While the panic buying in the major supermarkets has been the focus of much media attention, SPAR has given some insight into how it is affecting the convenience sector.
The symbol group said its 2,600 stores across the UK had faced a huge spike in consumer demand, with the wholesalers who supply them [Henderson Group, CJ Lang & Son Ltd, James Hall & Co, AF Blakemore & Son Ltd and Appleby Westward] reporting rises in volumes of up to 200% in ambient, fresh and frozen categories.
However, SPAR stated that it had managed to maintain high levels of stock availability and service throughout the coronavirus crisis.
Louise Hoste, SPAR UK Managing Director said: “Our SPAR stores are open, the shelves are stocked and we are meeting demand. We are urging the general public to shop local, little and often. We have a very good supply of food, drink or non-food essentials and as long as people do not panic buy, we can continue to meet the needs of local communities.”
Hoste applauded the role of independent retailers around the UK. “Never has it been more important to work together and support our network of SPAR stores who are fully committed to fulfilling their important role within local communities. We, in turn, are focused on our obligation to meet their store needs.
“The future of independent retailing and wholesaling is in our hands and every one of our wholesalers is fully committed to providing every store it supplies with the best service.”
Hoste added that there was a major recruitment drive in progress throughout the business, in particular the need for more lorry drivers. “We are moving roles around the entire business to meet demand. In some instances, store staff are making local deliveries to the aged and vulnerable and our sales teams are making deliveries to stores. We are urging those who are qualified and in need of work to visit each of the SPAR wholesalers’ websites to see what roles are available.”
Hoste concluded: “I would like to thank our incredible store staff who are being brilliant at keeping customers calm. We are very grateful to our retailers for their commitment and hard work in maintaining high standards at a time when customers need us the most and to our suppliers and partners, thank you for continuing to support us in keeping the supply chain moving.”
