Christmas is “extremely promising” for independent retailers, Hancocks said today as it announced a 6.15% growth in sales on last year.
The confectionery cash and carry said that retailers who develop a strong festive display early on are likely to see the benefits.
Such a move should be made “in order to benefit from early sales and to communicate the value and choice that they can offer their local customers”, said senior buyer Jonathan Summerley.
He added Nestle and Cadbury tubes are currently performing well, as is the 300g extra free After Eight selection.
Summerley said: “This year more than ever consumers are going to shop around and gradually stock up for Christmas keeping a close eye on their budget – already looking towards their local shops for value groceries and other such products.”
A core of branded items along with lesser known products will be stocked by the more “savvy” retailers, he commented.
This is so they can “benefit from the higher margins of value products coupled with a lower retail price”.
In the last couple of months, Hancocks has added the Golden Heart to its Solen range and introduced a range of Belgian chocolates.
