News UK’s business development manager, Scott McCulloch, has teamed up with the Scottish district to help them take advantage of promotions.

McCulloch met district president Hussan Lal last Wednesday to discuss the news trade. Lal told Better Retailing: “We can retain customers by carrying out more promotions,” he said.

“We need customers to better engage with independent stores.”

Lal added finding out how retailers can better get involved with promotions was his priority.

Read more: News UK faces criticism for late deliveries

“It’s great when customers recognise fascias,” he said. “But we need to do more for unaffiliated stores.”

As a result, McCulloch gave Lal an email address to circulate among members who want to access promotional material.

“We are going to put this out on our Scottish bulletin, and retailers will be able to receive stands, T-shirts and point-of-sale material,” said Lal.

McCulloch also stressed the importance of retailers being involved in the Sun Savers scheme. “If my customers buy The Sun newspaper, they are able to be a part of a loyalty scheme,” said Lal.

Read more: DCT and News UK concerned for print despite growth

“I want to encourage all members to scan their customers’ newspapers when they are at the till so they can drive sales.”

In addition, Lal discussed the ongoing issues associated with late deliveries. “When you ring either Smiths News or Menzies, they blame the publishers for the lateness,” he said.

“Scott explained how publishers do their utmost to ensure they meet their deadlines.”

Read more: Smiths News going through wholesale changes