Wholesaler Parfetts has spread its footprint to the south of England after opening its new 113,000 sq. ft. depot in Southampton, supporting its push towards £1bn in turnover and 2,000 fascia members.
The company noted that the Hedge End site is the first new cash & carry outlet in the region for 25 years, serving retailers from the South Coast to Greater London.
The wholesaler’s current depots are in Aintree, Anfield, Birmingham, Halifax, Middlesbrough, Sheffield, Somercotes and Stockport.
The move south is expected to support the expansion of Parfetts symbol brands, which include Go Local, Go Local Extra, The Local, and Shop & Go. The company noted that it is already attracting strong interest from independents, including Bristol’s first Go Local store, which launched earlier this summer.
During the launch period until 13th September, the depot will feature a host of supplier-led special offers, with the wholesaler stating that its focus on value, service and promotional support will help it attract sign-ups across the south.
“Southampton marks the next phase of our accelerated growth strategy,” Guy Swindell, joint managing director of Parfetts.
“We’re committed to bringing great value, strong promotions and award-winning service to more independent retailers than ever before. We are pushing hard to bring the model to retailers across the UK and help them thrive in a tough economy.”
Meanwhile, Parfetts has appointed Mark Bottomley as head of trading for beer, soft drinks and crisps, snacks & nuts. He joins the employee-owned wholesaler after nearly seven years at Unitas Wholesale, most recently serving as senior trading controller and previously as trading controller for confectionery, biscuits, and protein.
NAM Implications:
- Parfetts have clearly identified and intend to fill a wholesaler gap in the South of England market.
- Rivals may think and act otherwise.
- A win-win for independents…
