Co-op is reorganising its supply chain for independent retailers by rebranding Nisa’s wholesale operation as Co-op Wholesale. However, the company stressed that there are no plans to change the Nisa fascia.
Katie Secretan, previously Retail and Sales Director for Nisa, has been made Managing Director of the new Co-op Wholesale unit.
Jerome Saint-Marc, MD for B2B and growth at Co-op, said: “Our commitment to all our partners remains as strong as ever, to ensure their businesses drive profitable growth now and for generations to come.
“Our move to Co-op Wholesale is a strategic step forward for us and one we’re immensely proud of. It’ll allow us to deliver expansive growth and operational excellence for our business-to-business partners, bringing them the products they need, at the right price, when they need them.”
Secretan added: “We’re clear that this is more than just a supply relationship. Co-op Wholesale is backed by a business built on purpose, and we’ll use our platforms to champion what matters most to our diverse partner base, as we know that we can make greater impact when we work together.
“Under Co-op Wholesale, we’re already making significant growth opportunities through corporate accounts as well as traditional retailers, and we’re looking forward to seeing what we can achieve together.”
Despite the current economic headwinds facing the retail sector, Co-op stated that it remains committed to the longer-term prospects for the convenience market and the role played by independent retailers within the sector.
“With significant buying power, industry-leading quality own-brand products, and a supply chain built for convenience, Co-op Wholesale can deliver an unrivalled proposition that will power growth for both independent retailers and corporate partners alike, in today’s fiercely competitive market,” it said.
NAM Implications:
- Possible psychological resistance by some indy retailers…
- …to being supplied by a (big) rival?
- Just a thought!
