Hancocks to open branch and extend chocolate range
25 January 2011 – Confectionery cash and carry Hancocks is to open a new branch in Reading, UK on 6 February. The new 12,000 square foot cash and carry will stock in excess of 5,000 branded and own label confectionery products.
“We have been looking for a site in that area for some time as we know it’s a clear gap in our catchment,” says Mark Watson, Hancocks MD.
The wholesaler has also launched two value chocolate bar ranges to help independents compete against supermarkets. “Many shoppers remain value driven and independent retailers need to have some choice in confectionery so that they can provide for this need whilst still remaining profitable. With branded chocolate multi-packs available in the supermarkets for £1, smaller stores are left selling single branded bars for rrps in excess of 50p each, squeezing their margins dry,” says Jonathan Summerley, Hancocks purchasing director.
The range of 100g bars have a retail price of 59p and the selection of 150g filled bars can retail at £1 and earn a 27% margin. Summerley adds, “During 2011, we intend to launch a good number of confectionery products, designed to help smaller retailers establish a real point of difference.”