Booker will scale back on allocations across its Premier symbol group from next month, after temporarily increasing the promotional lines retailers were required to stock in January and February.
The move aimed to drive sales and footfall support during a traditionally quieter trading period, it is understood.
Some Premier retailers, however, said the larger allocations placed financial pressure on their business and made it difficult to find room for the extra stock. They also added that some products were slow-selling or didn’t work well in their stores.
One retailer told The Grocer their monthly allocation rose from between 50 and 75 cases to 188 cases in January, totalling more than £2,400.
“We are being taken advantage of,” he said. “As a convenience retailer of a small business, having various lines allocated that we don’t stock, and needing space to store them safely, is challenging.”
He raised the concerns with his business development manager but said he had no response, and mentioned that a fellow retailer had been charged a delivery fee for the higher allocation.
It is understood larger allocations on fresh promotions also contributed to increased food waste.
Not all retailers viewed the increase negatively, however. Ranj Hayer, owner of Premier Hayers in Weston-super-Mare, said he welcomed the initiative.
“I understand some retailers’ concerns, but as a Premier retailer I’m proud to be part of the UK’s biggest symbol group,” he said.
“The January and February promotion was large, but strong, and helped drive footfall at a time when trading is usually challenging. Retailers can return stock as long as it’s in complete packs, so the scheme is very flexible.”
From March onwards, allocation levels will reduce. Retailers with concerns are encouraged to speak to their regional development manager for guidance and support.
The changes to allocations comes as Premier celebrated its 5,000th store launch in November.
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