Private equity-owned off-licence chain Bargain Booze is poised to take on Spar, Costcutter and Londis with a new c-store format.

The chain has been developing the offer for the past 12 months and is set to unveil it in the summer.

The group, which is owned by ECI Partners, has finalised a name and fascia for the format, though it is refusing to reveal details until the concept is officially launched this summer.

Joint MD Matthew Hughes said a Bargain Booze at Select & Save trial, which began last October at a store in Manton, Notts, had proved the Bargain Booze model could complement a strong convenience offer. "Part of what we have been doing has involved the trial with Select & Save," he said. "But we have also been working out our own route to market for our franchisees, which involves a total retail package and direct supply route."

Deals and terms have been put in place with suppliers to enable stores to compete with other leading symbol groups, he said.

The convenience format would be trialled at a handful of stores initially, he added. Bargain Booze franchisees have been made aware of the development, which will be available to new recruits and existing retailers with large enough stores. Bargain Booze has hired former Select & Save and Londis man Mark Crabtree to implement the strategy.

"I believe that the Bargain Booze off-licence concept is the strongest in the marketplace," said Crabtree. "The company is now close to having the wherewithal to be able to use its strength as an off-licence retailer to power highly credible c-stores."

The off-licence group currently operates 600 stores under the Bargain Booze and Thorougoods fascias.

It has added 50 new stores in the past year and is seeking out franchisees through seminars across the country. It is also piloting a joint-fascia concept with Newcastle CTN chain Finlay Newsagents.

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