A look at what’s going on across the convenience channel and associated businesses and organisations
Four Loko heads to summer festivals
RTD brand Four Loko has announced a trio of music festival sponsorships for the summer.
The brand was seen at Parklife in Manchester last month and will be at Glasgow’s TRNSMT on 12-14 July and the Leeds Festival on 21-25 August.
Red Star Brands, the firm behind Four Loko, said its full range would be showcased at the festivals in bars and VIP areas.
Stacey Caldwell, marketing manager at Red Star, said: “Four Loko found its home at music festivals, so we are very excited to announce that the brand is a key sponsor at three of the biggest UK music festivals.”
May dismay over Scottish retail sales
MAY turned into a mediocre month for total sales north of the border, which fell 0.5% in real terms compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the Scottish Retail Consortium (SRC).
Total food sales in Scotland, however, increased by 1.1% verses May 2023, although this was below the three-month average growth of 1.4% and 12-month average growth of 6.3%.
SRC deputy head Ewan MacDonald-Russell said: “The slight fall in total sales is likely a consequence of comparison with a strong 2023 performance, where the King’s coronation and two bank holidays encouraged shoppers to splash out, compared to this year where the splashing was more to do with the miserable weather.
“Food and drink sales continue to grow, albeit in a more modest manner now food price inflation has stabilised. Looking ahead, retailers will hope an upcoming run of major events, including the Olympics, will kick off a brighter period of trading.”
JW Filshill takes hi-tech route to improve deliveries
SCOTTISH wholesaler JW Filshill says its ready to deliver an improved customer service with its new tech upgrade.
The firm said its new Podfather logistics service will help to improve deliveries for its fleet of vehicles through its route optimisation tech as well as its electronic proof of delivery software.
John O’Neil, senior ops manager at JW Filshill, said: “Being able to let our customers know when to expect a delivery helps them ensure they are ready and correctly staffed.
“And it ensures the fastest possible turnaround once we arrive on site.”
