Convenience in brief | Co-op, Biffa, Loch Lomond Whiskies

A look at what’s going on across the convenience channel and associated businesses and organisations

Biggar Co-op store’s bigger impact

The Co-op store on Old Station Road, Biggar, has reopened after a major revamp.
The Co-op store on Old Station Road, Biggar, has reopened after a major revamp.

A CO-OP store in Biggar has reopened following an eight-week transformation for the shop.

Located on Old Station Road in Biggar, the near 7,000 sq ft Co-op has expanded to include a new Costa Coffee Express machine, a self-service laundromat and parcel collection services to support the needs of the local area.

Mark Leesing, Co-op store manager, said: “The whole team is delighted to have had the opportunity to invest in Biggar.

“The store has been totally transformed, with a brighter, more spacious new design and layout that looks fantastic.”

Biffa warning to retailers over vape takeback schemes

WASTE management company Biffa has warned retailers about possible fines they could incur despite the introduction of the disposable vape ban.

The firm has warned that, even with the ban in place, retailers will still need to provide a takeback system for consumers.

According to Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) regulations, retailers could face a fine of up to £5,000 if they are not compliant.

Stores will also need to communicate this service to their local customers and record all the vapes they collect and dispose of, says Biffa.

Daniel Barrett, reactive services expert at Biffa, said: “All retailers and businesses that generate vape waste must recognise that the ban does not remove their obligations to ensure it is managed compliantly.

“Due consideration must also be given to the impact of the transition to new types of vape that are appearing in ever-increasing numbers even before the ban takes effect.”

Successful end to year for Loch Lomond Whiskies

Loch Lomond Whiskies has won a top award at the International Wine & Spirit Competition.
Loch Lomond Whiskies has won a top award at the International Wine & Spirit Competition.

LOCH Lomond Whiskies has rounded out the year with a global accolade at the International Wine & Spirit Competition.

The firm has picked up the highly coveted Scotch Whisky Producer of the Year gong at this years awards, with praise for the distiller’s approach to  push its whisky brand “to the next level”.

Michael Henry, master blender at Loch Lomond Group, said: “To close the year with another prestigious award win is wonderful – a real highlight of our year.

“We’ve always been bold in our approach to whisky-making. While we respect tradition, we’re not afraid to push boundaries.”