Spar reckons it’s moving the needle in one of the most important aspects of c-stores
FOODSERVICE is an area of increasing importance in the convenience channel, as the two sectors continue to merge, reckons Spar UK head of retail Ian Taylor.
“On average, food-to-go shoppers visit a store two to three times a week,” he said.
“Food to go is so attractive because it offers a simple, unique point of difference, which, managed effectively, gives great cash profit return. But if retailers are going to do food to go, they’ve got to be brilliant at it.
“Daily Deli is our answer to widening our presence in foodservice and gives our retailers more of an opportunity to offer foodservice. We created the concept to make the most of the trend to ‘foodvenience’. It’s a great way of showing our customers that they are getting fantastic quality from Spar, while helping our retailers stand out from their competitors.
“As the leading branded franchise partner in the symbol group sector, many of our Spar stores already work with Subway, Costa Coffee, Insomnia, Starbucks, Greggs or indeed have created their own foodservice option like Eat17 and Cheeky Coffee Co.
“We built on these collaborations and created something new in store for our customers to enjoy.
“The Daily Deli range is available all day and includes fresh salad products, sandwiches, baguettes and accompaniments, and can include the installation of a serving counter,” he said.
“The concept has been hugely accepted by independent Spar retailers. Its consistent execution and roadside visual impact has proven to be a successful up-to-date foodservice concept. It has allowed Spar to move the needle on foodservice.”
Spar UK brand director. Susan Darbyshire highlighted new product developments in the Spar Daily Deli ranges and in the symbol group’s snacking and sharing lines. “Spar hard boiled eggs 100g (RRP £1) is a delicious, high protein snack that’s also great for sandwiches and salads,” she said.
“Spar chicken satay 55g (RRP £1.20) is an on-the-go snacking line, comprising mini chicken kebabs accompanied by a sweet chilli dip.
“Spar also redesigned its Daily Deli snack bags in March, with brighter colours, to give them more stand-out on shelf.
“The Daily Deli Twin Pork Pie has been changed to a Melton Mowbray Pork Pie, price-marked at £1, giving the product more identity and clear provenance. We are confident the refreshed products in the Daily Deli range will target food-to-go customers as they continue to demand quick, convenient and tasty snacks.”
