Independent c-store hits £1m home delivery milestone

MJ’s Premier in Royton, near Oldham, says the 30-minute delivery service has transformed its business and is now the most profitable part of the operation.

The store is averaging between 100 and 120 deliveries a day from Monday to Thursday, increasing to more than 150 drops on Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Demand increases after 5pm each day.

The store has a minimum drop of £10 and a delivery charge of up to £3.49, within a maximum three-mile radius.

The average basket spend is said to be more than £25 and because of the high fresh mix, margins are more than 30%.

Store owner Justin Whittaker has bought four delivery vehicles, which are brightly coloured and branded to raise awareness of the service.

At the busiest times, there can be up to eight members of the team working on deliveries.

“We are delighted with the delivery service – it really has been a game-changer for us,” said Whittaker.

“Of course, we were very lucky to launch the service when we did. However, we have worked really hard to exceed our customers’ expectations.

“Making sure we arrive within 30 minutes is crucial.

“We also have to ensure the quality of the items we are delivering – they have to be as perfect as bought in the shop.”