A look at what’s going on across the convenience channel and associated businesses and organisations
The Fed slams Smiths News
THE Federation of Independent Retailer has lambasted news wholesaler Smiths News after the firm decided to raise its carriage charge template by nearly 2%.
This will see some Fed members pay £1 more a week, with the fee capped at £70.51 and most paying about £60, after Smiths put the rise down to a hike in wage and fuel bills.
The Fed said it will challenge the move by inviting the wholesaler to visit a member’s store to see the service provided first-hand.
Mo Razzaq, national president of the Fed, said: “At a time when so many independent retailers are struggling financially, it is disappointing to hear that Smiths News is yet to explore an alternative to carriage charges and is, in fact, about to put up its carriage charge template yet again.
“In its letter, Smiths News says it is committed to investing in key areas of the business that will improve service standards for its customers. I do hope that is the case as, for too many of our members, the service levels they are receiving are far from satisfactory.”
Jisp has strong first half to 2024
Retail tech firm Jisp has reported a strong performance for the first half of 2024, with sales through the app up 79% from last year.
This has translated to a total retail sales worth of £2.2million during the time period as the firm reported app scans were up by 97%.
Ilann Hepworth, managing director, said: “Jisp’s proposition is extremely relevant in current market conditions.
“In the challenging environment shoppers, retailers and brands are all facing, we offer a solution that provides brands with a promotional route to market, fully supported by an extensive retail media package.”
Scotland Food & Drink chair to step down
SCOTLAND Food & Drink (SFD) has announced the end of the tenure of its current chair.
Lucinda Bruce-Gardyne has announced she will be stepping down from the role in October this year after taking on the position in 2021.
Iain Baxter, chief exec at SFD, said: “Lucinda is a greatly valued ambassador for our industry, bringing passion and commitment to supporting the sector and helping create opportunities for growth.
“Myself, the board, the partnership and the team at Scotland Food & Drink have enjoyed working with her and she’ll be greatly missed.”
