Bestway Wholesale has unveiled the launch of the Good Food Retail Network to improve access to healthier and more affordable food in independent convenience stores.
The first-of-its-kind national programme, launched in collaboration with Impact on Urban Health and consultancy firm Rice Marketing, enables independent retailers to stock and promote healthier ranges.
It builds on a project launched in 2019 by Rice Marketing and Impact on Urban Health, with Bestway as a wholesale partner. According to Bestway, a successful 2020 pilot, run through selected depots, found retailers could increase sales and sustainability by stocking healthier options.
The pilot saw over 100 healthier lines across chilled, frozen, grocery, bakery, confectionery, soft drinks and snacks promoted in two London Bestway depots, supported by PoS, promotional activity and stronger shelf labelling.
Results showed changes in pricing, placements and promotions had a “measurable impact” on purchasing behaviour.
The network is now a scalable model that already includes more than 220 retailers across Costcutter, Best-one, Londis, Nisa, Premier and Spar, with supplier backing from brands such as Danone, Kind Snacks, KP snacks, Mars and Nestlé. It also has the support of 13 local authorities.
It comes as the government develops its 10-year health plan and considers extending HFSS (high fat, salt and sugar) restrictions to the convenience sector. The initiative has already attracted government interest as a practical model for driving change at store level, according to Bestway.
“Together we’ve proven that healthier products can drive sales through smarter placement and promotion – and this is a blueprint that can be scaled across the industry,” said Bestway group trading director Kenton Burchell.
“No other wholesaler has the scale and relationships to deliver this at pace – and that is why Bestway is leading the charge. For Bestway, this work is central to our ESG commitments.
“We recognise our responsibility to support public health, anticipate government policy, and help independent retailers grow sustainably. By leading this collective movement, we can make a real difference to families who need access to affordable, nutritious food the most.”
No comments yet