Southern Co-op has successfully implemented over half a million electronic shelf labels across its UK stores, aiming for efficiency and cost savings.
- This initiative involves 197 stores in the UK, significantly reducing paper and printing expenses by approximately £220,000 annually.
- The implementation programme was executed in partnership with Scotmid Co-op, who trialled the scheme initially in Scotland in December 2020.
- Feedback from store employees has been overwhelmingly positive, highlighting reduced workload and enhanced promotional capabilities.
- The new electronic labels can display vital information like allergens and promotions instantly as stores open.
Southern Co-op has made a significant move within its retail operations by rolling out over half a million electronic shelf labels (ESLs) across its UK estate. This bold implementation spans 197 stores and is projected to cut paper and printing costs by approximately £220,000 annually, marking a stride towards cost efficiency and sustainability.
This extensive installation programme was delivered in collaboration with Scotmid Co-op, who were instrumental in testing the technology in one of their Scottish stores in December 2020. Recognising its success, the trial led to a full-scale rollout by Scotmid, covering more than half a million labels across 189 food stores by October.
According to Pete Treasure, Southern Co-op’s retail proposition manager, the decision to extend the rollout followed overwhelmingly positive feedback from store colleagues. “We trialled the technology with Scotmid Co-op at the very end of 2020, and the feedback from store colleagues was so overwhelmingly positive that we knew we needed to move forward and roll this out across all of our stores,” he stated.
Moreover, employees welcomed the ESLs, viewing them as a tool that alleviates the monotonous task of replacing paper labels. This efficiency enables promotions to be updated automatically, as soon as stores open, thus enhancing customer experience immediately.
The benefits of electronic labels extend beyond simplistic price updates. They are capable of displaying vital legal information such as allergen notices, ‘Think 25’ messaging, and even options related to home delivery. This adaptability supports both compliance with regulations and enhances the consumer shopping experience.
The integration of electronic shelf labels across Southern Co-op stores represents a significant step towards modernising retail operations with sustainable and efficient practices.
