EXCLUSIVE: Mace symbol group to make resurgence

The Mace fascia is making resurgence, as convenience buying group PGMA has taken on its potential expansion and development.

The PGMA works with smaller shops across Scotland, giving them access to some benefits of the Costcutter supply chain which they otherwise would be unable to get directly due to stricter and larger requirements.

This includes access to Co-op own label, up to 21 days credit terms, Costcutter’s ordering system and access to the Mace symbol group. The firm currently has 20 members, with two already within the Mace chain.

PGMA commercial manager Martin Devlin told Better Retailing: “Over the last 18 months we’ve been raising awareness of the benefits that the PGMA can offer to stores.

“The Mace fascia gives members another avenue and it builds up the benefits of the PGMA. If a retailer wants a brand they can have it. If not, that’s fine. There’s also an option to have a hybrid of both. It’s a positive opportunity for retailers.

“Costcutter themselves have ceased development of it and are giving us the opportunity to use it if required. There’s no strategic development plan as such, but it’s a licensing agreement which Costcutter has allowed us to use with their blessing.”

Bestway to move stores with ‘less important’ Mace fascia to Best-one and Costcutter

Although still owned by Bestway and Costcutter, the Mace fascia was previously described by the wholesaler’s managing director Dawood Pervez as “less important” due to overlap with the Best-one symbol group. He added there were plans to migrate existing Mace retailers into the Best-one estate.

There is no joining fee for the PGMA, although members are charged an ongoing marketing fee with a variable rate. Retailers also gain access to Costcutter’s rebate scheme with rates ranging between 1% and 2.5% dependent on average weekly spend.

Minimum order requirements are also similar to Nisa’s, with members required to order at least 150 ambient and 40 chilled and frozen cases per delivery.

Describing other ways the PGMA supports members, Devlin added: “We’re more focused towards smaller retailers who are our bread and butter. Our uniqueness is to help retailers with supply and trade well.

“We don’t want to take too much out of stores and we’re not overly interested in promotional compliance. It’s much more about having the goods available to stores and helping retailers fit the needs of their local community.

“Many of them are the hubs of their communities. It’s about finding the balance of letting them keep their independence while getting the best support from a symbol group.”

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