Booker Develops Store Format For ‘Next Battleground In Convenience’

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A new, smaller convenience store concept has been launched by Booker’s Premier symbol group to capitalise on the latest trends in the sector.

According to trade magazine The Grocer, the 600 sq. ft. store in Wheatley Hill, near Durham, has seen its weekly sales increase from £8,000 to £20,000 since recently undergoing a revamp to the new format.

Having previously been a basic newsagent, the new format has put a major focus on fresh and chilled products, as well as food-to-go, vaping and premium spirits.

As well as boosting sales, the store has seen its profit margins increase from 18% to 25% – with Premier said to be aiming to raise this figure to around 30%.

Booker’s Brand Director Martyn Parkinson is quoted by The Grocer as saying: “I think smaller stores are going to be the next battleground in convenience. I think we have a really strong offer with this format and we are very excited about rolling it out further.”

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