SPAR Retail Show 2022: New world, new opportunities

‘New World, New Opportunities’ was the key theme lighting up the room at Blakemore Trade Partners’ SPAR Retail Show this year.

The Blakemore Trade Partners (BTP) conference and tradeshow took place at Telford International Centre on 16th June and attracted over 1,000 suppliers, colleagues and retailers from across SPAR UK’s Meridian & Welsh Guild.

The event addressed the exciting opportunities ahead for independent retailers and how SPAR and Blakemore Trade Partners are uniquely 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 £2.8 million this financial year.

Delegates also heard about the opportunities in home delivery, and SPAR operators Dean Holborn and Elfed Roberts spoke about the tangible 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, innovation in store formats and the strength of the SPAR brand range – award winning and exclusive to SPAR retailers.

SPAR International Managing Director Tobias Wasmuht highlighted how all opportunities will be underpinned by the strength of the SPAR brand. SPAR is one of the most recognised names in the convenience market and the only independent retail organisation that is truly international, with more than 13,600 stores in 48 countries. Global retail sales grew 3.3% to €41.2 billion in 2021.

Excitingly, collective buying across the world has now bought SPAR retailers in the UK a brand-new ‘No1’ value range. Exclusive to symbol group members, it provides shoppers with an even wider choice of quality everyday essentials at great prices.

A key focus of the show was innovation in store development. SPAR retailer Ian Lewis inspired delegates with how he has embraced the SPAR Market format at his Minster Lovell store. Growing fresh participation has increased retail sales by 15% since 2017.

Meanwhile, SPAR retailer Tristan King enthused delegates with how he has developed his own food-to-go brand, Kings Kitchen, with support from the Blakemore team.

Addressing his fellow retailers, 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.”