Swizzels keeps retailers sweet

Confectioner reworks PMP and vegan ranges

Swizzels variety
Swizzels put up prices on its PMP hanging bag format after carrying out research.

SWEET maker Swizzels has put a lot of time and effort into making sure it is doing its bit to help c-store retailers.

It has recently introduced increases to its range of price marked packs (PMPs) for the first time in its history – but only after partnering with The Fed to research retailers’ views on the matter.

And recognising the increasing popularity of vegan products, Swizzels has also expanded its range in that sub-category.

Talking about the Swizzels survey, sales director Mark Walker said: “Like every other manufacturer, we’re facing increased costs.

“The invaluable research revealed that 74% of independent retailers view PMPs as extremely important to their business, not least because they are a tangible symbol of value to customers.

“We also discovered that 60% of retailers were comfortable stocking a higher-priced PMP, provided their margins were protected.”

IRI data shows that, despite consumers cutting spending, sales of sweets remain largely unaffected – with sugar confectionery growing 8.9% in recent months, which Walker attributed to the fact that people were looking for ways to cheer themselves up.

The Swizzels PMP hanging bag price has now risen from £1 to £1.15 to protect retailer and wholesaler margins. Walker added: “We’ve placed huge value on our relationships with both for 95 years.”

Swizzels has also introduced six new products to its vegan range: its Minions Tropical chew bag, Minions 15p chew bars, its redesigned Variety bag range (Scrumptious Sweets, Luscious Lollies and Curious Chews) and the Party Mix tub.