Mace stores across the country are set to receive unorthodox seasonal gifts in the form of Palmer and Harvey (P&H) employees dressed as helpful Christmas elves.

For the second year running, more than 100 of P&H’s management board, distribution centre and head office staff will be swapping their usual duties for a day working at Mace stores.

The ‘elves’ will report back on what they have learned, with the feedback being used to improve P&H’s support and service to its Mace stores.

Mace store owners have been invited to choose a day during the week commencing December 10. They can use their helpful elf for anything they like – from stacking shelves to stockholding, or even washing car windscreens on forecourts.

As well as helping retailers, the annual scheme also forms part of a training initiative to help staff throughout the business better understand the end customers.  

Martyn Ward, managing director commercial and sales at P&H, said: “Last year’s scheme was amazingly successful. Retailers really appreciated an extra pair of hands and our employees were able to see exactly what it’s like to work at a forecourt, convenience store or CTN, meeting shoppers and working hands-on to provide them with the products they need.

“Of course it’s been yet another challenging year for retailers, and we’re sure that a Christmas elf from Palmer and Harvey will once again be a helpful addition to their ranks during the busiest time of the year. In addition, it gives us important insight into how to make our service even better.”