One year on: Spar Llanwrst is still a hub for local produce

A year ago Justin & Sara McIlveen were picking up a Retailer of the Year award. What’s happened since? 

How has business been since we last spoke?

The poor weather is affecting the tourist trade which makes a big difference to our summer sales. Margins are getting tighter and sales are struggling to stay on par with last year.   

Has anything changed?

Energy costs are constantly rising (our electric bill for this year for four small shops will be over £100,000) and minimum wage is due to rise. This will affect our profitability and ability to grow.

How will you tackle this?

We’re increasing our chilled food space, even though it will result in higher energy costs, to increase our ‘tonight’s tea’ range. Spar’s own brand has made huge leaps with its food to go range. 

Is local produce still important to your store?

I believe it is our corporate social responsibility to be a hub for local produce. Local growers need stores like ours where they can reach a large range of customers.

Do you still learn from the multiples?

Yes, while they are different (they have no real interest in local produce, local employment or harmony with other local businesses) they spend a lot of money to know how customers have changed and how they can change their store. It’s something we can emulate, but our local history is our strength.

To see more of Justin and Sara’s store, click here.