SCOTLAND’S first ever “showstore” – a fully-fitted and stocked c-store – has opened in Glasgow. Wholesaler and symbol store provider United Wholesale (Scotland) has invested £35,000 in setting up the 600 sq ft dummy shop at its depot in Queenslie.
The company says the showstore is designed to inspire and motivate fully independent retailers, those considering joining the symbol group and those already trading under its Day-Today banner.
It uses the latest store design, equipment and merchandising techniques to show customers exactly what is possible.
Day-Today retailers will also, the wholesaler intends, be motivated, glean ideas about how they can develop their own stores, and be reminded of the standards expected by the symbol group.
Shopfitter Vertex kitted the store out with what United reckons is the best available shelving, lighting, flooring, refrigeration and Epos. There are also additional siting units, food-to-go areas, hot food units, in-store bakery and bake off.
Day-Today symbol group controller, Naeem Khaliq, said the team had identified a gap in the market for a “real life” interactive mock shop. This will, he said, help him answer many retailers’ commonly asked questions.
He said: “There’s a lot of conflicting information out there for retailers in terms of how they should merchandise products, and what types of equipment they should use.
“The model store we have created makes it clear what we think the best approach is. Retailers can visit the store and have a good look around at all the different elements. They don’t have to be Day-Today retailers to visit – it’s about providing retailers with ideas and inspiration.
“The ideas and inspiration they will get from the store will help them to go on to strengthen and develop their businesses, and we hope that it will attract independent retailers who are considering making the move to a fascia group.
“Retailers are welcome to come in and talk to our advisors, who will provide them with advice and guidance on how they can develop their stores and make a plan for the future.”
