Nisa has highlighted that its retailers are still focusing on their long-term futures, despite the current challenging trading conditions.
The buying group revealed that 106 store developments were completed in the first half of the year, which generated an average uplift in sales of more than 17% post conversion and included more than 60 Nisa Local Evolution symbol store formats.
And due to the volume of new recruits into the Nisa business, the number of new stores developed has increased by 40% year-on-year.
In total, at the end of June, there were 1,061 Nisa symbol group stores across the UK, including 19 trading under its Express format.
Nisa’s format team also supported the development of 28 stores with independent fascia, while the remaining projects were dual branded whereby retailers are trading under their own name, alongside the Nisa brand.
The projects ranged from new builds and full refurbishments of existing stores to smaller developments such as the installation of a new fascia or internal modernisation with new fixtures, fittings, and signage.
Darren May, the group’s Head of Format and Category Development, said: “Whilst times are currently challenging with the cost-of-living crisis, Nisa retailers remain keen to invest in their businesses to future proof them, ensuring they are fit for purpose and can continue to serve the communities in which they operate.
“We work closely with retailers to create the store that works for them, at a budget that they can afford.
“A key focus for us is identifying innovative solutions that help our retailers to evolve their convenience offer whilst ensuring it remains cost-effective through reducing overheads wherever possible.
“Typically stores have seen an average sales increase of around 17.5% post development which is down to a combination of factors including introducing new and extended ranges as well as improved customer experience and shopper confidence.”
A full range of solutions for Nisa’s latest Evolution store format will be showcased at the group’s trade show later this year in a 4,000 sq. ft. shop.
NAM Implications:
- Taking these plans at face value.
- i.e. assuming Nisa’s selection process identifies go-ahead partners that can optimise these format improvements…
- …is it worth considering what you could bring to the party?
