As the UK government prepares to outlaw disposable vapes from June 1, a cloud of confusion and frustration hangs heavily over the independent retail sector.While the government cites youth vaping and electronic waste as the driving forces behind the ban, retailers on the ground are sounding the alarm, saying this move is only set to boost illegal trade and leave honest shopkeepers to face the customer backlash.From June 1, those found selling disposable vapes will get a £200 on-the-spot fine in the first instance, rising to an unlimited fine and/or a prison sentence of up to two years for repeat offences.The ban specifically applies to vape devices that are neither rechargeable nor refillable. Household names such as the Elf Bar 600 and Lost Mary BM600 fall under this category and will be illegal to sell.The motivation behind the ban is understandable. Considering that five million disposable vapes, containing lithium-ion batteries, ... Continue Reading »
Global snacking company pladis is relaunching its Better Biscuits platform, designed to empower independent convenience store owners with the insights, tools and support to boost their biscuit and snack sales. The Better Biscuits platform is now better than ever, and is a one-stop hub for expert advice, perfect planograms, exclusive rewards, treat trials and more.“Creating the perfect range of biscuits and snacks instore can be challenging,” explains Paul Burns, Head of Impulse Performance & Planning, pladis UK&I. “Our carefully designed planograms cater for all different store types with impartial advice that includes all the best-loved brands, not just ours. “Simple, accessible and easy to replicate, our tailored blueprints help independent convenience owners to quickly finesse their snacking fixtures – and start cashing in on the benefits.”
The snacking bestsellers should take up the lion’s share of shelf space – as 80 per cent of sales come from just seven per cent ... Continue Reading »
New research published by the Public Health Agency (PHA) in Northern Ireland has laid bare the alarming prevalence of e-cigarette use among young people, with nearly half (46%) of Year 14 pupils identified as current vapers.The ‘Behavioural insights into youth vaping in Northern Ireland’ report, which surveyed over 7,500 students aged 11-18 across 91 post-primary schools, offers critical insights into the motivations, perceptions, and experiences of young people regarding vaping and tobacco use. The findings are intended to inform the future design of targeted interventions and communications on vape use by young people.The study revealed a stark increase in vaping prevalence with age, with Year 14 pupils being ten times more likely to vape than those in Year 8 (4%). Overall, 15 per cent of young people reported currently using vapes. The majority of vapers (76%) had never smoked traditional cigarettes before trying an e-cigarette, and a significant 33 per ... Continue Reading »
Bira (the British Independent Retailers Association) has said that members are hopeful the warm weather and upcoming bank holidays will provide a much-needed boost to high street sales.Recent data showing increased consumer spending in April (over Easter) offers encouragement, but warns that rising business costs continue to challenge independent shops."Independent retailers across the country are hopeful that this warm weather and the recent bank holiday spending boost will help our high streets," said Bira CEO Andrew Goodacre. "However, we must emphasise that any increase in sales will be swallowed up by the relentless rise in business costs that our members continue to face."Recent figures from Barclays and the British Retail Consortium (BRC) showed consumer spending grew by 4.5 per cent in April compared with the same period last year, with spending in physical shops increasing by 6.9 per cent after a 1.9 per cent decline in March.Whilst the recent interest ... Continue Reading »
Wholesaler Bestway on Thursday (May 15) announced that it is working diligently to soon announce "an improved offer for Costcutter retailers" after Co-op Wholesale decided not to extend the long-term supply arrangement to the symbol group.It was reported in March that Co-op Wholesale will be ceasing supplying fresh, chilled and own-label to Costcutter stores from Jan 1, 2026, bringing an end to the long-term supply arrangement.The present contract is ending on Dec 31 this year. It was initiated in 2018.Bestway meanwhile has once again assured Costcutter retailers that efforts are underway to bring them an improved offer very soon.During the recently held Bestway Retail Showcase 2025 which was attended by several Costuctter retailers, the wholesaler announced, "We understand how important this is for your business, and let me start by saying that we are committed to announcing our plans at the earliest practical opportunity. We appreciate your continued patience as ... Continue Reading »
From living in the shadow of the Margarita to emerging as a customer favourite, Palomas are finally getting the recognition they deserve with widespread interest on the rise and sales booming.May 22 marks World Paloma Day, an occasion that celebrates one of the favourite drinks of Mexico. Infused with tequila, grapefruit soda, and lime juice, this refreshing serve offers a citrusy kick comprised of delicious flavours and elegance.According to Bacardi’s sixth annual Cocktail Trends Report, Palomas are shaking up the industry and regarded as the next big tequila-based serve after Margaritas. They are another shining example of the versatility of tequila and offer a lighter alternative - perfect for casual, summer-time sipping.To support this, demand for tequila serves are at an all-time high with UK sales predicted to rise by 88 per cent between 2021 and 2026, taking the category to unprecedented heights.The Franklin & Sons Pink Grapefruit Soda makes ... Continue Reading »
Sweet Freedom, a brand known for its naturally sweetened and plant-based alternatives, is set to expand its popular Choc Pot range with the launch of Choc Pot Hazelnot – a nut-free hazelnut-style spread boasting no palm oil, no refined sugar, and significantly lower calories than leading brands.Responding to the growing demand for allergy-friendly and healthier indulgent options, Choc Pot Hazelnot promises the classic creamy chocolate-hazelnut flavour without a single nut. This innovative spread is manufactured in a dedicated nut-free facility, ensuring safety for consumers with nut allergies.Sweetened naturally with fruit (apple and carob), Choc Pot Hazelnot contains no palm oil, no refined sugar, and no artificial sweeteners. With just 15 calories per teaspoon, it presents a healthier alternative for families seeking a guilt-free treat.“Choc Pot Hazelnot has taken time to get just right, but we couldn’t be happier with the result,” Deborah Pyner, co-founder of Sweet Freedom, said. “It’s unbelievably ... Continue Reading »
Booker depot in Canterbury has been allegedly told by Officials from Canterbury City Council (CCC) to clean up its act after rat droppings and gnawed bread were found during a food hygiene inspection, stated recent reports.As reported by Kent Online today (May 16), inspectors made the discoveries while carrying out a routine visit at Booker depot in Broad Oak Road, Canterbury. The depot has been given a food hygiene score of two out of five - meaning improvement is necessary.Following the inspection on Feb 24, concerns were raised reportedly over Booker’s demonstration of hygienic food handling practices and the cleanliness and condition of the site.According to the media report, evidence of rat droppings was found in the warehouse and on the shop floor by the milkshakes and bread. Bread was also found to have been gnawed on by rodents, with officials warning that pest controllers must be brought in and ... Continue Reading »
Perfume in a corner shop? Store front adorned beautifully with fresh flowers? Well in Kenilworth's St John’s Budgens store, convention isn’t just challenged but it’s entirely rewritten.Led by seasoned retailer Avtar Sidhu (popularly known as Sid) and his wife, the store has carved out a reputation not just in Warwickshire but across the sector, majorly due to its bold category mix and deep roots in the community.Speaking exclusively to Asian Trader, Sid shared his store’s story and why St John’s Budgens has a distinction of a destination store.“My wife used to work at a Co-op store and that’s how we got introduced to retail life. When we acquired the store in 2009, it was just 300 square feet.“As we took over the site and applied for planning permission, we started operation. When the permission came through, we started the work and took the business to a temp cabin. The whole ... Continue Reading »
In the wake of economic uncertainties and shifting consumer priorities, the plant-based market is emerging as a dynamic force in UK retail, states a recent report, listing the layers of the rapidly evolving segment.According to recently released Consumer Horizon May 2025 report by Vypr, almost two-thirds (62 per cent) of the population are either reducing meat consumption or are open to trying plant-based products. This evolving market presents both a challenge and an opportunity for retailers and brands aiming to align with consumer values around health, sustainability, and affordability. The report identifies two key consumer groups- Open Omnivores and Active Meat Reducers. While Open Omnivores show limited engagement with plant-based products, Active Meat Reducers are more informed and proactive in seeking alternatives, especially driven by health benefits and animal welfare concerns. Interestingly, women aged 18-24 are almost three times more likely to buy plant-based foods for friends and family, while ... Continue Reading »
In a sweeping series of enforcement actions, police and Trading Standards teams seized over thousands of pounds worth of illicit tobacco and vape products across multiple locations across the country.Rossendale Police, in collaboration with partner agencies, seized about £62,000 worth of illicit tobacco products during a recent police day of action.Rossendale Police, in collaboration with partner agencies, conducted a successful day of action on Wednesday (May 14) to address concerns raised by the local community.As part of the initiative, the Neighbourhood Policing Team were joined by Trading Standards for two enforcement visits to local shops. At the first location in Haslingden, 3,200 illicit tobacco products including cigarettes and vapes, were seized, with an estimated value of approximately £54,000. A second visit in Waterfoot led to the seizure of around 700 illegal cigarettes and vapes, valued at approximately £8,000.Local Neighbourhood Sergeant Paul Marsden said, “It’s great that we have been able ... Continue Reading »
The Chartered Trading Standards Institute (CTSI) has issued a stark warning to the public about dangerous and unregulated nasal tanning sprays that are being marketed to consumers on social media platforms.These products can cause nausea, vomiting, high blood pressure, and even changes in mole shape and size. Long-term health impacts are not yet known, but studies have shown a potential link to melanoma, a type of skin cancer, CTSI noted. CTSI added that it is also aware of a new emerging threat/trend of flavoured nasal tanning sprays, with sellers on Facebook and TikTok posting pictures of nasal tanning sprays that are available in flavours, such as peach, bubblegum, redbull, grape, strawberry and lime. These “unscrupulous” sellers are also marketing tanning drops and gummies designed to be ingested, the CTSI said, expressing concern over the marketing of these products to children. A recent survey of Trading Standards officers found that unsafe ... Continue Reading »
Cadbury is launching a brand-new limited-edition bar to the Cadbury Twirl range: Twirl White Dipped, the perfect combination of Cadbury Twirl’s beloved milk chocolate curls and swirls, covered in a layer of creamy white chocolate. Available from early June, the limited-edition bars will bring fresh excitement in-store and set retailers’ ranges up for success.Twirl White Dipped offers a new way for consumers to enjoy the instant chocolatiness of a Cadbury Twirl, with the layer of white chocolate offering a creamier and more indulgent experience, making it an ideal treat for a little moment of pause or unwinding. The launch follows the success of Twirl Orange, Twirl Caramel and Twirl Mint.“We’re delighted to be building on the love of Cadbury Twirl with this new limited-edition offering,” said Katya Savelieva, Brand Manager for Cadbury Twirl at Mondelēz International. “The combination of milk and white chocolate is proving to be a consumer favourite, ... Continue Reading »
ERDINGER Alkoholfrei has created a three-stage competition platform to appeal to triathletes and the healthy lifestyle community, with an array of excellent prizes awaiting successful entrants. Instead of the familiar triathlon trio of swim, cycle and run, participants simply have to purchase, scan and enter to have a chance of winning prizes from some of the biggest names in endurance sport including Ribble, Garmin and HUUB.“Our popular neck collar promotion is back on 500ml bottles of ERDINGER Alkoholfrei until 2nd June* and rewards shoppers with the chance to win sport-related prizes," said Peter Gowans, UK Country Manager. "They simply have to purchase a 500ml bottle of ERDINGER Alkoholfrei with a neck collar, scan the collar QR and enter the promotional code displayed along with their details." Thirty prizes will be allocated to winning entries submitted, with x10 Ribble Gravel AL-Enthusiast Bikes, x10 Garmin Forerunner 265 Smartwatches and x10 HUUB Agilis ... Continue Reading »
AG Barr is launching an exciting on-pack offer for its Barr Flavours range of soft drinks, in partnership with Universal Pictures and Amblin Entertainment’s Jurassic World Rebirth, giving shoppers a chance to win an epic holiday adventure in Lisbon with sea kayaking, a high-ropes adventure park and dinosaur caves tour, beginning in June.“A third of shoppers are actively looking for on-pack offers and prizes," said Annette Yates, Brand Director, Barr Brand. "The last on-pack partnership on our Barr Flavours range saw a double-digit uplift in sales, bringing new shoppers into the category and brand, so we know just how profitable this opportunity could be for retailers. "Jurassic World Rebirth is a film that we know our customers will love and is sure to be a huge cinematic hit this summer.“As a top-three carbonate brand in S&I, Barr’s core target audience of families accounts for 40 per cent of the overall ... Continue Reading »
As the UK government prepares to outlaw disposable vapes from June 1, a cloud of confusion and frustration hangs heavily over the independent retail sector.While the government cites youth vaping and electronic waste as the driving forces behind the ban, retailers on the ground are sounding the alarm, saying this move is only set to boost illegal trade and leave honest shopkeepers to face the customer backlash.From June 1, those found selling disposable vapes will get a £200 on-the-spot fine in the first instance, rising to an unlimited fine and/or a prison sentence of up to two years for repeat offences.The ban specifically applies to vape devices that are neither rechargeable nor refillable. Household names such as the Elf Bar 600 and Lost Mary BM600 fall under this category and will be illegal to sell.The motivation behind the ban is understandable. Considering that five million disposable vapes, containing lithium-ion batteries, ... 
Global snacking company pladis is relaunching its Better Biscuits platform, designed to empower independent convenience store owners with the insights, tools and support to boost their biscuit and snack sales. The Better Biscuits platform is now better than ever, and is a one-stop hub for expert advice, perfect planograms, exclusive rewards, treat trials and more.“Creating the perfect range of biscuits and snacks instore can be challenging,” explains Paul Burns, Head of Impulse Performance & Planning, pladis UK&I. “Our carefully designed planograms cater for all different store types with impartial advice that includes all the best-loved brands, not just ours. “Simple, accessible and easy to replicate, our tailored blueprints help independent convenience owners to quickly finesse their snacking fixtures – and start cashing in on the benefits.”
The snacking bestsellers should take up the lion’s share of shelf space – as 80 per cent of sales come from just seven per cent ... 
New research published by the Public Health Agency (PHA) in Northern Ireland has laid bare the alarming prevalence of e-cigarette use among young people, with nearly half (46%) of Year 14 pupils identified as current vapers.The ‘Behavioural insights into youth vaping in Northern Ireland’ report, which surveyed over 7,500 students aged 11-18 across 91 post-primary schools, offers critical insights into the motivations, perceptions, and experiences of young people regarding vaping and tobacco use. The findings are intended to inform the future design of targeted interventions and communications on vape use by young people.The study revealed a stark increase in vaping prevalence with age, with Year 14 pupils being ten times more likely to vape than those in Year 8 (4%). Overall, 15 per cent of young people reported currently using vapes. The majority of vapers (76%) had never smoked traditional cigarettes before trying an e-cigarette, and a significant 33 per ... 
Bira (the British Independent Retailers Association) has said that members are hopeful the warm weather and upcoming bank holidays will provide a much-needed boost to high street sales.Recent data showing increased consumer spending in April (over Easter) offers encouragement, but warns that rising business costs continue to challenge independent shops."Independent retailers across the country are hopeful that this warm weather and the recent bank holiday spending boost will help our high streets," said Bira CEO Andrew Goodacre. "However, we must emphasise that any increase in sales will be swallowed up by the relentless rise in business costs that our members continue to face."Recent figures from Barclays and the British Retail Consortium (BRC) showed consumer spending grew by 4.5 per cent in April compared with the same period last year, with spending in physical shops increasing by 6.9 per cent after a 1.9 per cent decline in March.Whilst the recent interest ... 
Wholesaler Bestway on Thursday (May 15) announced that it is working diligently to soon announce "an improved offer for Costcutter retailers" after Co-op Wholesale decided not to extend the long-term supply arrangement to the symbol group.It was reported in March that Co-op Wholesale will be ceasing supplying fresh, chilled and own-label to Costcutter stores from Jan 1, 2026, bringing an end to the long-term supply arrangement.The present contract is ending on Dec 31 this year. It was initiated in 2018.Bestway meanwhile has once again assured Costcutter retailers that efforts are underway to bring them an improved offer very soon.During the recently held Bestway Retail Showcase 2025 which was attended by several Costuctter retailers, the wholesaler announced, "We understand how important this is for your business, and let me start by saying that we are committed to announcing our plans at the earliest practical opportunity. We appreciate your continued patience as ... 
From living in the shadow of the Margarita to emerging as a customer favourite, Palomas are finally getting the recognition they deserve with widespread interest on the rise and sales booming.May 22 marks World Paloma Day, an occasion that celebrates one of the favourite drinks of Mexico. Infused with tequila, grapefruit soda, and lime juice, this refreshing serve offers a citrusy kick comprised of delicious flavours and elegance.According to Bacardi’s sixth annual Cocktail Trends Report, Palomas are shaking up the industry and regarded as the next big tequila-based serve after Margaritas. They are another shining example of the versatility of tequila and offer a lighter alternative - perfect for casual, summer-time sipping.To support this, demand for tequila serves are at an all-time high with UK sales predicted to rise by 88 per cent between 2021 and 2026, taking the category to unprecedented heights.The Franklin & Sons Pink Grapefruit Soda makes ... 
Sweet Freedom, a brand known for its naturally sweetened and plant-based alternatives, is set to expand its popular Choc Pot range with the launch of Choc Pot Hazelnot – a nut-free hazelnut-style spread boasting no palm oil, no refined sugar, and significantly lower calories than leading brands.Responding to the growing demand for allergy-friendly and healthier indulgent options, Choc Pot Hazelnot promises the classic creamy chocolate-hazelnut flavour without a single nut. This innovative spread is manufactured in a dedicated nut-free facility, ensuring safety for consumers with nut allergies.Sweetened naturally with fruit (apple and carob), Choc Pot Hazelnot contains no palm oil, no refined sugar, and no artificial sweeteners. With just 15 calories per teaspoon, it presents a healthier alternative for families seeking a guilt-free treat.“Choc Pot Hazelnot has taken time to get just right, but we couldn’t be happier with the result,” Deborah Pyner, co-founder of Sweet Freedom, said. “It’s unbelievably ... 
Booker depot in Canterbury has been allegedly told by Officials from Canterbury City Council (CCC) to clean up its act after rat droppings and gnawed bread were found during a food hygiene inspection, stated recent reports.As reported by Kent Online today (May 16), inspectors made the discoveries while carrying out a routine visit at Booker depot in Broad Oak Road, Canterbury. The depot has been given a food hygiene score of two out of five - meaning improvement is necessary.Following the inspection on Feb 24, concerns were raised reportedly over Booker’s demonstration of hygienic food handling practices and the cleanliness and condition of the site.According to the media report, evidence of rat droppings was found in the warehouse and on the shop floor by the milkshakes and bread. Bread was also found to have been gnawed on by rodents, with officials warning that pest controllers must be brought in and ... 
Perfume in a corner shop? Store front adorned beautifully with fresh flowers? Well in Kenilworth's St John’s Budgens store, convention isn’t just challenged but it’s entirely rewritten.Led by seasoned retailer Avtar Sidhu (popularly known as Sid) and his wife, the store has carved out a reputation not just in Warwickshire but across the sector, majorly due to its bold category mix and deep roots in the community.Speaking exclusively to Asian Trader, Sid shared his store’s story and why St John’s Budgens has a distinction of a destination store.“My wife used to work at a Co-op store and that’s how we got introduced to retail life. When we acquired the store in 2009, it was just 300 square feet.“As we took over the site and applied for planning permission, we started operation. When the permission came through, we started the work and took the business to a temp cabin. The whole ... 
In the wake of economic uncertainties and shifting consumer priorities, the plant-based market is emerging as a dynamic force in UK retail, states a recent report, listing the layers of the rapidly evolving segment.According to recently released Consumer Horizon May 2025 report by Vypr, almost two-thirds (62 per cent) of the population are either reducing meat consumption or are open to trying plant-based products. This evolving market presents both a challenge and an opportunity for retailers and brands aiming to align with consumer values around health, sustainability, and affordability. The report identifies two key consumer groups- Open Omnivores and Active Meat Reducers. While Open Omnivores show limited engagement with plant-based products, Active Meat Reducers are more informed and proactive in seeking alternatives, especially driven by health benefits and animal welfare concerns. Interestingly, women aged 18-24 are almost three times more likely to buy plant-based foods for friends and family, while ... 
In a sweeping series of enforcement actions, police and Trading Standards teams seized over thousands of pounds worth of illicit tobacco and vape products across multiple locations across the country.Rossendale Police, in collaboration with partner agencies, seized about £62,000 worth of illicit tobacco products during a recent police day of action.Rossendale Police, in collaboration with partner agencies, conducted a successful day of action on Wednesday (May 14) to address concerns raised by the local community.As part of the initiative, the Neighbourhood Policing Team were joined by Trading Standards for two enforcement visits to local shops. At the first location in Haslingden, 3,200 illicit tobacco products including cigarettes and vapes, were seized, with an estimated value of approximately £54,000. A second visit in Waterfoot led to the seizure of around 700 illegal cigarettes and vapes, valued at approximately £8,000.Local Neighbourhood Sergeant Paul Marsden said, “It’s great that we have been able ... 
The Chartered Trading Standards Institute (CTSI) has issued a stark warning to the public about dangerous and unregulated nasal tanning sprays that are being marketed to consumers on social media platforms.These products can cause nausea, vomiting, high blood pressure, and even changes in mole shape and size. Long-term health impacts are not yet known, but studies have shown a potential link to melanoma, a type of skin cancer, CTSI noted. CTSI added that it is also aware of a new emerging threat/trend of flavoured nasal tanning sprays, with sellers on Facebook and TikTok posting pictures of nasal tanning sprays that are available in flavours, such as peach, bubblegum, redbull, grape, strawberry and lime. These “unscrupulous” sellers are also marketing tanning drops and gummies designed to be ingested, the CTSI said, expressing concern over the marketing of these products to children. A recent survey of Trading Standards officers found that unsafe ... 
Cadbury is launching a brand-new limited-edition bar to the Cadbury Twirl range: Twirl White Dipped, the perfect combination of Cadbury Twirl’s beloved milk chocolate curls and swirls, covered in a layer of creamy white chocolate. Available from early June, the limited-edition bars will bring fresh excitement in-store and set retailers’ ranges up for success.Twirl White Dipped offers a new way for consumers to enjoy the instant chocolatiness of a Cadbury Twirl, with the layer of white chocolate offering a creamier and more indulgent experience, making it an ideal treat for a little moment of pause or unwinding. The launch follows the success of Twirl Orange, Twirl Caramel and Twirl Mint.“We’re delighted to be building on the love of Cadbury Twirl with this new limited-edition offering,” said Katya Savelieva, Brand Manager for Cadbury Twirl at Mondelēz International. “The combination of milk and white chocolate is proving to be a consumer favourite, ... 
ERDINGER Alkoholfrei has created a three-stage competition platform to appeal to triathletes and the healthy lifestyle community, with an array of excellent prizes awaiting successful entrants. Instead of the familiar triathlon trio of swim, cycle and run, participants simply have to purchase, scan and enter to have a chance of winning prizes from some of the biggest names in endurance sport including Ribble, Garmin and HUUB.“Our popular neck collar promotion is back on 500ml bottles of ERDINGER Alkoholfrei until 2nd June* and rewards shoppers with the chance to win sport-related prizes," said Peter Gowans, UK Country Manager. "They simply have to purchase a 500ml bottle of ERDINGER Alkoholfrei with a neck collar, scan the collar QR and enter the promotional code displayed along with their details." Thirty prizes will be allocated to winning entries submitted, with x10 Ribble Gravel AL-Enthusiast Bikes, x10 Garmin Forerunner 265 Smartwatches and x10 HUUB Agilis ... 
AG Barr is launching an exciting on-pack offer for its Barr Flavours range of soft drinks, in partnership with Universal Pictures and Amblin Entertainment’s Jurassic World Rebirth, giving shoppers a chance to win an epic holiday adventure in Lisbon with sea kayaking, a high-ropes adventure park and dinosaur caves tour, beginning in June.“A third of shoppers are actively looking for on-pack offers and prizes," said Annette Yates, Brand Director, Barr Brand. "The last on-pack partnership on our Barr Flavours range saw a double-digit uplift in sales, bringing new shoppers into the category and brand, so we know just how profitable this opportunity could be for retailers. "Jurassic World Rebirth is a film that we know our customers will love and is sure to be a huge cinematic hit this summer.“As a top-three carbonate brand in S&I, Barr’s core target audience of families accounts for 40 per cent of the overall ...