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Argos sales below expectations as Sainsbury's group posts HY growth Simon Roberts, Chief Executive of J Sainsbury plc, said: “Our food business is going from strength to strength and we’re making the biggest market share gains in the industry, with continued strong volume growth. More and more customers are coming to us for their big food shop, recognising our winning combination of value, quality and service. “Our grocery volume growth has delivered strong profit leverage at Sainsbury’s, partially offset by a tough first quarter at Argos. Argos trading has improved through the second quarter and in more recent weeks, so we continue to expect to deliver strong retail underlying operating profit growth and free cash flow generation for the full year." https://lnkd.in/eRk5z2DX #argos #sainsburys #retail #halfyear #trading #update

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What happened in retail this week? 👇 - Asda pushed its debt burdens into the next decade after refinancing more than £3.2bn of debt. - Lidl GB announced £500m investment in the British pork industry as part of its commitment to sourcing from British producers. - Morrisons completed the £2.5bn MFG petrol forecourts sale. - Sainsbury's underlying pre-tax profits for the financial year were up 1.6% to £701m ahead of company expectations and grocery sales soared 9.4% over the period. - Aldi UK revealed that between 8am-9am and 7pm-10pm are the quietest times for customers to pick up their shopping ahead of the bank holiday. - Pets at Home opened two more stores on London high streets as it branches out from its typical retail park sites. - Co-op furthered its 100% free-range offer by introducing a white egg range to 2,400 stores. - Aldi UK launched a nationwide initiative to pinpoint prime locations for new store openings and has asked Brits to identify which areas across the UK need a new Aldi store, with suggestions to be submitted by 31 May. - Farmfoods is targetting 20-30 new stores as annual turnover passes £1bn. — — — — — — — I post the biggest stories from the UK’s biggest retailers each week. Connect with me to never miss a weekly update. #Retail #News #May 

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Associated British Foods Releases Trading Update 2024 - https://lnkd.in/eJZ_h_2P, September 10, 2024 – Associated British Foods PLC (ABF) has provided a trading update for the second half of its financial year, ending September 14, 2024. The company delivered strong top-line growth, improved profitability. And robust cash generation across its businesses despite challenges in certain sectors, particularly in the#ABF #Associated British Foods #Financial Performance #grocery division #H2 2024 #ingredients division #Primark growth #share buyback #sugar division #Trading Update

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We are excited to welcome Nishi Patel, Owner of LONDIS SUPERMARKET LIMITED Bexley Park, to the Lumina Intelligence Convenience Strategy Forum. Known for his innovative approach to in-store experience and community engagement, Nishi will share the secrets behind his store's success in a dedicated Q&A session. Attendees will gain first-hand knowledge from one of the industry's top leaders, and you will receive the presentation slides after the event, so you can revisit the valuable insights shared. Secure your spot now: https://lnkd.in/ef3SzKZ3 #retail #convenience #marketinsights #marketresearch #retailoperators #consumerinsights

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📈 New Insights: Scotland Outperforming in Wholesale Channels Exclusive data from TWC and HDI, commissioned by the Scottish Wholesale Association, reveal that Scotland is outperforming England and Wales across key wholesale channels, especially in convenience retail and foodservice. Thank you to Hospitality Data Insights (HDI) and TWC Group for sharing these valuable insights to SWA members at the webinar on Tuesday. Key takeaways: 🔹 Scottish wholesalers lead in value growth within the convenience sector, boasting the largest regional share of sales in GB. 🔹 Strong growth across seven out of 10 retail categories, particularly in impulse buys. 🔹 Hospitality sales grew by 2.1% year-on-year, with pubs and bars leading the charge. Despite economic pressures, the Scottish wholesale sector remains resilient and optimistic about future growth opportunities.

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The UK’s New Budget: Tough on Smokers & Vapers, Favorable for Nicotine Pouch Users The UK’s recent budget reveals some clear winners and losers in the tobacco and nicotine landscape. What’s Changed? 1. Higher Taxes for Smokers 🚬 Cigarette prices are set to rise as new excise duties increase costs for traditional smokers. This move aligns with public health goals but significantly impacts those who still choose to smoke, making cigarettes even less affordable. 2. Tougher Measures for Vapers 💨 Vaping products are also facing new restrictions and potential cost hikes, signaling a shift in the government’s view on e-cigarettes. Vapers who turned to this option for a ‘safer’ alternative now face higher prices and additional regulations, creating barriers to access. 3. Nicotine Pouches Get a Boost 💊 In contrast, the budget has left nicotine pouches relatively untouched. These products are now becoming the most cost-effective nicotine option, as they’re unaffected by the recent tax hikes. This could mark a turning point for those looking to quit smoking or vaping but still want access to nicotine. What’s the Impact? For the first time, nicotine pouches might become a preferred choice for consumers looking for a legal, less-expensive way to consume nicotine. While the budget supports public health efforts by making smoking and vaping more costly, it inadvertently shifts the spotlight onto nicotine pouches as an affordable alternative. What are your thoughts? #UKBudget #NicotinePolicy #TobaccoControl #PublicHealth #Smoking #Vaping #NicotinePouches #TaxPolicy

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Morrisons Snaps Up 38 C-Stores In The Channel Islands Morrisons has expanded its convenience estate with the acquisition of 38 stores in the Channel Islands from SandpiperCI. All of the stores are currently supplied by Morrisons and 19 already operate under its Daily fascia. The transaction includes six fuel forecourts. The stores are located on the islands of Jersey, Guernsey and Alderney, generating sales of £124.5m over the last year. Morrisons has had a relationship with SandpiperCI since 2018, when the two companies signed a long-term franchise and wholesale supply agreement. Under the terms of the transaction, around 520 SandpiperCI store and operations staff will transfer to Morrisons. The business will be managed by Joseph Sutton, Morrisons Convenience, Online and Wholesale Director and his team, which includes Miles Foster, the Convenience Operations Director. “We have had a solid and successful supply and franchise partnership with SandpiperCI and we have a strong relationship with the business. I look forward to welcoming 520 more colleagues into the Morrisons family, together with 38 popular and well-located convenience stores,” said Rami Baitiéh, Chief Executive of Morrisons. “Our convenience business is now well set and growing rapidly. The addition of a further 38 stores will bring us another opportunity for growth and a strong position in the important Channel Islands’ convenience market.” Morrisons now has around 1,600 convenience stores, of which 600 are operated under franchise agreements. NamNews Implications: * Morrisons should benefit from six years close relationship with the 38 stores… * ..besides giving more intimate coverage of the Channel Islands convenience sector. * Also, despite debt issues… * …a strong ‘business as usual’ signal to rivals. #Morrisons #ChannelIslandsRetail

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🚨 Preparing for the Disposable Vape Ban – Essential Information for Retailers The legislation to implement the Disposable ban has now been set for June 1, 2025, following an update announced on Wednesday 23rd October. At VSL Trade, we understand that the upcoming disposable vape ban may raise concerns for many retailers. To help you stay ahead of the changes, we’ve put together a comprehensive guide answering key questions surrounding the ban and its impact on your business. From understanding the timeline to exploring alternatives and ensuring compliance, our latest article provides clear insights and practical steps to keep your retail operations on track. Stay informed and prepared 🔗 https://bit.ly/3UhCnF6 #VapeRetail #DisposableVapeBan #VapeRegulation #VSLTrade #RetailCompliance #VapeSupplier #RetailersGuide #StayInformed #VapeIndustry

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An exciting entrant to the convenience sector. This will drive the innovation which is crucial to the development of the sector.

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𝐑𝐞𝐝𝐮𝐜𝐞 𝐜𝐨𝐬𝐭𝐬 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐞!  Use TPFG’s new Savings Calculator to see how much you can save by switching your wholesale supplier. 𝐐𝐮𝐚𝐥𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐬𝐞𝐫𝐯𝐢𝐜𝐞 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐛𝐞𝐭𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐯𝐚𝐥𝐮𝐞, 𝐚𝐥𝐥 𝐢𝐧 𝐨𝐧𝐞 𝐩𝐥𝐚𝐜𝐞. . . . #pentagonfoodgroup #foodwholesaleruk #StokeonTrent #foodserviceDistributor #bulksavings #costsavingsforbusinesses #wholesalesolutions

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𝐑𝐞𝐝𝐮𝐜𝐞 𝐜𝐨𝐬𝐭𝐬 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐞! 🤩💡 Use TPFG’s new Savings Calculator to see how much you can save by switching your wholesale supplier. 𝐐𝐮𝐚𝐥𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐬𝐞𝐫𝐯𝐢𝐜𝐞 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐛𝐞𝐭𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐯𝐚𝐥𝐮𝐞, 𝐚𝐥𝐥 𝐢𝐧 𝐨𝐧𝐞 𝐩𝐥𝐚𝐜𝐞. . . . #pentagonfoodgroup #foodwholesaleruk #StokeonTrent #foodserviceDistributor #bulksavings #costsavingsforbusinesses #wholesalesolutions

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Lots of interesting content and commentary being shared following the publication this morning of Kingfisher plc Half Year Results for the six months ended 31 July 2024. Overall performance has been described by the business as 'In line with expectations', but below the surface there are some interesting facts:- - Total KF Sales £6.756m, -1.4% below last year (-2.4% like for like). - UK & Ireland -0.2%, despite the horrible garden season, so fairly resilient. - French performance and market still in a bad place -7.2% like for like decline. - Weak performance of Big Ticket - same message as Wickes last week. - Strong performance from TradePoint UK, with like for likes +7.1% and now 22% of overall B&Q Sales - 20% this time last year. - B&Q like for like Sales -1.0% and Screwfix Sales +1.2%. - Total Group e-commerce sales +8.4% driven by UK and Ireland. - E-commerce overall KF Group penetration now at 18.3%. - B&Q Marketplace now 41% of B&Q ecommerce sales in Q2. - As of 31 July, B&Q had a total of 309 stores in the UK & Ireland and Screwfix had 938. - Screwfix continues to plan for up to 40 new stores in the UK & Ireland in FY 24/25 Read more detail on Insight DIY here - https://lnkd.in/ey7NkhNQ Have fun flicking through the 47 page presentation below - you're very welcome! #results #retailnews #homeimprovement #retail #commerce

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UKVIA calls for a licence to ‘kill the black market’ and plug the multi-million-pound hole in Trading Standards budgets An analysis – commissioned by the Association of Convenience Stores – recently found Trading Standards needs a significant funding injection of £168,340,000 over five years if it is to fully enforce vape legislation across the UK. This figure represents a near 30% increase in net budgets for Trading Standards and takes into consideration the cost… Read More »UKVIA calls for a licence to ‘kill the black market’ and plug the multi-million-pound hole in Trading Standards budgets The post UKVIA calls for a licence to ‘kill the black market’ and plug the multi-million-pound hole in Trading Standards budgets appeared first on UKVIA. via ukvia.co.uk https://www.rfr.bz/llnqc6g

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Morrisons Develops App So Wholesale And Franchise Partners Can Top Up In Its Supermarkets Morrisons is to allow its wholesale and franchise partners to top up on food and drink lines in its supermarkets at prices based on agreed terms. According to trade magazine The Grocer, a newly developed app allows retailers within the Morrisons supply network to scan the items they need in stores using their smartphones. Once they have completed their shop, they check out with a duty manager. However, rather than buying at normal in-store prices, the wholesale customer is invoiced on their existing agreed terms, with an electronic delivery note sent to their store EPoS systems and email. Morrisons wholesale division currently stocks a range of over 9,000 products for delivery, supplying more than 1,600 stores across five countries. The top-up solution is seen as an extra tool for its customers, who will continue to be serviced by the existing delivered model. NamNews Implications: * Morrisons have, in effect, increased their wholesale/franchise distribution points… * …to include all of their retail branches as a top-up facility. * Neat! * And probably makes them the best UK wholesaler in terms of coverage… #Wholesale #CashnCarry #Morrisons

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Losses Reduced At Booths After Year Of Robust Sales Growth Upmarket northern grocer Booths has delivered improved annual results after recovering from the impact of high inflation and the cost of living crisis. Newly filed accounts in Companies House covering the 12 months to 30 March 2024 show the retailer’s overall sales increased by 6.7% to £381.7m. Booths noted that it had benefitted from increased football, higher basket spend due to price inflation, and an additional Easter period when compared to the previous financial year. The group did not reveal like-for-like figures but said they increased. Having slipped into the red in 2023 due to higher costs and weaker sales, Booths’ pre-tax losses eased from £4.0m to £1.6m in the latest period. Meanwhile, EBITDA increased by £0.9m to £8.6m. The group revealed that it was continuing to utilise funds built up during the pandemic to make improvements to its operating systems and refurbish its stores. The first phase of an overhaul of its base sales, stock and systems infrastructure is expected to be completed by March 2025. Meanwhile, Booths noted that its customer experience score had increased after taking actions such as improving its café offer, enhancing value through loyalty card, and removing nearly all its self-scanning checkouts. A board statement in the accounts said: “The financial year continued to see the challenges of high inflationary pressures, high interest rates and cost-of-living challenges experienced by all, albeit at reduced levels compared to financial year 2022/23. “Against this background, we are pleased to report results above those planned at the beginning of the financial year, thus providing a continued sustainable platform for future growth. This was again achieved by staying true to our purpose through which we aim to inspire and nourish our customers’ desires for delicious food and drink.” After offloading its loss-making Hale Barns store to Asda in April, Booths now trades from 26 stores across Lancashire, Cumbria, Yorkshire, and Cheshire. The board concluded: “We have taken a prudent approach to delivering sustainable growth in 2023/24 and will continue to keep a weather eye on the trading background while introducing new and better ways of operating.” NamNews Implications: * Good to see constructive changes at Booths paying off. * However, in the interest of greater clarity… * …making it easier for suppliers to help… * …it would to have the inflationary element stripped out of the sales figure * i.e. volume sales… * …and also like-for likes reflected. * Finally, some reference to Booths’ experience of brand-to-own-label migration… * …and impact of the discounters… * …would place Booths in the context of other mults from a supplier perspective. #Turnaround

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This week, UNFI's president shared the wholesale distributor's vision for 2025 📢 "Our new strategy is focused on two big things: adding value and becoming a more efficient partner for our customers and suppliers." Good thing our retail execution platform exists for priorities like those 🫡 If you also want to drive gains through in-store efficiency and better stakeholder collaboration in 2025, reach out! #retailnews #retail #retailtech

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