Spar has launched a new branded forecourt concept designed to help convenience retailers stand up to the multiples and compete against the oil companies.

The retailer is negotiating on the first three sites as part of its collaboration with fuel wholesaler Harvest Energy, Spar’s business development controller Mark Steven told Convenience Store.

The new format will see the Spar brand feature prominently across each site, on the canopy, pumps, pole sign and shop fascia.

As part of the interior options available to retailers will be the latest features first showcased in Spar’s new flagship store in Penwortham Lancashire, including the fresh-looking internal colour scheme and wood and straw display units for fruit, vegetables and bread.

“The offer will be flexible and totally dependent on the type and size of site and customer demographic. One element will be constant though, we want our retailers’ independence to shine through and to clearly communicate their very important part in the local community,” Steven said.

Cross promotions linking shop purchases to money off fuel will also act as key footfall and traffic drivers.

“We’ve recognised that independent retailers are not getting a great deal from the big oil companies anymore, and we want to change that. It is imperative that fuel retailers maximise all sales opportunities and cross promotions certainly provide this, linking fuel directly to shop purchases. With 700 forecourt sites, Spar is the UK’s largest symbol forecourt brand, and we are confident that the marriage of expertise between Spar and Harvest Energy, the UK’s fastest growing fuel brand can be a great success,” he added.