Retailers fear abuse from shoppers as festive period gets into gear

Independent research commissioned by Premier Foods has highlighted the biggest worries and concerns for retailers at the end of a challenging year for the industry – and the nation.

It reveals that 22% of retailers say they are concerned about verbal or physical abuse towards employees while the biggest worry for more than a third of them is the traditional festive concern of competing with supermarkets and trying to retain local shoppers.

It also shows that half of retailers are stocking up on festive-themed items and best-sellers earlier this year, because of concerns over potential supply issues of key lines as Brexit approaches.

Another finding is that 42% of retailers anticipate higher demand this time around on items such as gravy, stuffing and custard.

Courtney Lewis, customer director for independent convenience & wholesale at Premier Foods, said: “The announcement that people will be able to form Christmas bubbles to meet in private households, as opposed to being able to dine out, means we expect more people to cook at home.

“As a result, ambient grocery is set to grow by as much as 8% as shoppers buy essentials.

“Over half of retailers agree that, during the course of the pandemic, people have been selecting brands they know and trust more than they were before.

“This demonstrates a strong sales opportunity for those with the right range of festive favourites.

“Nobody knows exactly how the festive season is going to play out with half of shoppers having admitted they don’t expect to have a normal Christmas this year.

“We understand that for convenience stores, stocking up ready for the build-up to the big day is bound to be different too as a result.

“From our research, we know that retailers are looking to suppliers for more advice on best-sellers and shopper insight given changing behaviour.”

The company is also giving retailers the chance to win products from its Bisto, Oxo, Paxo and Ambrosia ranges by entering a prize draw running each week until 24 December.

They need to visit https://www.grocerypartners.co.uk/whats-new/christmas-tips-2020 where they can also get advice and range recommendations for the season.