Costcutter has kicked off 2020 with the launch of a major recruitment drive promising independent retailers a ‘fresh start’ for their businesses.
The campaign is focused on demonstrating the growth existing retailers have experienced through embracing key shopper trends around healthy eating and increasing demand for fresh food, vegan and Free From ranges. It also highlights the benefits of Costcutter’s ‘Shopper First’ customer insights programme and the strength of the Co-op own brand range available to the group’s retailers.
Housed on a new dedicated website, the campaign features Costcutter retailers and shopper testimonials, as well as case studies and insights into the levels of support the symbol group offers to its members.
The recruitment drive is being headed by Jamie Davison, who has 30 years’ experience in Costcutter and takes up a newly created role of Business Development Director for New Business.
Meanwhile, Francesca Haynes, who has previously served in senior retail roles at Aldi, Asda, B&Q and Paperchase, has joined Costcutter as Business Development Director for Wholesale.
Mike Hollis, Retail Director for Costcutter, said: “Our new recruitment drive is our most comprehensive yet and is aimed at progressive retailers who want to work with us and take advantage of our outstanding offer, combined with the expert support we provide to help retailers meet the needs of their shoppers to grow their sales and profitability.
“The campaign rightly focuses on the strength of the Co-op own brand products, particularly across fresh and healthy eating options, as well as vegan and Free From and crucially the growth that retailers can experience from tapping into these key trends with us.”
He added: “Our new structure will also enable our new and existing retailers alike to benefit from Jamie’s wealth of Costcutter experience and the first-rate experience Francesca brings with her from her successful retail career. I’m delighted to welcome Francesca to the team and to see Jamie take up a new and pivotal position in our business.”
Having recovered from the collapse of Palmer & Harvey, Costcutter said last year that it was on track to return to operating profit with store recruitment back in positive territory having suffered significant losses in 2018.
