Parfetts has opened its first Go Local symbol store in Bristol with independent retailer Kokil Rasaratham, marking a major step in its plans to expand across the south of England.
The 1,400 sq ft store, located in in Stokes Croft, was previously unaffiliated with a symbol group, branded Star Food and Wine for six years.
Rasaratham said the move to Go Local allowed him to maintain full control of his business while benefiting from Parfetts’ “strong supply chain, competitive pricing, and in-depth retail support”.
As part of the crossover, the store underwent a refit to include an expanded grocery range, a new food-to-go offer, and energy-efficient LED lighting.
“This was the perfect opportunity to evolve the store and give customers something new while staying true to the community I’ve served for years,” he said.
“We’re in a busy area with a large student population, and the response to the refit and new fascia has been fantastic. People are really impressed by the fresh new look and the great deals we’ve been able to introduce through Go Local.
“The support from Parfetts has been brilliant, from merchandising to launch planning and ongoing advice. The process was smooth, and I’m excited to build on what we’ve started, especially as we introduce more value-driven promotions and expand our range.”
The launch marks the latest move in Parfetts’ strategic expansion into the south by recruiting for its fast-growing Go Local symbol group, which now consists of over 1,650 retailers. A second Bristol store is already planned for the Fishponds area.
It is supporting its expansion plans with a new depot opening in Southampton on 3 September.
“It’s great to open our first store in Bristol with a retailer as passionate and committed as Kokil,” said Parfetts joint MD Guy Swindell. “The partnership is a great example of what we can achieve together, showcasing the strength of the Go Local offer in high-footfall, community-led locations.
“Bristol is a key part of our southern growth plans, and we’re excited by the interest we’re already seeing from other retailers across the region.”
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