Parfetts Cash & Carry has bought and is managing its own convenience store in a pilot scheme that could lead to a new retail fascia scheme. It also hopes the store can be used as a showcase and training store to demonstrate good retailing practice.
Parfetts Cash & Carry managing director Steve Parfett said the plans were at a very early stage, and a lot of work needed to be done to decide whether to proceed.
He said: "We have no immediate intention to acquire any more stores, but if it works that would be the plan. We would not operate the stores but would want them to be run by independent retailers. Quite what basis that is on is one of the factors we are looking into."
The store, in New Mills outside Stockport, has been open since the beginning of January and is currently being managed by staff from Parfetts' Stockport depot.
Parfett explained: "The site came up for purchase from a customer who was retiring and we were aware that Tesco had shown some interest in the site. We decided that the opportunity was there for us to purchase it ourselves to retain its independence, and put into practice the store development techniques we promote to our customers. Using our experience in the industry, we have given the store a makeover, though we intend to carry out a full store re-development later this year."
He added: "Customers at our Stockport depot are aware of this development and are very supportive."
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FWD Annual Dinner & Gold Medal Awards
