Talking Retail Grocery and product news for independent retailers
Ahmed, who took over the running of the store from his father in 1999, has extended his long-term relationship with Go Local, switching from previous convenience retailer Londis.
The 1,700sq ft store has introduced Go Local Extra branding, new lighting throughout, together with the installation of CCTV.
In addition, the Go Local Extra store, on Keswick Road, also now features a dedicated alcohol sales area. It specialises in Irish produce to meet demand from the surrounding local Irish community, which is keen to buy authentic products not readily available elsewhere.
Ahmed, who has had a produce supply relationship with Parfetts for almost three decades, worked closely with the symbol group to develop the store’s new look and the broader product and service offering.
He said: “We’ve been part of this community for almost 30 years so have a great relationship with our customers. My dad ran the store until I took over in 1999 and we want this bond to remain as strong, which is why I’ve made the switch to Parfetts and fully committed to becoming a Go Local Extra store. In enhancing the all-around shopping experience for customers, we can offer a greater variety of product choices, especially during the lockdown period.
“Working with Parfetts is simple and no hassle. They’ve supported me every step of the way, investing in the business and helping us to maintain our independence to keep providing the local, friendly service our customers’ value. It is really important to me as I don’t get this level of service and support from anywhere else. I’m sure the recent improvements and new Go Local Extra branding will help us have a successful year in 2021. Many customers have told us how they’ve relied on us for their shopping this year and will continue to shop local.”
Parfetts’ Go Local fascia has seen store numbers grow to more than 650 stores.
Guy Swindell, retail director at Parfetts, added: “Khalil has done a great job of providing a valuable and reliable service to the community that his store has been a part of for nearly thirty years. Khalil’s dad was a regular customer before him for many years, and it’s great to see this relationship continue to grow. The store has a strong reputation for going the extra mile for customers and having done so for so long now there is an expectation from the community to fulfil this service. It is what being truly local is all about. We look forward to continuing to support Khalil’s store in 2021 and helping him to build further on the success he’s already achieved.”
