Global soft drinks brand highlights the importance of the convenience sector to shoppers
SOFT drinks giant Coca-Cola Europacific Partners (CCEP) is set to mark 125 years of Coca-Cola in Great Britain by highlighting the importance of convenience stores to consumers.
Coming at a time when many are struggling financially, CCEP has identified just how important the ‘corner shop’ is to many consumers across the UK. According to Opinium Research, some 23% of shoppers depend on their local convenience store more than any other retail outlet.
CCEP said that convenience stores and their ‘bosses’ have proven themselves as crucial retail partners to the Coca-Cola brand for more than a century, while providing endless vital services to local communities.
The firm said that convenience is one of Coca-Cola’s most longstanding and important retail channels, with the CCEP portfolio delivering more than £317million worth of sales in convenience during the last year – according to Nielsen stats.
James Lowman, chief executive at the Association of Convenience Stores, said: “Convenience store owners’ super power is their adaptability. It’s one thing to be close to your community and to understand what they want, and it’s another thing again to invest in delivering those products and services.
“Without these entrepreneurs taking risks and working all hours, thousands of communities would be without the essential services that make them tick.”
CCEP has also conducted a consumer study to help mark its 125th anniversary in Great Britain and revealed that 88% of shoppers actually underestimate how long Coca-Cola has been available in Great Britain, with only 4% correctly identifying the full 125-year legacy.
And it also uncovered that many Brits underestimate how many Coca-Cola products sold in the UK are also produced here.
Many respondents said that just 41% of the range is manufactured in the UK, when the actual number is much higher and sits at 97%.
Stephen Moorhouse, general manager of CCEP GB, said: “Convenience stores have been at the heart of their communities for generations, and Coca-Cola has proudly stood alongside them throughout that journey.
“As we mark 125 years of Coca-Cola in Great Britain, this research highlights the resilience and adaptability of local retailers – many of whom are finding new ways to meet evolving shopper needs.Â
“At CCEP, we’re committed to supporting these vital businesses, helping them grow, innovate and continue serving as a lifeline to the communities they know so well.”
