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Retailer choice awards: Wholesaler of the year 2018

Keeping shelves full throughout the year is a key part of the job for wholesalers, yet these firms all show there is so much more that can be done

Dhamecha

Over the years, Dham-echa has become very popular in its home city of London – an independent family business in an era of growing corporate influence. Impressively, this is a trend that has continued with its expansion to Leicester and its more recent move to Birmingham. Its strong relationships with manufacturers – and big-brand promotions – highlights the widespread respect for the firm, too.

Did you know?

Dhamecha was the largest member of Today’s Group, one of the two buying groups that merged to form Unitas last month.

Parfetts

This has been a year of innovation, taking risks and reaping the rewards with great results for Parfetts. The business spent £800,000 taking over Blakemore’s north east depot, but also announced sales of £350m. Among other good news for the wholesaler, its symbol group, Go Local Extra, has now become a national enterprise with a plan for 450 stores to join by the end of the year. Meanwhile, more than 3,000 stores have joined its retail club.

Did you know?

North west-based Parfetts is an employee-owned enterprise, which means that its team benefits as the business grows. 

JW Filshill

The Scottish company has long been a strong customer-focused wholesaler that dares to do things differently – often taking a first step into the use of smartphone technology or using data. In 2018, the company ran a successful campaign to drive app sales among retailers (56% had never promoted products on the app previously). After updating its KeyStore More format in late 2017, Filshill is beginning expansion into northern England.

Did you know?

Filshill also exports craft beer to China and Japan. MD Simon Hannah was Today’s last chairman before the group merged to become Unitas.

Epicurium

The ethos of this wholesaler has always been that if you can keep innovating, you can “steal a march” on mainstream wholesalers. This strategy was given a boost this year when its work proved so innovative that Booker has struck a supply deal with it. Convenience is a more interesting place thanks to Epicurium bringing the likes of Wat Kitchen Noodles and Perkier Quinoa to independent retailers’ shelves.  

Did you know?

Epicurium, founded by Ben McKechnie, is based in County Durham. The website features blogs and category management advice.

Right Price Wholesale

With concerns about the environment growing, and consumers looking for companies that match their ethos, it’s not surprising that there were a record number of entrants for Confex’s Green Wholesaler of the Year award. The winner, Right Price Wholesale, used rainwater harvesting and solar panels to cut down its environmental impact. The company is a specialist in impulse confectionery, snacks and soft drinks.​​​​​​​

Did you know?

Event organiser Confex has been running this award for more than seven years with the support of a range of major suppliers.

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