RN Retailer Choice Awards 2017 – Supplier of the year

We may say it every year, but this truly has been a year of great opportunities and acute challenges in convenience. The following suppliers have set the standard for retailer support and investing in their portfolios. Who is your supplier of the year?

1. Mondelez  

A raft of product launches, a commitment to marketing support to drive sales and a sales team that is widely lauded mean Mondelez continues to be one of the most respected suppliers by independent retailers. While the company has again provided retailers with engaging and innovative seasonal confectionery, there is also big brand support for the growing fresh and chilled categories with big-brand launches for Philadelphia during 2017. The Delicious Displays site remains one of the best around too.

Did you know? Retailers who follow the company’s Delicious Display advice can win a £1,000 Virgin Experience voucher.

2. Lucozade Ribena Suntory

Few companies have focused their communication on the independent sector quite as much as LRS in 2017. It is clear since the company took over the Lucozade and Ribena brands investment in convenience was going to be integral to its strategy. Reformulations and launches mean its portfolio will also be sugar-tax ready. For example, a recent  launch – Ribena Pineapple & Passion Fruit cartons – are just 15 calories per carton.

Did you know? All new and existing products will contain fewer than 110kcal under LRS’s stated plans.

3. PepsiCo  

Walkers may be a much-loved brand, but PepsiCo doesn’t rest on its laurels. Its ‘Choose Me Or Lose Me Campaign’ raised engagement while a focus on pricemarked packs will be welcomed by many store owners. Bugles were one of the big launches for the company this year, but it is worth noting that PepsiCo snacks account for an astonishing eight of the top 10 crisps in independents, according to RN’s What To Stock guide. Meanwhile, its Counts for More website continues to reward great store standards.

Did you know? All core Walkers crisps are suitable for vegetarians.

4. CCEP

Another soft drinks supplier, but Coca-Cola is more than this – it Is an international icon fully committed to convenience. Widening its healthier and energy drinks range, with the arrival of Monster Hydro and flavoured Glaceau Smartwater variants, for example, shows its portfolio reflects modern demands, while this time of year – and the return of the Coca-Cola truck and ‘Holidays are coming’ advert – further cements its core range in the hearts of millions. 

Did you know? Coca-Cola’s Christmas Trucks were first used in advertising in 1995.

5. Mars Wrigley

Launching Goodness Knows earlier this year – its first major brand launch since Celebrations two decades ago, Mars Wrigley is hoping for a triumphant 2018. The product was first launched in the US where it found immediate success and the company has announced a UK marketing campaign in the new year to ensure a repeat performance. Meanwhile, both arms have not missed a beat in the number of new products and standard of support since this year’s restructuring brought the two together.

Did you know? Brands in the company’s portfolio also include Kit-Kat, Tracker and M&Ms.