Powered by insight: the smart choice for retailers

Right now, hard-working retailers are up against multiple challenges – from absorbing rising operational costs to meeting fast-changing shopper trends.

But they don’t have to face problems alone. With the right support behind the scenes independents can access the latest data, insights and trends designed to grow sales right now and protect profits for the future. This provides c-stores the opportunity to not just survive, but thrive.

“We are now better equipped to deliver value, convenience and growth in an increasingly competitive convenience retail landscape,” says Jamie Davison, retail director at Bestway Retail. “The work we’ve done over the past year is about delivering footfall, loyalty and spend per visit through meaningful support, focused campaigns and a sharper offer.”

Costcutter’s model empowers independent retailers to remain flexible and locally relevant, while also benefiting from national scale and strategic innovation. Through Bestway Retail insights and access to circa 2,000 Co-op own-label products, Costcutter stores benefit from unmatched supply resilience by not just having their partnered delivered solution but with access to Bestway Cash and Carry outlets and the brand’s heritage and trust. The fascia’s focus on fresh food, food-to-go and innovation means it is more relevant than ever. By bolstering meal for tonight solutions and collaborating on bakery and premium meal solutions, Costcutter is winning over consumers seeking value and quality in one place.

Smart stores: designed for growth

Costcutter’s modern concept stores are built on insight. From in-store bakery and fresh produce to chilled grab-and-go zones and seasonal WOW deals, stores are laid out around shopper missions, driving increased basket spend. A standout format integrates premium and value with dedicated modular zones – including a modern Costcutter Wine Rack model for specialist wine and spirits and a dual-fascia Costcutter Bargain Booze concept for high-volume value alcohol sales.

Promotions that perform

With value more important than ever, Costcutter has introduced a triple-tier promotional engine:

● Mega deals and events: big night in, meal solution, customer event focuses

● Everyday essentials: KVI promotions on key lines from crisps to fruit and veg

● Profit drivers: supporting retailers in this competitive landscape to still sell more and make more

Smarter tech means better retail

Investment in EPOS, analytics and mobile tech is giving retailers better control, visibility and flexibility. “This remains a key priority for Bestway to continue to grow as technology advancements keep moving, Costcutter stores are enabled for next-gen retail,” explains Davison. Dedicated business development managers now support each brand on a call cycle, offering tailored insight and action plans.

Why join Costcutter in 2025?

● Unbeatable quality and fresh food-to-go expansion

● Backed by Co-op own-label power and branded value

● Agile customer-centric options to suit location and demographics

● Digital innovation driving sales to help retailers improve their margins

● Access to Bestway cash and carry as well as direct to store

^{NB: This article was originally published in The Grocer’s Guide to Franchise & Fascia 2025 supplement}