Welcome to the August issue of The Grocery Trader, the monthly title for supermarkets, Co-ops and convenience store chains. Who you gonna call? Stress busters!
Our leaders are on the case, good news for retailers, suppliers and shoppers. Since the Brexit vote our politicians have moved faster than a speeding supermarket lorry to get the nation back on track and reassure markets, business and consumers that there’s nothing to fear. Theresa May has stepped in purposefully as PM, restoring calm to the nursery like Mary Poppins and whizzing around seeing everyone she needs to win over, like a seasoned grocery National Account Manager.
The strategy is working. Mintel’s latest consumer survey suggests people in Spain, Italy and Poland are more concerned about Brexit’s effect on their economies than we are about what it will do to our economy.
For most British consumers, nothing’s changed as of yet – they’re still in a job and shop prices haven’t changed dramatically. Post referendum, says Mintel’s Toby Clark, the nation’s personal spending intentions don’t appear to have shifted markedly. For most consumers there’s no real trigger to change spending patterns at the moment. Which is what we all need to hear.
It’s business as usual in this issue, with news and comments from the industry and all our regular sections. We also have special features on the Back of Store and Baby & Kids. The average shopper doesn’t usually see the back of store area during their visit. It’s a part of their local supermarket, Co-op or convenience store chain that consumers take for granted, generally speaking. But for multiple retailers this part of the business keeps the store operation going all year round and must be kept in good shape.
Take the time now, before the pre- Christmas rush, to get on top of your requirements for this crucial area.
Summer is an enjoyable time for most people in Britain. The schools are off and even though we have to work, the prevailing mood is lighter. The sunshine and warmth are welcome and cheering and even the rain, when it inevitably comes, is refreshing.
But as our Baby & Kids feature confirms, it’s a different scenario for parents, grandparents and others involved with caring for babies and young children. On days out and holidays, they still need to be looked after, which means stocking up on food, drinks, nappies, wipes, baby clothes, baby equipment and the rest. All this spells good news for the supermarkets, Co-ops and convenience store chains. Baby and kids products aren’t discretionary purchases – shoppers have got to have these items.
Have a successful month and see you in September.
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