Premier 5000 collage (1)

Premier has opened its 5,000th store.

The “landmark moment” celebrated over 30 years of “growth, innovation and support” for independent retailers, said the Booker-owned symbol group.

The latest store, Premier Queensway in Wellingborough, North Northamptonshire, represents the group’s flagship format, offering a “modern retail experience” with features such as food-to-go, energy-efficient chillers, customer loyalty rewards and tailored meal deals.

Owner Srijeekasikaran Kandiah said it was a “real privilege” to be recognised as the 5,000th Premier store.

“Being part of Premier has had a huge impact on my business. The support from Booker, combined with the strength of the Premier brand, has helped us grow year after year. It’s not just about supply, it’s about partnership,” said Kandiah.

To celebrate its 5,000-store estate, Premier has launched a nationwide campaign with a strong focus on “giving back to local communities”, it said. 

At the heart of the activity is an £8,000 community giveaway where eight Premier retailers - each from a different region - will receive £1,000 to donate to a local cause chosen by their customers.

Booker is also donating 5,000 family meals to FareShare and local food banks, as well as offering one Premier retailer the chance to win a Premier-branded delivery van, it announced.

Reaching 5,000 Premier stores is a phenomenal achievement and a real reflection of the dedication, energy and entrepreneurial spirit of our retailers,” said Colm Johnson, retail managing director at Booker.

“This celebration is about saying thank you to our customers, colleagues and communities, and recognising the role they’ve played in getting us here.”

Martyn Parkinson, sales director for Premier, said: “Premier has always been focused on supporting independent retailers, providing them with the tools and backing they need to succeed in a competitive market. Reaching this point is a testament to the dedication of our retailers, the strength of our partnerships, and our ongoing commitment to innovation and growth.”