Daily Archives: November 27, 2017

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Costa Coffee named the ‘Most Ethical Brand’ in Europe at the annual Allegra Coffee Symposium

London, 2017-Nov-27 — /EPR Retail News/ — Costa Coffee, the UK’s Favourite Coffee Shop, has been awarded the title of ‘Most Ethical Brand’ in Europe at the annual Allegra Coffee Symposium. The award was collected by members of the Costa team at a ceremony in Warsaw on Tuesday 21st November, 2017.

This award was voted for by over 500 trade professionals across the coffee sector, and was a highly competitive category. Costa was up against strong contenders from the independent coffee market, who have already achieved a strong reputation in this area.

The judges recognised Costa for its ambitious and impactful Sustainability programme, called ‘Force For Good’, and highlighted in particular the following initiatives:

  • The opening of the new sustainable Roastery in Basildon, Essex, which was award BREEAM rating “Outstanding” to the 2014 standard with final score of 89.1%
  • The launch of the cup recycling scheme in all UK stores, which recovers and recycles all takeaway paper cups from Costa, competitors and independent
  • The WISE programme, which provides a great opportunity for people to take a progressive journey of self-improvement and personal development with Costa. The programme offers a range of opportunities including Work Experience Placement Employment Placements and Apprenticeships
  • Supporting the Costa Foundation to fund the building of 75 schools, improving the social and economic welfare of coffee-growing communities though education. The Costa has recently celebrated it’s 10th birthday, opening a school in it’s 10th market, Zambia

When collecting the award, Sandy Gourlay, Costa Charity and Communtiy Manager said, ‘This award is incredible recognition for all the work that our teams are doing all over the world to make a positive difference to the environment, and communities near and far’.

About Costa

Founded in London by Italian brothers Sergio and Bruno Costa in 1971, our quality coffee was the premium choice for boutique hotels and restaurants across the city. Today we continue to roast the original Mocha Italia recipe with our 100% Rainforest Alliance certified coffee remaining at the core of our quality coffee credentials.

With over 2,000 coffee shops in the UK and more than 1,240 in 30 overseas markets, we are the fastest growing coffee shop business in the UK. We’re proud to be the UK’s favourite coffee shop, having been awarded “Best Branded Coffee Shop Chain in the UK and Ireland” by Allegra Strategies for seven years running (2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015 & 2016).

Our people are the heart of our business and we employ over 30,000 people worldwide, with a target of 5,000 new jobs in the UK by 2020. Last year, we increased Barista pay by c.10%. Our Pay for progression model was introduced in October 2015, and our training rate of £7.20 was launched well ahead of National Living Wage.

As a popular, mainstream food and beverage brand, we can make a positive contribution towards customer health and wellbeing by investing in safe sourcing, new product development and consumer education. Health and wellbeing remains a strategic business focus area and we will continue to evolve our product offer over the coming years. We are working to reduce added sugar in our drinks by 25% by 2020 and will reduce salt in our sandwich range by a further 5% by 2017.

We care about the communities we operate in with our store teams volunteering over 12,000 hours of their time to lend support to over 2,000 local community projects.

Looking after coffee growers is extremely important to us, which is why we established The Costa Foundation, a registered charity with the aim to relieve poverty, advance education and the health and environment of coffee-growing communities around the world. So far, The Costa Foundation has funded the building of 72 school projects and improved the social and economic welfare of coffee-growing communities. For more information, please visit www.costafoundation.com.

Costa is also committed to tackling the UK’s literacy challenge and is proud to have signed the Vision for Literacy Business Pledge 2016. In continuation of this commitment, and inspired by the Costa Book Awards and the ongoing work of the Costa Foundation, Costa launched its inaugural Reading Week in September 2016 in conjunction with over 500 schools across the UK.

For further information, please contact:

Isabella Highett
Costa UK & Ireland Press Officer
Isabella.highett@whitbread.com
+44 (0) 7824081791

Source: Costa Coffee

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Alibaba Group announces proposal to offer U.S. dollar-denominated senior unsecured notes

Hangzhou, China, 2017-Nov-27 — /EPR Retail News/ — Alibaba Group Holding Limited (NYSE: BABA) today (November 27, 2017) announced that it proposes to offer U.S. dollar-denominated senior unsecured notes (the “notes”), subject to market and other conditions, in an underwritten registered public offering. The principal amount, interest rates, maturity dates and other terms of the notes have not been finalized and will be determined at the time of pricing of the offering.

Alibaba plans to use the net proceeds for general corporate purposes.

This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy any securities nor will there be any sale of these securities in any state or other jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such state or other jurisdiction. An automatic shelf registration statement (including a prospectus) relating to the offering of debt securities was filed with the SEC on November 24, 2017 and became effective upon filing. The offering of the notes will be made only by means of a prospectus included in that registration statement, the preliminary prospectus supplement and the final prospectus supplement, when available. You may obtain these documents for free by visiting EDGAR on the SEC’s website www.sec.gov. Alternatively, copies of the prospectus, the preliminary prospectus supplement and the final prospectus supplement, when available, relating to the offering may be obtained by contacting Morgan Stanley at 180 Varick Street, New York, New York 10014, Attn: Prospectus Department, by calling 1-866-718-1649 or by emailing prospectus@morganstanley.com; Citigroup at c/o Broadridge Financial Solutions, 1155 Long Island Avenue, Edgewood, NY 11717, by calling 1-800-831-9146 or by emailing prospectus@citi.com; Credit Suisse at One Madison Avenue, New York, NY 10010, Attn: Prospectus Department, by calling 1-800-221-1037 or by emailing newyork.prospectus@credit-suisse.com; Goldman Sachs at 200 West Street, New York, NY 10282, USA, Attn: Prospectus Department, by calling 1-866-471-2526 or by emailing prospectus-ny@ny.email.gs.com; or J.P. Morgan by calling 1-212-834-4533.

This press release contains information about the pending offering of the notes, and there can be no assurance that the offering will be completed.

This press release may contain statements that constitute forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Words such as “propose,” “plan” and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. Investors are cautioned that any such forward-looking statements, including statements related to the expectations regarding the size, tranching, timing and completion of the Company’s proposed offering, are not guarantees of future performance, results or the completion of any offering on any announced terms, or at all, and involve risks and uncertainties, and that actual results, developments or timing of events may differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements as a result of various factors, including financial community and rating agency perceptions of the company and its business, operations, financial condition and the industries in which it operates, market conditions, the satisfaction of customary closing conditions related to the proposed offering and the factors described in the company’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including the sections entitled “Risk Factors” and “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” contained therein. The company disclaims any obligation to update any forward-looking statements contained herein, except as required under applicable law.

About Alibaba Group
Alibaba Group’s mission is to make it easy to do business anywhere. The company aims to build the future infrastructure of commerce. It envisions that its customers will meet, work and live at Alibaba, and that it will be a company that lasts at least 102 years.

Media Contacts:
APAC:
Cathy Yan
Alibaba Group
+852 9012 5806
cathy.yan@alibaba-inc.com

Americas:
Brion Tingler
Alibaba Group
+1 917 528 1992
brion.tingler@alibaba-inc.com

EMEA:
Maja Hauke
Alibaba Group
+44 (0) 20 7 3958330
maja.hauke@alibaba-inc.com

Source: Alibaba Group

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Debenhams unveils Home SS18

Debenhams unveils Home SS18

 

London, 2017-Nov-27 — /EPR Retail News/ — RJR. John Rocha puts a fresh spin on his signature artisan craftsmanship style for SS18. The new collection welcomes the introduction of delicate watercolour florals on crisp white ceramics and botanical appliqué bed linens. The seasonal colour palette is brought to life in the form of beautiful embossed and crocheted textiles in shades of sage and sherbet. Earthenware vases in soft pastels lend a natural, organic undertone to the range, bringing together a beautiful combination of simple, organic textures and calm ethereal beauty.

Star by Julien Macdonald returns for SS18 bursting with all of the decadent glamour and high fashion opulence we have come to expect from the designer. Shimmering metallic accessories and intricately beaded cushions bring an effortless touch of opulence to any room. Textiles are given a fresh revival with buttery-yellow and silver roses for a new direction on the designer’s signature boudoir look. Intricate ruffles and feather finishes add a further feel of luxury to the collection, bringing a refreshing update to the home for the new season.

The J by Jasper Conran collection combines contemporary design with statement colour for the ultimate in refined, modern luxury. Rich velvets and asymmetric prints in expensive golden hues and classic deep navy appear throughout the home in the form of luxurious bed linens, cushions and throws. Marble and copper kitchen pieces offer an expensive yet understated update to dining for SS18. The successful J by Jasper Conran lighting range is also extended for the new season with the introduction of the deep wooden Nordic influenced pendant and retro look table lamp. The fresh palette and new materials bring the designer’s strikingly bold, catwalk inspired collection into the new season in a subtle yet impactful fashion.

Make a bold statement for SS18 with MW by Matthew Williamson. The eclectic collection combines opulent contrasting prints and rich sumptuous texture, underpinned by dramatic jewel tones for a glamourous take on the tropical bohemian look. The Monkey is replaced by the Birds of Paradise as the character of the summer season, appearing on bright contrasting bed linens and vibrant wall art. A strong sense of fun and extravagance runs throughout the range. Flamingo candle holders, gold embellished pineapple cushions and colour pop jewellery boxes are simple yet effective additions to add an element of tropical luxury to any room for the new season.

Abigail Ahern has brought her uniquely creative touch to a new range of nautical inspired homeware for the Abigail Ahern/EDITION SS18 range. Drawing on her inspiration from around the world, the new collection receives a seasonal update with the introduction of a variety of new, lovable characters. Forrest green puffin lamps and pompom cushions, unexpected metallic whale planters and unique sea urchin vases continue the unmistakably quirky, striking look the range has become synonymous with. Abigail’s faux botanicals also make a welcomed return for the new season, complementing the mainline collection perfectly. The range exudes exotic nautical vibes with a hint of ethnic glamour for the new season.

The style influence of the Debenhams Hastings collection is a modern take on traditional nautical design with a fresh, contemporary twist. This comprehensive collection offers subtle, current updates for every room in the home. Seasonal dining is given an artisan feel with the introduction of abstract printed picnicwear, natural, rustic kitchen pieces and statement glass accessories. Classic printed textiles and traditional glass lanterns receive a touch of character with water weathered glass and natural textured jute. The modern maritime theme breathes fresh life throughout the home for SS18.

Watercolour pastel toned bedding, charmingly sweet tea party pieces and clean, bold lighting make up Debenhams latest homewear offering, Cosmo. Splashes of baby pink and muted blue, complimented with flicks of glamourous gold markings, fun pom-pom details and rich mohair textures bring to life a design-led collection of decorative accessories, textiles and bathroom designs. Lighting is abstract, combining interesting shapes and soft pastels. Layer together for a real pop of character or introduce individually for a more grown up touch of luxe.

CONTACTS:
For further information, sample and image requests please contact the Debenhams PR Team:
press.office@debenhams.com
020 3549 6420

Source: Debenhams

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Debenhams unveils Womenswear SS18

Debenhams unveils Womenswear SS18

 

LONDON, 2017-Nov-27 — /EPR Retail News/ — Studio by Preen launches a range of timeless, premium statement dresses for SS18. Beautifully hand-etched florals sit back with bold block colours. Clashing colourways combined with Preen’s eponymous floral prints and reworked fabrications create a collection for every summer occasion. Hero pieces include the silk sulphur yellow and parrot blue silk floral dress and the lilac drop waist smock dress.

Vibrant tones of paprika red, sulphur yellow, bright green and brilliant pink inspire the palette at J by Jasper Conran this season. Fluid sateens, polished cotton, structured poplin and premium knitwear are cut into the seasons silhouettes; waisted full skirts, high straight necklines, low backs and relaxed tailoring. Prints are upscaled with bold stripes, abstract prints and meadow florals, referencing the catwalk trends. Key pieces include the rainbow block print full skirt and block colour trouser suit.

The RJR. John Rocha collection presents a relaxed monochromatic palette with hand crafted finishes reflective of the designers’ core handwriting. Silhouettes are softer this season with delicate frills, romantic pussy bows and feminine sleeve details. Whimsical hand painted florals add an element of colour and true femininity to the collection. Key items include the trouser suit and floral tie midi dress.

Impactful and intricate red carpet dresses bring the Hollywood WOW factor to the Star by Julien Macdonald collection. Decadent beading, contour panelling and bodycon silhouettes reference the elevated glamour seen on the catwalk. Neon brights and digital prints are combined with key design details. Chains, lace and studs add drama to daytime dressing. Tailoring returns for SS18 with shoulder sharp blazers, tuxedo dresses and signature stud finishes.

SS18’s No.1 Jenny Packham collection epitomises opulence for the new season. Intricate embroideries, shimmering fabrics and bright summer florals create the ultimate look for true occasion dressing. Head to toe sequin styles are key for SS18, including the “hero” hand beaded mustard floor sweeping gown. Delicate hand painted florals in simple silhouettes and complementary separates are presented in Jenny’s elegant handwriting for a fresh take on occasionwear.

With a floral explosion of bold blooms comes the new season MW by Matthew Williamson collection. Bohemian maxi dresses and chic jumpsuits in soft pinks and navy undertones are adorned in coloured English blooms. Beading and decorative embellishment add Matthew’s handwriting to a range of beautiful summer party looks.

Summer nostalgia encapsulates the Nine by Savannah Miller collection this season. The wrap dress is a must in sunshine yellow and sky blue cloud print; simply add the Victoriana lace blouse and denim for a relaxed vibe. Stripes add punch to separates whilst soft sequins add shimmer to the collection. Key pieces include Savannah’s signature embroidered jacket and the lace kimono.

Electric florals juxtapose standout stripes for H! by Henry Holland this season. Poppy prints are given a true Henry twist with a “bug” detail found in the summer tee and asymmetric dress. Henry’s signature slogan tees also make a welcome return with a fun jitterbug nod. Must have pieces for SS18 include the floral trouser suit and glitter stripe pleated skirt for eye-catching street style dressing.

Sweet milkshake tones serve as inspiration for the Red Herring range this season in an assortment of sizzling summer prints. From pretty postcard details on co-ords, vibrant parrot motifs on sundresses and zesty lemon details on the must have rain mac. Embellishments add texture to the collection, with pearl decorated denim and broderie anglaise finishes and make a perfect combination for summer dressing.

Colour drenching makes a powerful statement at Principles. The lilac blazer suit is a must have power dressing piece this season and for purists, a white broderie anglaise shirt dress. Palm prints in soft pastel tones offer a tropical feel enhanced with sorbet stripes. In contrast, monochromes and bold brights provide an alternative look with retro block prints and multi-stripe separates.

SS18 sees the launch of prom for Debut, a collection filled with head turning statement looks. From all over sequin, floor sweeping gowns to hand beaded tulle dresses and vibrant cutwork lace dresses, the range offers a variety of classic and contemporary prom inspired looks. Available in a rainbow palette of sorbet pastels and summer brights, making the collection perfect for all summer occasions.

CONTACTS:
For further information, sample and image requests please contact the Debenhams PR Team:
press.office@debenhams.com
020 3549 6420

Source: Debenhams

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Australian Retailers Association believes toy retailers will be as busy as elves this Christmas

Melbourne, Australia, 2017-Nov-27 — /EPR Retail News/ — With the Australian Retailers Association (ARA) and Roy Morgan Research predicting Australians to spend more than $50 billion over the Christmas trading period from November 15 to December 24, 2017, the ARA believe toy retailers will be as busy as elves this Christmas.

With the ARA and Roy Morgan Research tipping Australian consumers to spend 2.8% more on Christmas compared to last year, ARA Executive Director, Russell Zimmerman said it’s a busy time for toy retailers across the country.

“Keeping up with hottest-selling toys for kids at Christmas is like keeping up with digital technology in the retail landscape… both retailers and consumers need to be prepared,” Mr Zimmerman said.

“With many new toys hitting the shelves this year, parents need to start their shopping early to ensure they can get the toy at the top of their children’s wish list.”

“Likewise retailers need to be prepared for the onslaught of parents trying to secure the perfect gift for their children.”

With the ARA and Roy Morgan Research predicting Aussies to increase their spending in the ‘Other retailing’ category by 3.96%, the ARA have worked with Toys“R”Us to identify the Top 20 Toys for kids this Christmas.

“It appears Hatchimals continue to outperform retailer’s expectations as they completely sold out last year, so we urge retailers to be prepared for a similar toy rush this pre-Christmas period,” Mr Zimmerman said.

New to the toy scene, LEGO Boost Creative Toolbox is one of the most sought-after interactive toys in the tech space this year. This innovative creation targeted for boys aged 7+, enhances the building and learning experience for boys by not only building the robot but also coding its behaviour.

“Gone are the days when we used to fly model planes, it seems LEGO Boost is now a must have for tech savvy youngsters this Christmas,” Mr Zimmerman said.

“Just like retail, Christmas is all about the consumer experience, and for girls aged 3+ this year’s highly sought-after toys include LOL Dolls and Pikmi Pops as they provide the ultimate unwrapping experience this silly season.”

With many Australian children on Santa’s nice list this year, the ARA expect both retailers and Santa’s elves to be extremely busy over the next few weeks.

To view the ARA and Roy Morgan’s Annual Pre-Christmas Sales Predictions for 2017 please click here. And for more information regarding the Top Toys this Christmas please click here.

About the Australian Retailers Association:

Founded in 1903, the Australian Retailers Association (ARA) is the retail industry’s peak representative body representing Australia’s $310 billion sector, which employs more than 1.2 million people. The ARA works to ensure retail success by informing, protecting, advocating, educating and saving money for its 7,500 independent and national retail members throughout Australia. For more information, visit www.retail.org.au or call 1300 368 041.

For interview opportunities with ARA Executive Director Russell Zimmerman call the ARA Media Line on 0439 612 556 or email media@retail.org.au

Source: ARA

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Delivery Hero Q3 2017 results: revenues increasing 60% YoY on a like-for-like basis to EUR 137.9 million

Berlin, 2017-Nov-27 — /EPR Retail News/ — Delivery Hero Group (“Delivery Hero”), the leading global online food ordering and delivery marketplace, continued its growth trajectory in the third quarter of 2017 with revenues increasing 60% year-over-year on a like-for-like basis to EUR 137.9 million (Q3 2016: EUR 86.1 million). All segments continued to contribute to the group’s growth. Delivery Hero generated revenues of EUR 384.4 million in the first nine months of 2017, an increase of 64% year-over-year on a like-for-like basis compared to the first nine months of the previous year.

Niklas Östberg, CEO of Delivery Hero, said:

“We have had another strong quarter and saw an impressive order and sales growth in all our markets. Overall, we are benefitting from a combination of structural market growth and the results of our ongoing investments in technology, marketing and the customer experience.”

Group financial performance nine months 2017 and Q3 2017:

  • Gross Merchandise Value (GMV) increased 48% year-over-year (like-for-like) in the first nine months of 2017 as Delivery Hero processed 206.1 million orders, an increase of 48% year-over-year, with a total GMV of EUR 2,727.9 million. In the third quarter of 2017 orders and GMV increased by 52% and 45% year-over-year, respectively (like-for-like).
  • Revenues grew in the first nine months of 2017 by 64% year-over-year (like-for-like) to EUR 384.4 million (9M 2016: EUR 235.0 million), driven by a strong order growth and an increase in take-rates. In Q3 2017 revenues were up 60% year-over-year (like-for-like).
  • On a constant currency basis, revenues increased by 69% year-over-year in the third quarter of 2017 on a like-for-like basis.
  • Growth across all regions on a like-for-like basis with nine months 2017 revenues in Europe growing by 39% (Q3 2017: +46%), in the MENA region (Middle East and North Africa) by 88% (Q3 2017: +91%), in Asia by 73% (Q3 2017: +47%) and in the Americas by 103% (Q3 2017: +80%).
  • Group take-rate improved in the first nine months of 2017 reaching 14.1% (9M 2016: 12.8%). Take-rates also increased across all regions: 17.3% in Europe (9M 2016: 16.1%), 10.8% in MENA (9M 2016: 9.2%), 15.6% in Asia (9M 2016: 13.7%) and 12.5% in the Americas (9M 2016: 10.3%).
  • Adjusted EBITDA has been developing as planned across all segments.
  • During the three months ended Sept 30 2017 the financial position of the group was primarily affected by the repayment of shareholder loans of EUR 190m and bank loans of EUR 110m.

Outlook confirmed and narrowed

Based on the strong business development during the first months of 2017, Delivery Hero confirms and narrows its full-year guidance with revenues at the top end of the guided range by approximately EUR 540 million and an adjusted EBITDA margin approximately -17% for the financial year 2017.

Disclaimer and further information

This information also contains forward-looking statements. These statements are based on the current view, expectations and assumptions of the management of Delivery Hero AG (“Delivery Hero”). Such statements are subject to known and unknown risks and uncertainties that are beyond Delivery Hero’s control or accurate estimates, such as the future market environment and the economic, legal and regulatory framework, the conduct of other market participants, the successful integration of newly acquired companies and the realization of expected synergy effects, as well as measures by public authorities. If any of these or other uncertainties and imponderables materialize, or if the assumptions, on which these statements are based, prove to be incorrect, actual results could differ materially from those expressed or implied by such statements. Delivery Hero does not warrant or assume any liability that the future development and future actual results will be consistent with the assumptions and estimates expressed in this report. Delivery Hero does not intend or assume any obligation to update forward-looking statements to reflect events or developments after the date of this report, except as required by law.

Due to rounding, it is possible that single figures in this and other documents do not add up exactly to the specified sum and that the percentages shown do not exactly reflect the absolute values to which they relate.

This document is also published in German. In the event of discrepancies, the German version of the report shall take precedence over the English translation.

About Delivery Hero

Delivery Hero is the leading global online food ordering and delivery marketplace with number one market positions in terms of restaurants, active users and orders in more countries than any of its competitors and online and mobile platforms across 40+ countries in Europe, the Middle East & North Africa (MENA), Latin America and the Asia-Pacific region. Delivery Hero also operates its own delivery service primarily in 60+ high-density urban areas around the world. The Company is headquartered in Berlin and has over 6,000 employees in addition to thousands of employed delivery drivers.

For more information, please visit www.deliveryhero.com.

Media Enquiries:

Bodo v. Braunmühl
Head of Corporate Communications
press@deliveryhero.com

Investor Relations Enquiries:

Duncan McIntyre
Head of Investor Relations
ir@deliveryhero.com

Source: Delivery Hero Group

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Diebold Nixdorf strengthens retail sales leadership in the Europe, Middle East and Africa region with new appointments

NORTH CANTON, Ohio, 2017-Nov-27 — /EPR Retail News/ — Diebold Nixdorf (NYSE: DBD), a global leader in driving connected commerce, is strengthening its retail sales leadership in the Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA) region.

Giovanni Bandi has been appointed vice president, Retail, UK and Ireland. Bandi has extensive experience in driving software business growth and heading sales and business development teams in various companies that specialize in IT solutions for the retail and hospitality industries. Most recently, as a consultant he supported organizations in expanding their businesses by developing efficient sales strategies and processes.

In addition, Lorenza Sbarbaro has been appointed general manager, Retail, Italy, with a mandate to focus on business with IT solutions with retail companies. She has many years of management experience in technology companies that specialize in providing IT solutions for the retail and banking industry, having served as head of Software Retail and Banking, Europe, among other positions.

“As experienced leaders, Lorenza and Giovanni bring a deep understanding of major European retailers, significant sales leadership and a focus on developing and executing marketing and sales strategies to drive growth,” said Christian Weisser, Diebold Nixdorf senior vice president and managing director, EMEA. “Both will help develop our vision of connected commerce and the new retail experience of the ’store for one’ – a fully integrated and customized experience in physical and online stores.”

About Diebold Nixdorf

Diebold Nixdorf, Incorporated (NYSE: DBD) is a world leader in enabling connected commerce for millions of consumers each day across the financial and retail industries. Its software-defined solutions bridge the physical and digital worlds of cash and consumer transactions conveniently, securely and efficiently. As an innovation partner for nearly all of the world’s top 100 financial institutions and a majority of the top 25 global retailers, Diebold Nixdorf delivers unparalleled services and technology that are essential to evolve in an ‘always on’ and changing consumer landscape.

Diebold Nixdorf has a presence in more than 130 countries with approximately 24,000 employees worldwide. The organization is headquartered in North Canton, Ohio, USA and Paderborn, Germany Shares are traded on the New York and Frankfurt Stock Exchanges under the symbol ‘DBD’. Visit www.DieboldNixdorf.com for more information.

Contact(s):

Ulrich Nolte
Media Relations – Germany
Email: ulrich.nolte@dieboldnixdorf.com
Phone: +49 5251 693 5211

Source: Diebold Nixdorf

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SPAR India supports local farming community school in Soppahalli village, near Bangalore

India, 2017-Nov-27 — /EPR Retail News/ — Community involvement is a key aspect of SPAR’s vision and in India, SPAR has been taking steps to positively impact the lives of employees, customers and other members of the communities it serves. Recently, this led to an opportunity to support a local farming community school in Soppahalli village, near Bangalore.

SPAR India sources most of its fresh fruits & vegetables from the farmers of Soppahalli village, so when the team learnt that the village’s only school was in need of support, they decided to step in.

The school was closed for about six years and was reopened in 2017. At present, there are 16 students and only one teacher and like many schools in rural India, it lacks basic infrastructure.

A team of 20 SPAR India colleagues visited Soppahalli in October – interacting with the villagers and spending time with the school children. The team distributed notebooks and stationery among the students and also donated desks and benches to promote a better educational environment.

During the visit, the mood in the village was upbeat and the students were excited with the new additions to their school: “I like my new notebook and pencils,” said one student, while another added that not having to sit on the ground was a relief.

This was the first of many activities that SPAR India has planned for Soppahalli’s primary school and the village as a whole. The response has been overwhelming and has encouraged SPAR India to carry on adding value to the communities in which it operates with greater enthusiasm.

Read more news about SPAR India here

SPAR India

In August 2014, SPAR International and Max Hypermarkets entered into a partnership agreement to develop the brand across the country. Max Hypermarkets is operated by the Landmark Group, a retail group headquartered in Dubai. SPAR India has focused development on the SPAR Hypermarket format, rolling out into new cities and with tailored solutions to meet shopper needs.

Contact:

SPAR International
Email: info@spar-international.com
Tel: +3120 626 6749

Source: Spar International

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Tops Friendly Markets extends annual Food for Families campaign until December 16, 2017

WILLIAMSVILLE, N.Y., 2017-Nov-27 — /EPR Retail News/ — For the past twelve years, the term Little Brown Bags of Hope has become synonymous with Tops Friendly Markets and the annual Food for Families campaign. What began as a one day campaign in Buffalo, NY to benefit the Food Bank of WNY has since expanded across the entire chains footprint reaching into Rochester, and Syracuse, NY as well as Erie, PA working with 11 food banks across all of the chains market and impacting more than 1.3 million people in need. Once again the Food Bank of North Eastern New York will benefit from this year’s campaigns efforts.As TOPS enters into its fourth season of the campaign it is seeking the communities support to surpass its corporate goal of 1.5 million meals, giving hope to families in need this holiday season. The campaign, which has been expanded to run an entire month, officially kicked off November 19 and will run until December 16, 2017. New in 2017, customers will now be able to purchase a Little Brown Bag of Hope paper icon at the register. Organizers moved away from the physical bags of food this year to increase efficiencies, allowing the Food Bank to expedite donations from the store to their operating facilities and then into the market. At the register customers will now be asked if they want to support the campaign by buying a $5 Breakfast, $10 Lunch, and/or $20 Dinner for someone in need in our community.

Also new in 2017 TOPS has introduced the virtual Little Brown Bag of Hope. Customers will now able to purchase the same $5 Breakfast bag, $10 Lunch bag, and/or a $20 Dinner bag online by simply visiting www.topsmarkets.com/littlebrownbags so no matter what the weather, a donation can be made right from their phone, tablet, or desktop.

Many locals love the tradition of bringing or purchasing their donation at the store and joining in on the festivities which will take place throughout the week with TOPS team members, local media sponsors Finger Lakes Media, and volunteers week December 11-14. The traditional Little Brown Bags of Hope will be available, along with the new donation elements, at the following Tops Friendly Market locations:

352 West Genesee Street, Auburn 321 Liberty Street, Penn Yan 2140 Walworth-Penfield Rd., Walworth 6179 NY RT 96, Farmington 504-1/2 Franklin St., Watkins Glen 1963 Kingdom Plaza, Waterloo

“From Plattsburgh to Newburgh, in urban, rural, and suburban communities, the Food Bank provides over 30 million pounds of food a year to 1,000 agencies,” said Mark Quandt, executive director, Food Bank of North Eastern New York. “When you serve that many people in over 23 counties a program like Food for Families is vital in replenishing the supplies necessary to meet the growing needs of the community. We are grateful to have the partnership with Tops Friendly Markets and our local media partners. This campaign provides a great venue in which our community can support such a vital need in our community.”

Tops Markets, LLC, is headquartered in Williamsville, NY and operates 171 full-service supermarkets with five additional by franchisees under the Tops banner. Tops employs over 15,000 associates and is a leading full-service grocery retailer in New York, northern Pennsylvania, western Vermont, and north central Massachusetts. For more information about Tops Markets, visit the company’s website at www.topsmarkets.com.

CONTACT: 

Kathy Romanowski
716-635-5577

Source: Tops Friendly Markets

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Tops Friendly Markets holds annual Tops Years of Service recognition program

WILLIAMSVILLE, N.Y., 2017-Nov-27 — /EPR Retail News/ — Tops Friendly Markets, a leading full-service grocery retailer in New York, northern Pennsylvania, western Vermont, and north central Massachusetts was pleased to conduct its annual Tops Years of Service recognition program earlier this month. Currently in its 21st year, the Tops Years of Service recognition program celebrates the dedication and loyalty of our long term associates. In 2017 TOPS recognized a total of 302 associates reaching 25, 30, 35, 40, and 45 year anniversaries for a grand total of 9,460 years of service. Events were held in Buffalo, NY at Salvatore’s Italian Gardens and in Rochester, NY at Casa Larga Vineyards for associates in these regions. “In an era when associate longevity can no longer be assumed and loyalty to one company over the course of a career is the exception rather than the rule in many industries, this program gives TOPS the opportunity to recognize those associates who have made a long-term commitment to the grocery business, and more importantly to our company,” said Jennifer Payne, manager, talent acquisition & development for Tops Friendly Markets.

To honor their many years of service, each associate who reached a 5-year milestone beginning at 25 years were invited to a celebration dinner where they were recognized for their years of service by the Executive committee and members of TOPS leadership team. Honorees were able to reminisce with their colleagues, as well as enjoy festivities including a compilation of memorable moments submitted be honorees, commemorative photos of the evening, a souvenir program containing honoree bios, photos, and other memorabilia, and a gift for each honoree.

Tops Markets, LLC, is headquartered in Williamsville, NY and operates 171 full-service supermarkets with five additional by franchisees under the Tops banner. Tops employs over 15,000 associates and is a leading full-service grocery retailer in New York, northern Pennsylvania, western Vermont, and north central Massachusetts. For more information about Tops Markets, visit the company’s website at www.topsmarkets.com.

CONTACT: 

Kathy Romanowski
716-635-5577

Source: Tops Friendly Markets

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Kroger launches television and radio ads to boost awareness of its Zero Hunger | Zero Waste initiative

Kroger launches television and radio ads to boost awareness of its Zero Hunger | Zero Waste initiative

 

CINCINNATI, 2017-Nov-27 — /EPR Retail News/ — The Kroger Co. (NYSE: KR) today (Nov. 24, 2017) announced it has introduced television and radio ads in 191 media markets across the U.S. to increase awareness of its Zero Hunger | Zero Waste initiative, established last September.

“Yesterday millions of families came together to enjoy Thanksgiving,” said Jessica Adelman, Kroger’s group vice president of corporate affairs. “Kroger and our family of stores love being a part of America’s Thanksgiving celebrations. At the same time, we acknowledge the absurdity that one in eight people struggle with hunger while 40 percent of the food produced in the U.S. each year goes to waste. That just doesn’t make sense to us. And this season, we are grateful for our associates and trusted partners who are committed to doing something about it.”

Zero Hunger | Zero Waste is aimed at ending hunger in the communities Kroger calls home and eliminating waste across its company by 2025. Across the U.S., 42 million Americans struggle with hunger. At the same time, an estimated 72 billion pounds of food ends up in a landfill every year.

Earlier this month, Kroger launched a strategic media campaign and introduced television and radio advertisements in key markets to boost its customers’ awareness and engagement with the initiative. The campaign will run through the holiday season supported by store-level customer giving programs benefiting local food banks and hunger-relief organizations and Kroger’s year-round, industry-leading, fresh food donations program.

“Our Purpose is to Feed the Human Spirit™ by uplifting each other, our customers and our communities. Kroger is inviting everyone who is passionate about feeding people and protecting the planet to join us in helping us realize our vision of Zero Hunger | Zero Waste,” Ms. Adelman added.

Kroger has partnered with Feeding America and World Wildlife Fund to achieve its vision, and is crowdsourcing for solutions and asking communities, partners and other stakeholders for ideas, feedback and best practices.

Follow the journey and join the conversation at thekrogerco.com and #ZeroHungerZeroWaste.

About Kroger

At The Kroger Co., we are dedicated to our Purpose: to Feed The Human SpiritTM.

SOURCE: The Kroger Co.

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Lenta becomes the exclusive seller of high-quality products under the Pirkka brand in Russia

St. Petersburg, Russia, 2017-Nov-27 — /EPR Retail News/ — Lenta (LSE, MOEX: LNTA), one of the largest retail chains in Russia, announces the start of sales of Pirkka branded products in Lenta stores across St. Petersburg, Petrozavodsk, and Murmansk.

Pirkka is a well-known private label by the Finnish conglomerate Kesko. Lenta purchased 11 hypermarkets of Kesko in Saint-Petersburg previously operated under the K-Ruoka brand at the end of 2016. Today, the two companies announce the launch of a new partnership: Lenta will become the exclusive seller of high-quality products under the Pirkka brand in Russia.

Initially, Lenta hypermarkets and supermarkets will offer a range of 80 SKUs in the categories of dry food, confectionery, and household chemicals. These products, already known and loved by the residents of Russia’s “Northern capital”, are manufactured to high Finnish quality standards by leading European enterprises. For now, the products will be available in Lenta’s stores in St. Petersburg, Murmansk, and Petrozavodsk only, where the Company operates 38 hypermarkets and 18 supermarkets.

Herman Tinga, Lenta’s Commercial Director, said:
“We are pleased to announce the return of the Pirkka brand to St. Petersburg. These are high-quality products from Finland that have already earned their reputation as the ‘Finnish quality benchmark’. We know that these products are widely popular in St. Petersburg, and we are happy to provide our customers with their preferred ranges at competitive prices. This year, we will increase number of private label SKUs by approx. 30%, including through beefing up our ranges of exclusive food products that are not to be found in other retail chains. We expect this will make our stores even more attractive to our customers.”

About Lenta
Lenta is the largest hypermarket chain in Russia and the country’s fourth largest retail chain. The Company was founded in 1993 in St. Petersburg. Lenta operates 217 hypermarkets in 79 cities across Russia and 72 supermarkets in Moscow, St. Petersburg, Novosibirsk, Yekaterinburg and the Central region with a total of approximately 1,295,335 sq.m of selling space.
The average Lenta hypermarket store has selling space of approximately 5,700 sq.m. The average Lenta supermarket store has selling space of approximately 900 sq.m. The Company operates seven owned distribution centres.

The Company’s price-led hypermarket formats are differentiated in terms of their promotion and pricing strategies as well as their local product assortment. The Company employed approximately 40,400 people as of 30 June 20171.

The Company’s management team combines a mix of local knowledge and international expertise coupled with extensive operational experience in Russia. Lenta’s largest shareholders include TPG Capital and the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development, both of which are committed to maintaining high standards of corporate governance. Lenta is listed on the London Stock Exchange and on the Moscow Exchange and trades under the ticker: ‘LNTA’.

A brief video summary on Lenta’s business and its Big Data initiative can be seen here.

For further information please visit www.lentainvestor.com

Contact:

Lenta 
Тel:+7 (812) 336 39 97
E-mail: pr@lenta.com

NW Advisors
Anton Karpov & Victoria Afonina
Тel:+7 495 795 06 23
E-mail: lenta@nwadvisors.com

Source: Lenta

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RUSSIA: Lenta announces the opening of its fifth supermarket in Novosibirsk

St. Petersburg, Russia, 2017-Nov-27 — /EPR Retail News/ — Lenta, (LSE, MOEX: LNTA) one of the largest retail chains in Russia, is pleased to announce the opening of its fifth supermarket in Novosibirsk.

The new store is a Lenta medium supermarket format located at 46 Deputatskaya street, Novosibirsk. The store has a total area of 1,208 sq.m with 688 sq.m of selling space and is open from 8 am to 11 pm, seven days a week. A broad product assortment of 5,500 SKUs has been selected specifically for residents of Novosibirsk and includes Lenta’s private labels and federal product ranges alongside local produce. The store has 6 cash registers. The property is leased by Lenta.

This opening in Novosibirsk is Lenta’s twenty fourth supermarket opening in 2017 and brings the total number of Lenta stores to 217 hypermarkets in 79 cities across Russia and 72 supermarkets in Moscow, St. Petersburg, Novosibirsk, Yekaterinburg and the Central region.

About Lenta
Lenta is the largest hypermarket chain in Russia and the country’s fourth largest retail chain. The Company was founded in 1993 in St. Petersburg. Lenta operates 217 hypermarkets in 79 cities across Russia and 72 supermarkets in Moscow, St. Petersburg, Novosibirsk, Yekaterinburg and the Central region with a total of approximately 1,295,335 sq.m of selling space. The average Lenta hypermarket store has selling space of approximately 5,700 sq.m. The average Lenta supermarket store has selling space of approximately 900 sq.m. The Company operates seven owned distribution centres.

The Company’s price-led hypermarket formats are differentiated in terms of their promotion and pricing strategies as well as their local product assortment. The Company employed approximately 40,400 people as of 30 June 20171.

The Company’s management team combines a mix of local knowledge and international expertise coupled with extensive operational experience in Russia. Lenta’s largest shareholders include TPG Capital and the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development, both of which are committed to maintaining high standards of corporate governance. Lenta is listed on the London Stock Exchange and on the Moscow Exchange and trades under the ticker: ‘LNTA’.

A brief video summary on Lenta’s business and its Big Data initiative can be seen here.

For further information please visit www.lentainvestor.com

Contact:

Lenta 
E-mail: pr@lenta.com

NW Advisors
Russian Media
Anton Karpov & Victoria Afonina
Тel:+7 495 795 06 23
E-mail: lenta@nwadvisors.com

FTI Consulting
International Media:
Leonid Fink & Victor Pomichal

Тel: +44 7497 783 705
E-mail: Leonid.Fink@fticonsulting.com
victor.pomichal@fticonsulting.com

Source: Lenta

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SSP teams up with café-bar and restaurant brand Grind to open outlets at key London locations

SSP teams up with café-bar and restaurant brand Grind to open outlets at key London locations

 

London, 2017-Nov-27 — /EPR Retail News/ — SSP, a leading operator of food and beverage brands in travel locations worldwide, has partnered with fast-growing café-bar and restaurant brand Grind and plans to open an outlet at a key London location within the next 12 months, with a pipeline of additional locations in both air and rail under discussion.

Grind launched in Shoreditch in 2011, and the brand has since established itself as a best-in-class operator, ‘burning the candle at both ends’ to serve coffee, food and cocktails – to a killer soundtrack.

Grind’s coffee, roasted daily at their Shoreditch Roastery and HQ, is renowned as being amongst the very best in the UK and their cocktails, particularly the Grind Espresso Martini, have also established an enviable reputation. Grind also runs a recording studio at the original Grind in Shoreditch, as well as a late-night club-bar in Clerkenwell.

Simon Smith, CEO of SSP UK and Ireland said; “Grind is an outstanding brand and we are delighted to be able to include it in our brand portfolio. The concept is great for the travelling consumer looking for excellent coffee and food, as well as for locals who want to grab a drink or a bite to eat. It is the ideal complement to our other coffee brands.”

David Abrahamovitch, CEO and founder of Grind, was similarly enthusiastic about the new collaboration. “Grind has always been about serving high quality coffee and cocktails to busy Londoners who demand the best – and we’re incredibly excited to be partnering with SSP to bring Grind into airports and train stations nationally for the first time.”

If you are a journalist and have a press enquiry, please call Templemere Public Relations on +44 (0) 1306 735574 or press.office@ssp-intl.com

Source: SSP

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SSP announces partnership with Gordon Ramsay to operate a premium grab and go concept for airports worldwide

SSP announces partnership with Gordon Ramsay to operate a premium grab and go concept for airports worldwide

 

London, 2017-Nov-27 — /EPR Retail News/ — SSP, a leading operator of food and beverage brands in travel locations worldwide, is pleased to announce a global partnership with Gordon Ramsay in an exclusive deal to operate a premium grab and go concept for airports worldwide.

The new concept will be called Gordon Ramsay Plane Food To Go and will represent a significant innovation in the grab and go category in travel.

Mark Angela, chief commercial officer for SSP said; “Gordon Ramsay has some iconic dishes for which he is known across the world and we’re very excited to be working closely with his team to make sure these become an integral part of the Gordon Ramsay Plane Food To Go customer experience.

“Gordon pioneered the idea of quality take-on-board meals with his Plane Food picnics eight years ago. He’s got lots of ideas about creating high quality, healthy food to take on the plane in easy to eat formats, and together we’re going to take that to the next level.

“Our customers will have a unique opportunity to experience stand out dishes, all given the Gordon Ramsay Plane Food To Go twist as the team re-create them specifically for the grab & go market. Gordon Ramsay Plane Food To Go will give customers travelling through airports around the globe a once in a lifetime opportunity to experience interesting and innovative dishes with a twist from within his extensive portfolio.”

Gordon Ramsay said “I’m excited to be partnering with SSP to develop and bring my global vision of Plane Food To Go to the busy traveller. Plane Food To Go is a truly revolutionary concept that will roll out worldwide and build upon the massive success of the original Plane Food dining experience from London Heathrow’s Terminal 5. As someone who is always in a different airport terminal every week, I know first-hand how much Plane Food To Go will enhance every on-the go travellers dining experience”.

If you are a journalist and have a press enquiry, please call Templemere Public Relations on +44 (0) 1306 735574 or press.office@ssp-intl.com

Source: SSP

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Shopify: More than $1,000,000 in sales per minute at the peak on Black Friday

Sales topped $1,000,000 per minute at the day’s peak

OTTAWA, Canada, 2017-Nov-27 — /EPR Retail News/ — Shopify Inc. (NYSE: SHOP) (TSX: SHOP), the leading multi-channel commerce platform, today (Nov 25, 2017) announced its over 500,000 merchants cumulatively experienced their highest Black Friday sales to date. More than $1,000,000 in sales went through the platform per minute at the peak, beating last year’s high of $555,716. The success experienced by Shopify merchants emphasizes the impact North America’s busiest shopping day can have on businesses of all sizes.

Mobile continued to grow with 66% of orders being made with a phone or tablet, up from 58% in 2016. Desktop sales accounted for the remaining 34%, down from 42% in 2016. More than 600,000 pieces of apparel, 360,000 accessories, and 210,000 houseware items were purchased from Shopify merchants in a single day.“Small businesses are the foundation of the global economy, and the impressive amount of growth we saw on Black Friday goes to show that more and more shoppers want to buy from independent entrepreneurs,” said Harley Finkelstein, COO of Shopify. “Shopify’s focus is to set up our merchants for success, especially during this busy time of year. That’s why we provide them with resources, tools and functionality to confidently grow their businesses and produce stellar shopping experiences for their customers. The results from this year propel us forward to keep making commerce better for everyone.”

Additional Insights:

    • Top Sellers: Shopify merchants in California sold the most, with New York, Texas, Florida and Utah rounding out the top five biggest sellers
    • Top Shoppers: In the U.S., consumers in California purchased the most from Shopify merchants followed by New York, Texas, Florida and Illinois
    • Shipping to Space: The total estimated distance for all Black Friday packages to be shipped surpassed 5 billion miles, farther than Pluto is from Earth
    • Thanksgiving Day Spending: Shopping started early, with more than 2,800 orders per minute occurring at the holiday’s peak

Shopify is sharing a global look at sales and trends occurring over the Black Friday and Cyber Monday weekend on its Live Data Dashboard. Check back over the weekend to get a look at worldwide sales, which states are buying the most, and more.

Shopify’s Black Friday data was based on sales experienced by its more than 500,000 businesses in 175 countries around the world on November 24, 2017. All data presented here is approximate and is based on various assumptions. All data is unaudited and is subject to adjustment.

Contact:
Telephone Inquiries:
416-238-6705 x 302

Press Inquiries:
press@shopify.com

Source: Shopify Inc.

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Carrefour Belgium invites customers to bring their own bags and reusable boxes when shopping from traditional food counters

Carrefour Belgium invites customers to bring their own bags and reusable boxes when shopping from traditional food counters

 

Belgium, 2017-Nov-27 — /EPR Retail News/ — In an initiative to provide sustainable solutions and reduce the use of packaging, Carrefour Belgium is inviting Carrefour Hypermarket and Carrefour Market customers to bring their own bulk bags and reusable boxes to package their purchases from traditional food counters (butchery, fishmonger, delicatessen). At the same time, 16 stores will be testing reusable fabric bags for fruit and vegetables. Carrefour Belgium will launch the two initiatives this week in conjunction with European Week for Waste Reduction.

The original pilot project was launched at the Carrefour Hypermarket in Bierges (near Wavre) in early November. Now – scarcely two weeks later and following a surge of positive customer reaction – the test project has been rolled out to every food counter in the Carrefour Hypermarkets and Carrefour Markets operated by Carrefour Belgium.

The principle is simple and sustainable: customers bring their bulk bags or reusable boxes with them and use them to pack the products they buy from traditional food counters. The person serving them alters the scales so as to exclude the weight of the container and affixes a price label in the same way as they would to classic plastic packaging. It is obviously vital that customers provide only clean, dry boxes suitable for foodstuffs. If food safety cannot be guaranteed, a store employee may refuse to use the container in question. To prevent cross-contamination, different types of meat, cheese and/or processed meat will always be packed in different boxes.

Test: reusable fabric bags for fruit and vegetables

Monday 20 November sees the start of another test at the Carrefour hypermarket in Bierges, this time involving the use of sturdy reusable fabric bags for fruit and vegetables. The bags are washable, sufficiently robust to be reused a number of times and accept price labels easily. They will be sold at €2.40 for five, i.e. €0.60 per bag. A week later, the bags will be available in a further 15 test stores.

The two initiatives will begin this week, to coincide with European Week for Waste Reduction.

As you will remember, Carrefour launched reusable bags at its store checkouts in 2004, and these new test projects see Carrefour Belgium going above and beyond current statutory requirements. Carrefour also reviews the packaging of 800 to 1,000 products every year, assessing it particularly with regard to sustainability. These initiatives clearly show that the Belgian retailer intends to play a pioneering role in reducing packaging by providing its customers with sustainable, practical solutions.

For all request about the Carrefour Group (sales, financial results, governance, international,…), please contact the Carrefour Group media relations office:

. By phone:

Switchboard: +33 (0)1 41 04 26 00

For journalists: +33 (0)1 41 04 26 17

. By e-mail: presse_groupe@carrefour.com

Source: Carrefour Group

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Carrefour’s Market Peñalver store wins Best food and Supermarket Design prize from UK publication Retail Week Interiors

Carrefour’s Market Peñalver store wins Best food and Supermarket Design prize from UK publication Retail Week Interiors

 

Boulogne-Billancourt, France, 2017-Nov-27 — /EPR Retail News/ — The retail design prize has been awarded in London by the UK publication Retail Week Interiors for 25 years. We entered the Best food and Supermarket Design category beside other competitors from Iceland, Egypt, France, Swiss and the UK. This prize has been won in previous years by: 2016 Waitrose (London), 2015 Morrisons (United Kingdom), 2014 Waitrose (Swindon), 2013 Good Wine (Kiev).

Congratulations to all members of the Market team for winning this prestigious prize.

We opened the Market Conde Peñalver store in December, 2016. With this store, we launched a new supermarket concept committed to fresh market and seasonal produce, offering the largest selection of foods in Madrid. The new store is on calle Conde de Peñalver, Madrid, and employs 125 people.

In addition to the products on offer, the new supermarket also features all kinds of services designed to improve the shopping experience: home deliveries all over Madrid with a pay-from-home option, free Wi-Fi, phone charging station, digital terminals with product information such as allergen content and nutritional information, etc.

The supermarket also offers a range of “home care” services such as laundry and dry cleaning, pressing, garment alteration, haberdashery, shoe repair, home repairs, photo developing, and pet care – even a home manicure service for dogs.

Access for all in a 100% eco-efficient store
Market Peñalver is perfect for all shoppers, no matter their mobility requirements, with specially-trained staff on hand to help all customers and a plan for reduced-mobility shoppers. Among the facilities for reduced-mobility shoppers are special trolleys and counters, priority checkouts, wheelchair-friendly lifts, store guides in Braille, audio loops for the hard-of-hearing, backrests at information terminals, dual hand rails on staircases, etc.

This Market store is also innovative on the environmental front. It incorporates all the latest energy-efficiency technology, with resulting savings of 40% in electricity consumption and a 60% reduction in CO2 emissions. Market Peñalver includes a latest-generation cooling plant with new refrigerated displays, LED lighting in all areas (sales floor and warehouse), intelligent lighting control, and a new, high-efficiency air conditioning system.

For all request about the Carrefour Group (sales, financial results, governance, international,…), please contact the Carrefour Group media relations office:

. By phone:

Switchboard: +33 (0)1 41 04 26 00

For journalists: +33 (0)1 41 04 26 17

. By e-mail: presse_groupe@carrefour.com

Source: Carrefour Group

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Will Day appointed as the first Chair of the newly formed Sainsbury’s Foundation Advisory Board

Will Day appointed as the first Chair of the newly formed Sainsbury’s Foundation Advisory Board

 

London, 2017-Nov-27 — /EPR Retail News/ — Sainsbury’s has appointed Will Day as the first Chair of the newly formed Sainsbury’s Foundation Advisory Board, which will provide expert guidance to the Sainsbury’s Fairly Traded tea pilot.

Will comes to Sainsbury’s with a wealth of experience in sustainability and not-for-profit enterprise leadership, and is a Fellow of the University of Cambridge Institute for Sustainability Leadership (CISL).  Other current roles include Chairman of Water and Sanitation for the Urban Poor (WSUP), membership of the Council of Ambassadors of WWF (UK), a Board member of SDGLead, Chairman of On Purpose, a Member of the P&G Sustainability Advisory Board plus Sustainability Advisor to PwC UK.

The Sainsbury’s Fairly Traded programme will work under the banner of the Sainsbury’s Foundation.   Launched in May 2017, the Sainsbury’s Fairly Traded pilot is trialling a new approach to working with tea farmers in eastern and southern Africa, ensuring they receive a fair price for their crops, long-term contracts and commitments on volumes of tea that will be purchased plus greater levels of support to help them build businesses that are fit for the future.

Mike Coupe, Chief Executive, Sainsbury’s Group said:  “Will Day brings a wealth of experience and a long history of leading not-for-profit organisations as well as driving sustainability within large corporates, so we are delighted to welcome him to the role.  Our founder, John James Sainsbury, put sustainability at the heart of his business in 1869, and we continue to do this today through our Fairly Traded initiatives.  Sourcing our products in the right way and supporting our communities matters to our customers and it matters to our colleagues.”

Will Day said:  “As independent Chair, I am looking forward to helping create, and work with, a Board of external experts and Sainsbury’s colleagues to oversee the work under the Sainsbury’s Foundation banner. I believe a more sustainable world needs retailers, and its customers, to better understand the impact of what they purchase on people and the planet and I am delighted that, through the Fairly Traded pilot, and the establishment of the Advisory Board, Sainsbury’s is showing real leadership.’

Previously Will was Chair of the Sustainable Development Commission as well as being involved in the establishment and early years of Comic Relief including the role of first Grants Director for Africa. Will has also been Chairman of the BBC Children in Need Appeal, and Special Advisor to the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) between 2004 and 2009. For twelve years he was a Trustee, and latterly Chairman, of the Overseas Development Institute (ODI). Until December 2016 he was co-Chair of the Kent Nature Partnership.

Media contact:
press_office@sainsburys.co.uk
0207 695 7295

Source: Sainsbury’s

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Sephora moves into its new headquarters in Neuilly-sur-Seine

Sephora moves into its new headquarters in Neuilly-sur-Seine

 

Paris, 2017-Nov-27 — /EPR Retail News/ — With exceptional growth and a presence in 34 countries around the world, Sephora is embarking on an exciting new phase in its development with the inauguration of a new headquarters building in Neuilly-sur-Seine, on the western edge of Paris. This new international hub will support all Sephora activities, with an emphasis on training for team members.  Discover a stunning site that embodies the creativity and dynamism synonymous with the Maison.

Sephora has left its legacy headquarters in Boulogne-Billancourt and moved to Neuilly-sur-Seine. Located on rue d’Ybry, the new 15,000-square-meter headquarters spans eight levels and will welcome 700 employees.

The move gives Sephora an opportunity to reaffirm its distinctive corporate culture with an emphasis on agility. Workspaces are designed to encourage the special creativity that defines Sephora. The Maison has also focused special attention on training and education to continually sharpen the service, fragrance and makeup skills of the brand’s teams. “Our new headquarters is an inspiring place for exchanges and sharing that’s true to the inclusive spirit of Sephora,” says Chris de Lapuente, CEO of Sephora and a member of the LVMH Executive Committee.

The building’s central atrium is emblematic of this commitment to collaborative creativity, along with open spaces that encourage colleagues to mingle and nurture cross-cutting approaches to their work. The new headquarters also functions as an innovation accelerator thanks to a 150-square-meter “store lab”, a replica of retail spaces to test new ways to surprise and delight customers before rollout in Sephora stores.

Contact:

LVMH Moët Hennessy – Louis Vuitton
22, avenue Montaigne, 75008 Paris – France
Tel: +33 (0)1 44 13 22 22
Fax: +33 (0)1 44 13 22 23

Source: LVMH

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Waitrose the first supermarket to ensure all of its branded and own-label canned tuna is 100 percent responsibly sourced

London, 2017-Nov-27 — /EPR Retail News/ — Waitrose has become the first supermarket to ensure that all of its branded and own-label canned tuna is either Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) certified or pole and line caught, meaning it is 100 percent responsibly sourced.

The achievement is the result of work over the last year with branded tuna suppliers to improve their sustainability credentials. All Waitrose own-label canned tuna has been pole and line caught since 2009 and MSC certified since 2013, while all the tuna in own-label ready prepared products such as sandwiches and pâtés is also pole and line caught.

The commitment to 100 percent responsible tuna coincides with the launch of a new range of MSC-certified John West canned tuna products. The ready-to-eat, ‘no drain’ cans will be available exclusively at Waitrose for six months.

Jeremy Ryland-Langley, Waitrose’s Aquaculture and Fisheries Manager, said: ‘Sustainability is at the heart of what we do and we are proud to have such a strong record in ensuring that our own-label tuna is caught in the most responsible way possible. When they buy a can of own-label tuna, our customers know that they are always buying a product which has been responsibly sourced – and now they have the same assurance when it comes to buying a branded product.’

Toby Middleton, MSC’s Programme Director, added: ‘It’s great to see Waitrose expand the range of MSC labelled tuna products on sale in their stores with these new John West MSC labelled cans. Extending their own sustainable seafood strategy to also apply to the brands they stock shows how seriously Waitrose treat the health of the world’s oceans.’

Notes to editors

Waitrose has 352 shops in England, Scotland, Wales and the Channel Islands, including 66 convenience branches, and another 27 shops at Welcome Break locations. It combines the convenience of a supermarket with the expertise and service of a specialist shop – dedicated to offering quality food that has been responsibly sourced, combined with high standards of customer service. Waitrose also exports products to 58 countries worldwide and has eight shops which operate under licence in the Middle East. Waitrose’s omnichannel business includes the online grocery service, waitrose.com, as well as specialist online shops including waitrosecellar.com for wine and waitroseflorist.com for plants and flowers.

Waitrose was awarded the much-coveted European-wide Compassion in World Farming ‘Best Retailer Award’, Soil Association’s ‘Best Organic Supermarket Award 2017′ and The Drinks Business’ ‘Retail Buying Team of the Year Award’.

Enquiries:
For further information please contact:

Kerry Davies
Communications Manager, Corporate
Telephone: 01344 824325
Email: kerry.davies@waitrose.co.uk

Source: Waitrose

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Maxima grupė submits tender offer to acquire 100% of Stokrotka’s shares on Warsaw Stock Exchange

Vilnius, Lithuania, 2017-Nov-27 — /EPR Retail News/ — Maxima grupė has signed an investment agreement with Emperia Holding and is submitting a tender offer to acquire 100% of company’s shares on Warsaw Stock Exchange. Emperia Holding controls a Polish retail chain Stokrotka.

“Stokrotka is one of the leading food retail chains in the Polish market. We believe that attractive store formats and strong management team provide necessary foundations for successful chain’s development in the future. Emperia group also owns a portfolio of real estate properties that supplements its retail business well. Therefore Maxima Grupė is excited about prospects of acquiring Emperia and the opportunity to increase our exposure to the growing Polish food retail market, – comments Petras Jašinskas, chairman of the board at Maxima Grupė.”

Maxima Grupė offers a price of 100 zloty for one share of Emperia Holding and the total price for all company’s shares amounts up to 1,192 million PLN (approx. 283 million EUR). Tender offer conditions also stipulate that Maxima Grupė may withdraw from the tender offer if less than 66% of shares are submitted or if other pre-agreed conditions are not met.

“The offer to acquire shares is valid till the end of February, 2018. Afterwards, the transaction will be closed if pre-conditions are met and a positive ruling is received from Office of Competition and Consumer Protection. We strongly believe that we will successfully close the tender offer and acquire the control of the Company.” – says Petras Jašinskas.

Stokrotka network in Poland is composed of 410 stores and it has a market share of approx.  20% in the proximity store segment. Emperia group employs 8.2 thousand employees and had consolidated turnover of 2,451 million PLN at the end of year 2016.

At the moment Maxima Grupė controls retail chains under brands Maxima (in Baltics states), Aldik (in Poland), T-Market (in Bulgaria) and an electronic online shop of food and daily consumer goods Barbora. In year 2016 consolidated turnover of Maxima Grupė amounted to 2,693 million EUR.

For more information:

Ernesta Dapkienė
Head of Corporate Affairs
MAXIMA GRUPĖ, UAB
Mobile  +370 611 43 548
E-mail  ernesta.dapkiene@maximagrupe.eu

Source: MAXIMA GRUPĖ

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Asda introduces NEW Extra Special Triple Lamb Crown

Asda introduces NEW Extra Special Triple Lamb Crown

 

Leeds, UK, 2017-Nov-27 — /EPR Retail News/ — Fare-thee-well to mediocre cuts of meat this Christmas and welcome the mother of all show-stopping festive centrepieces, Asda’s NEW Extra Special Triple Lamb Crown. The medieval meat masterpiece is inspired by the opulent feasting banquets seen on popular TV series Game of Thrones and inspired by the trend for ‘tear and share’ style dining.

The lavish creation consists of three Welsh-sourced lamb racks that form the structure of a Christmas crown, filled with festive fruit stuffing, drizzled with a pork and mint jus and decorated with botanical rosemary sprigs for the final flourish. The sumptuous showstopper is best devoured alongside golden roast potatoes, parsnips and paired with a goblet of robust red wine.

An Asda spokesperson, said: “The fictional banquet halls of Game of Thrones and times gone by are set to inspire festive feasting this Christmas and impressive joints of meat will take centre stage. Our Triple Lamb Crown is a striking showstopper that will be sure to knock the socks off your loved ones and add a whole new level of luxury and indulgence to your Christmas banquet.”

The mouth-watering creation is the brainchild of the winner of the 2017 Golden Apron competition, 18-year-old Zacharias Abbot from York. The competition seeks to find

Yorkshire’s best young chef and the win gave Zacharias the opportunity to design a range of Christmas products for Asda, and so the Triple Lamb Crown was born.

Asda’s Extra Special Triple Lamb Crown with festive Fruit Stuffing & Port & Mint Jus is available from XXX November nationwide with an RRP of £XXX.
For more information on the inspiration behind the product, head to Asda’s blog INSERT LINK.

About Asda Stores Ltd.
Founded in the 1960s in Yorkshire, Asda is one of Britain’s leading retailers and helps customers save money and live better in stores, online and through their mobile devices.
Each week more than 18 million customers visit its 645 stores – including 30 Supercentres, 392 Superstores, 155 Supermarkets, 33 Asda Living stores, and 35 standalone petrol stations – and websites, and are served by 153,000 colleagues. www.asda.com and www.george.com deliver to 99% of the UK’s homes and to its 538 click and collect sites across the UK.
Its main office is in Leeds, Yorkshire and its George clothing division is in Lutterworth, Leicestershire. Asda joined Walmart, the world’s number one retailer, in 1999.

MEDIA CONTACT:

0113 826 2829

Source: Asda Stores Ltd.

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FREO Group celebrates the opening of the largest shopping and leisure destination in the heart of Switzerland

FREO Group celebrates the opening of the largest shopping and leisure destination in the heart of Switzerland

 

Lucerne, Switzerland, 2017-Nov-27 — /EPR Retail News/ — FREO Group, the international investment manager and developer, has celebrated the opening of the Mall of Switzerland, north of Lucerne.

Over 1,500 invited guests, from the fields of politics, business and tourism, enjoyed the autumnal temperatures.

Before it was transferred to Halter AG in 2014, the site was owned by lift maker Schindler and its former partner Nüesch Development AG. Halter retained an interest in Mall of Switzerland as general contractor and the development was funded by ADIA.

FREO Switzerland AG acted as developer for the project. In addition to the overall concept, it was responsible for managing the tenant mix. “We are proud to have realised such a forward-looking concept as Mall of Switzerland in only three years. It combines lifestyle, leisure and shopping in a unique way”, commented Bernd Hofer, CEO of FREO Switzerland AG.

Following its final completion, Mall of Switzerland, with a total area of 51,000 sqm of retail and leisure space, is the largest shopping and leisure destination in the heart of Switzerland.

The ground-breaking concept combines an attractive mix of shops and café/restaurant operations with outstanding leisure and sports facilities, a unique “Kinderland” for children, a 12-screen multiplex cinema with one of the largest IMAX screens and Switzerland’s first indoor surfing wave, which will be open for business in spring 2018.

As well as fascias such as H&M, Bershka and Mango, the retail tenants include Adidas (with its only flagship store in Switzerland), Footlocker and Swarowski. The international fashion labels Hunkemöller, Stefanel and Sketchers are also represented for the first time in Switzerland. Innovative pop-up stores will give a few tenants the opportunity to test the mall and the location. The car company Tesla and coffee producer Nespresso have already taken advantage of this option.

The varied café/ restaurant offer includes not only established operators, like McDonald’s and a Migros restaurant, but also new concepts including Papazziano, Sweet Life and Wonderwaffel. A 2,000 sqm gym and wellness club also provides the opportunity to train and relax.

The modern architecture of Mall of Switzerland was designed by the Berne-based architects Burckhardt+Partner AG. The branding and interior design of the mall, which includes so-called “jumping” facades that enable each tenant to create its own façade design, evocative of a city-centre shopping street, were created by the Dusseldorf architects Schwitzke & Partner.

Contact:
Tel: +41 41 455 25 45
E: lucerne@freogroup.com

Source: Mall of Switzerland

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Toys”R”Us® and Babies”R”Us® announce Cyber Week 2017 from November 25 through December 1

WAYNE, NJ, 2017-Nov-27 — /EPR Retail News/ — Just when you thought the incredible holiday deals were over, Toys”R”Us® and Babies”R”Us® are providing all customers thousands of huge online deals during Cyber Week 2017 – no membership required.

Beginning on Saturday, November 25 at 7:00 AM ET through Friday, December 1 at 5:00 AM ET, holiday bargain hunters looking for the best offers on the go or from the comfort of their own homes can enjoy 15% off site-wide on Cyber Monday*, as well as additional deals throughout the week, including 25% off all Hasbro games** and 60% off all regular-priced Carter’s clothes, accessories and shoes.***

Customers that don’t want to wait for their items or have them delivered where kids can sneak a peek can take advantage of the deals and Buy Online, Pickup In-Store throughout the week.

Additionally, starting Sunday, November 26, Toys”R”Us stores nationwide will receive additional inventory of the hottest toys of the season, including Fingerlings, SNES Classic, Luvabella and Nintendo Switch.****

For more information about the deals, discounts and inventory drops, visit the official Toys”R”Us blog, No Assembly Required or follow on social @ToysRUs and @BabiesRUs.

*Excludes diapers, formula, Gift Cards, Red Hot Deal & Hot Price items, Adidas Apparel, American Girl, Anki Cozmo, BabyHome, Baby Jogger, Baby K’Tan, Beaba, BOB, Boba, Boon Highchairs, Boppy Bare Naked Pillow, Bugaboo, Build-A-Bear, Bumbleride, Canaima Outdoors, Casio, Claire’s, Clek, Converse Clothing & Shoes, Cosatto, Cybex, Diono, Ergobaby, Halo Bassinest, Inglesina, Joovy, LEGO construction sets, Lillebaby, Maclaren, Mamas & Papas, Mifold, Mountain Buggy, NECA (National Entertainment Collectibles Association), Nike Apparel, Owlet, Peg Pérego, Phil & Teds, Sphero, Stokke, The Elf on the Shelf, Thule, Ugg Shoes, electronic learning hardware, laptops, netbooks, tablets, video game hardware, video game pre-orders, Apple iPad & iPod, SquareTrade Protection Plans, phone orders, Special Orders, all fees, and shipping.

**Offer available online only. Valid 11/28-11/30.
***Offer available online only and excludes clearance items. Valid 11/28-11/30.
****Available in-store only while limited supplies last. Quantity one per customer.

About Toys”R”Us, Inc.
Toys”R”Us, Inc, champion of play and parents’ best friend, offers a differentiated shopping experience through its family of brands. Merchandise is sold in 885 Toys”R”Us and Babies”R”Us stores in the United States, Puerto Rico and Guam, and in more than 810 international stores and over 255 licensed stores in 38 countries and jurisdictions. With its strong portfolio of e-commerce sites including Toysrus.com and Babiesrus.com, the company provides shoppers with a broad online selection of distinctive toy and baby products. Toys”R”Us, Inc. is headquartered in Wayne, NJ, and has nearly 65,000 employees worldwide. The company is committed to serving its communities as a caring and reputable neighbor through programs dedicated to keeping kids safe and helping them in times of need. Over the past three decades, the Company has given more than $100 million in product donations to children’s charities. Since 1992, the Toys”R”Us Children’s Fund, a public charity affiliated with Toys”R”Us, Inc., has also donated more than $130 million in grants. For more information, visit Toysrusinc.com or follow @ToysRUsNews on Twitter.

Source: Toys”R”Us, Inc.

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DFS Group unveils newly renovated T Galleria by DFS Sydney

DFS Group unveils newly renovated T Galleria by DFS Sydney

 

Sydney, 2017-Nov-27 — /EPR Retail News/ — DFS Group, the world’s leading luxury travel retailer, today (24 NOV 2017) unveiled its newly renovated store, T Galleria by DFS Sydney. The modern interior, which boasts a fresh, clean look, complements the store’s attractive red-brick façade and offers customers a compelling shopping experience from the minute they step through its doors.

Spanning over 70,000 square feet of space, T Galleria by DFS Sydney has occupied its historic George Street location for 29 years and is Sydney’s only duty and tax free destination, mere steps away from The Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge. Featuring more than 150 of the world’s most desirable brands, the store is a one-stop shopper’s paradise which aims to entice customers with its stylish layout and carefully curated collections. It showcases an extensive selection of products across all categories – fashion and accessories, beauty and fragrances, watches and jewelry, wine and spirits, food and gifts – with many items available exclusively to T Galleria by DFS Sydney, such as the Michael Kors x DFS collection and Tiffany & Co.’s Keys.

Customers begin their exciting retail journey on the ground floor, which is devoted to 11 iconic brands that lead the way in global designer fashion. Each of these luxury retailers has created an intimate space in T Galleria by DFS Sydney that captures the essence of their respective flagship stores.

An irresistible mix of fashion and accessory retailers greets shoppers arriving on the second floor. Contemporary fashion brands offer a younger, slightly edgier aesthetic to shoppers, whilst smart totes, travel essentials and suitcases cater for discerning travelers.

With its double-height ceiling and black-and-white checkered flooring, Watch World on the third floor is the ultimate in retail elegance as befitting the 57 luxury watch brands that are showcased here. Bespoke joinery and special lighting accentuate the exquisite watches on display. Still on the third floor, warm wood flooring draws customers towards T Galleria by DFS Sydney’s selection of sunglasses, displayed alluringly on floating shelves. With 24 of the world’s most prestigious and iconic brands all in one area, travelers can be sure to find their perfect look.

Beauty and fragrance lovers are well catered for too, with some of the beauty world’s biggest names positioned next to more niche brands on the fourth floor. Customers will also discover a tempting assortment of international and local food products, wine, spirits and gifts from over 50 brands. These include Ovvio organic certified teas, Yalumba wine, Steens manuka honey and delicious Tim Tam bites, Australia’s favorite cookies encased in Belgian chocolate.

“The renovated T Galleria by DFS Sydney brings a whole new experience to visitors from all around the world, offering them a fresh, one-of-a kind duty free retail space in one of Sydney’s most vibrant and prestigious areas,” said Sibylle Scherer, President, Merchandising and Consumer Marketing, DFS Group. “With such a wide assortment of brands and products to choose from, we anticipate that many new customers will be eager to explore this beautiful city’s latest destination for luxurious shopping.”

The refurbishment of T Galleria by DFS Sydney began in August 2016 under the direction of Australian design company PMDL, which was also responsible for the design of T Galleria Beauty by DFS, Studio City, Macau, and T Galleria Angkor by DFS in Siem Reap, Cambodia.

MEDIA CONTACTS:

press.enquiries@dfs.com

Source: DFS Group

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NEW ZEALAND: Foodstuffs announces big reduction in sugar and sodium content across Pams and Value products

NEW ZEALAND: Foodstuffs announces big reduction in sugar and sodium content across Pams and Value products

 

Auckland, New Zealand, 2017-Nov-27 — /EPR Retail News/ — Foodstuffs revealed today (24 November 2017) that it has implemented a massive drop in sugar and sodium content across a wide range of Pams and Value products – ranging in some cases from a 26% reduction in sugar to an 80% reduction in sodium.

Chris Quin, CEO Foodstuffs North Island, says, “Foodstuffs has made huge strides in delivering on our commitment to reduce Childhood Obesity.  We have several programmes in place including our very effective Food for Thought nutrition education programme, but we’ve made spectacular headway in reformulating hundreds of our Pams and Value products to reduce sugar and sodium content.

“To date we have removed 4,000 tonnes of sugar and 8,000 tonnes of sodium across our private label range, this equates to 740 Asian elephants’ worth of sugar and 76,000 All Blacks worth of salt (based on their average weights).  That’s a staggering saving – all going towards ensuring our community has access to healthier foods.”

Foodstuffs has committed to reviewing and reformulating all private label products and is also encouraging suppliers to do the same.  “Our research shows that customers are looking for healthier options – and we’re working very hard to deliver on that expectation.  It’s a vast job to review each product across New Zealand’s largest grocery brands, but we are totally committed.”

The results form part of a report to the Ministry of Health later this year which captures all the initiatives Foodstuffs has put in place to enhance the health and well-being of the community.

Quin says, “Foodstuffs believes that we have a duty of care to look after every New Zealander. A core part of that promise is to ensure that all New Zealanders have ready access to fresh, affordable, healthy food.

“We are delivering on our pledge to support the Government in their drive to reduce childhood obesity; reducing sugar and sodium content in our products, expanding the reach of our Food for Thought Programme, extensive support for the Starship Foundation with a focus on healthy food education and partnerships with foodbanks throughout New Zealand. However, we’re committed to doing more.

“We have made a significant investment in the Eat My Lunch programme – which aims to deliver 25,000 healthy lunches, per week, to children in need throughout New Zealand.  This will ensure more children have full tummies so they can unlock their potential.

Foodstuffs is excited about the inroads we have made already and the plans in place to help New Zealanders enjoy a healthy future.”

Source: Foodstuffs

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Co-op expands its local sourcing programme with a total of 20 local breweries across Scotland

Co-op expands its local sourcing programme with a total of 20 local breweries across Scotland

 

MANCHESTER, UK, 2017-Nov-27 — /EPR Retail News/ — Scottish breweries are set to top sales of 500,000 pints at the Co-op as the community retailer expands its commitment to supporting smaller, local, producers.

A total of 20 local breweries are to supply Co-op food stores across Scotland with around 45 different ales – tapping in to forecasted sales in excess of half-a-million pints over the coming year as part of the community retailer’s local sourcing programme.

Burnside Brewery has brewed-up a contract win to supply two of its ales to Co-op food stores across Scotland. Based in Laurencekirk, Gary and Dave Metcalfe turned their hobby for home brewing into an award winning business and have secured their largest contract to date supply approaching 40 of the community retailer’s stores. The brewery will supply its Wild Rhino ale – a craft brewed light blonde beer and, its Golden X Best Bitter.

Gary Metcalfe, co-founder of Burnside Brewery, said:

“We are delighted. Our mission is quite simple really – great tasting beers. This contact win is our largest yet and, will play a part in raising awareness of our brand in new markets, making our beers available in communities across Scotland.”

Fierce Brewery of Dyce, Aberdeen – which won Breakthrough Brewery of the Year at this year’s Scottish Beer Awards after selling its first ales last June – will supply 35 of the Co-op’s stores with three of its ales: Easy Shift; Day Shift and, Moose Mousse. Louise Grant, said:

“We are delighted to be working with the Co-op, its support for local producers fits well with our ethos of sourcing locally – such as a local chocolatier providing ingredients for our Moose Mousse chocolate stout. The reach and exposure of the Co-op’s community-based stores comes at a great time in our business development, supporting our brand awareness and opening markets among residents and visitors alike.”

Other recent brewers to win new Co-op contracts include: Stephen Crossland, MD of Deeside Brewery, which is based in Banchory, Royal Deeside, said:

“Securing a deal with the Co-op is fantastic for the brewery. We’re keen to increase our presence within the growing craft beer drinker community and we are really pleased that Deeside brews are now an option for those shopping in Scottish Co-op stores. We’re passionate about our quality products – each of which is hand crafted on site – and we’re confident that our three signature brews will be well received by Co-op consumers.”

Alan Mahon of Brewgooder – which donates 100% of its profits to clean water projects and recently won a contract to supply 100 Co-op stores, said:

“We are delighted to secure this listing, we feel there is a real synergy given the Co-op’s community locations, heritage and ethical trading and, passion for quality beers. Not to mention its existing work to support clean water projects. This is our largest listing into the convenience sector, and one we are looking forward to growing in the coming months. It will provide a boost to our brand awareness and business development at a key time, while having an impact on thousands of people facing water poverty through our essential clean water projects.”

Charlotte Bleasdale, Ranging Manager for the Co-op in Scotland, explained:

“The combination of innovation, tradition, quality and passion make these ales prized and much sought after locally. We know that food provenance really matters to our customers. Quality and trust are key for consumers – Scottish food and drink is world-renowned and the Co-op is committed to investing in its local communities, providing opportunities to showcase, support and celebrate great Scottish food and drink.”

Jake Woods, Co-op Beer Buyer, added:

“Locally produced ale is an exciting category – we see significant potential for sustainable growth, and we are delighted to champion local beers which use local ingredients and are brewed with such pride and passion for their consistent quality and taste.”

The Co-op operates around 350 food stores in Scotland, the move comes as the Co-op expands its commitment to the local sourcing of food and drink.

Breweries to win new contracts to sell ale at the Co-op include: Alechemy Brewing, Edinburgh; Brewgooder; Burnside Brewery, Laurencekirk; Cairngorm Brewery; Deeside Brewery; Eden Mill Brewery; Fierce Beer, Dyce; Fyne Ales; Jaw Brew; Knops Brewery, Dirleton; Loch Lomond Brewery; Six Degrees North, Laurencekirk; Tempest Brewing, Tweedbank; Thistly Cross, Dunbar; West Brewery and Windswept Brewing, Lossiemouth.

Further information:

Andrew Torr
Co-op Press Office
M: 07702 505 551
E: Andrew.torr@coop.co.uk

Source: Coop UK

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