The importance of investing in your store and establishing a strong food to go offer were the key messages to retailers at Spar wholesaler Appleby Westward’s annual trade show at the Westpoint Centre in Exeter, Devon. Appleby Westward managing director Ian Connell highlighted 10 key points for retailers to take into account to remain competitive in the future, including creating a point of difference, customer service and better collaboration between wholesalers, suppliers and retailers.

Connell commented: “Everyone should have a food to go element in their store, whether big or small, and it should be professional and tailored to each store’s local demographic. Investment in food to go and store standards is vital for our retailers to stay ahead of their competitors.”

This message seemed to get through, with Greencore, promoting Spar’s new own-label sandwich, reporting over 70 new leads during the day.