Day-Today Trade Show is just part of the UWS package
BOSSES at United Wholesale Scotland (UWS) are already gearing up for the Day-Today Trade Show 2024.
It’s taking place on Tuesday, 13 August, at The Crowne Plaza hotel in Glasgow and is open to both current symbol retailers and prospective members.
It follows last year’s successful event that was attended by 80-plus suppliers, more than 200 retailers and included a James Bond-themed awards dinner.
This year’s show promises to be bigger and better, featuring over 100 supplier stalls and UWS anticipates that more than 400 symbol group retailers will be showing up.
UWS managing director Chris Gallacher said: “This platform allows suppliers to directly engage with retailers, showcasing innovative NPDs and highlighting emerging categories and trends.
“Attendees can anticipate informative presentations on best practices, engaging opportunities for participation in category workshops, and valuable networking opportunities with fellow independent retailers and suppliers.”
Gallacher added that retailers would be able to capitalise on special deals and promotions offered during the trade show.
But, of course, the UWS proposition runs to much more than the trade show – and the wholesaler believes its USP lies in the comprehensive support package it provides to symbol stores.
Tailored business support, marketing assistance, category management, and access to an extensive distribution network are key offerings.
The MD said: “We actively seek retailers committed to quality, service and community engagement, offering flexible terms and dedicated support through development managers, training, marketing materials, and operational guidance.”
Evidence that UWS has been busy evolving its services to better cater to retailer customers includes helping store owners to transition to alternative energy and service suppliers.
And Gallacher stressed: “Over the past year, our focus has been on helping retailers save more and sell more. In response to the cost-of-living crisis, we’ve expanded our product range, including a wider selection of value-oriented products sought by consumers.
“Our new own-label Local Living range has been emphasised to provide value, and pricing strategies include more multi-buys, larger family packs, and a bigger choice of products.”
UWS is also continuing its partnership with leading data consultancy TWC Group to track online purchasing behaviour through the wholesaler’s app and website.
This provides vital trends and customer-engagement insights that enable UWS to help suppliers create bespoke plans for online and offline sales to retailers.
Gallacher explained: “In our continuous pursuit of technological advancements, we aim to enhance the experience for our c-store retailer customers.
“Maintaining strong supplier relationships is crucial, and our commitment to trust, transparency and mutual growth has allowed us to secure competitive pricing, access exclusive deals, and conduct regular engagement meetings and events with suppliers and retailers.”
