THE MAGAZINE FOR INDEPENDENT RETAILERS - PROUDLY CELEBRATING 100 YEARS OF SERVICE TO THE INDEPENDENT RETAILER - NFRN
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News
Letters
Public affairs
NFRN Awards
and much more…
ISSUE 155
THE MAGAZINE FOR INDEPENDENT RETAILERS AUGUST 2019
PROUDLY CELEBRATING
100 YEARS OF SERVICE TO
THE INDEPENDENT RETAILER
@NFRN_online facebook.com/nfrnonline www.nfrnonline.com
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A word from the
NFRN NATIONAL PRESIDENT
benefits and support; recruitment and more attractive than ever to independent
retention; tackling retail crime; engaging retailers, to bring even more people through
with publishers and wholesalers; sweating the doors.
the NFRN’s assets and improving our While the NFRN’s legal policy is five star,
internal procedures. and many members benefit from it, the
One of our biggest assets is our offering will be regularly evaluated and
Stuart Reddish dedicated field team who provide a lifeline
to members by developing stores, making
adapted to ensure it continues to offer the
support you need.
Putting members first and finding new ways businesses flourish and keeping owners and No stone will be left unturned in our
of putting money in your tills will be at the staff legally compliant. Having merged our push to get retail crime tackled once and
forefront of everything the NFRN does over news and operations departments to create for all. No member should feel scared to
the coming year. the new field operations and news provide for their family, yet staff assaults are
It’s time to stop talking about the department, over the coming months we at their highest level in decades and the
challenges that we are facing, and with will be looking to fully utilise their skills, impact can be both devastating and long-
delegates at our 100th Annual Conference bringing members even greater benefits. lasting. Both the government and police will
making some bold decisions, now is the time Last year, NFRN Connect assisted be told in no uncertain terms they need to
to act to make sure that our Federation is fit members with issues which would act now and fast.
for purpose for the next 100 years, at least, otherwise go unresolved, saving or With Smiths News and Newspread
and that members are running professional recouping them a whopping £250,000 in recently announcing hikes in their carriage
and successful businesses. the process. Surprisingly, not all members charges, we shall shine a greater spotlight on
As I said in my presidential speech in use this valuable service so we will look at these punishing taxes and poor service
Brighton, we have just one chance to get new ways in which contact can be made, levels, with publishers and wholesalers
this right and we owe it to everyone who such as through WhatsApp groups, email, challenged on all fronts. Next month I am
has ever been a member to succeed. text and, of course, our soon to be calling a summit of all our supply chain
So together with the new national developed NFRN app. partners for a frank and honest debate on
executive committee – who are pictured on I was pleased to see the motion to turn all the ills that beset our members.
the front cover – national council and NFRN branch meetings into business forums It’s an exciting time ahead and by putting
staff we are creating a three year business receiving 100 per cent support and our task members first I am confident that it can
plan that focuses on six key areas: member now is to make these bigger, better and only get better.
CONTENTS ...what’s inside
NFRN NEWS HERE TO HELP
National and local news 4-9 NFRN Connect 38-39
LETTERS NFRN AWARDS
National President Stuart Reddish
Having your say 10-11 Entries now open 40-41
Editor Anne Bingham
PROTECTING YOUR BUSINESS MAIL AWARDS
0207 017 8887 anne@nfrn.org.uk
The latest legislation 12-13 Our monthly winners 42-43
Editorial 0207 253 4225 MERGER NEWS STORE2DOOR
Advertising Josephine Mallin Ensuring member focus 15 The importance of deliverers 44
0207 017 8892 josephine.mallin@nfrn.org.uk CONFERENCE REVIEW NEWS SALES OPPORTUNITIES
Design & production MYPEC One chance to get it right 16-25 i’m on your side 46
0113 257 9646 info@mypec.co.uk www.mypec.co.uk SPOTLIGHT BRANDS OF THE CENTURY
The future for the vaping market 26-27 Boosting soft drinks sales 48-56
RETAIL MUTUAL TRADE SHOWS & SOCIAL EVENTS
öWhereùer one man can 20 year celebration 29 Out and about 57-61
help another, thank God for MARKETPLACE NEWSPAPER MARGINS
such a birthright, brotherõ Latest from NFRN direct 31-34 At a glance guide 62
BUXTON COMPETITION DIARY
The search continues 35 Key dates 63
ASK THE EXPERTS PUZZLE
Your questions answered 36-37 Two prizes to be won 63
0800 043 0215 ADVICE & CLAIMS: 020 7017 8865 0800 028 7283 0333 212 7263
(01) 247 9181 0330 303 1457 020 7017 8892
(01) 453 7991
0800 121 6376 020 7017 8858 0800 121 6376 0800 121 6376 0800 028 7283
020 7017 8872 020 7017 8880 020 7017 8880
(01) 453 5822 (01) 453 5822
Disclaimer: While every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of information contained in this publication, no guarantee is given that the information provided is correct, complete, and/or up-to-date. The materials contained
in this publication are provided for general information purposes only and do not constitute legal or other professional advice on any subject matter. The NFRN and the publisher do not accept any responsibility for any loss
which may arise from reliance on information contained in this publication. Produced by MYPEC and printed in England.
NATIONAL NEWS For latest news, deals and views, go to
nfrnonline.com
✓ LATE NEWS GAME CHANGER…
A new automatic payment scheme to included, although Mr Reddish said the said: “The collectables marketplace is
Smiths News customers when papers are NFRN would work closely with Smiths very exciting and contributes some
“materially late” has been described as a News to get these added. valuable sales to NFRN members. Having
major game-changer by the NFRN. And he promised: “We hope that made representations to both
Now, Menzies Distribution and News publishers will take heed of this new wholesalers and to publishers for more
UK DTR are being lobbied to follow suit scheme and look again at their arrival support in this area, we are delighted
and acknowledge the serious impact that times into wholesale depots.” that Smiths News is taking positive steps
very late newspaper deliveries have on Under the scheme, payment will be that will put more money in our
news retailers’ businesses. credited automatically to the following members’ tills. Deferring payment for
Responding to the news, National week’s summary invoice and will appear four weeks will improve members’ cash
President Stuart Reddish said: “The as a ‘service payment’ under the flow and help them enjoy more profits
NFRN’s news team has campaigned long miscellaneous items section of the from this valuable category.”
and hard for news retailers to be paperwork. Menzies and partwork publishers will
automatically compensated for late News of this new automatic payment now be pressed to introduce deferred
papers so we welcome this bold step by came hot on the heels of another win payment schemes.
Smiths News. We are pleased that a key for members served by Smiths News He added: “To enable members’ to
industry player has finally recognised with the news wholesaler introducing a make the most from collectables we
that it can no longer do nothing when four weeks deferred payment scheme will be launching a new pre-order service
the service it is paid to give its retail for collectables. for products and SKUs. This service will
customers fails.” This new scheme, which took effect be available from NFRNOnline.com,
The new £5 payment, which takes from July, means that collectables NFRN Connect, our field force
effect from September 1, will be made stockists will not be charged for product representatives and at our business
for every live newspaper delivery that until four weeks after delivery. Up until meetings and trade shows. I have no
arrives at a store two or more hours now Smiths News has operated a one- doubt that it will help NFRN members
after the retailer’s required delivery time week deferred payment scheme. significantly increase their share of the
(RDT). However, reruns and claims are not Welcoming this move, Mr Reddish collectables market.”
öThe new Ç5 payment, which takes effect from September 1, will be made for every
live newspaper delivery that arrives at a store two or more hours after the retailerùs
required delivery time (RDT).õ
✗ …BUT CHARGES SET TO RISE!
Just 24 hours after announcing its ground- retailers are going to have to find nearly supplies. In effect, this means she would
breaking automatic compensation £50 a year extra to pay for a service that need to sell as many as 24 extra
scheme for late deliveries, Smiths can be far from acceptable.” newspapers just to cover this increase.”
News was accused of giving with one Meanwhile, in Northern Ireland Newspread was slammed for giving
hand and taking with the other after members were outraged to discover less than six weeks’ notice of its actions
advising that from September 1 its that Newspread had increased its with news of the rise, which took effect
carriage charge would rise by an average carriage charge by stealth by nearly from July 7, hidden at the bottom of
of 2 per cent. 4 per cent. retailers’ delivery dockets on Sunday
National President Stuart Reddish Mr Reddish said: “This is both June 2.
described this increase as “yet another disgraceful and ridiculous. One of our Mr Reddish warned: “The NFRN will
nail in the coffin for independent members has advised that her weekly not accept such underhand behaviour
retailers who are struggling to pay Newspread charge has gone up from and we will be consulting our lawyers
their bills in such a challenging £62.62 to £68.62 – that is nearly 10 per and asking them to investigate whether
trading environment. cent. And with two news wholesalers Newspread had acted lawfully.”
“Smiths News tries to justify its actions operating in Northern Ireland she will As The Fed went to press the NFRN
by saying the increase is 93p per week now be paying a whopping £141 per week was demanding an urgent meeting
but this means that hard-pressed news for her newspaper and magazine with Newspread.
öSmiths News tries to justify its actions by saying the increase is 93p per week but this
means that hard-pressed news retailers are going to have to find nearly Ç50 a year
extra to pay for a service that can be far from acceptable.õ
4 NFRNONLINE.COM AUGUST 2019
NATIONAL NEWS
TWIN TRACK APPROACH News in brief
TO RISING RETAIL CRIME DIGITAL AGE
The Proof of Age Standards Scheme
The NFRN is adopting a new twin track along the corridors of Westminster and we (PASS) is to develop UK standards for the
approach to further raise awareness in need to continue to lead the debate and presentation of digital proof of age to
parliament and the local media of the shape the way forward. No member, in fact enable retailers to check a customer’s
devastating impact that crime has on no one, should feel scared to provide for age via either their mobile phone or a
independent retailers. their family. Crime ranges from shop theft physical ID. Pass chair Baroness Anne
Working in conjunction with the All Party to armed robbery with often tragic McIntosh said: “The aim of the new
Parliamentary Group (APPG) on Retail consequences. Staff assaults are at their standards is twofold. First, to enable
Crime, for which the NFRN provides highest level in decades and the impact can customers of age restricted goods and
support, MPs are being encouraged to visit be devastating and long-lasting. The services to be able to use PASS-
accredited Digital Proof of Age on their
local retailers who have been victims and government and police need to act now
mobiles to prove their age. Second, to
are prepared to share their experiences. and fast.”
enable retail staff to confirm that a
This campaign will launch during This latest action follows a direct plea for
customer presenting such digital proof
parliament’s summer recess when more action that immediate past president of age is the correct age to buy or access
participating MPs are back full time in their Mike Mitchelson made to the then home the goods or service.”
constituencies. Journalists from the local secretary Sajid Javid.
media will be invited along to report on Mr Mitchelson laid bare the devastating CARD LIMIT
these meetings. toll that violence and abuse takes on shop Plans have been unveiled to raise the age
If you would like to receive a visit from owners, their family members and their staff for buying scratchcards to 18. Culture
your MP contact the NFRN’s political when he met Mr Javid in Cumbria in June. minister Mims Davies said she was
engagement team: publicaffairs@nfrn.org.uk. After the meeting Mr Mitchelson said: ‘minded’ to stop children aged between
At the same time, police and crime “Mr Javid asked that we continue to work 16 and 17 betting on scratchcards and
commissioners will be invited to local with Victoria Atkins, the Home Office online instant-win games to cut the risk
district meetings where, again, they will hear minister, to ensure this issue is addressed by of gambling addiction but had no plans
first hand of members’ experiences. providing evidence of crimes and sharing to raise the age limit for buying tickets
This latest campaign, which was agreed at suggestions as to how the government and for the Lotto draws on Wednesdays and
the July meeting of the APPG, comes ahead police can help. Saturdays. A consultation will run until
of the government’s response to its call for “He brought up the subject of “low value” October 8 2019.
evidence which is expected this autumn. shop theft, adding that he believed this
In his presidential address at this year’s should be given greater priority by the BOOKER MEETING
Annual Conference National President police. Mr Javid also told me that he wanted NFRN National President Stuart Reddish
said he is looking forward to meeting
Stuart Reddish said raising awareness of to see more policemen back on the beat
with the new Booker Retail Group
retail crime would continue to be a major and vowed to continue to push for
managing director Colm Johnson who
focus for the NFRN. increased funding for the police to help
replaces Steve Fox who is leaving the
He said: “Retail crime is talked about improve retail safety.” company after 17 years. Mr Reddish said:
“I am excited about continuing the
SHOP LOCAL CAMPAIGN
Our 2019 Community Champion Trudy
strong working relationship that the
NFRN currently enjoys with Booker.” Of
Mr Fox’s departure, he added: “We
Davies of Llanidloes, in mid Wales, and would like to thank Steve for the huge
Assembly Member Eluned Morgan have support he has given both the NFRN and
joined forces for a Shop Local campaign to the independent retail sector during that
encourage people to support their time and we wish him all the best for
communities by using their local towns and the future.”
high streets.
Through the scheme, the two women PUZZLE PRIZE
Winners of the PuzzleLife prize puzzle in
want to remind the people of Powys of the
the June edition of The Fed were Kamal
benefits and importance of using local
Thaker of Stop Shop News in Edgware
independent shops and high streets and to
and Mrs J Janes of Penarth. Cheques for
appreciate the vital services they offer the £50 will be winging their way to them
local area. shortly. To enter this month’s
Launching the scheme, Ms Morgan pointed competition turn to page 63.
out that “for every £1 spent in your local
stores, 60p stays within the local economy.” FUNDS RAISED
Ms Davies was crowned Community A fund raising page set up by the NFRN
Champion earlier this year for her dedication to assist the family of Ravi Katharkamar
to supporting local charities, setting up after he was murdered during a robbery
events and getting involved in fundraising for in his Pinner shop in March has raised a
a variety of causes. total of £2,289.10.
AUGUST 2019 NFRNONLINE.COM 5
NATIONAL NEWS For latest news, deals and views, go to
nfrnonline.com
COFFEE TO
GOING DARK GO GOES TO
HAVE YOUR SAY
NFRN members are being invited by the Launching the consultation, which runs
BRODERICK’S
After moving swiftly following the news
government to have their say on the until September 15, the department said: that Espresso Essential had gone into
impact the tobacco display ban has had “Your views will help us to assess whether administration, the NFRN is delighted to
on their businesses. the legislation has achieved its objective welcome Broderick’s as our new in-store
Four years after tobacco displays went and whether legislation is still the best coffee-to-go partner with a great deal for
dark in small shops, the department of way of achieving that objective.” our members covering ingredient supply,
health and social care wants to Commenting on this new legislation, machine sales and support all backed up
understand the impact that the display the NFRN’s chairman of political with 50 years industry experience.
ban has had, and is having, on retailers in engagement Muntazir Dipoti said: “When Established in 1969 by John Broderick,
England and Wales. the legislation was first announced, the this third generation independent family
In a new consultation on all tobacco NFRN campaigned long and hard as we business continues to go from strength-
regulations introduced between 2010 were concerned that it would fail to meet to-strength, growing year after year. Its
and 2016, the government is also its stated health objectives in stopping values have never changed with high
seeking views on the bans on selling young people from smoking whilst service levels, well-built quality machines
nicotine inhaling products (NIPs) imposing further regulation and cost on sourced from a range of manufacturers,
including e-cigarettes to under 18s and small retailers. That said, ahead of the recruiting and retaining the very best staff
on proxy purchasing. legislation taking effect in small shops on who are passionate about looking after its
The government committed to April 6 2015 and with the NFRN priding customers and, most importantly,
reviewing the Tobacco Advertising and ourselves on offering practical assistance producing delicious hot beverages from its
Promotion (Display) (England) Regulations to members to help them run successful own coffee and milk range.
2010 and The Nicotine Inhaling Products businesses, we launched a comprehensive Special prices have been negotiated for
(Age of Sale and Proxy Purchasing) campaign to prepare them for going dark, NFRN members and there is a 10 per cent
Regulations 2015 within five years of from converting their tobacco gantries to discount on these prices by quoting code
their implementation. Through this training staff. NFRN2019. All orders placed before 1pm
consultation it is seeking to find out how “This new consultation provides from Monday to Friday are delivered within
effective the legislation has been in retailers with a real opportunity to lay 48 hours. There is no minimum order and
discouraging young people from taking up bare the impact that the display ban and delivery is free. Credit and debit card
smoking and vaping, encouraging existing the bans on selling nicotine inhaling payment is accepted.
smokers to quit and protecting others products to under 18s and proxy Broderick’s can also offer maintenance
from the harmful effect of cigarette purchasing has had on their businesses, so packages and machine upgrades, including
smoke. It also asks about economic losses I would urge all members to take part.” free product. Details can be discussed
or gains for businesses associated with the To do so, please complete our survey at directly with the company on 0161 697
introduction of covered gantries. NFRNOnline.com, the Federation’s website. 4020 or call NFRN direct team leader
Dawn Harvey-Golding on 0800 028 7283.
Broderick’s will shortly be available to
WORTHY CUP order through NFRN direct.
Announcing Broderick’s as the NFRN’s
WINNER new coffee-
to-go partner,
Every year the NFRN’s Eastern Counties the
North East branch recognises an up and Federation’s
coming athlete from a local school. business
This year the Foreman Cup was development
presented to 16 year old Daniel Harrison committee
who is a pupil at Cliff Park Ormiston chairman
Academy in Gorleston-on-Sea in Muntazir
Great Yarmouth. Dipoti said:
The presentation of the cup was made “We are
by Eastern Counties North East branch confident that
secretary Ralph Childs. Also pictured will keep and a cheque for £30. this new
is the school’s deputy principal The Foreman Cup is awarded in honour partnership
Miss Cameron. of Wilf Foreman, a previous NFRN Great will be of
Daniel, who is a promising 800 metres Yarmouth branch secretary. interest to
and 1,500 metres runner, will hold the Mr Childs said: “Daniel is a very previous
trophy for one year. He was also talented sportsman and a worthy winner Espresso
presented with a smaller cup which he and he was thrilled to receive this award.” Essential
customers.”
6 NFRNONLINE.COM AUGUST 2019
Make more from The Guardian Weekly All NFRN members get an extra 10% margin on all copies of The Guardian Weekly, the essential international news weekly magazine from The Guardian, Exclusive sold in their store until 31 December 2019. offer for NFRN The Guardian Weekly is sold at £4.50 and we’re offering members you a 35% margin worth£1.58 per copy. To stock Guardian Weekly in your store, contact your local wholesaler. To get your exclusive margin, email connect@nfrn.org.uk or tel 08001216376
Promotion applies to Original and Sugar Free 250ml 49p Energy only. T&C’s apply.
*IRI Marketplace Data Symbols and Independents’ 52 weeks unit sales to 30th December 2018.
8 NFRNONLINE.COM AUGUST 2019
LOCAL NEWS
MBE HONOUR FOR
GLASGOW RETAILER
A Glasgow retail entrepreneur who helped was the first of its kind to sell alcohol as
introduce a new concept for takeaways has well as food.
spoken of his “deep honour” after being His solicitor told Stirling licensing board at
awarded an MBE in the Queen’s 2019 New the time: “This is a new concept in off sales.
Year’s Honours for services to business and There is nothing like it in Stirling. It would
the community of Govan. allow people who are buying a takeaway
Mamun ur Rashid travelled to Buckingham meal to purchase wine or whatever without
Palace on May 16 this year to receive his having to go to other premises.”
award from Prince Charles. Looking back on his retailing career,
After arriving in Scotland on January 15 Mr Rashid said: “I have bought many shops
1990, Mr Rashid spent a year working in the in central Scotland, enabling many people
statistics department at the Glasgow to start and run their own businesses. These
University before deciding to pursue a have been of huge benefit – not just to the
career in retail. His first shop was in local communities but also to the economy
Drumoyne Store in Glasgow where, through in terms of the increased income tax they
satisfying customers’ shopping needs, he have generated.”
trebled sales to £14,000 a week. His recent purchase of a further seven
Two years later he sold this shop, using shopping units around Glasgow has brought
the money to buy two empty neighbouring the total number of shops he owns to 50.
shops which he knocked together to form Some of his premises are rented to small
one larger unit which was leased to church groups.
convenience store chain Alldays. Currently, Mr Rashid runs a Premier store
This was quickly followed with the in Linthouse, which was officially opened by all pharmacists.
purchase of what Mr Rashid described as Glasgow Lord Provost Sadie Docherty. In July 2013 Mr Rashid attended a royal
“an exceptionally large shop unit” to which At Christmas he provides free lunches to garden party at Holyrood where he was
he added a post office before leasing it to pensioners in the Govan area. introduced to the Queen.
the Co-op. He is married to Zahida, a learning “I was lucky to talk to her for some time
After moving to Stirling in 1997, Mr Rashid support worker at a local primary school, and when I received my MBE from Prince
took ownership of a takeaway store which and the couple have three children who are Charles I told him about our conversation.”
INSURANCE RISE HAS KNOCK ON EFFECTS
Republic of Ireland president Martin have been broadcast on Ireland’s national increase in the cost of insurance without a
Mulligan has taken to the airwaves to radio station News Talk and have featured knock-on impact elsewhere. The prospect
highlight the adverse effects of increasing in national and local papers the length and of an uncontrolled hike in future years also
insurance premiums on small businesses breadth of the country as well as in the needs to be considered.”
and the knock-on effects on the Lännen Media newspapers in Finland. Taking to the media, Mr Mulligan has
communities that these businesses serve. He has even warned that the future of argued that legislation is urgently needed
Mr Mulligan’s concerns about the threat his own convenience store, filling station in order to deal with the issue of spiralling
these hikes pose to local shops and jobs and post office in Athlone, which he has insurance costs.
run for 40 years with his wife Mary, is now “It’s a culture that needs to change and
in doubt following a four-fold increase in the only way that’s going to change is
their insurance cover. through legislation. The legislation is
Mr Mulligan said: “The annual quote needed today.
went from €7,000 to €30,000 – a “Our small business communities are
whopping 428 per cent increase. At the the bedrock of our society, they provide
same time the level of insurance excess local employment, pay a substantial share
payable went from €1,000 to €25,000. of local authority rates and are key
Essentially the insurer is increasing the cost contributors to the central government
of their cover while paradoxically reducing exchequer. The time for government and
the level of cover provided.” others to act is now.”
Calling on fellow retailers to press their Mr Mulligan’s concerns have gained
local and national representatives for support from Fianna Fail TD Eugene
immediate action, he continued: “My Murphy who is calling for a major forum
situation is far from unique; it is replicated to discuss them. Affected businesses and
right across Ireland. Few, if any businesses, representatives from the insurance
can absorb a non-justified fourfold industry will be invited to attend.
AUGUST 2019 NFRNONLINE.COM 9
LETTERS Have your say email anne@nfrn.org.uk
HAVE YOUR SAY
TIMES PACKS phoning The Times to arrange holiday (RDT). You can check your RDT on SNapp.
As a shopkeeper I do HND, shop save and refunds, was invited to take free delivery. Any such payment to you shall be
have regular Times customers on Luckily they confused him enough for him credited to the following week’s summary
subscriptions. They’re mostly elderly to say no. invoice, using a reference of ‘service
customers and like me just want the print This is despite their guarantee scheme payment’ and you will find it under the
edition. This was available for £7 per week to ring-fence and protect existing HND. miscellaneous items section. Please be
and that’s what most of us were signed up The message is forgotten on the front- assured that you will not be required to
to. Web access came with it so you could line where their customer service do anything and the process will be
have Smartphone and tablet apps for an staff deal with OUR customers. automatic.
extra £1, but not many of my customers do. #nevertrustapublisher.
The same packages are still available but Name and address supplied. Why are we doing this?
prices have gone up. No problem with that. We want to acknowledge the seriousness
The print only pack is now £9. But the The Times and The Sunday Times director of very late newspaper deliveries on your
Times aren’t leaving us on the same of customer value Peter Evia-Rhodes business. We have worked with the NFRN
package and increasing the price to £9. replied: “The Times works hard to provide to come up with a solution which, we
They’re upgrading all those on the £7 pack the best content at the most affordable believe, recognises material service failure
to the £10 pack, without making it clear price for our subscribers, with access to our and provides for an automatic and
that the print only pack is still available at industry-leading journalism across multiple meaningful compensatory sum for the
£9. It’s a big increase and I fear many of my platforms. Given that our insight suggests inconvenience of receiving newspapers
customers will just cancel, or as one has that digital formats are complementary to very late.
done, just move to the weekend only pack our print products for many of our It is important to note that this does
with the app for the weekdays, because subscribers, this is something we are not replace any of the industry policies
that’s what the Times is pushing. So it’s increasingly offering with many of our and procedures that already exist. This
hastening a loss of printed copy business packages. Of course all of our subscribers proposal is therefore in addition to those
for shop save and HND retailers. are free to change their package at any time policies and procedures. Customers who
Profit per copy is not the issue; the to suit their needs and should call us on are not satisfied with either our standards
discount for the subscription is not the 0800 018 5177 with any queries, so we can of service or the £5 credit at any time can,
issue; it’s the fact that this is misleading and keep our readers, and your customers, of course, continue to seek redress
is transferring customers onto the more engaged.” through the existing industry grievance
expensive app-inclusive pack that will lead process under the Press Distribution
some of them to cancel the print edition. The Fed editor comments: The NFRN Charter (PDC) which can be found on the
Personally, as a Times customer not a through National President Stuart Reddish Press Distribution Forum (PDF) website:
shopkeeper, I refuse to deal with a will discuss this further with The Times. www.pressdistributionforum.com.
company who try to hoodwink me in such Simon Gage
a way to get an extra £1 a week out of me HIGH STANDARDS Retail services director
without telling me they’re upgrading my We take customer service extremely Smiths News, Swindon
package and that my old package was still seriously and delivering high standards of
available at a cheaper price than the service day-in-day out is at the heart of LOTTERY WINNERS
contract they’re transferring me onto. Some what we strive to achieve. However, I am This year is a milestone for both Camelot
customers will go with it, not realising acutely aware of the inconvenience and and the National Lottery and an
they’re giving an extra £1 a week for the impact to your store and your opportunity for us to reflect on the last 25
something they won’t be using. Others will customers when Smiths News is unable to years. Having now returned over £40 billion
see the sharks for what they are and cancel meet the exacting standards that we set to good causes and over £16.5 billion to the
some or all of their subscription and we’ll ourselves, such as delivering newspapers Treasury in Lottery Duty, the National
be the ones who lose the business. Two late. Consequently, from September 1 we Lottery has exceeded even the most
down, 13 to go for me. are introducing a new automatic payment optimistic Treasury forecasts from the
Name and address supplied to all customers in the event of a time of its launch. This would not have
materially late newspaper delivery from us. been possible without our friends and
Fifteen of my HND customers are Times partners, and we are truly grateful for
subscribers, either Sunday only or seven How will it work? your support.
day. I've had one cancel her seven-day We will make an automatic credit of £5 for As we approach November and the 25th
print subscription in favour of a weekend every live newspaper delivery (excluding anniversary of the first ever National
only plus digital subscription. I fear the re-runs and claims) which arrive at your Lottery draw, there will be many more
worst. store two or more hours after our system events celebrating the positive impact that
Another of my customers, upon hold customer Required Delivery Time The National Lottery has had across the
10 NFRNONLINE.COM AUGUST 2019LETTERS
UK. It is going to be a fantastic moment of
celebration and I hope you will join us in A plastic poem
marking this anniversary by getting involved
in one of the many events planned. Please
look out for more information as we get There’s plastic in the rivers That’s probably made of plastic
closer to November. There’s plastic on the land that’s now been made for you.
Nigel Railton Gloves that are made of plastic
Chief executive covering all our hands The money that you have in your
Camelot UK Lotteries Ltd, Watford Even fancy coloured plastic bands. wallet too
They have made it all with plastic,
CUP DISCOUNT Phones made with plastic so that especially for you
I am passionate about the amount that we can talk Everything now wrapped in plastic,
we are throwing away, as most of the It’s covering the pavements where whatever can we do?
country is. we like to walk Well, that’s up to me and you.
With this in mind, I thought of contacting Even the windows through which
Jack’s Beans, as we have a machine in store, we like to look Even some ladies’ faces that look
in the hope that it would reduce my pence Plastic in the kitchens where we all so very nice
per cup on coffees sold if a customer cook. They have been filled with plastic,
supplied their own cup, hence reducing Cup and plates, forks and knives more than once or twice.
waste. I know that its cups are recyclable, Plastics becoming the bane of our
but are unnecessary if someone reuses their lives The seas so full of plastic when we
cups! I have now contacted the company Even made with plastic are the cars eat fish from the sea
on average twice a week for the past three we love to drive. We will all be filled with plastic,
weeks! As an independent retailer I care even you and me.
about my community and have more There are now manmade plastic
contact with the local community, more so mountains over all the land Plastic here, plastic there, plastic
than the large chains, where decisions are Plastic over all the dunes and sand. bloody everywhere
made at head office level. It’s time to stop this scourge of
Maybe this is something that the Plastic in rivers that flow in to the man
independent can push? sea Let’s now start the plastic ban.
Food for thought? Even the glasses through which
Heidi Killen that we can see Let’s take it off the bread, cakes
Lunns Art Store Bottles from which we like to drink and meat
Ringwood, Hants All made from plastic – even now Let’s stop wearing it on our feet
the kitchen sink. Ban all the things from which it’s
The Fed approached Jack’s Beans for a made
comment but the company had not Planes made with plastic in which Now come and join the plastic free
responded before the magazine went we all fly brigade.
to press. Plastic on top of mountains that
reach up to the sky No plastic here, no plastic there. In
IT’S A WRAP Our food is wrapped in plastic fact, there is no plastic anywhere.
In response to the letter from Chris which we like to eat
Duncan, Times Newspapers managing Including now the bread, the cakes Let us clean it up from where it lies
director, regarding the removal of the and the bloody meat. Before all the things it covers dies
plastic outer packaging of the Sunday Let us ban this scourge of man
Times (Plastic Pledge, The Fed June 2019 The shoes on our feet they are Please bring in a plastic ban.
edition), we have had our business for eight plastic too Gordon Bird
years now and not once received said The seat that you sit on whilst you Mellor’s News
paper in a plastic wrapper. are in the loo Cudworth, Barnsley
I had always presumed that was the sole
preserve of the ever pampered
supermarket, yes those who rip the heart
facilities! @TNLUK @NFRN_Online@Grand
out of the true independent, but cannot NOT WELCOME
Brighton.
possibly spend time putting the various I do not welcome the letter from Smiths
Charlie Grice
supplements together! News regarding the increase in weekly
British Middle Distance Athlete, Brighton
David Proud delivery charge services.
Holme Valley News, Huddersfield My delivery charges are being increased
SHOW SUCCESS by 10 per cent from September 1 2019.
FUN RUNNER! The Annual Conference trade show was Smiths News will continue to provide a
Had fun talking in front of 500 independent terrific, well attended with very motivated poor service, with late deliveries and
retailers at NFRN centenary gala dinner. The and responsive retailers. We have a list of missing titles on a weekly basis. What
hard work of the retailers to sell more enthusiastic retailers to call on. choice do we have when Smiths News
tickets help fund athletes like myself to Owen Arnot continue to act in a monopolistic way!
train full time and fund local sports Publishing director, Keesing Harshal Kshatri, via Facebook
AUGUST 2019 NFRNONLINE.COM 11PROTECTING YOUR BUSINESS
WITH A RAFT OF NEW REGULATIONS AND LEGISLATION ON THE HORIZON, THE FED
SETS OUT WHAT YOU CAN DO AND WHEN TO FUTURE PROOF YOUR BUSINESSES.
DATES AND DETAILS TO
FUTURE PROOF
YOUR BUSINESS
OFFENSIVE OCTOBER MINIMUM UNIT WITHIN
A YEAR
WEAPONS ACT
2019
PRICING OF
ALCOHOL IN ROI
Having become law earlier this year, the NFRN expects the
Offensive Weapons Act to come into effect in October. Irish health minister Simon Harris has announced plans to bring a
This legislation updates offences relating to the sale, delivery minimum unit price of alcohol (MUP) into effect within the next
and possession of offensive weapons including knives and 12 months. The plans are for a minimum price of 10c per gram of
corrosive substances. Of primary concern to retailers will be the alcohol, taking a can of 5 per cent abv beer to €1.97, 12.5 per cent
requirement to age check parcels containing bladed items to wine to €7.40 and a bottle of scotch to at least €22.
ensure the customer collecting them is 18 or over. Concerns have been raised about the cross border impact if MUP
The government has yet to publish the regulations that will is introduced in Ireland before it is launched in Northern Ireland.
govern this process. When it does the NFRN will make details
available on NFRNOnline.com and over social media. WHAT YOU NEED TO DO NOW
• If you have strong views on MUP in the Republic
WHAT YOU NEED TO DO NOW of Ireland and how it should be implemented,
• Keep an eye out for NFRN updates regarding the please share them with our political engagement
introduction of this new legislation on NFRN team by emailing publicaffairs@nfrn.org.uk and we
Online and through our social media channels. will include them in our discussions.
MINIMUM UNIT PRICING OF DELAYED
UNTIL
ALCOHOL IN WALES DELAYED 2020
A minimum unit price of alcohol (MUP) in Wales was initially Members that he now anticipates that the regulations will be
expected to be put into place this summer but following an laid this autumn and minimum pricing will come into force by
intervention by the Portuguese government its roll out has been early 2020.
delayed until next year. The NFRN will continue to monitor the issue and to work
The Welsh government wants to charge 50p a unit, with the with the Welsh government on the implementation of minimum
minimum price affecting 70 per cent of alcohol. unit pricing and will advise members when more information is
Wales’ health minister Vaughan Gething has told Assembly known.
Minimum Unit Pricing of Alcohol in Scotland continues
unaffected.
WHAT YOU NEED TO DO NOW
• If you have strong views on MUP in Wales and
how it should be implemented, please share
them with our political engagement team by
emailing publicaffairs@nfrn.org.uk and we will
include them in our discussions.
Keep an eye out for NFRN updates on NFRN
Online and through our social media channels.
12 NFRNONLINE.COM AUGUST 2019EARLY PROTECTING YOUR BUSINESS
2021
DEPOSIT RETURN VIOLENCE AGAINST
SCHEME, SCOTLAND RETAILERS AUTUMN
The NFRN continues to engage with the Scottish government and Sadly, the physical and verbal abuse of retailers has 2019
other stakeholders on the development of a deposit return become a daily occurrence.
scheme for Scotland. Against this background, and after a campaign from the
It is expected that the Scottish government will publish the NFRN working with MPs, the government launched a call for evidence
regulations shortly, with a consultation period to follow. The on violence against retailers. The NFRN has made its submission and
NFRN will make the details available to members when they encouraged members to complete the government survey.
are received. The government is expected to publish its response in the early
autumn, together with its intended next steps.
WHAT YOU NEED TO DO NOW The NFRN, working through the APPG on Retail Crime, will
continue to campaign on violence against retailers and the wider
• Considering a store refit? Think about how DRS issues of retail crime.
might impact your plans, with space being needed
for either a reverse vending machine or bags for WHAT YOU NEED TO DO NOW
collecting returned containers. • Always report all crimes to your local police force so
Ahead of the consultation, share your views a true picture of the extent of this issue can be seen.
with the political engagement team so the NFRN Keep an eye out for NFRN updates regarding the
can include them in our response. government’s response and next steps.
TRACK AND TRACE WHAT YOU NEED MAY 19
The Track and Trace scheme for tobacco, which seeks to tackle TO DO NOW 2020
the growing illicit market, is now in force, and compliant stock • Please check your slower moving lines
is now available.
However, non compliant stock can continue to be sold until
to ensure that you are not left with
May 19 2020, after which time it must be removed from sale. stock that you cannot sell come May 20 2020.
Retailers Love ShopMate!
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couldn’t be happier! It’s straight forward to
use and the support team at The Retail Data
Partnership are always helpful when we
need them, even over the weekend.’
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Get ShopMate EPoS for only £850
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Call Dawn on 0800 028 7283 and quote
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Weekly service fees (exclusive of VAT and collected monthly)
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AUGUST 2019 NFRNONLINE.COM 13SNapp
Take control
with SNapp
SNapp lets you manage
your newspaper and
magazine business your
way, when you like.
It’s fast, reliable and
easy to use, with 24/7,
365 days a year access
to suit you.
• Adjust standing orders
• Make a claim for missing
titles or credit
• Check and amend orders
For more information • Add new orders
SNapponline.co.uk • Print voucher recall notes
& daily paperwork
snapp@smithsnews.co.uk
• Download delivery &
0345 124 0251 invoice documents
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“SNapp has been an invaluable tool for my
business. I would highly recommend any
customer to download this free app to grow
and develop their news and magazine sector.”
App Online Jason Birks, Mosci Convenience StoreMERGER NEWS
FOLLOWING A COMPREHENSIVE REVIEW, AND IN A
MOVE TO BETTER SERVE THE CHANGING NEEDS OF
MEMBERS TO HELP THEM GET MORE OUT OF THEIR
MEMBERSHIP AND AS A RESPONSE TO THE EVIDENT
DECLINE OF THE NEWS CATEGORY, THE NFRN’S NEWS
Brian Murphy Jason Birks AND OPERATIONS DEPARTMENT HAVE MERGED.
MERGER ENSURES
MEMBER FOCUS
The new field operations and news department is headed by former
NFRN head of news Brian Murphy with former news business
been so important and with news space often needing to reduce, for
myriad reasons, a clear opportunity exists for this to be developed
development manager Phil Williams assuming the title of senior retail and utilised for new and more profitable opportunities. The field
development manager (SRDM). Eighteen retail development operations team will, therefore, share more information about
managers and four retail support officers will report directly into Mr suppliers’ offers and how they want to interact with members.
Williams. Mr Murphy will report into Jason Birks, the chairman of the “By the same token, all the team will fully understand the
field operations and news committee. complexities that continue to exist in the news category to ensure
News operations managers Jerry Hayes and Peter Williamson will that they can play their part in ensuring publisher and wholesaler
continue to manage the NFRN’s relationships with news wholesalers service failings are not accepted but are raised in real time
Smiths News, Menzies Distribution and News UK and lend support and resolved.”
on campaigns and Newspro. The team will also assist in gaining support from members for
Also in the new department is Angela Simpson who remains as the NFRN’s political campaigns to gain change.
operations support manager. National President Stuart Reddish said: “During my presidential
Explaining the rationale behind the move, Mr Murphy said: year I have vowed to continue to put more money in members’ tills
“Through this new department we can ensure that member contact and by merging these two departments and creating the field
is both frequent and relevant to each member’s needs and that they operations and news department we can promise members more
are fully aware of the sheer breadth and depth of the benefits that contact, either in store or over the phone, and place a greater focus
membership of the NFRN offers. Each contact will be relevant, on helping members trade more profitably. First and foremost,
proactive and productive. though, the team will be available for those members in real need
“Segmentation and the management of space in store have never of help and support.”
WHAT DO RDMs AND RSOs DO? Retail Development Managers (RDMs)
The primary role of our 18 RDMs is to help members
Retail Support Officers (RSOs) develop profitable businesses through nationally
There are four retail support officers. The role was agreed activity involving business development and
created to improve contact with members and to effective communication. RDMs also play an active
assist with recruitment and retention activity. role in recruitment and retention.
AUGUST 2019 NFRNONLINE.COM 15
One of our RDM’s in a storeANNUAL CONFERENCE REVIEW
WE HAVE ONE CHANCE TO GET THIS RIGHT
BE STRONG, BE BOLD
AND RECOGNISE
CHANGE IS NEEDED
MEMBERS FROM THE UK AND IRELAND GATHERED AT THE HILTON METROPOLE IN BRIGHTON
ON JUNE 17 TO 19 TO CELEBRATE 100 YEARS OF THE NFRN AT OUR ANNUAL CONFERENCE.
THE FED REPORTS ON THE HIGHLIGHTS.
Small shops would have the full backing of Parliament to get assaults on shop workers from the North West becoming
a Labour government, promised Brighton classified as an aggravated crime, but national vice president and Jason Birks
Kemptown MP Lloyd Russell-Moyle as he Mr Russell-Moyle said Labour would go taking the mantle of deputy vice
opened this year’s Conference. further to get the £200 threshold before president.
“As small independent retailers you play which shop thieves are investigated Nilesh Patel from London district
a vital role in your communities so it is dropped. was elected as a trustee for a three
important that we support you,” he “If you don’t stop small crimes in their year term.
pledged. “We are on your side because bud lower level crimes then spiral out of Meanwhile, there are three new faces
you are on the side of communities.” control and endanger communities.” Mr on our National Executive Committee.
Promising an overhaul of business rates Russell-Moyle explained. Andrew Taylor from Yorkshire, Suleman
with reductions for high street outlets and Investigations into monopolistic Khonat from the North West and Shahid
increases on out of town warehouses, practices in the news trade would also Razzaq from Scotland join Gwen Patterson
Mr Russell-Moyle said it was wrong for the be launched and a Labour government (Northern Ireland) Bhavesh Patel (South
“Amazons of the world to pay less tax would look into the impact that universal East) and Peter Wagg (London) who were
than independent bookshops.” Labour was credit is having on high streets, “because all re-elected.
also concerned that by undercutting their people have less to spend in their local Joining the three trustees, Martin Ward
smaller rivals on alcohol pricing, the big corner shop.” (Northern), Nilesh Patel and Sunil Patel
four supermarkets were squeezing (East Midlands) on the national finance
independent retailers out of their NFRN officers elected committee are James Wilkinson (Yorkshire)
communities. Yorkshire’s Stuart Reddish was elected as who was re-elected and Hetal Patel
Work was already under way in National President with Muntazir Dipoti from London.
Brighton Kemptown MP Lloyd Russell-Moyle
16 NFRNONLINE.COM AUGUST 2019öNew National President Stuart Reddish vowed to lead the Federation into a
brighter and more optimistic future, adding that the time for action was now.õ
A chance to get this right Mr Reddish said he would be working with trustees and the NEC
New National President Stuart Reddish vowed to lead the to transform Yeoman House, the London head office, into “a
Federation into a brighter and more optimistic future, adding that modern money-making building during 2019.”
the time for action was now. New forms of communication, either by WhatsApp groups, text
“We have only one chance to get this right and, as we continue or through the new member app, were being explored.
to celebrate our 100 years and look to the future, we owe it to “We all hear so often the quote “what does the Federation do
everyone who has ever been involved in this great Federation for me?”. Well we really do a lot. The benefits alone cover the
to succeed.” membership fee, but add in the money saved on the services
NEC members and national councillors were urged to “be strong available and it’s a fantastic offering. But we need to shout about
and embrace change”. our success.”
Mr Reddish continued: “Be bold and recognise that change is Concluding his speech, Mr Reddish said: “This year will, I am
needed.” sure, bring challenges, but with the hard work of staff, officials the
Unveiling a six point plan for the coming year Mr Reddish said NEC and its sub committees we will succeed.”
the Federation’s focus would be on member benefit and support,
recruitment and retention, retail crime, engagement with Could you be breaking the law?
publishers and wholesalers, sweating the Federation’s assets, and A warning about the pitfalls of being under-insured or having no
internal procedures. insurance at all was given by the Retail Mutual.
“Business meetings are what the membership wants,” he “You could be breaking the law,” said Mutual manager Kirsty
continued. “I’m pleased the motion to change branch meetings to Hampton, adding that it was a legal requirement to have employers’
business meetings was passed and now we need to make them liability cover. continued overleaf
attractive to all independent retailers which should result in
better attendance.”
Exorbitant carriage charges meant the tipping point between
being profitable on news or making a loss was being reached.
“Many retailers are now turning away from having news supplied
direct from the wholesaler. Publishers and wholesalers need to
wake up and deal with this issue.”
All parties form the newstrade would be summoned to a
summit on this issue for a frank and honest debate.
Retail crime was now talked about along the corridors of
Westminster but Mr Reddish said the NFRN would continue to
lead the debate and shape the way forward.
“No member, in fact no one, should feel scared to provide for
their family. We have heard so many stories of robberies and shop
theft which is at its highest level in decades.
“Crime ranges from shop theft to armed robbery with often
tragic consequences. Staff assaults are at their highest level in
decades and the impact can be devastating and long-lasting. The
government and police need to act now and fast.”
Announcing Project Awakening to sweat the NFRN’s assets,
AUGUST 2019 NFRNONLINE.COM 17ANNUAL CONFERENCE REVIEW
NFRN ETHOS REMAINS THE SAME
the years. However, the Federation must Competition and Markets Authority had
now look to the future to ensure that it decided – on prioritisation grounds – not
continues to contribute meaningfully to to launch an investigation into the news
the lives of independent retailers. supply chain but there was some comfort
“Belonging to the Federation can and in that it had written to all publishers
does make a difference,” Mr Mitchelson reminding them of their responsibilities
insisted. under competition law and warning that
While engagement with members failing to do so would result in action.
had been stepped up over the past 12 “While an investigation into the unfair
months, “we can and need to do more,” practices in the newstrade would have
Mr Mitchelson said. been very welcome, at least we have made
New ways of bringing together the CMA aware of the injustices that exist
members who did not currently attend and, when systems fail, we will continue to
branch or district meetings and extending provide them with firm evidence.”
the NFRN’s appeal to non-members In meetings with publishers and
needed further exploration. distributors the financial challenges and
Every opportunity would be taken to pressures facing independent retailers on a
shout about the Federation’s successes daily basis had been raised.
“so that members are aware of exactly “What we have made abundantly clear
Mike Mitchelson what we do for them, what we have is that the future survival of the news
to offer and to confirm that their trade is dependent on all sectors working
A century on, the NFRN continues to membership provides them with the best together. This means that everyone’s
make a real difference to the lives of representation and assistance in a difficult needs – not just those of shareholders –
independent retailers, said outgoing and ever changing trading environment.” must be taken into consideration when
National President Mike Mitchelson in his Much work had been done in raising business decisions are made. More
opening address. awareness of the extent of retail crime. importantly, that all sectors should receive
While the organisation today was in “As we all go about our day-to-day job their fair share of the income from cover
many ways very different to the one of opening, closing or just generally price rises.
founded back in 1919 its ethos remained working in our shops we have the right “Without this the future of the news
the same: to protect, promote and to feel safe in our environment,” industry teeters on a precipice.”
develop independent retailers in the UK Mr Mitchelson said. Mr Mitchelson said it had been “a
and in Ireland. “It is great that our voice is being heard privilege to preside over the NFRN at such
With few organisations standing the test and that parliamentarians now realise just a significant time in its history.” And as the
of time and existing for 100 years “this year how serious a concern this is to retailers up NFRN moved into its next century there
has been a big year for the NFRN and it and down the country. And it is crucial were exciting challenges ahead.
has been memorable too.” that the NFRN continues to put pressure “With the challenges facing
Tribute was paid to the hard work and on all of our politicians to make sure independent retailers being greater than
wisdom of members and individuals who measures are taken.” ever before, so is the need for a strong
had shaped the NFRN and guided it over It was disappointing that the and dedicated NFRN.”
from page 17 and to vary the days they bank their takings. PayPointOne or you can leave with no
Business interruption was often an area of Mr Warmink said that fogging machines penalties. This will happen over the next six
cover that was underestimated and were proving to be a good deterrent. to nine months. We know you need time to
misunderstood but this provided cover for decide what is best for your business.”
loss of income from a fire or flood. Yellow boxes to retire Three quarters of PayPoint’s retail
Detailing the impact of retail crime, head PayPoint’s yellow boxes are being retired but base were now using PayPointOne,
of claims Nic Warmink said that the average retailers who still have them will be able to Mr O’Neill added.
ram raid took less than five minutes, often upgrade to PayPointOne or leave without “For some people it’s the first time they
happening between 2am and 4am and penalty, promised its marketing director
costing between £20,000 and £100,000 in Steve O’Neill.
damage while criminals could seize £4,000 “The yellow boxes are 14 to 15 years old
to £5,000 of stock in a gantry raid. and they have had a good innings but we
Delegates were encouraged to ensure are looking to moving things on,” Mr O’Neill
that cover limits were sufficient, taking into explained.
account extra seasonal stock and price He said there were currently between
increases on tobacco. 3,000 and 3,500 yellow boxes in circulation.
A reminder was given for retailers to “Over the course of this year, those
empty their till at night, leave the drawer retailers will get a communication from us
open, invest in security lighting and alarms advising that you can upgrade to
Steve O’Neill
18 NFRNONLINE.COM AUGUST 2019You can also read
