fbpx

Retailer choice awards: Symbol group of the year 2018

Depending on the group, many fascias have been at the heart of the uncertainty retailers have felt about consolidation. They are also helping stores take steps towards a more innovative and profitable future, however

Depending on the group, many fascias have been at the heart of the uncertainty retailers have felt about consolidation. They are also helping stores take steps towards a more innovative and profitable future, however

 

Spar

The group’s boss, Debbie Robinson – who recently announced her departure – has spent seven years guiding Spar into the future. Next up, she expects the legalisation of cannabis and CBD oil to provide c-stores with new opportunities. Her visions have consistently translated into action, and this year another passionate belief – that food to go is integral to the future of the channel – has led to further developments of Spar’s Daily Deli.​​​​​​​

Did you know?

Founded in Holland in 1932, the Spar family of convenience stores consists of 12,770 shops in 48 countries, with around 2,600 in the UK.


Londis

Launching the new Londis Store of the Future format this summer, brand director Martin Swadling proposed a new minimum quality marker that progressive convenience retailers should meet, including protein products, a great fresh range and craft beer. Meanwhile, other ideas – such as displays that can easily be moved to aid day-part merchandising – highlight the company’s ambition to meet the standards of the world’s very best.

Did you know?

Weymouth-based Londis retailer Dave Hiscutt was named the Independent Achievers Academy Overall Best Shop 2017.


Nisa

Nisa retailers across the UK seem universally pleased to be getting Co-op-branded products into their stores and report sales rises across a range of categories. One additional benefit of the Co-op deal is an improvement of its premium offers. With the assistance of Nisa to promote seasonal events and themed offers, the symbol group’s stores are some of the most experiential around.

Did you know?

When put to the vote, 75% of Nisa retailers cleared Co-op’s takeover of the business last year. The acquisition was completed in March.


Go Local 

Parfetts’ symbol group is growing fast and has ambitions to reach well over 400 stores by the end of this year. It is its stores – rather than its cash and carries – where the majority of the company’s investment and focus has been. The business also offers its retailers regular workshops with suppliers and symbol group business development directors at its warehouses, turning these depots into a hub for learning.

Did you know?

Parfetts wholesale has gained plaudits in the industry for its sustainable growth, and is an employee-owned business.


One Stop

Quietly, while the conversation has been turned to consolidation, One Stop has been calmly carrying on, developing its service and offering an own-label range that matches the quality of its parent retailer, Tesco. Additionally, One Stop’s central ordering system provides an easy-to-use approach to maintaining availability. One Stop stores are free to order local products or other items, meaning no two shops are the same.​​​​​​​

Did you know?

The One Stop group employs more than 10,000 people in its network of more than 900 convenience stores across the UK.

Comments

This article doesn't have any comments yet, be the first!

Become a member to have your say