‘New World, New Opportunities’ was the key theme at the Blakemore Trade Partners’ SPAR Retail Show last week, with executives noting that the current market turmoil makes it an ideal time for independent retailers to join the symbol group.
The conference and tradeshow took place at Telford International Centre and attracted over 1,000 suppliers, staff, and retailers from across SPAR UK’s Meridian & Welsh Guild.
The event addressed the opportunities ahead for independent retailers and how SPAR and Blakemore Trade Partners are positioned to help them take advantage.
A.F. Blakemore Group CEO Jerry Marwood explained: “I believe we run our business and our business partnerships in a way that’s different from our competitors.
“SPAR is a truly independent brand working solely to drive sales for independent retailers. We’re here only to support your desire to be a successful independent business.
“If ever there was a time to be part of a collective like SPAR, then it’s now. All over the UK and all over the world other SPAR retailers are working through problems and sharing solutions – there is no other network like this.”
New this year, BTP Commercial Director Louis Drake announced a Stock and Sell scheme to help retailers increase sales and profit. By signing up and implementing a core range of products, retailers serviced by Blakemore Trade Partners can receive free stock to the retail value of £10,000 per store, collectively benefiting from a profit injection of more than £2.8m this financial year.
Delegates also heard about the opportunities in home delivery, and SPAR operators Dean Holborn and Elfed Roberts spoke about the business benefits of retailers getting involved in their local communities.
Linked in with this, SPAR UK Managing Director Louise Hoste talked about the ‘Joy of Living Locally’ brand positioning, specifically SPAR’s Community Cashback Scheme, which has awarded £100,000 to local good causes this year. She also covered innovation in store formats and the strength of the SPAR brand range.
Meanwhile, SPAR International Managing Director Tobias Wasmuht highlighted how all opportunities will be underpinned by the strength of the SPAR brand, which covers more than 13,600 stores in 48 countries. SPAR’s global retail sales grew 3.3% to €41.2bn in 2021.
Collective buying across the world has now bought SPAR retailers in the UK the new ‘No1’ value range, which is exclusive to symbol group members.
A key focus of the show was innovation in store development. SPAR retailer Ian Lewis outlined how he had embraced the SPAR Market format at his Minster Lovell store, which has driven up sales of fresh products.
Meanwhile, SPAR retailer Tristan King told delegates about how he has developed his own food-to-go brand, Kings Kitchen, with support from the Blakemore team.
King said: “Always look ahead positively; there is always opportunity. In Blakemore Trade Partners we all work with a partner that is prepared to support us with their expertise, manpower and investment. So, make sure you are fully engaged and use all the help, advice, and investment that is available to help you make the most of your opportunity.”
