded, owned and run company based in Brisbane, Queensland.

From his industrial snack bar, Trevor Hansen started out selling his cheesecake in innovative, single-serve portions, individually packaged with a spoon.

Fast forward 20 years and the business now has the capacity to produce more than four million single serves per year and supplies to major grocers such as Woolworths and IGA, as well as the petrol and convenience channel.

Free of artificial colours or flavours, portions are supplied frozen and defrosted on demand. The fully prepared and sealed cheesecakes mean there are no foodhandling health issues, and you’re guaranteed a product that all your customers, from tradies to mums, and road trippers to school kids, will love.

The cheesecake range offers three different flavours – lemon, vanilla bean with strawberry coulis, and mango. It is known for its smooth and dense consistency that melts on the tongue.

Signature Desserts’ wide range of products is available for wholesale from PFD Distributors, and the company will be at Stand 200 at the C&I Expo in March 2022.

OICE • C&I C CH H I &

E• IC O

Pure indulgence from Signature Desserts

•C

PRODUCT RANGING

PRODUCT RANGING

Four’N Twenty launches category first Hi-Protein Traveller

The Hi-Protein Traveller is the beginning of some exciting new products launching in convenience stores over 2022.

Remaining the number one brand in the pie warmer, the Four’N Twenty Traveller range is the original and still the best.”

T

he iconic Four’N Twenty has introduced its latest innovation, the Four’N Twenty Traveller Hi-Protein Beef, providing consumers with 20 grams of protein per serve and even a four-star health rating.

The range continues to provide consumers with more options in the delicious, easy to eat hot snacking Traveller format for fans to enjoy anytime, anywhere.

The rise in health consciousness has grown as more consumers seek healthier lifestyles, incorporating more nutritious foods into their diets. Three out of four consumers look for options that are both healthy and taste great, but only a third are willing to sacrifice taste for a healthier option; this resultantly generates increasing consumer interest in irresistible snacks that offer the sought-after nutritional content, such as protein.

The new Four’N Twenty Traveller Hi Protein delivers 25 per cent more protein than the Four'N Twenty Traveller Classic Meat Pie. From those consumers on-the-go, to tradies picking up a quick lunch, the Hi-Protein Traveller is sure to hit the spot for many Four’N Twenty lovers.

Four'N Twenty continues to innovate and evolve with the new generation of tradie, who tends to be highly motivated, health conscious, fitness seeking, and looking for convenient snack options that don’t compromise on their health ideals.

Four’N Twenty found during recent market research that consumers are searching for a ‘better for you’ product in the convenience sector. The Hi-Protein Traveller is for those who are conscious of their protein intake and are wanting to enjoy their favourite convenient snack.

The Four'N Twenty Traveller Hi-Protein pies are a welcome addition to the Traveller range, loved by Australians. The

32 February/March 2022 | C&I | www.c-store.com.au

Hi-Protein Traveller is jam-packed with the classic Four’N Twenty beef filling and delicious gravy we all know and love, wrapped inside their famous golden pastry. With each HiProtein Traveller packed with 20 grams of protein per serve and a four-star health rating, consumers can now make more conscious choices at the checkout.

More than two-thirds of consumers agree that they regularly seek convenient, all-day grazing options. Four’N Twenty has reimagined a quick and easy variation, bringing all Australians a protein rich pie in the convenience of the popular Traveller format.

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

Remaining the number one brand in the pie warmer, the Four’N Twenty Traveller range is the original and still the best, offering many delicious options for consumers to enjoy. They can be sure to find a pie they love within the range.

The steady stream of new product launches is the result of Patties Foods Innovation Ecosystem, which leverages data-driven insights to develop new flavours and product formats that draw consumers into store, enhancing consumer acquisition and retention. The Hi-Protein Traveller is the beginning of some exciting new products launching in convenience stores over 2022.

Whether you’re looking for a snack, lunch, or something to tide you over between meals, the Four’N Twenty range provides delicious and satisfying meals that are great additions to every warmer, giving consumers even more options to choose from throughout the day.

SAVE THE DATE

exhibition@c-store.com.au

PRODUCT RANGING

Maximus Do-Cathlon premieres on Foxtel Maximus has found its way to Foxtel with the first-ever Maximus Do-Cathlon – a series of everyday challenges dialled up to the max.

The series premiered on Tuesday 1 February at 8.30pm AEDT on Fox Sports 503, and will also be played out across Fox Sports, Kayo, Kayo Freebies, and the broader Foxtel network.

Across six thrilling episodes, five former professional athletes and their best mates will compete in a series of challenges, each hoping to take out the Maximus Do-Cathlon title and win $10,000 for their nominated charity.

The five Aussie legends competing in the inaugural Maximus Do-Cathlon are former Olympic gold medallist swimmer Leisel Jones, former Australian cricketer and Fox Cricket expert Andrew Symonds, former dual athlete in AFLW and netball and Fox Footy’s Sharni Norder, former AFL player Josh Gibson, and former WSL athlete Joel Parkinson.

Continuing to close the loop: Another step in the right direction Asahi Lifestyle Beverages is pleased to share that its 600ml carbonated soft drink (CSD) range can now be enjoyed in a 100 per cent recycled plastic bottle.

The range includes Pepsi Max, Solo, Schweppes, and Sunkist. The brands will proudly hero the 100 per cent recycled and zero-sugar messages on their labels, to ensure consumers are aware of the exciting change.

The CSD range complements Cool Ridge water’s transition to 100 per cent recycled PET (rPET) packaging to proudly demonstrate Asahi Beverages’ commitment to ensuring a sustainable future.

Bianca Merrington, Senior Category Manager of CSDs at Asahi Lifestyle Beverages, said: “We know when consumers buy soft drinks it can sometimes be a bit of a balancing act

as they make choices around ‘better for you’ and ‘better for the environment’. We have been delighted with the performance of our zero and reduced-sugar products across all our core flavoured soft drinks with our ‘better for you’ offering meeting the wide range of consumer preferences.

“The move to 100 per cent rPET bottles and the clear label messaging also helps to promote a circular economy for plastics, allowing our consumers to enjoy our great brands in a sustainable way.

“Given Asahi Lifestyle Beverages carbonated beverages are growing ahead of the national measured convenience market in both volume (5.6 per cent MAT growth) and value (8.2 per cent MAT growth)¹, we are excited to give consumers even more reasons to buy our much-loved brands.”

IRI NARTD Measured convenience market, Volume and Value growth Total Carbonated Soft drinks, MAT End of Nov ‘21

1

34 February/March 2022 | C&I | www.c-store.com.au

Kate Taylor, Senior Brand Marketing Manager at Frucor Suntory, said the Maximus Do-Cathlon series is all about what you can achieve with Maximus.

“We wanted to bring this to life by showing Aussies working hard and having fun with their mates at the same time. With the help of a truly amazing agency team, we tried something different by making a TV show, rather than just a TV ad and we’re thrilled with the outcome.”

Fox Sports Head of Sports Partnerships, Kate Waugh describes the Maximus DoCathlon as a major coup for viewers.

“It’s a brilliant celebration of endurance, mateship and the Australian spirit of perseverance, competition and charitable giving. Brought to life thanks to a unique partnership with Maximus, this is essential viewing for sports fans and for anyone who enjoys a bit of competition with their mates.

We are excited to be bringing this must-watch series to screens in February and March.”

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KEEP HOLD OF YOUR RECEIPT. GO TO www.winwithmaximus.com.au FOR MORE DETAILS *Between 10/1/2022 and 31/3/2022 buy a bottle of Maximus from participating outlet, visit www.winwithmaximus.com.au, fill out registration form and upload photograph of your purchase receipt to find out instantly if you have won 12 months of Kayo Basic and go into the draw to your share in $30,000. Major prize draw to be drawn on 7/4/2022. Limited prizes available. Total prize pool up to $120,000. Non-transferable/cannot be used in conjunction with other Kayo Sports offers or via third party billing. After 12 month period, subscription will auto-renew at $25/mth, unless changed / cancelled. See www.winwithmaximus.com.au for full terms and conditions. Promoter is Frucor Suntory Pty Ltd (ABN 73 060 091 536) of Level 2, 5 George Street, North Strathfield NSW Australia 2137. Authorised under NSW Authority TP/01164. ACT Permit No. TP21/01757. SA Permit No. T21/1582.

PRODUCT RANGING

We’re so excited to introduce KitKat brand’s first Australian collaboration to the market and thrilled that it’s with iconic and beloved local cookie maker Byron Bay Cookies.”

KitKat combines the best of chocolate and cookie worlds

– Joyce Tan, Head of Marketing Confectionery, Nestlé

The KitKat team’s first Australian collaboration is answering the prayers of chocolate and cookie lovers!

K

itKat has announced its first collaboration with an Australian brand with the launch of the new KitKat Inspired by Byron Bay Cookies range.

With the sweet treat collab of the Summer, Aussies can now enjoy KitKat Inspired by Byron Bay Cookies in two flavours – Milk Choc Chunk and Triple Choc.

KitKat Inspired by Byron Bay Cookies – Milk Choc Chunk features crisp wafer fingers covered in white choc, topped with cookie pieces on a milk chocolate base.

For those looking for an extra chocolatey hit, KitKat Inspired by Byron Bay Cookies – Triple Choc features milk chocolate-covered chocolate wafer fingers topped with crunchy cookie pieces.

Both creations are available in a 170g block (RRP $5) with KitKat Inspired by Byron Bay Cookies – Milk Choc Chunk also available in a 45g bar (RRP $2) and KitKat

36 February/March 2022 | C&I | www.c-store.com.au

inspired by Byron Bay Cookies – Triple Choc available in a 65g bar (RRP $2.50).

Nestlé Head of Marketing – Confectionery, Joyce Tan, said the new range will transport Aussies to their own beachside Byron Bay break.

“We’re so excited to introduce KitKat brand’s first Australian collaboration to the market and thrilled that it’s with iconic and beloved local cookie maker Byron Bay Cookies. We know Aussies will love these tasty additions to the KitKat range.”

Byron Bay Cookie Company Director, Bill Quayle said: “We are thrilled to be partnering with a global brand like KitKat to create such a delicious collaboration.”

The two new flavours are available to purchase in supermarkets and convenience retailers nationally, as well as online, in-store and within a hamper from KitKat Chocolatory.

PRODUCT RANGING

The BUDS™ family • 113g BUDS Burgers • 40g BUDS Slider Patties • 400g BUDS Mince

Plant-based start-up All G Foods newest creation is Buddy Good!

All G Foods is an Australian-owned alternative protein start-up primed to shake up the plant-based meat industry with its all-new ‘Buddy Good’ BUDS Burgers.

BUDS Burgers are All G Foods’ latest addition to the range and are ready to be a game-changer, by offering health-conscious, vegan, or vegetarian consumers the opportunity to steer clear of meat while not missing out on the flavour.

BUDS Burgers are produced in Melbourne at the only dedicated plantbased meat line in the country, so there’s no need to worry about cross contamination with meat products, meaning consumers will be left with peace of mind and a full belly.

Just because meat isn’t on the menu, it doesn’t mean you need to sacrifice on protein or any other benefits. BUDS Burgers contain 19.5g of protein per serve, are gluten free, a great source of fibre, contain no artificial colours, flavours, or preservatives, and of course, are vegan friendly.

Coming in a pack of two 113g patties, each with a 9.5cm diameter, BUDS Burgers are one of the leading nutritional options in the market, and with a sixmonth frozen shelf life, it means you’ll never be stuck for a meal option again.

An All G Foods spokesperson described the process that goes into creating the BUDS Burgers, and the comparison to a traditional meat patty.

“Soybeans grow quickly. They’re pluck-worthy and plump with protein around 50 days after planting. Burger meat comes from mature or purposereared cows around 18 months old.

“To get the soy protein, these humble beans are harvested, then using technology called extrusion, are turned into Textured Vegetable Protein 38 February/March 2022 | C&I | www.c-store.com.au

(TVP). Cows grow protein fed by plants, which is then cut off and labelled as meat, the prime cuts are taken, leaving lean and fat trimmings to produce ground beef.

“Each protein is then transported to a factory and combined with all other ingredients. Both meat patties and BUDS patties are made with a similar number of ingredients, next they’re mixed and formed into the convenient shapes people love.”

All G Foods was founded by entrepreneur Jan Pacas, and with science and technology at the centre of everything that they do, the company has an impressive line-up of investors onboard, securing an exciting food future for the Australian food service sector and its consumers.

All G Foods’ extensive range of plant-based meat products are already making waves across the country and include products such as BUDS plant-based slider patties, which are perfect for a smaller meal, and the massively popular BUDS plant-based mince, which is an incredibly versatile substitution to any meal that uses traditional mince.

Chefs across the nation have embraced All G Foods' plant-based product line as more and more consumers are embracing the flexitarian food movement.

With its first product launch well seeded into the café and on-premise market, Love BUDS burger patties, sliders and mince can now be found in more than 500 cafés and restaurants around the country with this number continuing to grow.

Order your free sample now at www.weloveBUDS.com/request-a-sample or contact salesenquiries@allgfoods.com.

PRODUCT RANGING

Mildura launches Sparkling Fruit Drink range Australian owned and produced fruit drink maker, Mildura, has launched a new range of sparkling beverages in three flavours, Orange & Passionfruit, Orange & Mango, and Tropical.

Best known for its chilled fruit drinks, the Mildura Sparkling range offers a burst of flavour and will be a refreshing alternative to alcoholic beverages.

Darryn Wallace, Executive General Manager, Bega Beverages, expects the new sparkling range to be a hit with Aussies.

“With COVID-19 restrictions easing across Australia, Mildura is excited to be launching a product that is designed to be social and served in the company of friends and family.

“We’re taking Mildura beyond Aussie homes this summer and heading to the beach, where Mildura Sparkling can be enjoyed as a refreshing, fruity burst of flavour,” he said.

Made in Australia, Mildura Sparkling comes in 330ml cans, which are 100 per cent recyclable and are available from selected Coles, IGA and petrol and convenience outlets across Australia for RRP $2.50 per can.

Smith’s Double Crunch: Maximum flavour with twice the crunch The new range of chips from Smith’s is packed full of flavour with double the crunch in every chip.

Smith’s Double Crunch is available in three fully loaded flavours: Original, Ultimate BBQ Ribs and Hot & Spicy Chicken Wings. Built for maximum crunchability, Smith’s Double Crunch has full on flavours, deeper ridges and has two times the crunch of Smith’s iconic Crinkle chips.

Smith’s Senior Brand Manager, Sam O’Donnell said: “We know Aussies are on the lookout for a snack that’s going to change the chip game and Double Crunch is exactly that snack… there’s no escaping the crunch.”

Smith’s Double Crunch is available nationally now for RRP $3.75.

February/March 2022 | C&I | www.c-store.com.au

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INDULGENCE It’s all about convenience Visit us on Stand 200 at C&I Expo

Signature Desserts has been supplying our unique single serve desserts to the Australian market since 1995.

Our range of Cheesecake and Mousse products are designed to meet consumer demand for delicious, convenient, ready-to-eat desserts.

Our range for Foodservice and Retail includes Australia’s favourite flavours of Chocolate, Vanilla, Mango, Strawberry and are proudly all natural – we do not use any synthetic flavours or colours.

With an attractive starting RRP of $2.99 our Mousse and Cheesecake SKUs are available in single and twin packs, making them easy to display, sell and consume.

For sales enquiries contact your Category Manager at PFD Distributors For further information contact: trevor@signaturedesserts.com.au Phone +61 7 3395 6633 Mobile +61 413 126 107

PRODUCT RANGING

TIKO – Jet and USB lighter specialist Since being introduced 10 years ago, Tiko lighters have made a significant impact in the 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 on 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 latest coil technology and a newer dual Arc technology throughout the more premium ranges.

Currently, Tiko has more than 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 all, 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.

More bang for your buck Get more data for less. Only pay for what you need, not all the other stuff. No contracts. No hidden charges. It’s good to go mobile without all that other hoo-ha.

No worries mobile

Set and forget with gomo mobile. Backed by a trusted network, we are a simple straight-forward bunch, so you get exactly what you want. It’s no worries mobile.

Get app and go

Download the app and activate your subscription without any of the usual telco malarkey. It’s simple to use or get help. Happy Days with gomo.

42 February/March 2022 | C&I | www.c-store.com.au

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 !""#$ #%&' ()*(*++ ���� ��������� �� ������ ���� ���� � ������ ��� ����� ��� �������� ��������� �� ����� ����� �� � ����� ������� ���� ����� ���� �� ��������� �� ���� ����� �� ��� ��� ����� �� ���� �������� ���������� ������� ������� ������ ����� ����������������������������������������� �� ������� �������� ������� �� ���� ��� ���� ����� �� ��� �������� ��� ����� ����� ����� ������ ������� ���� ��������� ������

PRODUCT RANGING

There is no doubt Australians love coffee – per capita we consume approximately 1.9kgs of coffee per annum.”

For more information contact: NSW: JoAnne Wheeler 0414 904 392 Joanne.Wheeler@freshfood.com.au QLD: Simon Dempsey 0414 780 773 Simon.Dempsey@freshfood.com.au VIC/TAS: Andrew Campbell 0427 215 190 Andrew.Campbell@freshfood.com.au SA: Kari Stoker 0414 749 317 Kari.Stoker@freshfood.com.au WA/NT: Gavin Radford 0427 241 345 Gavin.Radford@freshfood.com.au 44 February/March 2022 | C&I | www.c-store.com.au

The House of Robert Timms Coffee Bags: A no mess, no fuss solution The House of Robert Timms Coffee Bags are expertly roasted, ensuring a 100 per cent barista quality experience in every cup.

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stablished in 1951, The House of Robert Timms has a range of roast and ground and soluble coffee to suit everyone’s needs including its convenient to use Coffee Bags.

The House of Robert Timms Coffee Bags are ideal for those who are looking for a hassle-free solution without having to compromise on the quality and flavour of the coffee. The single-serve Coffee Bags are targeted towards consumers who have a preference for fresh, high-quality coffee and convenience with a quality taste and ease of use.

The blends are expertly crafted and roasted in Concord, an inner west suburb of Sydney.

Available in four variants including Gold Colombia, Italian Espresso, Mocha Kenya, and Decaffeinated, the Coffee Bags are individually sealed, ensuring freshness to give a 100 per cent barista coffee experience every time.

The House of Robert Timms Coffee Bags are available in retail pack sizes of 8s, 18s and 28s.

A spokesperson explained how The House of Robert Timms Coffee Bags provide a “no mess, no fuss solution” for Australian coffee drinkers.

“There is no doubt Australians love coffee – per capita we consume approximately 1.9kgs of coffee per annum. The average Australian consumer drinks approximately 14 cups of coffee per week.

“Premiumisation is crucial in countries where population growth is slow and coffee markets are mature, such as Australia. In addition, consumers are looking for convenience found in single serve coffee.”

Coffee bags positively contribute to the wider coffee category as they add incremental sales for retailers. In major retailers on a MAT basis, coffee bag sales are showing strong double-digit growth.

For all enquiries, contact The House of Robert Timms’ friendly customer service team on 1800 888 996.

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PRODUCT RANGING

Amaysim – is this the most loved telco?

Amaysim not only provides big customer love but also the best value plans on offer in Australia.

A

t amaysim, 11 years of pioneering Big Love within the telco industry comes with certain responsibilities. With award-winning customer service, amaysim goes above and beyond to show ‘Crazy Customer Love’ by providing great value, frictionless connection, and what customers need most: no lock-in contracts, more data for their buck, access to the Optus 4G Plus network and surprising bonuses.

In other words, the amaysim SIM is a little love machine, powered by customer love.

It explains their market leading NPS at +57 and according to Google’s Five Star rating, sitting at 4.6/5 Stars, holds the position as one of the top telcos in the country. It’s the fourth largest mobile service provider, servicing more than 1.2 million subscribers. It exists to courageously champion its customers, giving them amazingly simple connectivity, smart tools, DIY account management, and transparent products with a whole lot of heart.

Not only does amaysim show big customer love but it loves providing the best value plans on offer. And its latest offers are no exception.

New plan offers from 1 February 2022*: • 55GB for $30/28 days (includes 30GB +25GB Bonus Data on first renewal) • 4GB for $12/28 days (includes 2GB +2GB Bonus Data on first renewal) *These offers will end April 2022 Amaysim always reviews its plans to make sure that customers are getting the best value telco products in the market.

It’s no wonder customers love amaysim with offers like this and to top it all off the new unlimited data banking feature was launched recently for all customers – one of the only telcos in market to provide such an offer to customers.

Where most other telcos cap their data banking allowance, customers on amaysim plans can rollover their unused data for as long as they like, with no expiry 46 February/March 2022 | C&I | www.c-store.com.au

period unless their plan is cancelled, their phone number is ported to a different provider, or they change their plan.

Amaysim’s data banking launch adds another powerful feature to what are already some of Australia’s best value mobile plans. Alongside its unlimited talk and text and the impressive international call inclusions, the new unlimited data banking feature ensures amaysim customers are able to stay connected to the friends, family, and things that matter most to them.

It’s easy to understand why amaysim is no stranger to awards and was recently rewarded for the Big Love they show customers, after taking home Canstar Blue’s Outstanding Value Award in the Prepaid Mobile Plans category for 2021.

Beyond providing amazing value, amaysim really cares about its customers and to show its support, amaysim’s Big Love Legends was created in May 2021 to support the social and community issues that are most important to its customers. The program kicked off with a call out for customers to put forward the impact initiatives and causes they are involved with in their communities, with amaysim offering a range of support to the selected finalists.

With more than 80 applicants responding, including not-for-profit organisations, community-based initiatives, and social innovation programs, amaysim announced six finalists who will all work closely with the brand over the next 12 months to champion the causes that mean the most to customers.

Amaysim continues showing Big Love to its customers and the Big Love Legends community program is another tangible and meaningful demonstration of how amaysim puts customers at the heart of everything it does.

Amaysim is more than just a telco and Big Love is at the heart of everything it does!

Should you want to know more about amaysim and what it can do to grow your business, contact James.So@amaysim.com.au or call retail support on 1300 922 312. For more info about amaysim visit www.amaysim.com.au.

PRODUCT RANGING

Joyroom Smart Dual-Port Fast Charger – the wise purchase of gadget lovers Gadget lovers out there! This smart dual-port charger is one valuable product among thousands of trending products offered by the Australian-owned IPL Retail Group to keep your phone charge-ready in a quick span of time.

This smart charger is the culmination of years of experimenting with ways to improve charging speed, efficiency, and safety. While adding trendsetting features, the designers have paid attention to keeping the design simply stylish and compact for easy use and portability. The multiple safety features are a feather in the cap.

Efficiency and speed are the two main features that make this a wise option for every gadget lover. Delivering an 18W power output and supporting both PD and QC 3.0 fast-charging protocols, the charger has built-in dual ports for simultaneously charging two gadgets while the quick conducting and heat dissipating H62 copper plug optimises the charging efficiency and speed. Another aspect that makes it a worldwide accepted accessory is the output voltage that ranges from 100V to 240V, making it compatible with the standard voltage of various countries.

Here comes the protective features that make this charger stand out from the penguin pack. The built-in intelligent control circuit IC protects your costly phone from eight types of mishaps and prevents it from getting damaged by any means while charging. The smart design includes electrostatic protection, battery overcurrent protection, output overvoltage protection, intelligent output identification, output overcurrent protection, input overcurrent protection, short circuit protection, charging time protection.

Apart from the performance, the stylish compact design catches the attention of customers. This compact charging device looks stylish with a luxurious white finish and high-quality fireproof PC material with a fire-resistance capacity of UL94V-0, which provides you with a safe and harmless charging environment for your gadget. A charger perfect for various phones.

Visit www.iplretail.com.au for more details about this and various trending products.

Joyroom car phone holder and wireless charger Making it easy to power your phone while you drive Keep your phone ready to go whenever you want it. In today’s world, we are prone to using our phones while driving for navigation, music, and phone conversations, all of which can divert our focus away from the road and drain the battery too. IPL Retail Group, the Australian-owned and operated retailers who are dedicated to offering quality products in various categories, offers this stylish and efficient wireless charging phone holder at a pocket-friendly price tag – to make your drive safer while also allowing you to charge your device while on the road.

It comes in a sleek and stylish design made of ABS and anti-fire PC materials in a black finish that complements nearly all automotive interiors. The ergonomic design features a soft silicone cushion that provides non-slip support for the phone while the high-end automatic induction locking system securely holds the phone to avoid accidental falls, without damaging or scratching the

phone. Also, the design makes it easy to pick and place your phone with a single hand.

Apart from its luxurious design, it ensures effective charging without the mess of tangled wires. With the option to install either in the air vent or dashboard, this charger has a built-in Qi-standard wireless charging ring and a high-efficiency capacitor for super-fast charging, even with the phone cover on. To make sure that heating doesn't degrade its efficiency, the designers have built the charger with a heat dissipation hole in the rear end and an intelligent over-heat protection chip.

Compatible with almost all 4.5inch-6.8inch phones, this charger takes its power via the Type C interface. Further, the Qi certification and authorisation of the International Wireless Charging Union assures its quality.

To own this much-needed accessory and to get to know the latest products trending in the market visit: www.iplretail.com.au.

February/March 2022 | C&I | www.c-store.com.au

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NURTURING IDEAS FOR YOUR BUSINESS

POST OFFICE

CONVENIENCE STORE

PETROL STATION

NEWS AGENCY

WHO WE ARE

Making in roads to the environment of Retail we have gained experience in fuel, retail and convenience industry and want to share it with you to make better buying decisions for your business. Give our team a call to have the Wholesalers experience in your business.

QUALITY PRODUCTS AT LOWER PRICE

We along with our trusted customers have access to a varied range of products at competitive prices to help you generate more sales and higher profit margins. In terms of products, our staff have the highest knowledge to get quality hot selling products.

NO MINIMUM SPEND

To suit the needs of small to big business, we have a no-minimum spend policy to get the stocks without burdening our clients.

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Wesite: www.iplretail.com.au

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Tel: 1300 176 078

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Email address: accounts@iplretail.com.au

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Address: 5/1 Bowmans Road, Kingspark NSW 2148 Australia

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Email address: accounts@iplretail.com.au

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Address: 5/1 Bowmans Road, Kingspark NSW 2148 Australia

PRODUCT RANGING

Yog’n Oats captures breakfast opportunity Breakfast is a growing opportunity in the petrol and convenience channel and yog’n oats is the perfect way for retailers to capture it.

T

he breakfast occasion has by far been one of the most challenging in convenience. Retailers across the country have invested significant resources to drive the breakfast occasion, however, with limited success.

One thing that convenience retailers have done extremely well and grown is hot coffee. Offering blends, price points and convenience, retailers have attracted the ultra-connoisseur to the budget consumer.

Breakfast is the most important meal of the day, and this is an opportunity for all retailers. The morning traffic at the servo is by far the busiest and most profitable. The Australian geography coupled with relatively low people density makes fresh and chilled a challenging ask to deliver on.

I am COMPANY recognised the opportunity in the breakfast/snacking arena and worked tirelessly to develop a range of products that would suit a cross-section of demographics, ages and genders. Following 18 months of product research and development, yog'n oats was born.

Yog’n oats is a product that is ready-to-eat and made from fresh yoghurts, oats, real fruit, nuts and seeds. A brilliant balance of all these ingredients that are mixed to create a 180g pot that consumers can pick up and enjoy for breakfast, as a snack or at any time. Oh, and did we say it comes with a spoon? Yes it sure does!

I am COMPANY is the disruptor in the yoghurt category, and will grow the market and category with products that offer a solution to consumers and retailers. The company’s size gives it the agility to create and launch products that are not mainstream in any way.

More than 21 flavour variants were tested for yog'n oats, and after multiple rounds of consumer testing and research, it launched with four unique flavours: Blueberry Coconut, Cranberry Walnut, Apple Cinnamon, and Apricot Almond.

50 February/March 2022 | C&I | www.c-store.com.au

The yog'n oats range is the first of its kind in Australia that brings together the yoghurt and cereal categories. Many of its ingredients are sourced from Australian growers and suppliers with at least 86 per cent of ingredients from our homeland. Moreover, products have achieved a minimum of Four Health Star Rating across the range. The yog'n oats range has 11g of natural protein and 4g of digestible fibre in every pot, which keeps you fuller for longer.

A spokesperson told C&I that yog'n oats has gone from strength to strength since launching in Melbourne in March of 2021, and now has distribution to more than 120 stores, primarily being petrol and convenience.

“The feedback from consumers has been very promising with repeat purchases and adoption to this new hybrid category. On average our range performs around 6-7 UPSPW and then we have busy stores that sit around 12-14 UPSPW. One of our retailers in Victoria said Yog’n Oats has outperformed every single yoghurt they have ever ranged and now the range does better than all yoghurts combined. This is super encouraging for a new business that has invested in its own manufacturing facility and works closely with suppliers and retailers to ensure the quality of the product is never compromised.

“We engaged CMA to assist us with consumer research and a huge thank you to Corinne Barclay for running the sessions. The key take out for us was the acceptance of our range with an intent to purchase as ‘high’ with consumers willing to pay up to $4.60 for a pot (RRP $3.75).

“Consumers expect the product to be available at front of store fridges and alongside sandwiches (CMA Research 25 August 2021).

“Our distribution into stores and states continues to grow every day and we are now available in Victoria, New South Wales, South Australia and Queensland.”

To range this product in your store, email info@iamcompany.com.au or call 1300 096 414. Visit iamcompany.com.au for more information.

of Australians miss breakfast everyday

Yog’n Oats keeps you Fuller for Longer when you’re on the go

A perfect mix of yoghurt, oats, real fruit, seeds & nuts.

Breakfast/snacks have never been more convenient & healthy.

For ranging this product, please email: info@iamcompany.com.au or call 1300 096 414 www.iamcompany.com.au

PRODUCT RANGING

We’re thrilled to bring these three new flavours to life. Whether you’re entertaining friends, going to the movies, or having a night in, it’s sure to be love at first bite!”

– Joyce Tan, Head of Marketing Confectionery, Nestlé

Rolo and Allen’s announce the sweetest line up of the year T

Nestlé is kicking off the new year in sweet style with not one, but three delicious new bite-sized favourites.

he team behind Rolo and Allen’s has launched three new additions to the popular Bites range that will have everyone coming back for more.

Aussies will be able to get their hands on some new bite-sized flavours including Rolo Bites, Allen’s Bites Mini Dark Chocolate Raspberries, and Allen’s Bites Chocolate Coconut Rough.

Due to popular demand the delicious Rolo will now be joining the range. Rolo Bites with runny, gooey caramel inside a mini cup of creamy milk chocolate is sure to be a new fan favourite.

Joining the wildly successful milk and white chocolate bites, the Allen’s team is adding dark chocolate to the range with Allen’s Bites Mini Dark Chocolate Raspberries

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February/March 2022 | C&I | www.c-store.com.au

– delicious Allen’s raspberry flavoured lollies covered in decadent dark chocolate.

Inspired by Golden Rough, Allen’s Bites Chocolate Coconut Rough features roasted coconut pieces covered in irresistibly smooth milk chocolate.

Nestlé Head of Marketing – Confectionery, Joyce Tan, said: “The Bites range has become a go-to treat in Aussie households. We’re thrilled to bring these three new flavours to life. Whether you’re entertaining friends, going to the movies, or having a night in, it’s sure to be love at first bite!”

Australians can grab the delightful new Bites on shelves nationwide at supermarkets and convenience retailers at RRP $4.50 a pack.

PRODUCT RANGING

UP&GOTM introduces two exciting new products UP&GO has expanded its extensive range with the addition of two new products, UP&GO Dairy Free Vanilla Ice Flavour 350mL and UP&GO Protein Energize Strawberry Flavour, with both ready to appeal to two rapidly growing markets.

The delicious UP&GO Dairy Free is primed to become a staple in one of the fastest growing health trends in the Australian market.

Whether consumers are adhering to a vegan, dairy-free, or gluten-free diet, UP&GO’s new Dairy Free Vanilla Ice Flavour 350mL is the drink to look out for. Packed full of protein, calcium, and fibre, with 10 essential vitamins and minerals, it’s ideal for the one in six consumersi who are steering clear of dairy altogether.

The second mouth-watering addition is the UP&GO Protein Energize Strawberry Flavour, featuring three nutrients that

consumers are on the hunt for – protein, fibre, and calcium, all while starring a scrumptious strawberry taste.

UP&GO Protein Energize is going from strength to strength; it’s the fastest growing brand in the protein segment, has contributed the highest dollar growth on the previous year, and has a 23.9 per cent share of the segment, an impressive 6.9 per cent improvement on the previous yearii.

UP&GO Protein Energize ensures you have the right type of energy to tackle whatever the day holds, whether that be hitting the gym or heading to the office.

With consumers looking out for their health more than ever before, finding an on-thego option that offers fibre and protein with low GI* has never been easier. All UP&GO products are low GI – for the GI value of each product, please check the pack.

Sources: i CSIRO 2019 ii Nielsen MAT AU Conv Scan 11/07/21; New Nutrition Business, 10 Key Trends in Food, Nutrition & Health, Nov 2018 *Glycaemic Index (GI) = 25, UP&GO Protein Strawberry *Glycaemic Index (GI) = 48, UP&GO Dairy Free Vanilla Ice

CADBURY’s Easter range returns with a fresh new look CADBURY is bringing an impressive range of delicious Easter treats to shelves featuring all the fan favourites in a brand-new look and feel, and a fantastic line-up of new products.

CADBURY’s Easter selection will have chocolate lovers hopping with happiness with CADBURY’s iconic Easter bunny now available in a delicious new format. Introducing CADBURY DAIRY MILK MARBLE Bunny, a mouth-watering combination of CADBURY DAIRY MILK Milk Chocolate and CADBURY DREAM White Chocolate with a smooth and creamy Hazelnut praline centre. These are available in a single treat size, a share pack, and a gift box.

The new bunnies Gift Box range is also available in cult CADBURY favourites CADBURY CLINKERS, CADBURY CARAMILK MARBLE and CADBURY COCONUT ROUGH. Featuring the classic combination of bunnies and eggs, together at last in a ready-to-gift pack, with four bunnies and a large hollow egg in each box.

The always jolly Humpty Dumpty is back on the wall, and he has been put back together again in a new treat size. Available in a 25g single serve and in a multipack carton of six, Humpty is filled with colourful mini beanies, making a fun and interactive treat in a convenient portion size.

As always, the iconic CADBURY Egg Bags and Gift Boxes are also back in stores in all the favourite flavours, not to mention the return of the classic range of CADBURY hollow eggs and bunnies.

54 February/March 2022 | C&I | www.c-store.com.au

PRODUCT RANGING

TabSol launches TSVT Tribal Spirit Vape with Cannabis Derived Terpene After successfully launching the TRIBAL SPIRIT VAPE brand of products, TabSol Australasia has developed TSVT – Tribal Spirit Vape with Cannabis Derived Terpene as base flavour.

TSV0 – Tribal Spirit Vape (Zero Nicotine) is already distributed in Australia and has been popular due to the quality of its disposable vape devices and the flavours. These are available in 15 distinct flavours targeted at the adult consumer who seeks an alternative to smoking.

Cannabis Derived Terpene (CDT) as a base flavour ingredient in e-liquid will provide consumers a legal choice and access to better alternatives if they choose to embark on their pathway to quitting.

TSVT – Tribal Spirit Vapes with CDT meets all legal guidelines.

The terpene is of superior quality and does not contain CBD or THC – the active ingredients that creates the ‘high’ that people experience when they use cannabis. However, as the Government has regulated those products containing CBD and THC to be only sold via approved pharmacy channel, TSVT e-liquid does not contain these active ingredients and therefore is legal for retailers to sell to their consumers.

Extensive consumer testing of TSVT e-liquid has demonstrated that the e-liquid has a very similar flavour to natural cannabis yet it does not affect the cognitive process. TSVT is available in four flavours.

A patent application for TSVT e-liquid has also been lodged.

TabSol Australasia has also launched the TSV Vape device that is specially calibrated for the TSVT e-liquid. The rechargeable pod system comes with two refillable/replaceable pods (also available separately). The better-quality battery along with the device being especially calibrated with TSVT liquid ensures consistent and quality puffs.

TabSol Australasia is the sole distributor of the TSVT E-Liquids and TSV Vape devices.

To order the TSVT E-Liquids and the TSV Vape pod system contact the TabSol team on 02 9037 1478, 0413 690 069, email at info@tabsol.com.au. You may also wish to register for online orders at store.tabsol.com.au.

Toys and games an untapped opportunity for P&C operators Petrol and convenience experts, Smooth Wholesales, has added a large range of licensed toys and games to its already expansive product catalogue, and the initial sales results have exceeded expectations.

“The Christmas period has proven to be successful for most of our P&C customers. Licensed toys and games have been a huge hit and we expect this to continue throughout 2022. Whilst we do see a spike in toy and game spending during the Christmas period, we know they sell well all year round and it is important for P&C operators to consider incorporating them into their product mix,” says Director, Daniel Avrahami.

The new range includes iconic brand favourites such as Monopoly, Cluedo, Nerf, Hot Wheels, Beyblade, Marvel, Disney, Play-Doh and more.

“Through some of the world’s biggest toy and game manufacturers, we have been able to source affordably-priced licensed toys and games that sell well in the P&C market.

“By regularly speaking to P&C operators, we have established that it is increasingly difficult for them to source licensed toys and games for their stores. Most of the major distributors and manufacturers refuse to deal with them. When they are able to source them, the prices are inflated and they work on slim margins. We provide them with an affordably priced alternative.”

In addition to selling their toys and games individually, Smooth Wholesales works with P&C operators to build full personalised planograms that suit their store requirements.

“With many years of experience in service stations, we understand the challenges associated with making purchasing decisions for each store.

We recognise that every site has its own personal needs, so we work directly with operators to help them build their planograms and make the smartest buying decisions.”

If you are interested in learning more about toys, games and other products sold by Smooth Wholesales, then please visit www.smoothwholesales.com.au.

February/March 2022 | C&I | www.c-store.com.au

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

LOOKING GOOD MADE EASY

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

PRODUCT RANGING

Nothing outlasts Energizer Ultimate Lithium The Energizer Ultimate Lithium batteries are not only the number one longest lasting battery, but they are also complete with leak resistance and performance in extreme temperatures.

Available in AA Ultimate, AAA Ultimate, and 9V Ultimate, with Energizer Ultimate Lithium, you can be assured that your favourite devices are operating at their peak performance.

Whether at home, play, or work… nothing outlasts Energizer.

By using longer lasting and reliable batteries, consumers use fewer batteries, creating less waste, and have less impact on the planet.

“We’re leading the journey to a future where Energizer has a positive impact on the world.

Join our journey,” says Energizer.

Top innovative features for Energizer Ultimate Lithium Batteries

• Number one longest-lasting AA battery • Superior performance in extreme temperatures from -40 to 140 degrees Fahrenheit – great for use in all seasons • Holds power in storage for up to 20 years (AA/AAA) • 33 per cent lighter than alkaline batteries (AA/AAA) • Guaranteed leak-proof (based on standard use)

Nestlé Purina’s single serve range a proven hit in P&C Nestlé Purina’s Felix As Good as it Looks Singles range is one of the fastest growing mainstream wet cat food brands available, and it’s no surprise.

With more and more people deciding to stay home or avoid crowds, the ability to duck out and purchase a meal to feed your famished feline is becoming more necessary than ever, and Nestlé Purina’s Felix As Good as it Looks Singles 85g is the perfect product to cater to that need.

A Nestlé Purina spokesperson said that once consumers try Felix As Good as it Looks Singles, which come in two flavours – beef and tuna, they recognise the quality and stay loyal to the brand.

“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.”

Purina’s Felix Singles 85g are specifically aimed towards smaller format and petrol and convenience retailers, due to their expansive store placements and ease of access for consumers.

Felix As Good as it Looks Singles is an incredibly important brand in the Nestlé Purina portfolio, growing 12 per cent in 2021, and has continued to accelerate and deliver double-digit growth year-on-year for the past five years.

Retailing for 99c a serve, or $12 a 12-pack, it offers a strong margin return for retailers and is available through The Distributors.

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PRODUCT RANGING

New Handmade Food Co cheesy croque toasties The Handmade Food Co is an Australian family-owned sandwich manufacturer with a dedicated team that works tirelessly to make the tastiest products for its consumers.

From Aussie classics like the Ham and Cheese Toastie to on trend flavours like Roast Chicken & Sriracha Bacon Ciabatta, they offer many different products catering to the Australian market. The team continues to research and travel to find new ideas, inspiration, and knowledge to bring inspired food to Australia.

Introducing two new croque toasties to the range; Roast Chicken & Guacamole and Cheesy Egg & Bacon on delicious soft white bread. These products are a great addition to the current Everyday Café range. They are packed with cheesy goodness and are proven flavours in the café market.

Australians are falling in love with The Handmade Food Co’s cheesy croque toasties, which are a great meal especially when partnered with a coffee. Apart from being delicious, these croque toasties are hand cut and pre-packaged for convenience. They are also pie warmer friendly, so they can be displayed hot and ready to go.

These products are available to order through any major wholesaler around the country.

It’s all about good honest food in a brand that customers can trust.

For more information call 1300 722 748 or email sales@thehandmadefoodco.com.au.

Wireless magnetic fast charging for all devices Mobile phones have advanced every year, to the point we each now have a supercomputer in our pocket. But these new devices, as well as having amazing apps and cameras, are power hungry.

And while traditional phone chargers still do the job, consumers are demanding ways to charge their devices more quickly.

There are two different ways to unlock faster charging – either via a plugged-in cable or wireless charging.

Walkntalk’s plugged-in cable range (Walkntalk Fast Charge) delivers both QC (for Android and Samsung) and Power Delivery (for Apple) fast charging via cable. This is reliable and, of course, fast.

We knew there had to be a way to make fast charging more convenient. So, we introduced Mag Charge – wireless magnetic fast charging – to hold your phone securely while delivering fast wireless charging on the go.

But what if you don’t have the latest phone with integrated magnetic charging? While most products in the market only deliver one device focus (either Apple or Android), the Mag Charge products offer technology to work with any wireless charging device. Walkntalk Mag Charge products include an adapter that can be stuck to your phone to take

advantage of this combined wireless fast charging and magnetic mounting technology.

One of the showcase products in this range is a Mag Charge Car Cradle. This product delivers magnetic wireless fast charging in the car plus features a charging pad that can be removed at the touch of a button and used on a desk, or bedside table, for added value. The mounting mechanism combines a traditional vent clip with a stabilising pad to ensure a secure attachment to your car while the strong magnetic hold of the charging pad ensures your phone stays in place, even under the most dynamic driving conditions.

If you want to get the most out of that supercomputer in your pocket and could take advantage of seamless and wireless fast charging on the go, then Mag Charge is the evolution you have been waiting for.

For enquiries reach out to the Pacific Optics team or customer service on orders@pacificoptics.com.

February/March 2022 | C&I | www.c-store.com.au

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EVERYONE’S FAVOURITE CHEEKY CAT FELIX IS NOW AVAILABLE IN SINGLES! FAS GRO TEST MAIN WING ST WET REAM CA FOO D BR T AND (30% MAT )*

CLEVER CATS KNOW FLAVOUR WHEN THEY SEE IT

*Source: Neilsen MAT to 01/11/2020.

DRIVE MAINSTREAM PENETRATION AND INCREASE SHOPPER BASKET** Offering new news and variety to delight your shoppers across the 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

ITEM CODE

METCASH CODE

12458392

991036

1245841 1 12458766

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

PRODUCT DESCRIPTION

SIZE

BARCODE

RRP*

FELIX® AS GOOD AS IT LOOKS Beef 85g

85g

9300605097162

$1.30

991028

FELIX® AS GOOD AS IT LOOKS Tuna 85g

85g

9300605097117

$1.30

992118

FELIX® AS GOOD AS IT LOOKS Kitten Chicken 85g

85g

9300605097261

$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.

PRODUCT RANGING

Mars Wrigley Australia launches world-first Maltesers Popcorn Mars Wrigley Australia has doubled down on its commitment to delivering consumer-led innovation from its Ballarat production factory, with the launch of Maltesers Popcorn.

The world-first recipe was inspired by Australians mixing their popcorn and Maltesers together at the movies and is currently available exclusively in Australia.

The company has promised to release a flurry of exciting new products this year following its $30 million investment into the Ballarat production facility.

Ben Hill, Marketing Director, Mars Wrigley Australia, says the Ballarat facility has helped to bolster the company’s homegrown innovation capability.

“Knowing the global popularity of Maltesers, we’re particularly proud to develop a new flavour unique to Australia and formulated from scratch in Ballarat.

“By continuing to invest time and resources into our local manufacturing capabilities, we’re able to firmly establish our Ballarat site as a regional centre of excellence and the beating heart of our confectionery offering in Australia.”

Salil Tipre, Senior Scientist – Product Development at Mars Wrigley Australia, led the development of the new Maltesers Popcorn.

“Maltesers Popcorn is a testament to the incredible work, dedication and innovation of the team in Ballarat, and is just one of the many exciting new products we plan to unveil this year. It’s exciting to be able to bring a world-first product to Aussie consumers, developed and manufactured right here in our own backyard.”

Shapes introduces Cheese and Smoky Bacon Mini Bites Arnott’s has created a new variety of Mini Bites, combining two of life’s greatest pleasures, cheese and smoky bacon, into crunchy bites that pop with flavour.

The lighter, airier Mini Bites format of Shapes was developed in 2021 and has been a massive hit with consumers since hitting shelves. Shapes Mini Bites are a delicious, crunchy snack that packs big flavour. The lighter texture and smaller biscuit creates a new kind of crunch with all the flavour that Shapes fans know and love.

These delicious, golden biscuits have a crisp initial bite with a hit of mild cheese, followed by a savoury, smoky bacon flavour.

This new variety joins a growing range of Shapes Mini Bites flavours, which also includes Sticky BBQ Wings, Sour Cream and Onion, and Salt & Vinegar.

Alice Johnson, Shapes Brand Manager, said: “Shapes fans have been debating ‘what flavour is best’ for years now, and we love adding new flavours to challenge the classics. But we think the growing range of Mini Bites is going to add a new dimension to the debate – especially when people try an iconic flavour like cheese and bacon in a totally new popped format.”

The new Arnott’s Shapes Mini Bites Cheese and Smoky Bacon are available in stores nationwide for RRP $3.20.

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PRODUCT RANGING

Science proves new Tim Tam Deluxe range is pure indulgence Tim Tam has scientifically proven its indulgence by teaming up with the Neurofeedback Centre to monitor brainwave activity after taking a bite of its Tim Tam Deluxe range.

The Deluxe range includes four new flavours – Decadent Triple Choc, Salted Caramel Brownie, Dark Choc Raspberry Tart, and Dark Choc Mint.

Tim Lucas, Neurologist at the Neurofeedback Centre, said that at first he doubted they’d see drastic results when customers bit into the new Tim Tam Deluxe range.

“We were pleasantly surprised to learn that smelling a Tim Tam Deluxe – let alone biting into one – quite literally lit up the brains and activated the high beta waves in ways we’d never seen before, in every one of the clients we tested.”

The study also found that almost half of surveyed Australians, 47 per cent, would prefer an indulgent Tim Tam over a glass of wine after a hard day’s work.

Rebecca Chan, Tim Tam Brand Manager, said while those at Arnott’s may be a tad biased when it comes to choosing an indulgent treat, it was nice to see many Australians agreed with them.

“It’s been fun to learn there’s some scientifically-backed evidence that underpins Australia’s Tim Tam obsession, and that we’re not the only ones who’d opt for a chocolate bickie over other indulgent moments.

“We hope Tim Tam fans will feel just as passionate about the new Tim Tam Deluxe range – it’s our most indulgent offering yet, and we can’t wait to hear what they say about the innovative and decadent flavour combinations.”

Snickers Creamy Peanut Butter Bar has arrived Down Under For the first time ever, Snickers has released its limited edition Snickers Creamy Peanut Butter Bar in Australia.

The limited-edition bar is made with real peanut butter, silky smooth caramel, and fresh ground peanuts, enrobed in the rich, delicious Snickers chocolate.

Ben Hill, Marketing Director at Mars Wrigley Australia, says the variation has been a smash hit overseas, and he’s excited for Australians to finally get their hands on the product.

“We know how much our customers love the classic Snickers bar, with its satisfying layers of nougat, caramel, and the signature peanut crunch.

“Now, thanks to this innovation in texture, our fans can get Snickers satisfaction in both crunchy and smooth – something that is sure to delight peanut butter fans of all kinds,” he says.

Snickers Creamy Peanut Butter is available in a 36g twin pack for RRP $2 from leading retailers, including Woolworths, Coles, Metcash, 7-Eleven, Coles Express, bp, Ampol, Aldi and Big W, while stocks last.

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PRODUCT RANGING

We’re excited to introduce CADBURY Cherry Ripe and Picnic Layers, a new range of decadent chocolate bars inspired by the classic flavours we all love, taken to another level of indulgence.”

- Paul Chatfield, Vice President, Marketing ANZ, Mondelez

Raising the bar with CADBURY Layers Announcing the launch of new and indulgent CADBURY Layers in Cherry Ripe and Picnic flavours!

R

aising the bar with a new taste sensation is CADBURY Cherry Ripe Layers and CADBURY Picnic Layers. The most indulgent eat experience in the CADBURY bars range hit the shelves in January.

These new decadent chocolate bars are inspired by the classic flavours we all love, but with a modern spin that brings the CADBURY bars offering to a whole new level.

Both products contain three indulgent layers, encased in a domed chocolate shell for a unique sensory experience. CADBURY Picnic Layers is filled with layers of gooey caramel, soft peanut flavoured creme and crunchy peanut pieces encased in a CADBURY DAIRY MILK milk chocolate shell, while CADBURY Cherry Ripe Layers includes layers of iconic Cherry Ripe flavoured jelly, coconut flavoured creme and coconut pieces encased in an Old Gold dark chocolate shell.

Maintaining the rich Old Gold dark chocolate and the ripe, juicy burst of flavours, CADBURY Cherry Ripe Layers

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has built on the flavours of this Australian icon to create an enticing bite with a twist. Prefer a nuttier flavour?

CADBURY Picnic Layers has created a divine moment that is based off the smooth and creamy CADBURY DAIRY MILK milk chocolate with the recognisable peanut and caramel combination that is synonymous with the CADBURY Picnic bar.

Paul Chatfield, Vice President, Marketing ANZ says: “We know how much Australians love CADBURY chocolate and we’re excited to introduce CADBURY Cherry Ripe and Picnic Layers, a new range of decadent chocolate bars inspired by the classic flavours we all love, taken to another level of indulgence.”

The new luxurious CADBURY Cherry Ripe Layers and CADBURY Picnic Layers bring consumers an eat experience that will transform any moment into a me-time indulgence. The only question now is which flavour do you try first!?

GRAB A PIECE OF AUSTRALIAN HISTORY WITH A SPECIAL EDITION CENTENNIAL PACK IN PETROL AND CONVENIENCE STORES TODAY Join us as we commemorate 10 amazing decades by looking back at moments that made them great. Stories of progress, challenge and inspiration that built our nation, told through our special edition packs.

SCAN THE QR CODE TO L E A R N M O R E THE EQUIVALENT OF A GLASS AND A HALF OF FULL CREAM MILK IN EVERY 200g OF CADBURY DAIRY MILK MILK CHOCOLATE. DAIRY MILK, THE GLASS AND A HALF DEVICE AND THE COLOUR PURPLE ARE TRADE MARKS USED UNDER LICENCE.

PRODUCT RANGING

Mars Wrigley launches Skittles Pride Packs in Australia Skittles has launched its globally recognised Pride Packs in Australia to further its commitment in supporting and celebrating the LGBTQIA+ community.

Featuring colourless packaging on the outside, Skittles aims to shift focus from its iconic rainbow to the rainbow-coloured pride flag.

The Pride Packs have been announced alongside a partnership with LGBTQIA+ non-for-profit organisation Minus18, the first Australian partnership of its kind. Together, the brands aim to provide education and support to LGBTQIA+ communities in regional and rural parts of the country, where resources are limited.

The Pride Packs will also feature a QR code unveiling an augmented reality ‘World’s Biggest Rainbow’, that opens resources and information directly from Minus18, along with driving donations for continuous support of the Australian LGBTQIA+ community. As part of the partnership, Skittles will match community donations up to $30,000, to support the important work Minus18 does in regional and rural Australia.

A mouth-watering collaboration from three of Australia’s favourites Peters ice-cream, CADBURY chocolate, and Oreo cookies have come together to create the all new Oreo Stick Sandwich, which is now available through the petrol and convenience channel.

For years, we were simply twisting, licking, and dunking our Oreos, looking to the heavens, and wondering – is this as good as it gets?

When finally, an innovative go-getter reimagined the approach with an inspired decision to switch the cream with ice-cream, bung it on a stick, and replace the milk with creamy CADBURY milk-chocolate.

Thus, creating the Oreo Stick Sandwich.

The Oreo Stick Sandwich is an Oreo ice-cream sandwich frozen on a stick and dunked into a thick layer of mouth-watering CADBURY milk chocolate, a delightful and delicious spin on the classic Oreo move of dunking the biscuit into milk.

The coming together of three of Australia’s favourite sweet treats is sure to be a delight to fans across the country.

Firstly, you have Peters, Australia’s leading and favourite ice cream associated with hot summers and beach trips. Combine that with one of the world’s favourite cookies in Oreo and you’ve got a match made in heaven. Finally, dunk it into some creamy, CADBURY Dairy Milk chocolate and it transcends heaven.

Available in singles at a RRP of $4 and multi-packs of four at RRP $4.50.

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Drew Davis, Portfolio Director, Skittles Australia says: “Skittles has been a long-standing supporter of Pride and the LGBTQIA+ community on a global scale. We first launched our Skittles Pride Packs in London in 2016, and they have since been part of critical LGBTQIA+ awareness, education and donation-driving projects year on year.

Minus18 are pioneers in providing education and creating positive strides for Pride in regional and rural communities, who are sadly under-resourced and unrepresented.

“As a member of the PRIDE community who grew up in rural NSW myself, it makes me incredibly proud that we’re able to bring this important campaign to Australia. We hope the World’s Biggest AR Rainbow helps Minus18 increase their visibility across critical areas and affect change for the LGBQTIA+ community” Skittles Pride Packs are rolling out across major retailers nationally from 9 February until stocks last.

PRODUCT RANGING

Visit us at

Stand e200 at th

C&I Expo

S

Signature Desserts builds momentum through P&C Signature Desserts cheesecake and mousse are the perfect on-the-go dessert.

ignature Desserts is a family-owned and operated company based in Brisbane that has the capacity to produce more than four million single serves of its delicious cheesecake and mousse per annum.

Previously found on the shelves of major grocers such as Woolworths and IGA, the company has launched into the petrol and convenience channel and is quickly gaining momentum, having recently secured distribution through PFD. The innovative packaging for the 100g cheesecake wedge and 90g mousse, is optimally designed for impulse purchases and easy on-the-go eating, with the single serves all containing a spoon.

The cheesecake packaging was created

by Founder of Signature Desserts, Trevor Hansen, when he owned and operated an industrial snack bar and was looking for a way to sell his famous cheesecake as an allinclusive packaged product.

Over the past three years, Signature Desserts has invested in the latest technologies and machinery enabling the company to produce more than four million units a year, greatly expanding its product range and customer offering.

The RRP for both the single serve cheesecake and the mousse is $2.99 and is targeted at those looking to impulse purchase a dessert or add-on to other products such as coffee, tea, or soft drink.

All Signature Dessert products are made from all-natural and high-quality ingredients

without fillers, artificial colours or flavours.

The cheesecake is known for its smooth and dense consistency that melts on the tongue, and the mousse is renowned for being rich, thick, and smooth with a low aeration rate.

Currently the cheesecake range offers three different flavours – lemon, vanilla bean with strawberry coulis, and mango. While the mousse range has four – chocolate, lemon, mango, and strawberry, with all fruit mousses made from 40 per cent real fruit.

The mousse range comes in a variety of different pack options – a nine-carton of chocolate mousse, a nine-carton of fruit mousses, and a mixed carton featuring six of each flavour. The cheesecake has similar pack options – a nine-unit carton of a single flavour, a mixed carton with six of each flavour, and a mixed pallet.

Signature Desserts is continuously working to bring new and return customers in-store, by investing in social media campaigns and activations as well as the launch of its annual Cheesecake Challenge, and various other in-store competitions.

As well as the mousse and cheesecake, Signature Desserts produce a variety of other products including, but not limited to, fruit bars, panna cotta, and custard creams.

To range Signature Desserts, get in touch with your Category Manager at PFD Distributors. And for further information email Trevor Hansen on trevor@signaturedesserts.com.au or call +61 7 3395 6633 or +61 413 126 107.

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PRODUCT RANGING

A unique Australian tradition continues An Australian tradition that continues to grow in popularity is that of the humble, but never dull, Lemon Lime & Bitters.

You may be surprised to find out that Lemon Lime & Bitters is an Australian invention. Yes, that’s right – it had its beginning right here in Australia. And according to sources, we can’t get enough of it – more than 100 million Lemon Lime & Bitters are served in Australia every year. After cola, it is the most ordered soft drink with a meal.

Made from a combination of lemonade, lime juice cordial and bitters, the origins of this zesty, refreshing drink can be traced back to the 1840s, when small bottles of bitters were found aboard British Royal Navy ships, where bitters were used to treat seasickness. By the 1890s, bitters was added to almost everything from gin to whiskey and even lemonade. In fact, lemonade and bitters became one of the most popular beverages enjoyed by Australians at the time; the dash of bitters in lemonade was seen as a mildly sophisticated drink that

Sorted is jam-packed with health benefits Seventy per cent of Australians don’t meet their daily fibre requirements and new better for you fizzy drink, Sorted, is here to solve that.

Packed with seven grams of healthy fibre to support good digestion, it’s easy to keep your tummy active and regular when Sorted, with all the fizz and pop of a regular soft drink, tastes so good.

Released by The Good Seed, Sorted is a prebiotic better for you beverage that is made using all natural ingredients that are proven to support your gut in the production of good bacteria.

The fizzy drink is made with Acacia Gum, a prebiotic fibre that improves intestinal health, and zero sugar, instead using a protein-based sweetener to avoid any spikes in blood sugar and insulin and ensure no gastrointestinal distress.

Sorted is formulated by food scientists and guided by current microbiome and digestive research, and is able to be enjoyed by everyone, as it is suitable for diabetics, as well as FODMAP, glutenfree, Keto, and vegan diets.

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February/March 2022 | C&I | www.c-store.com.au

The team behind Sorted is The Good Seed, made up of Ivy Ong and Adrian Soon, who started the company after struggling with strange health concerns that were unable to be treated by modern medicines.

The pair turned to alternative methods, first setting their sights on Kefir, a drink traditionally made by fermenting milk that contains more than 10 times good bacteria than yoghurt. Due to intolerances, they began making water kefir and in 2017 started The Good Seed, selling their hand-brewed bottles of water kefir out of their Honda Jazz.

Fast forward four years, and Ong and Soon have their own purpose-built factory, and have set their sites on a new venture aimed at cultivating good gut health – Sorted.

Sorted is available in three different flavours – Watermelon and Mint, Blood Orange, and Blackcurrant. The RRP is $3.50 and will become available across the P&C channel in 2022.

could be served to people of all ages. It is not known exactly when lime was added to the lemonade and bitters formulation, but it is clear it happened first in Australia.

Lemon Lime & Bitters commenced being requested in bars throughout the country, creating the phenomenon it is today.

It is no surprise then that Australia’s favourite sparkling mineral water brand, Waterfords, has launched its own Lemon Lime & Bitters Sparkling Soda. Made from natural sparkling mineral water, Waterfords Lemon Lime & Bitters exhibits a zesty citrus flavour, finished off with a spicy bitters note. The result is a sophisticated, refreshing drink that tastes just like the Lemon Lime & Bitters made by the bartender at your favourite pub or club.

Available in a 330ml glass bottle, make Waterfords your first choice for Lemon Lime & Bitters. Waterfords Lemon Lime & Bitters is available nationally and is sold through delis, cafés and other good beverage outlets.

To order yours today, contact Tru Blu Beverages on (02) 9912 6700.

r e e B r e g n Gi ! e t i B h t wi

If you like your ginger beer full-bodied then Tiger is for you!

With a rich and lingering ginger taste, Tiger is ginger beer with bite!

For further information, please call Tru Blu Beverages on (02) 9912ww 6700, or visit trublubeverages.com.au w.trublubeverages.com.au

PRODUCT RANGING

Nescafé Blend 43 celebrates Australia with limited release tins Nescafé Blend 43 has partnered with Rotary Australia to launch its new campaign, ‘Celebrate Australia’ by Nestlé Professional.

The campaign has been designed to support the community spirit of the six much loved Aussie regional towns of Mallacoota, Broken Hill, Toowoomba, Busselton, Willunga and Strahan.

Each town has been handpicked by Nestlé Professional to feature on the new limited-edition range of 1kg tins of Nescafé Blend 43 as part of the new Celebrate Community Spirit Collection.

Scott Stuckmann, Oceania Business Executive Officer, Nestlé Professional, said that each town was chosen for embodying community spirit, togetherness, and what it means to be Australian.

“With this campaign, we hope to bring a bit of encouragement to workers across the nation who share a coffee in their workplaces and tea rooms each day,” says Stuckmann.

Each tin’s illustration highlights the community spirit of the town and range from

a community rallying together in the event of a natural disaster, local sporting events that have led to international recognition, and the celebration of local food, wine, and art.

Local Rotary Clubs in the six towns have each received a $5,000 grant from Nestlé Professional to invest in a community initiative important to each town. These include fundraising for a local mental health facility in Broken Hill, a Koala Rescue program in Willunga, and a Toowoomba Christmas Drive for underprivileged and homeless youth.

Nescafé Blend 43 has also gifted the selected Rotary Clubs with more than 190 tins each to on-sell or donate to the local community, with any profits retained by each Club.

A mixed variety of the 1kg tins of Nescafé Blend 43 featuring the six Aussie towns are available to buy from wholesale office and foodservice distributors including Bidfood, NAFDA, Countrywide, PFD, Campbells, Winc and Blackwoods at RRP $40.

Bulla Choc Tops launch in new snack size format Bulla Choc Tops have launched into the freezer section of 7-Eleven stores across the country in new 86ml snack packs.

The new format Bulla Choc Tops come in three flavours including, Vanilla Choc Top, Mint Choc Top, and Boysenberry Choc Top, and retail for RRP $5.

Jane Wyatt, General Manager of Marketing and Innovation, Bulla, said that launching into 7-Eleven will make Bulla Choc Tops more accessible for Australians.

“We know that Australians love our Bulla Choc Tops, and now it is even more convenient for them to enjoy them.

We can’t wait for our three most popular flavours to hit the freezer section of a 7-Eleven near you,” she says.

Bulla Choc Tops are made in Victoria with the fresh milk and cream used in the ice cream sourced from the rich, fertile soil of Colac, 150km from Melbourne.

Founded in Moonee Ponds in 1910 by Thomas Sloan, Bulla is and continues to be one of Australia’s largest familyowned dairy producers.

72 February/March 2022 | C&I | www.c-store.com.au

PRODUCT RANGING

Connoisseur Gourmet Ice Cream and Koko Black join forces Connoisseur Gourmet Ice Cream has launched a decadent new collection of ice creams in collaboration with artisan chocolatier Koko Black.

Crafted using creative ingredient combinations designed for the Australian palate, the new Connoisseur and Koko Black collaboration comes in two indulgent flavours for the ultimate luxurious taste experience.

The range features Australia’s number one best-selling premium vanilla ice cream, dipped in Koko Black’s signature 54 per cent dark chocolate. It’s the first time dessert lovers will be able to taste Koko Black’s premium crafted chocolate in an ice cream.

Connoisseur Classic Vanilla with Koko Black Premium Crafted Chocolate Stick combines Connoisseur's smooth classic vanilla ice cream coated in Koko Black’s 54 per cent dark chocolate.

Connoisseur Honeycomb with Koko Black Premium Crafted Chocolate Stick combines honeycomb ice cream coated in Koko Black’s signature Tasmanian Leatherwood Honeycomb pieces in 54 per cent dark chocolate.

Connoisseur’s team of culinary creators worked closely with Koko Black and its Head Chocolatier, Remco Brigou to design the indulgent ice cream collection, leaning on his many years as a chocolatier to find the perfect balance of flavours.

Brigou says: “The key to marrying the two decadent brands together was for it to feel like a true collaboration of Australia’s finest local ingredients. The chocolate coating is crafted from a premium selection of our Koko Black chocolate and has been expertly paired with Connoisseur’s much loved vanilla ice cream for a truly indulgent experience.”

The Connoisseur with Koko Black Collection is available from leading convenience and grocery stores nationally for RRP $8.40 for a multipack of four sticks and $4.40 for a single loose pack stick.

Remedy introduces a kids drink to feel good about Remedy, creator of Australia’s best-selling kombucha, has released Remedy JNR., a new zero-sugar kids drink that parents and kids will love.

The all-natural, live-cultured, lightly fizzy drink is available in three fun and fruity flavours – Berry Blast, Ace Apple, and Tropical Tango.

Amie Spengler, Marketing Manager at Remedy, said Remedy JNR. addresses the significant disconnect between what kids want to drink and what parents give them.

“Overwhelmingly, kids placed soft drinks at the top of their wish list and water at the bottom. When speaking to parents, unsurprisingly the findings were the exact opposite, with water their number one choice for their kids and soft drinks ranking last.”

According to research by the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, 45 per cent

of Australian children aged five to 14 drink a sugar-sweetened or diet drink at least once a week.

Spengler says that until now there hasn’t really been any options for flavourful drinks made for kids that both taste nice and are good for them.

“Whether getting good stuff in (like vitamins or live cultures) or bad stuff out (like sugar and/or artificial ingredients), parents just want to feel good about giving their kids a drink that they enjoy.”

Remedy JNR. is available in four-packs of 250ml bottles, making it perfect for an on-the-go refreshment, or to purchase at the start of the week for school lunchboxes, all while knowing you’re giving your child a drink rich in live-cultures, healthy organic acids and antioxidants, using high quality, all-natural ingredients.

February/March 2022 | C&I | www.c-store.com.au

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OPINION

THE REAL REASON WE HAVE AN EXPLOSION IN TEEN VAPING AND ILLEGAL RETAILING Accessibility of vaping products on the black market is exploding because of the prescription policy, writes Theo Foukkare, CEO, AACS.

V

THEO FOUKKARE CEO AACS

Australia stands in complete contrast to countries like New Zealand and the UK, which are making great strides in responsible retailing of nicotine vaping products.”

– Theo Foukarre, CEO, AACS 76

aping, both nicotine and zero nicotine, is now a very real topic of discussion for many Australians, some for and some against. I am not a doctor or health professional, so I’m not going to get into a debate on the health perspective whether positive or negative. In the ‘for’ side, it is widely being used by consenting adults globally and locally as a transition to quit smoking and change their behaviour. On the ‘against’ side the largest issue we are all facing is with teen vaping, either at school, at home or just socialising with their teen friends.

Most parents are talking about this at their weekend BBQ with family or friends, many schools are talking with parents and students to help educate against vaping, and media stories talking about the social impact, long term effects along with widespread availability.

What isn’t being reported or widely known is the real reason we have this exploding issue. The real issue at hand is the catastrophic failure of regulation.

The Federal Government may think it’s being tough on vaping but just looking around on the streets, schools and on the internet, the government’s policy is a laughingstock, that is a complete failure.

Dodgy retailers are selling vapes all over the place, including places where it’s easy for kids to buy them. And unfortunately, these retailers have very different ethics and morals and are not practicing responsible retailing to 18+ with ID only. Additionally, you can go online and find a whole universe of vaping products on offer, many of them containing nicotine and clearly marketed at young people.

Tik Tok, Snapchat, Instagram and Facebook, where kids spend hours on end every day of the week are assisting in driving the availability.

And now Uber drivers are selling them as a side hustle. I’ve seen a lot of things in my retailing career but seeing an Uber driver advertising vapes with a neon sign on the dashboard is taking things to a new level of chaos that is out of control.

February/March 2022 | C&I | www.c-store.com.au

It is my strong view that this is a result of the Federal Government’s heavy-handed, prescription-only regime for buying nicotine vaping products. As we know, excessive regulation or essential prohibition drives things underground and onto the illegal black market.

The black market is exploding because of the prescription policy. And a thriving black market makes it easy for kids to access the products – the suppliers are clever marketers, and they sell them in lots of different ways, including now it seems in Ubers. Accessibility has never been greater.

Responsible and legitimate retailers around Australia have a role to play in limiting access to children, just like we have played with reducing access to cigarettes to minors.

Kids should not be vaping, full stop. But adults want to, often instead of smoking cigarettes. Unfortunately, they are buying them online, from retailers breaking the law, from overseas websites – the list is exhaustive.

Australia stands in complete contrast to countries like New Zealand and the UK, which are making great strides in responsible retailing of nicotine vaping products, and I don’t see any panic about vapes in schools there.

The black market genie is out of the bottle. It’s too big to police already, and it is very difficult for the police to even enforce this given all the red tape that exists. If the government wants to get rid of it they need to make nicotine vaping products available for sale in normal shops, and people should need to show ID. That way any selling of nicotine vaping products to minors will be clearly illegal.

Consumers are walking into all types of retail outlets asking about nicotine vaping products, only to either be turned away or if desperate they might end up buying a packet of smokes. When retailers turn them away, where do you think they are going? They’re going straight to the internet, dodgy retailers breaking the law or maybe jumping into an Uber. C&I

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OPINION

WOULD YOU LIKE FUEL WITH THAT? Making time for non-fuel customers makes all the difference, writes Darren Park, CEO, UCB Stores.

F

or years, many in the petrol and convenience (P&C) channel have spoken around the need to grow our food and coffee business, giving shoppers another reason to visit our stores. Hand on heart are we just ticking the box or are we truly focused on becoming a respected food and coffee destination? More importantly are we doing everything we can in becoming part of our shopper’s daily repertoire when it comes to food and coffee, or are we just an impulse purchase when in-store filling up?

With non-fuel basket sizes growing, it’s time to further explore improving the in-store experience for your customers, because your business stands to win!

DARREN PARK CEO UCB Stores

Offering convenient, high quality non-fuel items, backed by efficient and effective service will improve the in-store experience, increase basket sizes, and will most importantly boost your profits.”

– Darren Park, CEO, UCB Stores

The pandemic’s impact on fuel sales

Unsurprisingly, with restrictions enforced across much of Australia, there has been a recent decline in fuel-only traffic in our channel, according to CMA. These changes in shopping behaviour have seen sales of in-store merchandise, snacks, bread, tobacco, milk, paper goods, grocery and food-to-go all increase, growing the non-fuel share of sales in our stores.

This decline in fuel-only sales may sound like bad news, but gives us three clear and actionable insights: 1. Customers are coming to our stores for more than just their petrol 2. Focusing on fuel-only customers will not maximise your sales 3. Our non-fuel offers must be up to scratch to keep customers coming back 4. A decline in non-fuel helps give us an insight, no matter how small, to a world without fossil fuel to a c-store. We need to ensure we are more important to our customer than just energy (fuel) for their transportation. We must be the best we can be.

Put simply, non-fuel sales growth means that customers see your store as more than just a place to refuel, getting in and out as quickly as possible. Instead, they are coming to your store to shop for more categories, meaning more browsing time and most likely increased spend.

Step up your non-fuel service!

Peak times for fuel are often also peak times for non-fuel items, such as coffees and hot food, but if customers feel like it’s going to be too much hassle or see several customers already waiting to receive their food or coffee order, it’s likely they will skip ordering entirely.

No matter what is happening in-store, there’s never an excuse to allow these customers to leave disgruntled or unhappy: I’m too busy! I know things can get busy in-store, but busy times are usually consistent, so you know when they are coming. Employ an additional staff member for key busy periods, allowing you to serve those who may want to add 78

February/March 2022 | C&I | www.c-store.com.au

a couple of coffees or hot food to their order. The presence of these employees will pay for itself in additional sales.

It’s too time consuming! If serving coffee and hot food is a challenge, invest in better equipment that enables easier, faster, and improved consistency of your food or coffee offer. Faster service from you, means more convenience and happy customers.

It’s too complicated! Keep your food and coffee offers simple, but still relevant and suited to your customers.

Don’t over stretch yourself with excessively broad ranges or complex offers that won’t appeal or sell.

Count sales growth not customer complaints! Having the right counter design and fit for purpose food and coffee equipment has never been more important as this can help save time, effort, money, and consistency. When designing your counter, it is vitally important to role play a customer transaction and count the number of steps per order. Multiply this by the average number of customer transactions in each day, and all of a sudden you will realise the importance of a well-designed service area. A poorly designed service area will not only make for tired staff it will also slow down your transaction time or potentially force you to add extra staff. Adding staff is great if sales warrant it, not due to a poorly designed set up.

Choosing the right equipment can also go a long way to deliver the best in-store experience for your customer and achieving the maximum retail sell price. No longer are we limited to powdered coffee or microwaves to cook pies. SelfTamp Coffee Machines, Stand Alone PUQ Press Automatic Coffee Tamper, Steam Arm Technology, Speed Ovens etc.

Delivering an improved offer fast has never been easier.

Remember, ignored and unhappy customers may not come back for food, coffee or even fuel again and this will hurt your bottom line. Offering convenient, high quality non-fuel items, backed by efficient and effective service will improve the in-store experience, increase basket sizes, and will most importantly boost your profits. C&I

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OPINION

Accelerating EV uptake ALEXANDRA KELLY Policy Manager Electric Vehicle Council

By offering charging infrastructure, service stations will provide confidence to Australian consumers that they can continue their lives as normal with an electric vehicle. ” – Alexandra Kelly, Policy Manager, Electric Vehicle Council

T

Alexandra Kelly, Policy Manager, Electric Vehicle Council, discusses what the Federal Government could be doing to encourage the adoption of more EVs.

ransport emissions in Australia currently account for 19 per cent or almost one-fifth of our total greenhouse gas emissions. Reducing them will bring significant economic, environmental, and health benefits to the country.

Yet, as the rest of the world transitions to electric road transport, Australia is still at the back of the pack. With limited policy support, it’s been difficult for the EV industry to get its wheels in motion.

But that’s not to say the industry isn’t trying.

There has been significant growth in vehicle sales and public chargers in the last couple of years – and it’s the EV industry that has really been driving that transition.

But it shouldn’t be. Where government policy around the world has accelerated EV uptake into double digits, the lack of a national strategy in Australia has restricted electrification.

Electric vehicle policy encourages the adoption of electric vehicles through financial incentives, regulatory frameworks, and charging infrastructure investment – the trinity of EV policy.

In Australia, we’re doing pretty well with charging infrastructure but we’re missing the big carrot policy (financial incentives) and the big stick policy (regulation).

And that’s what the Federal Government could be doing to encourage the adoption of more EVs. When a manufacturer in Australia wants to sell an EV, they have to make the business case to their global head office. This includes informing them of what policies exist to support electrification in the domestic market.

When global head office can see that governments are encouraging adoption from the three key policy drivers, there’s a strong business case. Financial incentives create demand by reducing the purchase price of an EV, regulation ensures supply by forcing manufacturers to supply EVs, and charging infrastructure provides confidence to consumers and the private sector.

And while Australia is doing well on charging infrastructure – with all governments coinvesting in some form of charging network with the private sector – we’re well behind on the other two.

What this means is that we will have a lot of public chargers out there for Australian consumers, but not enough electric vehicles to use them. This will in turn create a challenge for the businesses investing in the charging infrastructure – a three-legged stool with only one good leg doesn’t work very well!

Visibility and accessibility to public charging infrastructure is necessary to provide confidence to consumers that they will be able to charge their cars – alleviating ‘range anxiety’.

When a consumer is confident they can charge when and where they need to, that will get them over the line in their purchase decision.

80 February/March 2022 | C&I | www.c-store.com.au

And this is where service stations play a vital role.

We know from international experience that approximately 80 per cent of electric vehicle charging is done at home. But our research shows that fast charging infrastructure is the most important type of public charging for Australian consumers.

The average Australian drives around 38km a day, and the average electric vehicle has a range of 395km. This means that, an EV driver could ‘top up’ their EV at home daily or head to a public charger approximately every nine days for a full recharge.

By offering charging infrastructure, service stations will provide confidence to Australian consumers that they can continue their lives as normal with an electric vehicle.

And the good news for service station owners? There is government funding out there to help with the costs of installing electric vehicle charging infrastructure. C&I

Information on funding available NSW has released guidelines for the first round of $131 million in grant funding for fast charging infrastructure. In Victoria, there are currently funding rounds open for council and business fleets totalling $3 million and last year $5 million in grants were awarded for a fast-charging network across the state.

In SA, the government is currently calling for proposals from charge point operators to apply for grant funding to develop sections of the network.

Other states are developing plans for grant funding, including the ACT, which has committed to providing 55 fast chargers in the state in 2022 and the NT, which is currently developing a grant program for home, workplace, and public EV chargers, with application dates yet to be made public.

Introducing the C&I Podcast In-depth coverage of news, events, and insights relating to the petrol and convenience channel, brought to you by the team at C&I. If you’re interested in featuring on the podcast, please contact:

Safa de Valois

Group Publisher & Commercial Director 0405 517 115 safa@c-store.com.au

Thomas Oakley-Newell

Journalist 0405 969 565 tom@c-store.com.au

Episode 1

Theo Foukkare...

INDUSTRY NEWS

The Metro Petroleum Pumped Conference took place over two days in Sydney.

METRO PETROLEUM GETS PUMPED!

Metro Petroleum took over Luna Park for a morning of business sessions.

Metro Petroleum hosted its Pumped conference at the end of 2021, coming together for two days of business sessions, networking, and fun!

M

etro Petroleum hosted its Pumped conference at The Star in Sydney, which brought together retailers and suppliers for two days of business sessions, networking as well as lots of fun!

The first day had attendees meet for a welcome brunch sponsored by Valvoline, followed by a morning of business sessions sponsored by Madison Marcus and Findex.

These sessions were held at Luna Park where Metro had taken over the park for the day and attendees were granted exclusive use of the rides.

The first evening included a welcome dinner sponsored by Asahi that was held at a surprise location, which ended up being the Glass Island boat floating around the amazing Sydney Harbour. This was followed by an after party sponsored by Pacific Optics.

Guests networked, ate, drank, and danced the night away and it was a

82

February/March 2022 | C&I | www.c-store.com.au

wonderful evening, but we were sadly informed of the passing of Dib family patriarch, Norm Dib, who had passed away earlier in the day. Our thoughts and prayers remain with the Dib family at this sad time.

Day two included a breakfast sponsored

by Gilbarco and Payments by Till, followed by an ‘Amazing Race’ style day of activities sponsored by Metcash and a relaxing afternoon lunch overlooking Sydney, sponsored by Frucor Suntory.

The final evening included the awards and farewell dinner, held at Marquee, and sponsored by Bega. The night was topped off with a little bit of karaoke followed by a guest appearance by DJ Havana Brown.

Our congratulations go out to the Dib family, Andrew Sylvester, and the team at Metro Petroleum for hosting such a fun-filled conference under such difficult circumstances. And a big congratulations to all the award winners. C&I

Business sessions were followed by unlimited rides.

INDUSTRY NEWS

Congratulations to the winners of the Store and Retailer Awards.

Delegates were treated to an 'Amazing Race' style day of activities.

The final night included a farewell dinner at Marquee sponsored by Bega.

Store Awards NSW Most Improved Store of the Year: Metro Petroleum Hurlstone Park VIC Most Improved Store of the Year: Metro Petroleum Broadmeadows QLD Most Improved Store of the Year: Metro Petroleum Nerang National Number One Store of the Year: Metro Petroleum Glenroy

Supplier Awards

Delegates were split into teams to compete in a series of challenges around Sydney.

DJ Havana Brown.

Metro Petroleum Beverages Supplier of the year 2021: Coca-Cola Europacific Partners Metro Petroleum Snacks Supplier of the Year 2021: Smith’s Metro Petroleum Confectionary Supplier of the Year 2021: Stuart Alexander Metro Petroleum Food Supplier of the Year 2021: Vili’s Pies Metro Petroleum General Merchandise Supplier of the Year 2021: Pacific Optics Metro Petroleum Tobacco Supplier of the Year 2021: Metcash Account Manager of the Year 2021: Rhys Pennisi (Frucor)

Guests danced the night away on Glass Island.

February/March 2022 | C&I | www.c-store.com.au

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INDUSTRY NEWS

NZACS PRESENTS

THE 2021 PETER JOWETT SCHOLARSHIP WINNER Thomas Oakley-Newell from C&I sat down with this year’s winner Andrew Olsen, Key Account Manager P&C, Frucor Suntory.

I strongly believe those that those that don’t adapt will be left behind.”

– Andrew Olsen, Key Account Manager P&C, Frucor Suntory

C&I: What did it mean to you to win the Peter Jowett Scholarship?

Olsen: Winning the Peter Jowett Scholarship to me meant a great deal. To have the opportunity to present my idea to so many industry leaders was an honour, but to know that they believed that my idea, and the way in which it was constructed and presented, was the best of the bunch is special.

However, at the end of the day the experience alone contributed to a large amount of personal development for me. Many thanks to the senior leaders within Frucor Suntory who I was able to connect with and learn from through conceptualizing the idea.

C&I: Can you tell us a bit about your submission?

L-R: Katherine Ledger, Andrew Olsen, Justin Ramsey from Frucor Suntory.

Olsen: My submission was all about the current challenges our retail partners face in the Covid environment and how we must look to set ourselves up for future success through adopting new ways of working.

Specifically, my presentation was focused on the changing behaviours of our consumers first and foremost, but also trends that we see accelerating year-on-year as they will play a large role in the future of the industry.

My solution was an app that focused on not only the evolving digital world but more specifically on how information from an advanced digital platform can redefine our physical network (stores) by providing us with more accurate information on consumer behaviour to efficiently cater to their needs, providing a convenient experience. With the aim of increasing sales and reducing cost of operating.

C&I: Why is the Peter Jowett Scholarship so important to the sector?

Olsen: The Peter Jowett Scholarship sets a platform in which young people in our industry are given the best chance to really challenge themselves and their ideas on a stage that continues to set a great standard.

I believe the Scholarship is such a great way to connect young, emerging talent with experienced industry leaders, which results in amazing learning and development opportunities for those competing. Just being part of the experience alone forces contestants to push themselves and expand their skillset in a new direction vs what they can in their day-to-day role.

C&I: What was the most inspiring or pivotal moment you observed in 2021?

Olsen: I like this question, it’s so easy to see so much doom and gloom at present. I’m a sports fanatic and a very competitive person, but I still believe that health and wellbeing is the most important thing in life.

For me, when Simone Biles made the brave decision to put her mental health first during the 2021 Olympics amongst all the external and internal pressure that surrounded her at the time is nothing short of amazing. It’s great that mental health is continuing to become a bigger part of the conversation, and it takes situations like this to make a difference.

C&I: How do you see the convenience landscape evolving in 2022?

Olsen: The pandemic no doubt has played a huge role in what 2022 will look like. I see the continual emergence of trends such as Omni-shopping behaviour becoming the forefront of the sector. Consumers will continue to use digital devices not only to purchase product online but to influence the product they purchase in a physical store. Therefore, it is important that we have infrastructure in place such as ‘click and collect’ along with the necessary information online such as product availability and product reviews/information as these will become powerful tools in the success of physical stores.

I strongly believe those that those that don’t adapt will be left behind.

C&I: What is your key message to the convenience category in 2022?

Olsen: To master the basics. Too often we walk into a store and the shelves are empty. Something as simple as understanding your consumers and what product they are looking for will ultimately be the key to success through these tough times. C&I 86 February/March 2022 | C&I | www.c-store.com.au

INDUSTRY NEWS

RUNNER UP OF THE NZACS 2021 PETER JOWETT SCHOLARSHIP Thomas Oakley-Newell from C&I sits down with Peter Jowett runner-up Kailee Weir, Trade Marketing Rep, BAT NZ. C&I: How did it feel coming runner-up in the 2021 Peter Jowett Scholarship?

Consumers are craving convenience, and retailers must continue to adapt their operations for evolving consumer behaviours.”

Weir: Firstly, I am grateful we were still able to present our ideas in an online platform, which was very fitting considering everything has moved digitally in a pandemic environment. Presenting online is a skill we have had to adopt and was not an easy feat. It was a tough competition, as candidate presentations were exceptional. Throughout this journey I was able to connect with many facets of the business and gain deeper insights into building business proposals and it has broadened my scope into the convenience sector. The experience gained from such an opportunity provided by NZACS was invaluable.

- Kailee Weir, Trade Marketing Rep, BAT NZ

C&I: Can you tell us a little about your Peter Jowett submission concept?

Weir: Digital transformation is accelerating across the retail industry and the ongoing pandemic has made technology more important than ever before. My concept – LitE, embraces this by using a simple adaption of technology that links from the petrol kiosk to a mobile application, which allows customers to purchase various consumer goods. This captures additional spend and increases foot traffic, driving a highly profitable business model.

C&I: Why is the Peter Jowett Scholarship so important to the industry?

Weir: The Peter Jowett Scholarship influences lateral thinking around possible solutions to issues faced by the convenience sector and encourages up and coming leaders to stretch their approach when developing innovative solutions.

C&I: How do you see the convenience industry evolving?

Weir: Covid-19 has changed the way consumers shop and their preferences while doing so. BAT itself is evolving at pace into a truly multicategory CPG company and transforming to reduce the health impact of our business, so it is critical we keep closely aligned with similar

Kailee Weir, Trade Marketing Rep, BAT NZ. evolutions across the convenience sector. The pandemic has accelerated payment digitalisation across the entire retail sector. Frictionless payment and digital wallets are becoming more mainstream. Consumers are craving convenience, and retailers must continue to adapt their operations for evolving consumer behaviours.

C&I: What are you most looking forward to over the next year?

Weir: I am extremely grateful for both the personal and professional growth the scholarship process provided me across 2021. Looking toward 2022, I endeavour to further grow these learnings and hope that I can mentor a future candidate of the Peter Jowett Scholarship awards.

I look forward to watching convenience continue to adapt and grow. C&I February/March 2022 | C&I | www.c-store.com.au

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INDUSTRY NEWS

Menz Confectionery appoints new Chief Financial Officer Menz Confectionery has appointed a new Chief Financial Officer (CFO) as the business continues with its global growth trajectory.

The CFO position has been created following 12 months of growth in Menz Confectionery’s Australian operations as well as the addition of an overseas business in the US and has been filled by Kym Davis.

Davis joins Menz from the commercial world of RAA where he has held the role of acting CFO and more recently, Head of Group Financial Services.

He is a chartered accountant, and his previous experience includes as a Director at KPMG one of the big four accountancy firms. There he worked closely with Robern Menz Chair Peter Siebels, providing technical and advisory services to large corporates, privately-owned businesses, and high net wealth individuals.

Phil Sims, CEO, Menz Confectionery, told C&I that Davis’ people management skills and broader finance and accounting expertise around major project work will be significant as Menz navigates its strategic goals.

“Kym’s experience with FMCG and family businesses together with his corporate advisory expertise around strategy, governance and growth made him a terrific fit for the business as Menz Confectionery pursues its expansion plans.

“His skills will enable the business to better implement further management structures and process aiding better decision making and to capitalise on the numerous opportunities the business has.”

With 20 years of experience in both commercial and professional services, Davis has partnered with many businesses covering a diverse range of industries during his career.

His commercial experience has focused upon the implementation and leadership of the transformational change required of traditional finance functions towards a forward looking, business partnering approach to achieve organisational strategy and financial objectives.

Speaking with C&I, Davis said he was looking forward to assisting Menz, an iconic family-owned Australian business, with achieving its expansion strategy.

“While gaining a clear understanding of day-to-day operations, together with the values that underpin the business, Menz has a number of key projects to achieve its strategic goals that will require immediate focus,” he says.

Davis continued that his long-term goal is to “drive the strategic direction of the business as an agile and transformational leader enabling Menz to not only to achieve its strategic goals but also further develop its talented people”.

Kym Davis, CFO, Menz Confectionery

Menz has a number of key projects to achieve its strategic goals that will require immediate focus.”

- Kym Davis, CFO, Menz Confectionery

Nestlé reveals plan to tackle child labour

After a successful pilot of 1,000 families in 2020 in Cote d’Ivoire, Nestlé will expand the program to 10,000 families in 2022.

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Nestlé has announced a plan to increase farmer income through cash incentives to combat child labour.

The income accelerator program, which aims to improve the livelihoods of farmers and families involved in cocoa production, will see cash incentives paid directly to cocoa-farming households for activities such as enrolment of children in school.

Mark Schneider, CEO, Nestlé, said the company’s goal is to have an additional tangible, positive impact on a growing number of cocoa-farming families, especially in areas where poverty is widespread and resources are scarce, and to help close the living income gap they face over time.

“Building on our longstanding efforts to source cocoa sustainably, we will continue to help children go to school, empower women, improve farming methods and facilitate financial resources. We believe that, together with governments, NGOs and others in the cocoa industry, we can help improve the lives of cocoa-farming families and give children the chance to learn and grow in the safe and healthy environment they deserve.”

Included in the income accelerator program are incentives that encourage behaviours and agricultural practices that are designed to build social and economic resilience over time.

Among the practices that Nestle is incentivising are performing agroforestry activities to increase climate resilience, implementing good agricultural practices such as pruning, school enrolment for children in the household aged six to 16, and generating diversified incomes such growing other crops or raising livestock.

After a successful pilot of 1,000 families in 2020 in Cote d’Ivoire, Nestlé will expand the program to 10,000 families in 2022, before extending to Ghana in 2024.

Australia’s favourite Mineral Water brand Waterfords, is also available in a traditional Lemon Lime Bitters Sparkling Soda.

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To stock the Waterfords Lemon Lime Bitters 330mL, or for more information, please contact

www.trublubeverages.com.au Tru Blu Beverages on (02) 9912 6700, or visit the website www.trublubeverages.com.au

PETROL NEWS

ARE YOU MANAGING YOUR FUEL CORRECTLY? To manage fuel inventory effectively and efficiently correct analysis and reporting needs to be easily accessible, writes Dan Armes, Founder, ServoPro. DAN ARMES Founder of ServoPro

F

uel is the most expensive and high-risk product petrol stations offer, yet many fuel retailers fail to put a system in place to ensure that their investment is protected.

Fuel is also one of the smallest profit margin products, so even small losses can have a big impact on the bottom line.

Managing your wet stock (fuel) not only makes good business sense, but it also is a regulatory requirement in Australia to monitor Underground Petroleum Storage Systems (UPSS) for losses. It is illegal to allow or ignore contamination resulting from leaking or faulty UPSS. Loss monitoring has been mandatory for all new UPSS since 1st June 2008 and for old systems from 1st June 2009.

Petroleum has toxic components such as toluene, xylene, benzene, and ethylbenzene that can cause serious risks to humans and the ecosystem if they are released into the environment. Any undetected fuel leak from a UPSS can pollute the petrol station’s surroundings including air, water, groundwater, and soil.

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At ServoPro we always advise our members that they are far better off having a preventive approach to wet stock management.

If a leak occurs from a UPSS, cleaning the contaminated surrounding (groundwater and soil) can cost anywhere from $100,000 to more than $1 million. The UPSS owner can suffer economic losses from wastage of the fuel and may be liable for third-party damages for nearby contaminated sites.

It becomes business critical to involve a specialist in wet stock management to regularly monitor UPSS and detect any fuel leaks.

Many petrol station operators don’t have any controls to record their site’s deliveries, dip readings and sales. As a result, you could be facing fuel loss without any alarm bells.

While some petrol station owners prefer to do their own loss monitoring, at ServoPro we recommend the use of a third party for SIRA. These specialist companies use inventory data and statistically analyse it to report

PETROL NEWS the smallest leaks possible. This becomes essential at sensitive sites where a minor leak can impact the environment significantly.

The most common area where fuel losses are identified is in the sales process because of the poor calibration of pump meters. While individual meter miscalibrations may appear to be small and insignificant, these can result in the loss of significant profits aggregating over time.

If your pumps are over delivering, your customers will appreciate it, but it’s not good for business! Wet stock monitoring reports can detect these miscalibrations and ensure this doesn’t happen.

Some petrol retailers choose to reconcile their wet stock manually via a written book or spreadsheet. The dangers of manually reconciling your wet stock include human error, data entry errors, formula errors and miscalculations. In many cases, these manual forms of reconciling wet stock are not only inaccurate but are also non-compliant. While the fuel retailer might think they are making an effort to detect leaks, if the EPA was to audit the site, they may not be deemed compliant.

The benefits of using an external company for SIRA and wet stock management includes but is not limited to, delivery validation, identification of contaminants, dip data functionality, identification of pilferage and specialist advice if there is an issue found.

Common issues that are found using a specialist SIRA company and reporting include incorrect fuel deliveries, leaks from fuel pipelines and tanks, and the accuracy of dispensers and meters.

The EPA conducts random audits of service stations nationally. It is important that all fuel retailers are aware of their obligations around compliance.

When you receive a delivery from your fuel wholesaler how do you know if the correct amount of fuel has been delivered? There have been cases of theft while fuel is in transit. Third party wet stock monitoring will allow you to know in real time if you have received a short delivery. With small margins, fuel retailers cannot afford to be receiving short deliveries.

There was a case where a truck with a false floor and a fuel tank was parking over the fill point of underground fuel tanks and was pumping fuel out of the tanks. Without a system for reconciling fuel, the site operator would have never been able to detect such theft.

When you receive a fuel delivery how do you know if the correct amount has been delivered?

If your pumps are over delivering, your customers will appreciate it, but it’s not good for business.

When an abnormality is found in a site’s wet stock reconciliation it is important that the site operator gets specialist advice to find the problem as soon as possible.

It may be as simple as having the dispensers calibrated or worst-case scenario there is a leak in an underground tank. Either way, the issues must be identified early and fixed immediately as this can have a direct impact on the bottom line.

There have been cases of the wrong type of fuel being delivered into a tank resulting in customers receiving the wrong type of fuel for their vehicle. If the site operator is using third party wet stock monitoring, this will be detected far quicker than if no reconciliation is being done.

Reconciling your wet stock will also pick up if you have water entering your tanks either via a leak or buildup of condensation. The extra volume of water will be picked up during the data analysis.

Make sure that all staff members are trained adequately to avoid any data entry errors. The integrity of dipsticks should also be checked on a regular basis as warped or hard to read dipsticks can result in inaccurate data being entered resulting in incorrect analysis.

All service station operators should be submitting reliable data to a third-party vendor of choice every day and be reviewing reporting data weekly. To be able to manage fuel inventory effectively and efficiently correct analysis and reporting needs to be easily accessible.

For a small monthly fee, it makes good business sense to use a specialist company for your wet stock management and SIRA compliance. No service station owner who wants to run an environmentally responsible, profitable business and have peace of mind can afford to ignore this.

At ServoPro we have a range of partners who specialise in all areas of compliance including SIRA and environmental regulations including special rates for members. If you need any help and advice, feel free to contact us directly. C&I

While the fuel retailer might think they are making an effort to detect leaks, if the EPA was to audit the site, they may not be deemed compliant.”

– Dan Armes, Founder, ServoPro

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PETROL NEWS

Convenience one of the only retail channels to grow in December

United Petroleum signs supply deal with Saudi company Aramco Trading United Petroleum has signed a non-binding Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Saudi company Aramco Trading Co (ATC).

ATC intends to explore the sale and supply of refined fuels to United Petroleum to meet growing demand in its network of facilities in Australia and elsewhere.

The MoU will cover potential long-term fuel supply, product storage, other business opportunities, and will assess additional areas of cooperation, both in the energy sector and other growth areas, with a view to generating long-term value for both businesses.

Avi Silver and Eddie Hirsch, United Petroleum owners, said with their growth expectations both domestically and internationally, they are very pleased to be signing this deal with ATC. “Given ATC’s strength and oversight of the petroleum industry, we will have the ability to leverage their knowledge and collectively expand and enhance what we do. This is a very exciting opportunity for United Petroleum and ATC.” Ibrahim Al Buainain, President and CEO, ATC, said they are delighted to sign the MoU to further strengthen its relationship with Australian businesses and that they hope to advance the vast opportunity for growth in United Petroleum’s distribution networks across Australia and elsewhere.

Australian retail turnover fell 4.4 per cent in December 2021, seasonally adjusted, according to the Retail Trade figures released by the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS).

Five of six retail industries fell in December, led by household goods retailing (-9.2 per cent), clothing, footwear, and personal accessory retailing (-17.3 per cent), department stores (-21.3 per cent), other retailing (-4.0 per cent), and cafes, restaurants, and takeaway food services (-0.7 per cent). The falls in each of these industries follows rises in both October and November.

Food retailing, which includes convenience and supermarkets, was the only industry to rise through the month, up 2.2 per cent ($283.8m).

Ben James, Director of Quarterly Economy Wide Statistics, said the 4.4 per cent fall is the largest monthly fall since April 2020. However, retail sales remain elevated compared to pre pandemic levels, with December’s monthly turnover the second highest level in the series following last month’s record.

“Despite this month’s fall, retail turnover remains strong, up 4.8 per cent on December 2020, with strong consumer spending continuing post the Delta Outbreak,” James said. “Victoria recorded the largest fall of any state or territory, down 8.4 per cent, however this only partly unwinds the state’s strong rise in November when it rose to a record level. Victorian turnover is now at the third highest level ever, 6.5 per cent above December 2020.”

The Northern Territory was the only state or territory to see growth in December, up 3.6 per cent as lockdown restrictions eased and the introduction of lockouts allowed more favourable trading conditions for businesses. New South Wales had the second largest fall, down 4.2 per cent, followed by Western Australia (-3.5 per cent), South Australia (-4.1 per cent), and Queensland (-0.7 per cent).

Despite falls for most retail industries this month, spending on retail goods remains elevated compared to December 2020 for all retail industries except for Department stores, down 9.0 per cent. Softer trading conditions emerged late in the month with consumers becoming more cautious, holding back spending as Omicron cases rapidly rose around the country.

The December result follows consecutive rises of 7.3 per cent in November 2021, 4.9 per cent in October 2021, and 1.3 per cent in September 2021.

Shell UK opens global pilot electric vehicle charging hub Shell has opened its first EV charging hub in the UK in Fulham, London, where petrol and diesel pumps at an existing fuel station have been replaced with ultra-rapid charge points.

The number of electric vehicles has grown by more than 3,000 per cent over the past 10 years. According to the UK Government, in early 2010 there were around 9,000 ultralow emissions vehicles, or ULEVs, in the UK.

By December 2021, this number had risen to 370,000 (Source: DfT).

To cater to this growth, Shell has plans to grow its EV charging network to more than 5,000 EV charge points on forecourts and in new locations by 2025.

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A global pilot, this is the first time the company has converted one of its existing fuel sites to cater solely for electric vehicles.

Shell Fulham features nine high-powered, ultra-rapid 175kW charge points, which can charge most vehicles up to 80 per cent within 30 minutes.

The site features two spectacular timber canopies fitted with solar panels that provide around a quarter of its electricity needs. Shop front double glazing with highly insulating properties reduces energy use for both cooling in the summer and heating in winter, and the chargers all run on 100 per cent certified renewable electricity as well.

It also features a newly formatted sales kiosk housing a Little Waitrose & Partners convenience store and Costa Coffee outlet.

Planning permission for the hub was received in early 2021 and the site opened in January 2022.

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

PETROL NEWS

Electric vehicle sales triple in the past year Sales of plug-in electric vehicles (EVs) have tripled in the past year from 6,900 in 2020 to 20,665 in 2021, reveal figures released by the Electric Vehicle Council (EVC).

The data shows that EVs now account for 1.95 per cent of sales of new vehicles, up from 0.78 per cent in 2020, with the most purchased EV being the Tesla Model 3 with 12,094 sales.

Behyad Jafari, Chief Executive at the EVC, said positive policy change at state level was behind the boost in sales.

“Governments that take the path of encouragement will capture myriad societal benefits – cleaner air, reduced respiratory illness, smaller carbon footprint, quieter roads. Those that lag will make themselves a dumping ground for old tech, dirty vehicles.”

Jafari said it was great that state governments have received the global message, but that the federal government was stuck in the past.

“We desperately need the federal government to introduce Australian EV rebates alongside fuel efficiency standards, just like other developed nations. If we get these changes, you’ll see sales figures really rocket ahead.”

Other top selling EVs were the MG ZS with 1388 sales, Mitsubishi Outlander with 592, and MG HS with 580.

Jafari said that given Australia is a wealthy, car-loving, early adapting nation, it should be an EV leader.

“If we were (an EV leader) we could restart a thriving manufacturing industry supporting thousands of quality jobs. But we need to build rapidly on this current momentum.

“After so many wasted years, Australia’s a long way back from the pack, but then again the cool thing about electric cars is how quickly they move from zero to a hundred.”

Ampol expands into the Australian energy retailing market Ampol is set to expand into the Australian energy market after applying for licenses to sell electricity and gas in Australia.

The move comes after oil company Shell and telecoms leader Telstra last year announced they would be expanding into the sector.

The document, submitted to the Australian Energy Regulator (AER), revealed Ampol is eager to utilise its existing customers and infrastructure as the basis of its energy retailing offer.

“By becoming an energy retailer, Ampol will be able to bring new customer propositions to market off the back of its generation and mobility investments.

“Ampol Energy Pty Ltd is focused upon the evolving and charging energy market as Australian consumers and businesses continue a trend towards decarbonisation. Energy markets and consumer preferences will continue to converge, so as such, the structure of the business is aligned to our future view of the 96 February/March 2022 | C&I | www.c-store.com.au

market. Nonetheless, supplying energy to household and business consumers is a key pillar of our future business direction,” stated Ampol.

In its application to the AER, Ampol Energy outlined its strategy and announced its leadership team, which will be headed by former CEO of energy retailers Australian Power and Gas, and Mojo Power, James Myatt.

Adam Lourey will join as Regulatory and Compliance Manager, Rochelle Schuenker will serve as acting Head of Retail, while Doug Darley, former CFO of Ampol’s Fuels and Infrastructure division, will join as COO. Ampol Energy states that if approved it will offer its energy products to the states in the National Electricity Market (NEM) – Queensland, New South Wales (including ACT), Victoria, Tasmania, and South Australia.

Ampol Energy says it will be using a “hybrid model” of onshore and offshore customer support services.

Matthew Halliday, CEO and Managing Director, Ampol

PETROL NEWS The new OTR Hamilton store affirms the group’s commitment to investing in regional towns.

New OTR Hamilton brings first Hungry Jack’s to the area OTR has opened a new store in Hamilton, Victoria, featuring the first Hungry Jack’s in the area.

The store, which has created more than 55 new retail jobs, has a host of other offerings including coffee from C Coffee, HappyWash, Moe’s Dog and Shake, EAT Bakery, and OhJ, as well as a premium range of Caltex fuels.

Daryl Cotter, General Manager OTR, said the new Hamilton store affirms their commitment to investing in regional towns and championing job growth across Australia.

“We know how important jobs growth is in regional areas and we’re doing our best to support communities. As with all our OTR stores, we aim to become an integral part of the Hamilton community and the Grampians by supporting community groups, events, and sporting clubs.”

Cotter said they’ve been looking forward to opening in Hamilton and bringing their award-winning food and fuel offers to the area, including Hungry Jack’s which is open 6am-11pm daily.

“If you need flowers for a loved one, a coffee in the morning, some supermarket necessities, a quick snack after work or a bigger bite to eat any time of the day or night; OTR has you covered.”

This is the seventh store opened in regional Victoria, bringing the total of OTR stores across South Australia and regional Victoria to 170, while employing more than 4000 people.

Australia to export world’s first shipment of liquefied hydrogen to Japan Australia will export the world’s first shipment of liquefied hydrogen to Japan following the arrival of the Suiso Frontier carrier.

The specially built carrier arrived in Victoria as part of the Hydrogen Energy Supply Chain (HESC) pilot project, which Prime Minister Scott Morrison said “will make Australia a global leader” in the industry.

“The HESC project is key to both Australia and Japan and our hydrogen industries. In addition to our government’s support for HESC, we have recently established the Australian Clean Hydrogen Trade Program and committed up to $150 million to the first round that will focus on clean hydrogen supply chains with Japan.”

The hydrogen will be produced in Victoria’s LaTrobe Valley from local brown coal, with aims to produce 225,000 tonnes of clean hydrogen each year.

The government also announced an additional $7.5 million to support the next pre-commercialisation phase of HESC, bringing the Australian Government’s total commitment to the project to $57.5 million.

Angus Taylor, Minister for Industry, Energy and Emissions Reduction, said the arrival of the 116 metre carrier was an important milestone for Australia’s approach to reducing emissions and will help deliver jobs and economic activity in Victoria.

The hydrogen will be produced in Victoria’s LaTrobe Valley from local brown coal

Reputable retail brands caught up in Rapid Antigen Test price gouging claims The Australian Association of Convenience Stores (AACS) is working with the ACCC to ensure reputable retail brands aren’t ‘named and shamed’ in price gouging claims of Rapid Antigen Tests (RATs).

Theo Foukkare, CEO of the AACS, which has more than 6500 retail and supplier members and represents major convenience retail brands, said he fully condemns any retail outlet price gouging on the sale of RATs, but wants to ensure that reputable retailers aren’t tarnished with the same brush as those doing the wrong thing.

“There has been a lot of misinformation being reported and then corrected in the public arena and we would not want this to negatively impact on our reputable retail brands in the convenience and service station sector.”

Foukkare said that convenience and petrol stores across the nation have played a critical role within the community since the pandemic began and will continue to facilitate in keeping communities safe, while providing them with essential goods and services through these difficult times.

“Our members are working around the clock to secure RATs direct from suppliers for their communities. However, in some instances they have had to buy product through second and third hand distributors to ensure consumer availability is maintained.”

Foukkare explained that AACS and its members will continue working with suppliers, the government, and the ACCC to ensure RATs are available and priced appropriately to support public health and economic objectives.

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