ParfettsSheffield (002)

Source: Parfetts

Currently Sheffield is Parfett’s only deport to operate 24 hours a day

Parfetts’ depot in Sheffield has seen a 10% sales uplift since starting its 24-hour wholesale cycle 12 months ago. 

The Sheffield depot operates as a cash & carry from 6.30am to 6.30pm. It is then used by the delivery and click & collect teams to pick orders through the night. Retailers are now able to order up to midnight for deliveries the following day.

As a result, online sales have grown to account for 42% of the depot’s total sales and are expected to hit 50% later this year.

“Sheffield is now our best-performing site in terms of year-on-year growth and a template for future operations,” said Parfetts retail director Guy Swindell. “By moving to a 24-hour operation, we are giving our retailers more flexibility while still delivering great value.

“The Sheffield site reflects the changing nature of our service as we invest in our digital services. Parfetts is undertaking a significant investment programme in new technology to support our continued growth in this area and meet the needs of our customers into the future.”

Currently Sheffield is Parfett’s only deport to have diversified in this way, a spokesman for the wholesaler said the 24-hour operation is a trial with no firm plans to role the model out to the remaining seven depots.

The news follows recent announcements that Parfetts retail club now has over 3,000 members after a record year for growth, with over 450 retailers in its Go Local fascia group.