A Premier store in Edinburgh has increased weekly food to go sales to £1,000 after customers were able to sample new hot food items served up by a professional chef.

Premier Oxgangs had invited Booker catering development manager Kerry Drewett to spend the day serving shoppers burgers, chicken wings and wraps to customers. 

The hot food options are now available on the store’s deli menu at prices ranging between £3 and £5.

Store manager Linda Williams told RN the hot food additions will help the shop compete with a Lidl and Aldi opening nearby in March next year. “We had the suggestion to bring Mr Drewett in from Booker.

“We had cooking demonstrations on the day and shoppers were able to sample the new food added to the menu, which have all been made from Booker own-brand products,” said Mrs Williams.

“It helps us differentiate the store from the competition because customers always see burgers or chicken in the chillers, but they don’t know what they taste like. We can have a greater impact this way. The aroma of the hot food is also useful for attracting customers towards the deli.

“It offers a better experience and it has benefited us because our sales have seen an increase from £800 to £1,000,” she said, adding that Mr Drewett is returning in February to have another look at the menu. “I am confident the result will be just as positive.”

Booker confirmed the chef service is part of the deli trial. Mrs Williams’ store was the first to offer Premier Deli (pictured) in August this year and Booker has said a nationwide expansion has not been ruled out.