Drinks industry backs below-cost alcohol plans | Industry News | TalkingRetail.com

The drinks industry has responded positively to the Government’s announcement that it will ban the sale of alcohol below the level of excise duty and VAT.

Wine and Spirit Trade Association chief executive Jeremy Beadles said:“We have consistently argued for a ban on the sale of alcohol below the level of duty plus VAT on the basis that these are both consumer taxes and therefore the cost should be passed on to the consumer. This is the practical way to implement this policy.

“It is important this policy is applied nationally. We are sure ministers will want to ensure it is not undermined by separate and different price initiatives by local authorities.

“It’s equally vital to recognise that alcohol pricing and taxation cannot provide the solution to alcohol misuse. What’s needed is education and rigorous enforcement of laws to address misuse and related anti-social behaviour,” he said.

Source: WSTA

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ACS accuses ministers of ducking tough decision on below-cost booze sales | Industry News | TalkingRetail.com

The Association of Convenience Stores (ACS) has hit out at Ministers’ decision to define the cost of alcoholic drinks simply as tax, with no account for the cost of producing, distributing or selling the products. As a result of this decision, the Government’s impending ban on below-cost selling of alcohol will barely affect the supermarket promotions that have attracted so much criticism.

ACS chief executive James Lowman said:“After talking tough, the Government has ducked a tough decision. Their final proposal will not curb aggressive supermarket discounts like many of those we saw over the Christmas period. Defining‘cost’ as just tax is neither realistic, nor credible.”

Ministers made a pre-election commitment to ban the sale of alcohol below cost, however the issue of finding a suitable definition for cost has been controversial. ACS, working in conjunction with the Federation of Wholesale Distributors, made the case for the definition of cost to be based on a realistic estimate of production, marketing and distribution of the product. 

Lowman continued:“The real cost of an alcohol product on the shelf is obviously more than the cost of duty + VAT. We are disappointed that they have not listened to the strong case we made for a ban that reflected more closely the elements that made up the cost of the product.

“The biggest frustration is that the‘duty + VAT’ definition will satisfy no one, apart from the big supermarkets, and so the uncertainty and debate will continue to rage.  Local shops and wholesalers were keen to see a workable and credible ban in place that would provide certainty. We will continue to try to bring some common sense to this debate and find workable solutions to this problem.”

Source: ACS

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Waitrose to create 3,000 jobs in 2011 | Industry News | TalkingRetail.com

Waitrose is to open 39 new shops this year, resulting in the creation of 3,000 jobs across the country.

The new store openings follow a successful Christmas for Waitrose, which saw the retailer’s sales grow by 8.9% and 5.4% on a like-for-like basis.

Waitrose’s strong December performance continued beyond Christmas with total sales up by 9.7% and 5.9% on a like-for-like basis (based on the five days Waitrose traded between Christmas and 31 December). Sales were driven by a particularly strong New Year’s Eve with Champagne and party food top of customers’ shopping lists.

In 2011 Waitrose has 12 full-sized supermarkets in the pipeline, including five new branches in the Channel Islands (which will open between February and April) and new shops in Stratford, Raynes Park, Wimbledon, Exeter, Marlow and Newton Mearns (Glasgow).

The remainder of the new branches will be convenience shops in locations including Old Brompton and Palmers Green (both opening in January).

Waitrose managing director, Mark Price, said:“Our strong Christmas trading figures give us confidence for the year ahead, when we will be continuing to invest in the future growth of our business.

“In the current climate we’re very pleased to be employing 3,000 new Partners within our business.”

The new jobs will include management and non-management roles, as well as food specialists in meat, cheese, fish and wines.

Source: Waitrose

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Mid January is the best time to start diet, says Sainsbury’s | Industry News | TalkingRetail.com

New research released by Sainsbury’s Diets reveals that Brits are more likely to fall off the diet wagon if they start on 1 January, with 80% struggling to stick to healthy eating and 44% citing not being in the right frame of mind to diet.

A massive 42% will last just two to four weeks on diets beginning on 1 January.

Research shows that there can be a brighter outlook when beginning our diets on 15 January. Out of those that embark on a diet on this date, 45% will stay on a diet for six weeks or more.

Expert psychologist Dr. Linda Papadopoulos said:“With two-thirds of Brits wanting to lose weight and just 14% of us completely happy with our bodies, it’s vital we start eating a healthy diet at a time that is going to cause the least amount of stress and disruption in our lives.

“Brits struggle to change eating habits at the start of January as they find it stressful going back to work and getting the kids back to school not to mention coping with the worry of Christmas credit cards and bills. We have enough on our plates to deal with in January, without worrying about eating everything on our plates too!

“The strain of Christmas often catches up with us in the New Year and we put far too much pressure on ourselves to get healthy during this period. If you wait to begin your diet until 15 January you will have a much higher chance of sticking to healthy eating habits that should last you all year long!”

Charlie Parker, Sainsbury’s nutritionist, said:“New research released by Sainsbury’s Diets reveals that Brits plan on spending£1.3bn on top of their monthly outgoings on healthy eating and dieting in January. With 18% of us giving up a diet in the past because of costs, coping with the financial burden of dieting in the New Year on top of our Christmas financial hangovers will be too much pressure. We want to encourage Brits to wait until mid January to start their diets as they’re more likely to succeed and it can be a lot kinder on their purses.

“We found that people will stick to a diet for much longer if they have access to specific tools like healthy recipe ideas, and a personal fitness plan. Users can choose from a personalised Meal Plan or Food Diary service– this flexible approach means you can switch between the two to suit a busy lifestyle.

Source: Sainsbury’s

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Welsh flounder white fish makes its UK debut at Waitrose | Industry News | TalkingRetail.com

The“humble sprat and neglected flounder” are launching at Waitrose to generate new enthusiasm for these unloved fish.

Cornish sprats and Welsh flounder are good value British alternatives to many better-known varieties of oily and white fish. But these local delicacies are often overlooked and– in the case of Welsh flounder– discarded and thrown back into the sea.

Welsh flounder, a white flat fish, will make its UK supermarket debut at Waitrose in late February priced at£8.99 per kilo of fillets. That compares to £12.99 per kilo currently charged for lemon sole fillets, making Welsh flounder a good value alternative.

Waitrose specialist fish buyer Jeremy Ryland Langley, said:“Welsh flounder is often discarded but we think this is a great tasting fish that is a fantastic alternative to other white fish such as plaice and lemon sole.

“Waitrose is trying to create a new market for a fish that is currently discarded and thrown away. We are very keen to introduce new species in the market where we can to ease the pressure on some of our more popular and well-known fish, and I think Welsh flounder will be very popular.”

Whole Cornish sprats, which have the scientific name Sprattus Sprattus, will appear in around 100 Waitrose branches in late January priced at just£4.99 per kilo.

Waitrose previously stocked the omega 3-rich fish but stopped because customers preferred sardines and mackerel.

Langley said:“We sold them in the past but they have fallen out of favour, with sardines becoming the more popular of these small species of oily fish.

“Sprats have had an unglamorous reputation but they are nice little fish that are highly nutritious and can be used in recipes calling for sardines. They’re also great value for money.”

Cornish sprats will be available in Waitrose for the first few months of 2011 while the season lasts.

Source: Waitrose

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Tesco announces new UK team | Industry News | TalkingRetail.com

Retail giant Tesco has named the eight-man team to lead its UK operation from March, reporting to new UK chief executive, Richard Brasher, according to City. A.M.

Noel Robbins becomes chief operating officer, alongside new commercial directors Per Bank, and Laura Wade-Gery. Kevin Grace becomes property director; David North will become corporate affairs director and Judith Nelson personnel director.

UK finance director Mike Iddon and marketing director Carolyn Bradley will stay in their current posts.

Source: City A.M

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The Co-op appoints Gill Barr in new marketing role | Industry News | TalkingRetail.com

The Co-operative Group has announced the appointment of Gill Barr as group marketing director, following the departure of Patrick Allen, who left in July last year. 

Barr was previously at MasterCard where she recently completed an interim assignment as head of marketing UK and Ireland. Prior to MasterCard, Barr held senior posts at John Lewis, Woolworths, Superdrug, KPMG, Athena and Wickes.

Co-operative Group chief executive, Peter Marks, said:  “Over the past few years, we have seen a complete rejuvenation of the Co-operative brand, which has resulted in a doubling of sales, profits and membership. The business now has a significant opportunity to show customers the benefits to them of shopping at all Co-operative businesses.

“I am sure that with her tremendous breadth of experience, Gill Barr will make a significant contribution to the Co-operative Group’s development over the next few years and I am delighted she is joining us at this exciting time for the business.”

Commenting on her appointment, Gill Barr said:“The Co-operative’s recent rejuvenation has established great foundations for the future and I’m looking forward to using my retail and financial services experience to help drive the Group forward. 

“The Co-operative has an unrivalled reputation as an ethical business and is excellently placed to respond to consumers’ desire to trade with enterprises which share their values and principles.” 

Barr will join the Co-operative Group at the end of January.

Source: The Co-op

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Sainsbury’s adds to its Be Good To Yourself range | Industry News | TalkingRetail.com

Sainsbury’s has launched several new and improved products in its Be Good to Yourself range.

First launched in 2000, the range now includes over 230 products, made with tasty ingredients and packed with flavour. Brand new additions include Pesto Chicken Flatbread and Vegetable Moussaka, while favourite dishes including Beef Lasagne– made with fresh egg pasta and rich sauce, have been updated and improved to ensure the best taste without having to sacrifice on health.

Created to offer a wide range of meals and food that encourage eating well while not having to compromise of flavour, the Be Good To Yourself productsadhere to strict nutritional standards, including reduced fat (at least 30% less than standard equivalent product) or less than 3% fat.  

The newest sweet varieties include Blueberry Muffin and Blackberry and Apple Pie. Further additions include, complete delicious meals– Chilli Ginger Prawn Noodles and Meatballs and Spaghetti.  

Charlie Parker, company nutritionist at Sainsbury’s, said:“Following the inevitable excess over the festive period, many people will be looking to lose a few pounds in the New Year. The Be Good To Yourself range is an easy way to make healthier choices while enjoying delicious food. Now with such a broad range, there is a meal, dessert or snack for every occasion. 

“Giving customers added confidence that there is no compromise on taste, all the new and improved food has been customer panelled to ensure they taste their best.”

Source: Sainsbury’s

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Government green light for supermarkets to keep selling booze at‘pocket-money prices’ | Industry News | TalkingRetail.com

CAMRA, the Campaign for Real Ale has expressed regret at the Government’s failure to ban the sale of alcohol below cost. The Government are instead banning the sale of alcohol at below excise duty and VAT which is just 47p a pint.

This will have virtually no impact on the rock-bottom prices of beer in supermarkets and will do nothing to alleviate the pressure on pubs where the price of a pint is rapidly approaching£3.

CAMRA has long been campaigning for a ban on below-cost sales of alcohol, which was a clear manifesto commitment of both the Conservatives and the Liberal Democrats. 

However, for any ban to have a meaningful impact it is vital that the cost of alcohol production is factored in, which for beer will produce a floor price of around 40p a unit– double what is being proposed.

Mike Benner, CAMRA’s chief executive said: “Today’s decision means pubs will continue to close as they are undercut by supermarkets selling canned beers at pocket money prices. A ban on selling beer at below duty plus VAT will have a negligible impact as supermarkets sell only a tiny proportion of beer at belowthese levels.

“CAMRA believes a floor price of around 40p a unit would be required to prevent supermarkets selling alcohol at a loss. The Government’s decision to set a floor price of only 21p a unit is a betrayal of their previous promise to ban the sale of alcohol at below cost and means supermarkets will continue to be able to sell alcohol as a loss leader.

“It is a blow to pub goers that with pub prices approaching £3 a pint the Government have decided to give the green light to the supermarkets to charge as little as 47p a pint.

“The Government appear all too ready to impose higher costs and regulations on well-run community pubs but are prepared to turn a blind eye to the irresponsible attitude towards alcohol expressed by the supermarkets.”

Source: CAMRA

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Asda survey reveals cost spent on new born babies | Industry News | TalkingRetail.com

On average parents will spend a whopping£1,407 on their newborn baby in the first month alone, according to supermarket Asda.

New parents face a£9,152 bill during the first twelve months of their new baby’s life, however the first month will be the biggest hit to their wallets. It’s no surprise expectant parents may feel like crying almost as much as their little one as they shop for the mountain of essentials.

To help savvy mums-to be beat this hefty first-month spend, Asda is holding a special Baby Event today (17 January), enabling parents to slash this first-month figure by a massive£900.

A recent survey by Asda reveals that 45% of mums-to-be look to the likes of Victoria Beckham for a steer on what to buy in preparation for their baby, with 33% feeling under pressure to keep up with the celeb baby trends from maternity clothes to the latest must-have buggy. But with this in mind, 72% reveal their main concern is keeping on top of the costs.

With offers on over 90 products throughout Baby Week, new and expectant parents can kit themselves out with all their baby essentials for just over£450, at least 10% cheaper than rival supermarkets, 169% cheaper than high street favourite Mamas and Papas.

Asda shoppers will be able to snap up a multi-recline pushchair, travel cot and car seat for£25 each, cots have been rolled back to just £100 and packs of nappies start from £3.

Source: Asda

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‘Solid Christmas performance for Morrisons’, say analysts | Industry News | TalkingRetail.com

Morrisons reported a solid Christmas trading performance, despite tough comparables and despite disruption from the poor weather over the period, say analysts at RBS.

In the six weeks to 2 January, Morrisons reported total sales growth, excluding fuel and excluding VAT, of 3.1% split between 1.0% like-for-like sales growth and a 2.1% contribution from new space.

“This compares to our expectations of like-for-like sales growth of 0.8% and a new space contribution of 2%,” said RBS.

“If we adjust Morrisons reported like-for-like growth in order to align with the reporting by its peers as well as the Co-op stores contribution, we estimate Morrisons would have reported like-for-like sales growth north of 2.0%.

“Given the tough prior year comparisons (last Christmas Morrisons delivered 6.5% like-for-like sales growth) as well as the impact of the bad weather, we believe that this performance is a fairly good one. While background food price inflation may have crept up, promotional intensity in the period, was also likely to have increased year-on-year, which if correct, would suggest that volumes were broadly flat in the period.

“The Collector Card reward scheme is likely to have experienced good redemption rates given the queues at the collection desks that we saw in various Morrisons shops over the period. The scheme this year also offers a £5 additional benefit through to the end of January, which despite it being thefirst year that this has been available, we would expect Morrisons to have high visibility on redemption rates through to its full 2011 year-end.

“Morrisons expectations for the year remain unchanged and we do not expect market forecasts for full 2011 to change post this update and this is despite the bad weather over Christmas probably costing Morrisons an estimated £3-5m in additional costs.

“In terms of 2011 outlook, this also remains unchanged bearing in mind that Morrison has over the past year been consistently cautious about the economic and trading backdrop while at the same time being confident that it could continue to move the business forward.”

Source: RBS

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Deadline for Oxford Retail Masters Forum extended | Industry News | TalkingRetail.com

The deadline to win a free scholarship to attend the Oxford Retail Masters Forumhas been extended until 28 January. Skillsmart Retail and Retail Trust are calling for the UK’s most talented and ambitious retailers to submit their applications for the exclusive scholarship, worth over £2,000.

The scholarships give eight talented retail managers from small and medium-sized businesses (fewer than 1,000 employees) the opportunity to learn from some of the biggest names in the industry. The four-day residential course, run by the British Shops and Stores Association (BHF-bssa), is held at the world-renowned Institute of Retail Management, part of Oxford University’s Saïd Business School, between 28 to 31 March 2011.

The scholarship winners will take part in a series of lectures and seminars to help them manage their businesses more effectively. With topics ranging from global sourcing and ethical trading to demography, business management and climate change, this timely event includes content few could afford to miss. Speakers rank amongst some of retail’s top names, including Anthony Preston, former owner of Pets at Home and force behind a business worth £955m when it was sold.

To be in with a chance of winning a scholarship, interested parties need to complete a short application form by 28 January 2011, after which, shortlisted candidates will be interviewed by telephone.

For more information and to download a scholarship application form, please visitwww.skillsmartretail.com/scholarships

 Source: Skillsmart Retail

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Retailers unite against Scotland’s large retailer levy plan | Industry News | TalkingRetail.com

Dozens of representatives from major retailers and key business organisations in Scotland have met to pledge their opposition to the Scottish Government’s proposed large retailer levy, warning it will endanger future job creation.

The first gathering of Competitive Scotland took place ahead of the Scottish Retail Consortium’s (SRC’s) Annual Parliamentary Reception. 

The retail sector is warning that the extra tax on stores with a rateable value of more than£750,000 could limit retail expansion in Scotland and harm employment prospects.

Large retailers already pay approximately a quarter of all business rates across Scotland, the highest proportion of any sector.

In 2009, the retail sector contributed around£24bn to the Scottish economy, accounting for 11% of the nation’s GDP. It employs nearly 250,000 people, equivalent to one in nine of the Scottish workforce. 

The big four supermarkets alone plan to open a total of around 20 new stores in Scotland over the next two years, resulting in approximately 8,000 new jobs. It has been estimated that the building of a major store provides work for up to 200 construction staff. 

Scottish Retail Consortium director, Fiona Moriarty, said:“To have so many major retailers and key business organisations brought around the table by a single issue is highly significant. 

“This reflects the level of concern about the proposed large retailer levy and the importance the whole sector places on halting it. Preventing this unfair tax on successful businesses is at the top of the retail sector’s agenda, and we aim to place it top of the Government’s agenda as well. 

“Opposition politicians are showing they understand the importance of the retail sector to the future success of the Scottish economy. It’s a shame the Scottish Government seems so determined to continue on a path that risks jeopardising jobs growth and investment.

“Retailers are demonstrating their commitment to Scotland by opening more stores and employing a growing number of local people. It would be terrible to see that growth slowed or halted as a result of the Scottish Government enacting a policy which will make the country a less welcoming place to do business. 

“During the next two weeks, ahead of the vote on the proposed levy, Scottish politicians and the Scottish public can expect to hear many key voices from the worlds of retail and business raised in opposition. Preventing this ill-conceived measure from going ahead will be crucial to Scotland’s economic security in the months and years ahead.”

Source: SRC

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Morrisons to snap up 16 Netto stores from Asda | Industry News | TalkingRetail.com

Morrisons has entered into a conditional agreement with Asda to acquire 120,000sq ft of additional selling space through the purchase of 16 former Netto UK stores at a cost of£28.1m.

The supermarket chain said the stores would“fit very well into our portfolio of 437 existing stores”.  The additional selling space is incremental to the 500,000 sq.ft target already outlined for 2011/12. 

Obtaining the stores is conditional upon the successful completion of Asda’s acquisition of Netto UK with final approval by the Office of Fair Trading.

The handover of the stores is expected to take place on a phased basis commencing in March, with completion of the conversion to the Morrisons format expected to take three months.

Dalton Philips, chief executive of Morrisons, said:“These additional stores are an important next step in Morrisons’ growth. We are building on our strategy to bring Morrisons’ unique offer of freshly prepared, affordable food to more people in Britain. 

“We look forward to welcoming the new colleagues employed at the Netto stores as they transfer to Morrisons under TUPE regulations.”

Source: Morrisons

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Value for money more important than low price, say shoppers | Industry News | TalkingRetail.com

A survey of 2,210 UK consumers by Retail Eyes, the UK’s leading customer experience improvement agency, has found that less than one in five people (17%) intend to make purchasing decisions based on the lowest possible price.

With consumers counting every penny following the VAT rise, many retailers will be doing all they can to keep prices low to attract shoppers through aggressive promotions and discounting. While this does undoubtedly have its short term benefits, it will be unsustainable in the long run and ultimately leave customers feeling disappointed.

Tim Ogle, CEO of Retail Eyes, says that rock bottom pricing is not necessarily the best way to attract, and retain, customers.“Our research has shown that 83% of shoppers are looking for added value for their money. Obviously with their margins being squeezed by rising costs, retailers need to find cost effective ways to add value – one of which is through exceptional customer service.”

Customer service has historically been seen as an interaction to deal with a customer when something has gone wrong or simply serving the customer in a transactional manner. Retail Eyes believe that retailers should go a step further and expand customer service to customer experience placing the focus on creating an experience that customers remember and want to revisit.

Ogle said:“Customers are subconsciously running value equations throughout their entire experience and that includes more than just price; it includes the whole experience. People, especially front line staff, are the ones who can really make a retailer stand out from the crowd by committing to make every customer’s experience the very best.

“Get the overall customer experience right and retailers can expect to see the results positively impact at the tills.  Get it wrong however, and shop staff who see their job ‘as just a job’ can have a negative impact– destroying a retailer’s reputation just by simply ignoring customers.”

Retail Eyes helps retailers and other businesses understand the impact of customer experience and how different interactions and levels of service can affect customers’ purchasing decisions.

Source: Retail Eyes

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New campaign to highlight the benefits of organic products | Industry News | TalkingRetail.com

The organic industry is launching a high profile three-year campaign that is set to deliver sales growth by increasing consumer demand for organic food in the UK. 

Match funded by the EU, the aim of the£2m‘Why I Love Organic’ campaign is to invite consumers to discover what organic means, by challenging their perceptions and discovering their own reason for loving it.

Launching in January 2011 under the banner‘There are lots of reasons to love organic – discover yours’, the campaign consists of press advertising, PR and digital marketing and aims to democratise organic by using everyday people to talk about their reasons for buying and loving organic.

Chairman of the Organic Trade Board, Huw Bowles said:“We know that people want to eat natural and great tasting food which is exactly what organic is. Research has shown that when it comes to buying food, issues such as naturalness and restricted use of pesticides are important to consumers however they don’t always realise that this is exactly what they would get if they were to buy organic.

“The term organic is widely misunderstood and through this campaign, we want to help consumers to discover exactly what it means and why it’s worth it, with the ultimate aim of driving sales.”

Press adverts will run across a number of national magazines over a nine-month period (in each of the three years of the programme.)  The ad creative will challenge perceptions by featuring everyday individuals who would not normally be associated with buying organic, each giving their reason for why they love organic, highlighting the benefits of organic food.

The PR activity will help to raise awareness and focus on seasonal news stories, real life case studies, competitions, celebrity endorsement and tasty organic recipe ideas.

A new website (www.whyiloveorganic.co.uk) has also been created that will showcase the benefits of organic food, feature up to date news and recipe suggestions. 

Source: Organic Trade Board

 

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Morrisons report slow Christmas sales | Industry News | TalkingRetail.com

In the six weeks to 2 January like-for-like sales at Morrisons grew just 1.0% (4.0% including fuel), building on the“industry-leading” growth reported over the past four years.

Morrisons served an average of two million more customers each week over the Christmas period than five years ago, and in that time has grown total sales excluding fuel by 47%.

Morrisons said the combination of“high quality food at fantastic prices” was seen throughout the store, with a range of deals being supplemented by its Christmas collector card. This proved popular with over one million customers, who will continue to benefit from the scheme into the New Year.

The board’s expectations for the full year remain unchanged.  Looking ahead, Morrisons remain well positioned to make progress whilst recognising that in 2011 the economic background for the UK consumer will be challenging with disposable incomes coming under increasing pressure, through a combination ofthe recent VAT increase and public service spending cuts.

Commenting on Morrisons Christmas trading, chief executive officer Dalton Philips said:“This has been another good performance in a tough market.  At Christmas, when customers are even more focused on great quality food at outstanding value, the Morrisons differences really stand out.

“I’m very pleased with the way the whole business has risen to the twin challenges of a difficult consumer environment and a prolonged spell of adverse weather and really want to thank all our 130,000 colleagues for going above and beyond the call of duty again this year, to ensure we served ourcustomers well during this critical time.”

Source: Morrisons

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Palmer and Harvey named Supplier of the Year | Industry News | TalkingRetail.com

Palmer and Harvey (P&H), the UK’s largest delivered wholesaler, has been named Supplier of the Year by one of the largest independent forecourt groups, Park Garage Group.

P& H, which supplies the group with FMCG products, was up against other branded blue chip manufacturers as well as Esso, BP and Total at the group’s annual awards recognising individuals and companies that have contributed to Park Garage Group’s success over the last year.

The accolade was awarded at a dinner at Croydon’s Hilton Hotel, attended by 300 industry guests and Park Garage Group employers.

The award acknowledges the growth in the four-year relationship between P&H and the Park Garage Group during the past year from a presence in 15 service stations to full supply of Park Garage Group’s 92 outlets. The business now generates a turnover in excess of £21.5m for P&H.

The Park Garage Group owns 92 forecourt outlets throughout the country, with a particular presence in the south-east of England, under its Park and Shop brand.

Sunil Tandon, director of Park Garage Group, said:“P&H has really helped drive our business forward over the last year, particularly helping us to develop our brand and our POS presence. We have built a great relationship and we wanted to recognise that with this award.”

Paul Hagon, managing director of sales, Palmer and Harvey, said:“We pride ourselves on offering excellent customer service and working in true partnership with our customers. We are very proud to be named Park Garage Group’s Supplier of the Year and look forward to building our relationship.”

Source: Palmer and Harvey (P&H)

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All Sainsbury’s tuna to move to 100% pole and line caught | Industry News | TalkingRetail.com

Sainsbury’s has announced that all tuna used as an ingredient in its food will be caught using the pole and line method by the end of this month. This move ensures that 100% of Sainsbury’s tuna across all products is responsibly sourced. Sainsbury’s fresh, frozen and canned tuna is already line caught.

All of Sainsbury’s ready meals, sandwiches, pate, dips, salads, sandwich and potato fillers and sushi containing tuna will now be sourced using the more selective fishing method which practically eliminates bycatch of other species.

Sainsbury’s moved all its own-label canned tuna to pole and line caught in 2009, and as a result, was rated No.1 by Greenpeace for responsible sourcing.

Tuna is the third biggest-selling fish in Sainsbury’s and the move will now see 1,500 tonnes of fish move to the more sustainable catch method every year.

Ally Dingwall, Aquaculture& Fisheries manager, Sainsbury’s said:“We’re proud to be able to offer our customers pole and line caught skipjack tuna across all products from tins to sandwiches to ready meals. 

“As the UK’s largest retailer of MSC and Freedom Food fish, we continue to source food as responsibly as possible. This means our 20 million customers have peace of mind that what they’re buying is as sustainable as it can be.”

Source: Sainsbury’s

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New Zealand’s Invivo Wines signs distribution agreement with Grupo Codorniu UK | Industry News | TalkingRetail.com

Invivo Wines has signed an exclusive distribution agreement with one of the world’s largest wine producers, Grupo Codorniu UK.

Founded in 1551 and still privately owned by the Raventos family, Codorniu is one of the largest producers of sparkling wine in the world, with annual production of around 60 million bottles, it owns the largest area of vineyards in Spain, with more than 3,000 hectares of vineyards.

Invivo was founded three years ago by school friends Rob Cameron and Tim Lightbourne. Cameron heads up the winemaking while Lightbourne handles marketing.

Lightbourne said:“We look forward to bringing our fresh approach to the UK market, along with producing world class wines, we are a proactive New Zealand winery with strong alignments to various creative industries– which help us to develop some interesting and innovative support campaigns.”

Grupo Codorníu has recently been looking to expand its portfolio of agencies outside Spain– it already owns Argentinian winery Bodega Septima.

Nick Mantella, managing director of Grupo Codorníu UK, said: “Our aim is to broaden our existing portfolio, by building a highly focused, premium quality range of wines from around the world.

“Invivo Wines has built an incredible pedigree of quality in a very short time, and fits perfectly with this strategy.”

The Invivo range of wines will be available from Grupo Codorníu UK from February, including the recently launched ‘Bella by Invivo’, a 9% Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc with 30% less alcohol and calories. Other wines in the range include the Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Gris, and Rosé, and Central Otago Pinot Noir.

Source:Invivo Wines

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Andy Bond leaves Asda | Industry News | TalkingRetail.com

Andy Bond has relinquished the post of part-time chairman of supermarket chain Asda, according to today’s Daily Telegraph.

Bond was Asda’s chief executive until last April when he moved into the role of part-time chairman.

He will help Asda parent company Wal-Mart integrate its acquisition of the Massmart chain in South Africa over the next three months before leaving the company.

Source: Daily Telegraph

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Morrisons launches its biggest-ever Price Crunch to cancel out the rise in VAT | Industry News | TalkingRetail.com

Morrisons is pledging to cancel out the effects of the rise in VAT– an estimated £520 per family per year in added expense by reducing the price of an average basket of groceries (44 items) by £39.27 per week, a saving of £2,042 per year.

Morrisons has launched its biggest ever Price Crunch as it slashes the price of over 5,000 items, offering total savings to customers of£210m in January alone.

Pre-Price Crunch, a typical shop of 44 items would have cost£96.00, but these items are now just £56.73. The discounts are across the nation’s favourite groceries and many items will be reduced by more than half price, alongside thousands of other major price cuts.

Customers can immediately save£10 a week (£520 per year) by simply buying a basket of ten essential items: bread, milk, orange juice, teabags, sugar, bacon, whole chicken, sausages, baked beans and tomatoes.

Richard Hodgson, Morrisons group commercial director, said:“We understand that 2011 is set to be a tough year for consumers, so our Price Crunch helps cancel out the effect of the rise in VAT. These are not 1p price cuts– these are genuine savings on essential groceries that will cut the cost of the weekly shop significantly at a tough time for families.”

Source: Morrisons

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Retailers missing out as brands fail to engage with customers in-store | Industry News | TalkingRetail.com

Independent research commissioned by Callcredit Information Group has revealed consumers’ attitudes towards giving out personal details in-store, as 38% of Brits never divulge their details to retailers, and almost one in 10 (8%) admit to giving out fake contact details to avoid being contacted.

Surprisingly, the YouGov research reveals that almost two-thirds (64%) would be likely to give out their contact details for future marketing communications if they were signed up to the store’s loyalty programme (35%), or offered a small financial incentive like a discount off a future purchase (38%).

Moreover, 15% said that they would be happy to give out their contact details if they were informed about relevant promotions, products and services in future; given the chance to be part of an exclusive store club (11%); or if they were simply asked by a friendly and approachable person (9%). The‘flirt factor’ has the biggest impact on men and young people, as 10% of men and 17% of 18 to 24 year olds would give out their details if they were asked for them by someone friendly and approachable in-store.

The research into consumer shopping habits also reveals that at least one in eight online Brits (12%) are planning to shop from their phone this Christmas to avoid the rush in stores. The majority of these respondents are classified as‘Accomplished Singles’ by Callcredit’s CAMEO Lifestyle consumer classification. These are a highly affluent, upwardly mobile, energetic and ambitious group of singles, typically aged under 45.

Of people who have mobile phones that allow them to shop online, 15% said they would purchase clothing, footwear or accessories this Christmas, while 12% would purchase electrical goods, not including mobile phones.

However, the reality is that whilst mobile shopping is appealing to some demographics, technology is a barrier as 41% say they do not have the capacity to do so on their phones. 

Even more surprisingly, 78% of people who do not purchase items on their phone, but have the capability of doing so, say they would not like to do so in future. This includes 58% whose main reason is that they prefer to use other methods like going in-store or shopping on their computer and 15% have concerns about safety and security issues.

According to Callcredit’s CAMEO Personal Finance segmentation, the majority of respondents that have never made a purchase via their mobile phones are classed as ‘Sophisticated Savers,’ while consumers that have made a purchase via their phone are likely to be ‘Seldom Savers.’

Kevin Telford, director at Callcredit Information Group, said:“The results reveal that retailers are missing a big trick, as customers are most engaged with a brand at the point of purchase in-store.

“Whilst consumers have to give out contact details to make a purchase online, they are often more reluctant to do so in-store – but will if they are offered a small incentive or provided with information about products and services relevant to them.”

Source: Callcredit Information Group

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Shoppers turn their back on stores | Industry News | TalkingRetail.com

Aldata Solution, a provider of software to improve supplier to consumer processes, has revealed shoppers are frustrated with stock levels, with almost half (46%) expecting their favourite store to be out of stock of at least one item, forcing them to shop-hop to complete their purchases.

In addition, only 15% of respondents stated they were certain their preferred store would have what they want, indicating a worrying trend for retailers as consumers vote with their feet and discard store loyalty.

The research of over 1,000 UK consumers undertaken in November 2010 revealed attitudes to Christmas shopping and key frustrations with retailers over promotions and stock levels.

Allan Davies, CMO at Aldata, said:“During the festive season, shops are busier than ever, and having to shop-hop can be very stressful and tantamount to torture for the last minute Christmas shopper. With offers can draw in new customers, but a badly thought-out promotion could easily deplete stock levels and impact consumer confidence and loyalty.”

 “Christmas can be a difficult time for both consumers and retailers, but it is clear that retailers need to go back to basics and ensure that stock is available so that shoppers can complete their Christmas lists and as the busiest day on the high street is fast approaching, it is clear retailers need to act now before it’s too late.”

Source: Aldata Solution

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Retailers get the chance to apply for free scholarship to Oxford Retail Masters Forum | Industry News | TalkingRetail.com

Skillsmart Retail and the Retail Trust are calling for the UK’s most talented and ambitious retailers to submit their applications for a free scholarship to attend the Oxford Retail Masters Forumbefore the 14 January 2011.

The scholarships give eight talented retail managers from small and medium-sized businesses (less than 1,000 employees) the opportunity to learn from some of the biggest names in the industry. The four-day residential course, run by the British Shops and Stores Association (BHF-bssa), is held at the world-renowned Institute of Retail Management, part of Oxford University’s Saïd Business School, between 28 and 31 March 2011.

The scholarship winners will take part in a series of lectures and seminars to help them manage their businesses more effectively. With topics ranging from global sourcing and ethical trading to demography, business management and climate change, this timely event includes content few could afford to miss. Speakers rank amongst some of retail’s top names, including Anthony Preston, former owner of Pets at Home and force behind a business worth £955m when it was sold.

Neil Moss, Skillsmart Retail’s new head of employer engagement, said: “In the midst of the Christmas rush it would be easy to push this aside, but I urge all ambitious retail business owners and managers to apply for these scholarships at the Oxford Retail Masters Forum. They represent the very best in high-level retail training in the UK. It’s a real opportunity to get outside of your business and learn from the best. Past delegates testify to the immediate difference attending made to their businesses.”

To be in with a chance of winning a scholarship, interested parties need to complete a short application form by 14 January 2011, after which, shortlisted candidates will be interviewed by telephone.

Nigel J L Rothband, chief executive of Retail Trust, said:“Retail Trust continues to recognise the need for educational opportunities for people working in retail and there is no finer opportunity for those at management level than the Oxford Retail Masters Forum.”

For more information and to download a scholarship application form, visitwww.skillsmartretail.com/scholarships

Source:Skillsmart Retail

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