Independent retailer Kokil Rasaratham has opened the first Go Local store in Bristol, marking a milestone in Parfetts’ plans to grow its symbol group across the south of England.
Located in Stokes Croft, the store underwent a full interior refit and exterior makeover. Kokil, who has operated the site as Star Food and Wine for the past six years, has already seen strong footfall from the local community.
Spanning 1,400 sq. ft., the store now features rows of chilled displays, energy-efficient LED lighting, and an expanded grocery range, with a new food-to-go offering currently being introduced.
Kokil stated the move to Go Local has allowed him to maintain full control of his business while benefiting from Parfetts’ supply chain, competitive pricing and in-depth retail support: “This was the perfect opportunity to evolve the store and give customers something new while staying true to the community I’ve served for years”, he said.
“We’re in a busy area with a large student population, and the response to the refit and new fascia has been fantastic. People are really impressed by the fresh new look and the great deals we’ve been able to introduce through Go Local.”
He added: “The support from Parfetts has been brilliant, from merchandising to launch planning and ongoing advice. The process was smooth, and I’m excited to build on what we’ve started, especially as we introduce more value-driven promotions and expand our range.”
The launch marks the latest move in Parfetts’ strategic expansion into the south, where it is recruiting independent retailers into its Go Local symbol group. A second Bristol store is already planned for the Fishponds area.
Guy Swindell, joint managing director of Parfetts, said: “It’s great to open our first store in Bristol with a retailer as passionate and committed as Kokil. The partnership is a great example of what we can achieve together, showcasing the strength of the Go Local offer in high-footfall, community-led locations. Bristol is a key part of our southern growth plans, and we’re excited by the interest we’re already seeing from other retailers across the region.”
Parfetts is due to open a new depot in Southampton later this year to support its expansion plans in the region. The wholesaler’s current depots are in Aintree, Anfield, Birmingham, Halifax, Middlesbrough, Sheffield, Somercotes and Stockport.
