Author: Scott Dylan

The rapid grocery delivery industry saw a dramatic rise during the pandemic, but post-pandemic dynamics have led to shifts and challenges.As the pandemic eased, the demand for speedy delivery waned, prompting market consolidation.Significant acquisitions occurred, such as Getir acquiring Gorillas, although reductions and exits in certain regions followed.US-based GoPuff refocused its strategy with strategic partnerships while retreating from some markets.New strategic shifts were seen with entities like Jiffy and Zapp pivoting or adjusting operations.During the pandemic, the urgency of grocery delivery catalysed the emergence of numerous rapid delivery apps across the US and Europe. However, with the easing of restrictions,…

Ocado is intensifying its same-day delivery service amidst growing demand and strategic pressure.The company plans to increase delivery slots, targeting larger orders than last-minute purchases.Operational shifts are influenced by M&S, which seeks a turnaround in the delivery model’s profitability.Hannah Gibson sees potential improvements anchoring Ocado’s strategic reset.Concerns about the impact on local convenience stores arise amidst these expansions.Ocado is taking significant steps to expand its same-day delivery service, amidst increasing pressures from stakeholders like M&S. Currently offering a limited number of slots weekly, Ocado is poised to amplify their availability, appealing to a broader UK market.The strategy involves encouraging consumers…

Waitrose is launching dedicated areas for low and alcohol-free drinks in 253 stores across the UK.Sales of low and no alcohol drinks at Waitrose have surged by 20% over the past year.Research shows that 70% of UK adults want easier access to low and no-alcohol beverages.The retail giant aims to fulfil growing demand by increasing space for these products by 60%.Waitrose plans to introduce more varieties of low and alcohol-free products before Christmas.Waitrose has made a significant move towards accommodating the increasing consumer demand for low and alcohol-free beverages by partnering with Diageo. This initiative will roll out in 253…

Discover the latest sweet innovations from renowned confectionery brands.KitKat reintroduces its popular Chunky Hazelnut after three years.Quality Street launches an exclusive new chocolate bar format.Haribo unveils limited-edition Awesome Axolotls gummies.Mars introduces Secret Centre Biscuits with indulgent flavours.Fruit-tella expands its Curiosities range with reduced sugar treats.In an exciting development for chocolate enthusiasts, KitKat has re-launched its Chunky Hazelnut bar. After a three-year absence, this much-loved product returns to shelves, featuring a crispy wafer topped with hazelnut spread and milk chocolate. Priced at 70p, it is available in supermarkets and convenience stores across the UK. KitKat’s Torin Zieboll commented on the return,…

Aldi is piloting sensory-friendly shopping hours across select UK stores to support customers who prefer a quieter environment.This initiative is being trialled in nearly 100 stores in regions including Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire, Lincolnshire, and Yorkshire.The sensory-friendly hours, set for Tuesdays from 6pm to 8:30pm, aim to provide a quieter shopping atmosphere by reducing noise levels.Aldi staff have received training to assist customers with hidden disabilities, recognising the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower symbol.This trial, if successful, will be expanded nationwide to enhance accessibility and inclusivity at Aldi stores.Aldi has announced the implementation of sensory-friendly shopping hours in select UK locations, aiming to create…

The era of cheap food in the UK is concluding as economists predict continued food price increases.Food inflation reached a 45-year high earlier this year, easing slightly but remaining significant.The cost of food is not expected to decrease despite a peak in inflation, underscores experts’ warnings.As expenses rise, lower-income households are compelled to reduce their grocery spending habits.Shrinkflation affects customers with products being downsized, while prices of own-brand goods rise most quickly.Economists have sounded the alarm that the era of cheap food is drawing to a close in the UK. Food prices have been marked by a significant increase, with…

Meatless Farm’s strategic expansion into Europe led to significant financial losses and eventual bankruptcy.The company’s relocation to Amsterdam in 2020 was a costly move that failed to yield profit.By 2023, Meatless Farm reported nearly £17m in losses across its European operations.A lack of investor interest compounded financial struggles, aggravated by global economic challenges.Despite sales to major European supermarkets, Meatless Farm struggled with innovation and competitive pressures.Meatless Farm’s ambitious plan to penetrate the European market ended in financial turmoil. After moving its headquarters from Leeds to Amsterdam in 2020, the company incurred substantial operating costs that surpassed its revenue. The company’s…

M&S has unveiled plans for a significant transformation of its Newcastle store, committing £13 million to the North East.The Northumberland Street store will undergo a top-to-bottom redesign, maintaining operations throughout the process.A newly refurbished foodhall is set to open by year-end, with clothing, home, and beauty departments following by early 2024.M&S is expanding its innovative ‘Scan & Shop’ system, enhancing customer convenience across the region.This investment underscores M&S’s long-standing dedication to North Eastern communities, reinforcing its position as a customer favourite.Marks and Spencer is set to embark on a significant transformation of its Newcastle store as part of a £13…

The UK government postpones border controls on EU food imports amid inflation concerns, impacting the grocery sector.Originally scheduled for October 2023, the Border Target Operating Model’s full implementation now extends into 2024.Businesses and ports receive more time to adjust to complex import requirements, including vet certificates and physical checks.Industry voices fear increased costs could raise consumer prices, with government estimates suggesting £420m yearly expenses.Surveys indicate significant EU suppliers are unprepared, potentially causing food shortages, particularly during the Christmas season.The UK government has decided to postpone the implementation of post-Brexit border checks on food products imported from the European Union. This…

Tesco is spearheading sustainability with its new ‘pillow pack’ for fresh mince, reducing plastic usage by 70%.This change applies to 500g packs of both 5% and 20% fat beef lean steak mince.The ‘pillow pack’ design avoids compression of the meat, unlike vacuum-packed options.New packs are more efficient, allowing more to be transported and displayed, boosting availability.Part of Tesco’s 4Rs strategy, the packaging is recyclable, aligning with their environmental goals.In a significant move towards sustainability, Tesco has introduced innovative ‘pillow packs’ for its fresh mince. This change marks a 70% reduction in plastic used compared to traditional tray wrap packs. The…