Healthier wholesaler Epicurium will focus on helping independent retailers compete with supermarkets as it sees a “huge opportunity” in developing the ranges of convenience stores. 

The wholesaler, which works with 600 independent retailers, will help store owners develop their PoS and product range within the healthy food category. 

Founder Ben McKechnie told RN: “Our focus will be helping independent retailers take on the supermarkets this year by helping them create a point of difference. 

“There’s a huge opportunity in independent convenience. The main aim will be on creating destination stores because retailers must give customers a reason to visit their shops other than grocery shopping. 

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“It’s about getting the range right, having the right on-shelf PoS and making sure customers are aware the products are there. 

“Aspiring brands are keen to support with PoS, but sometimes this is difficult with limited floor space.”

McKechnie added the majority of Epicurium’s demand last year was for vegan products. “It took us by surprise how much of the population has come on board with veganism as a trend,” he said. “There’s a different mindset now.” 

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