Retail Brokers - February News / January 27, 2016 by Richard Pascoe

STORE PRESENTATION

What plans do you have for improving the look and feel of your business? As a business person this is part of your responsibilities.

Do you need a spring clean? In many cases YES is the answer.

It’s time to refresh your counter top with something new and exciting
It’s time to move your Advertiser Display (12.5% GP)
It’s time to move your Bread display (18% GP)
It’s time to remove old, tired, dirty broken floor displays
It’s time to brighten up your Ambient Display
It’s time to replace fluros in the ceiling and in the fridge
It’s time to wash ALL the Glass in the shop. Front windows, cabinets, fridges and pie warmers are included
It’s time to splash some fresh paint around
It’s time to remove old, worn posters
Its time to remove all Xmas things
It’s time to check your ‘A’ Frames
It’s time to sweep the footpaths and clean the car parking areas
It’s time to find something new to display and capture sales
It’s too late to be relaying your drink fridges
It’s too late to be defrosting your icecream fridges

FUNTOYS & STICKERS

Kevin Low 0478588977

We have been associated with this business for many years and many members have taken advantage of these display units.

But now there is a new owner & his details are above. Kevin still has the same products to sell and uses the same business model.

Every member should have either a Toy Stand or a Sticker Stand if not both.

If you would like to talk to Kevin about carrying his stands call him and he will drop in when he is in your area. He covers the whole state.

All stock is on CONSIGNMENT (This means YOU DON’T PAY until the 2nd visit between 6 to 8 weeks later)
Unsold products are credited and placed in another store
Products come in PRE PRICED between $1.00 and $8.00 normally (Most sales come from the $4 to $5 range)
All toys are discounted by 40% to give you your COST
This equates to a 40% Gross Profit or a 67% Mark Up

If you have these lines in your store and they are not at the FRONT of your shop or right near your COUNTER or next to your TILL them something is dramatically WRONG.

SLIDERS

Sliders are the new must have food in town and are starting to appear in many bars and cafes and customers can’t get enough. Considered ‘Gourmet Foods’ they are relatively simple and easy to create. Sliders come in a huge variety and it is literally up to the creator to just have a go.

Presentation alone will sell these from your bay marie or possibly the pie warmers.

You would prepare these in the morning and replace them in the bay marie as they sold. In fact you could have 3 or 4 different sliders on show at any time and sell them in combinations for a ‘Gourmet Lunchtime Treat’. Ie 2 Sliders (1 Pork Slider + 1 Chicken Slider for $5.00)

What you would need:

· 2kg Slow Cooked Meat (Lamb Shoulder, Chicken Breasts, Beef Cheeks, Pork Shoulder????)

· 2 medium Onions chopped

· 440g can of Tomatoes

· 4 cloves Garlic chopped

· 1 teaspoon Italian Spices

· Salt & Pepper to taste

Brown meat and then place all ingredients in a slow cooker for 8 hours on low.

After 8 hours shred the meat and remove contents to a casserole dish

This should make approximately 30 Sliders. Half the meat to 1kg and you should make 15 Sliders

Addition Foods to add or not

Mushrooms
Capsicums
Fish
Eggs
Prosciutto or Bacon
Spring Onions chopped
Beetroot
Carrot shredded
Mayonnaise
Chili
15 Slider Buns Toasted
3 Tomatoes Sliced
8 Cheese Slices (matured cheese cut in half)
Lettuce
Sauces (Tomato, Steak, Mustard, Chili, Ketchup)

COCA – COLA AMATIL & ROMANZA COFFEE BEANS

Derek Haggart – 0418521751

Drew Giovine – 0418939817

SEE THE FLIER IN THE NEWSLETTER AND USE THE PROMO CODE WHEN ORDERING

Barista coffee is everywhere and while many coffee shops say it’s the coffee beans that make a good coffee it’s the ability of the BARISTA (coffee maker) that makes a great and memorable coffee.

If you have enjoyed a great coffee you remember where you got it NOT THE BEANS.

Having said that you do still need to use quality coffee beans.

Here is you opportunity to try a full-bodied coffee with subtle fruity overtones and a smooth lasting aftertaste.

‘Romanza’ Originale is ideal for those who prefer a slightly stronger taste and is ideal for milk coffee. (Flat Whites, Cappuccino, Lattes etc.)

Romanza Coffee beans are a high quality coffee bean recongnised and recommended by many of the cafés, restaurants and bars in Adelaide.

At the moment this ONE TIME OFFER can be order along with your normal Coca Cola , see the flyer in your newsletter for details

(If there are any problems call either Drew or Derek or Richard)

LION - CCA

We are currently negotiating with Lion & CCA for new terms and also checking out what other opportunities may be available to us from other similar suppliers.

BE ON YOUR GUARD – During this time some Lion Territory Managers and CCA MAY see an opportunity for them not you and attempt to sign you to an agreement not covered by your group Retail Brokers.

DO NOT DO THIS

You will disadvantage your store

If you have NOT seen a rep in the last few months, please contact JOHN on 0409623016 to inform him

Retail Brokers - January News / January 1, 2016 by Richard Pascoe

HOLIDAY PERIOD

If this weather keeps up then we will sell a huge number of drinks and icecreams, ARE YOU READY!

Over these 2 months it’s a great time to grab some extra profit but you need to plan, do something different and become excited.

Did you increase your sell prices on icecreams and drinks during winter?

Have you ordered in and have on display paper goods, water balloons, wrapping paper, gift tags, sticky tape, streamers, balloons and poppers.

Will you need extra toilet paper, paper towel or tissues?

Have you also ordered in extra stock for your warm (ambient display similar to supermarkets) displays of 2lt drinks, large packs of chips and nuts, water crackers and snack biscuits for dips?

Will you need extra cream, bacon, eggs, milk, chocolates (it’s a bit hot but they will still sell) or maybe Kirks Mixers? This is an opportunity to capitalize on this exciting time of the year.

If you have teenagers and young students in general in your customer mix don’t forget them. Many will be on holidays and others will have taken part time jobs.

This all means they have money burning a hole in their pockets.

What have you got to sell them? Sales will rise on the following:

Drinks, Icecreams and Novelties
Takeaway Food sales will increase
Water pistols and water balloons

Stock sells stock but if you haven’t already got something to sell you may be too late.

COCA – COLA AMATIL

We are currently negotiating with CCA for new terms and also checking out what other opportunities may be available to us from other similar suppliers.

BE ON YOUR GUARD – During this time some CCA Territory Managers MAY see an opportunity for them not you and attempt to sign you to an agreement not covered by your group Retail Brokers.

DO NOT DO THIS

You will disadvantage your store

If you have NOT seen a rep in the last few months, please contact JOHNon 0409623016 to inform him

OPENING TIMES

Are you advertising when you will be open and when you will be shut? Is your sign up yet? No then why not?

What your customers know is:

On the Run will be open 24/7. How, because it's painted permanently on every single one of their outlets.

You need to know when your opposition supermarkets will be open over Xmas and the holiday period. You will need to check it out because potentially you could be very busy on the days they are shut.

Don’t get caught with nothing to sell

Retail Brokers - December News / December 1, 2015 by Richard Pascoe

LION

During December and January this partner company will have on promotion both Dare 500mls and Daily Juice 500mls.

Dare Espresso
Dare Double Espresso

Both these Iced Coffee lines sell extremely well in our stores and should be displayed prominently with a special ticket.

Don’t forget that the Dare Range is ‘SALE OR RETURN’.

This means if the product is out of date then your milk man will give you a FULL CREDIT.

The Daily Juice 500ml Range is selling well in the members stores that are carrying this product.

Daily Juice Orange P/Less
Daily Juice Orange (no added sugar)
Daily Juice Orange and Mango
Daily Juice Apple
Daily Juice Breakfast
Daily Juice 5 Fruits

All 6 juices should sell extremely well over summer and school holidays and should be displayed prominently with a special ticket.

Again like the Dare Range, the Daily Juice Range is ‘SALE OR RETURN’.

This means if the product is out of date then your milk vendor will give you a FULL CREDIT

Chjristmas Time

Christmas time can be a great time to grab some extra profit but you need to plan, do something different and become excited.

Businesses everywhere and of all sizes are starting to talk positively about Xmas and the year 2016

As we head into the festive season we can be confident that summer will come and the kids will be on holidays

Sales will rise on the following:

Drinks and Icecreams
Takeaway Food
Toys and Stationery

Have you introduced some new and different foods?

You need to have stock and should start building up your stock levels, getting ready for the holiday season.

ALLOCATIONS

Balfours Christmas allocations will be into stores starting on the 1st Dec

Stores will receive a FULL CREDIT for this stock with their December invoice.

The credit applies to all the stock so it is effectively coming into stores at NO CHARGE, FREE.

CHRISTMAS TIME

Prepare your store for Christmas.

Put up some decorations, a Xmas tree with decorations and even some imaginary gifts. Why not help the Lion’s Club in your area and have your store a place where customers can donate gifts to those less fortunate on behalf of Lion or the local church.

PARTY GOODS – Don’t forget New Year’s Eve

Maybe have a display of paper goods, water balloons, wrapping paper, gift tags, sticky tape, streamers, balloons and poppers.

Will you need extra toilet paper, paper towel or tissues?

FOODS to FEED the MASSES

Ambient displays of 2lt drinks, large packs of chips and nuts, water crackers and snack biscuits for dips.

Will you need extra cream, bacon, eggs, milk, chocolates or maybe Kirks Mixers?

OPENING TIMES

You don’t know yet when supermarkets and other shops in your area will be open. Your customers DON’T KNOW when you’ll be open either. Make sure you put up a sign to wish everyone a great Xmas with you opening times clearly displayed.

ICECREAM PRICING

Have YOU checked your sell prices before summer hits? Don’t leave it to January, do it NOW

Retail Brokers - November News / November 1, 2015 by Richard Pascoe

SUMMER, CHRISTMAS, SCHOOL HOLIDAYS

Are you planning now to cater for these periods? Have you placed ‘Advanced’ orders for Balfour’s cakes and puddings or Cadbury’s for Xmas Counter Lines from Hollier Dicksons?

What about Xmas Cards and Wrapping, sticky tape and ribbons or bows.

Summer has started as was evident over the October long weekend. Members took a hit with increased drink sales and a big spike in icecream sales

Have a ‘Fridge Mechanic’ in to service all your refrigeration compressors
Empty and clean your freezers over the next few weeks
Start ordering extra cases of drinks in before Xmas. Start with just 1 extra case per week

Xmas is starting to appear in stores with: (Xmas Pageant is on 14/11/2015 and you should decorate your shop from this date)

Mince Pies – Checkout the Allocation for December
Decorations available now
Cards & Wraps available now

These School Holidays will free up Kids with Cash. You need to aim purchases towards this market

Fun Toys & Stickers (Kevin 0478588977 new owner)
Party Goods for Xmas and New Year – balloons, streamers etc etc
Floor Stacks of Coke or Halls 1.25lt or 2lt drinks for CONVENIENCE SHOPPING

LION

Lion are pleased to announce the launch of Daily Juice Balance.

Consumers have been looking for an Orange Juice that has less sugar, so Lion have developed Daily Juice Balance a juice that has 50% less sugar than normal Juice.

The product is available in 500ml Bottles & is line priced to the rest of the Daily Juice range.

Balfours Top 10 Purchases by $$$

Traditional Square Pie 175g
White Bread 700g
Traditional Pasty 150g
Custard Tart 140g
Traditional Giant Sausage Roll 150g
Chocolate Donut 120g
Traditional Sausage Roll 85g
Hamburger Rolls 6pk
Wholemeal Bread700g
Cornish Pasty 250g

ADVERTISING

HAVE YOU HAD A LOOK AT YOUR OPTIONS? Check both Facebook and Twitter out.

Both of these sites allow you to advertise your products to your friends for free.

Do you do hamburgers, rotisserie chickens, soups or specially cooked home-style meals which your customers can enjoy for their evening meal?

Here are 2 more sites you can go on to advertise your take home offers.

· www.menulog.com.au

· www.eatnow.com.au

With these sites there is a cost of approximately 11% plus a further 2% if the customer uses a credit card so you would have to do your sums but it might just be a way to cheaply reach a huge audience and grow your business.

PFD

We do have trading terms with this company but they aren’t as simple to explain as a straight forward ‘10% discount’.

However on AVERAGE you can expect to receive is a 10% discount. On some products you’ll receive far more than 10% discount whilst on other lines you’ll receive little or no discount.

PFD who has been a strong supporter of our group since 1994 and have supplied us this list of products that members are currently purchasing.

Retail Brokers - October News / September 30, 2015 by Richard Pascoe

Daylight saving starts on the first Sunday in October. All clocks will be turned forward 1 hour at 2am on the 4th.

We also celebrate Labor Day with a public holiday on the 5th October giving most of our customers a long weekend.

What plans have you put in place, with a sunny 22 degrees forecast it will be a great way to move towards summer and Christmas?

LION TRADING TERMS

This year celebrates our 21st year working together in the route industry and we have again renewed our trading terms with this very important partner.

Through the trading terms, the monthly promotions and the shop support by territory managers with ticketing, ‘A’ Frames, relays and general assistance this partner has been strongly supporting our members for a long time.

The trading terms we have agreed to on your behalf will come into force from Monday the 5th of October 2015.

The new price for our 1lt white milk will be locked in for the next 12 months. It covers the 3 white milk lines, Pura 1lt, Skimmer 1lt and Light Start 1lt.

These comments and many similar ones are made by very happy members of Retail Brokers

· Many of my customers now buy 4 x 1lts or 6 x 1lts at a time

· My white Milk sales have more than doubled since introducing the $1.50 price

· The price of $1.50 has brought in many brand new customers to my store

THIS IS YOUR POINT OF DIFFERENCE

THIS GIVES PEOPLE WHO ARE NOT YOUR CUSTOMERS A REASON TO STOP

To make sure you get the most out of the white milk pricing your selling price should be between $1.50 and $1.75 each.

· This pricing should be reflected on the ‘A’ Frame in front of your shop

· It will give new customers a reason to stop and become REPEAT CUSTOMERS

The discounts on all other products will remain in place and the need to carry the correct range in the correct relay will also remain as a requirement to receive the trading terms.

Your Territory Manager can supply you a full list of products to carry and will assist you with a relay in the fridge if needed.

EXTRA SERVICES FOR MEMBERS

Do you take advantage of these great people?

· CBA Eftpos terminals – Rizwan Siddiqui 03-96756310

· Protectit Insurance – Doug Napier 08-83727100

· Adelaide Fresh Air for your aerosol Pest Control – Bryan South 0419608570

· Espresso Essentials Coffee Machines – Martin Langston 0419128753

· Adelaide Pest Control – Keiron Snow 08-83448181

ICECREAM PRICING

Both Street’s and Peters Icecream companies have very bright, colourful Header Cards to go above the freezers and ticketing which is stuck to the freezer lids.

I personally never used them and would encourage most members not to use them as well.

If you want to display pretty pictures of what your customers can already see in your bright clean freezer that’s ok but it should also display YOUR RECOMMENDED SELL @ 40% Gross Profit.

Both STREETS & PETERS RECOMMENDED SELL PRICE at 25% gross profit which won’t in most cases cover the electricity needed to run your freezers based on current sales.

Our ‘Suggested Sells’ are just that. You need to be aware of the competition in your area but remember that in most cases Icecream Sales only equate to approximately 2% of your total annual sales.

Having said that the cost in electricity may well out way the current profit you are receiving if you are going by the companies ‘Suggested Sell’

It is estimated that energy costs per year for a 4’ freezer are just under $1000.00 and just over $1000.00 for a 6’ freezer.

COCA COLA REGULAR METRO PRICING

Do you know that the standard list price for non-members for the following is?

CHECK YOUR PROMOS TO SEE WHAT YOU PAY

FAST FOOD IDEAS

Recently whilst visiting members we came across a wonderful display of just ‘Heat & Eat’ fast food. The products looked Delicious, were Convenient and with a large range had instant Eye Appeal.

The shop has over 121 recipes to pick from, cooks all meals at the shop and it is the fastest growing sector in her shop.

· Roasts

· Curries

· Stirfries

· Pastas

· Casseroles

· Stews

· Vegetarian Meals

· Chicken Dishes

· Beef Dishes

· Fish Dishes

As you can see there are a lot of choices but not all of them are done at any one time. The meals are in a display fridge and all products are cooked and ready to micro wave

This section is large and now contributes more than 50% of the total stores daily sales.

BALFOURS Footy Pie Sales

The recent allocation of FREE Footy Pies revealed some interesting Sales Figures.

We allocated to most members 26 Footy Pies over a period of a few weeks.

But have a look what happens when

· You get behind the promotion

· Have a positive approach

· Become involved in ordering, promoting and ticketing

· Talk to your customers and staff

Hamley Bridge General Store sold 284 Footy Pies

Mylor General Store sold 158 Footy Pies

Normanville Service Station sold 114 Footy Pies

Morphette Vale 7 Day S/market sold 109 Footy Pies

Delamere Store sold 104 Footy Pies

Well done to these members who excelled and who are obviously self-motivated sales orientated business people, congratulations.

COMMONWEALTH BANK EFTPOS

Rizwan Siddiqui 03-96756310 or 0477741475

Which Bank supplies your Eftpos Terminal?

A great deal on your Eftpos charges can potentially save you more money annually and increasing your profitability without increasing your sales.

Check the NOVEMBER NEWSLETTER for more information and the flier

PFD

We do have trading terms with this company but they aren’t as simple to explain as a straight forward ‘10% discount’.

However on AVERAGE you can expect to receive 10% discount. On some products you’ll receive far more than 10% discount whilst on other lines you’ll receive little or no discount.

PFD who has been a strong supporter of our group since 1994 has given us this list of products that members are currently purchasing.

ADVERTISING

Are you online with your take away food offers? We have talked about Facebook before and Twitter is similar.

Both of these sites allow you to advertise your products to your friends for free.

You may do hamburgers, rotisserie chickens, soups or specially cooked home-style meals which your customers can enjoy for their evening meal.

Here are 2 more sites you can go on to advertise your take home offers.

· www.menulog.com.au

· www.eatnow.com.au

TOBACCO PRODUCTS

Just a reminder if you are contemplating deleting tobacco products or if you are thinking about re introducing them.

Not selling tobacco products will impact your bottom line NEGATIVELY, guaranteed.

We understand that the cost of purchase is huge, the fear of being robbed is paramount and the insurance costs can be overwhelming.

But tobacco products are 35% to 40% of your sales each week on average. You can’t walk away from that instead you need to manage it.

Gross Profit at manufacturers recommended retail price is approximately 17% gross profit but most members are less than this somewhere between 10% and 15% gross profit

This means that on a $50 sale your profit is between $4.55 at 10% and up to $6.80 at 15%

If you don’t carry a full range you should as a minimum carry the top 25 cigarette products and the top 10 tobacco products. We have listed the top 10 in each here and for more information go back to your August newsletter.

Retail Brokers - September News / August 31, 2015 by Richard Pascoe

SHOP SALES

Across Australia in over 6000 Convenience Stores with scan data it was revealed that:

Sales have increased each year for the last 3 years
The average transaction was up by 6% to $8.48
The actual number of transactions per day had increased by 3

Keep in mind that this data also includes the eastern sea board but it does show that there is a place for Convenience Stores or Deli’s in the shopping cycle of customers.

Why do people shop in your store?

The TOP 3 reasons were given as:

· Convenience – your shop is easy to get to and the parking is great

· Enjoyable Shopping Experience – Clean, bright store with friendly staff

· Value for Money – Not as cheap as a supermarket but cheaper than the service stations

What sells in your store as a percentage of your total weeks sales?

As we suggested last month this shows the importance of tobacco products and the amount of money it brings to your store each week. It is in most cases the largest sector in your business

Product Total Sales

Tobacco Products 37%

Drink Fridge 19%

Communications 8%

Confectionery 7%

Ready to Eat 7% (Breakfast, Lunch and Snacks)

General Merchandise 7% (General Merchandise, Stationery, Magazines)

Groceries 5% (Groceries, Personal Care)

Take Home Drinks 4%

White Milk 2%

Icecream 2%

Snackfoods 1%

Prepared Food for Home 0.7%

Bread 0.5%

Where should you be concentrating your efforts?

You may need to ask your customers this question.

‘What products or services would you like us to introduce to make you shop here more often?

When this question was asked of the sample groups some of the main responses were:

· Post Office Services 33% (not the easiest to get but worth a try)

· Health Food Options 29% (Balfours & PFD can supply these product)

· Freshly Baked Items 24% (not the easiest but frozen bread and rolls thru PFD may be possible)

· Dinner Time Food Options 23% (small rotisseries and bain maries can attract extra customers, even frozen pasta style meals and frozen pies and pasties do work)

BALFOURS

Australia’s Number 1 bakery according to South Australians and a major partner to our businesses

New Lines

· Mini Frog Cakes (mixed 12 pack, 4 of each)

· Mini Frog Cakes (12 pack Chocolate)

· Mini Frog Cakes (12 pack Green)

· Mini Frog Cakes (12 pack Pink)

The mixed pack of Mioni Frog Cakes will be allocated to members shortly and when it does please take the opportunity to taste these delicious products so you can tell your customers how wonderful and sweet they taste

SEE THE FLIER IN THIS NEWSLETTER FOR MORE DETAILS

COUNTER TOP IMPULSE SALES

Is your counter top exciting and different, do you change things around on a regular basis so that it creates an interest or is it DULL, COLOURLESS and BORING?

· It should have some NOVELTY LINES as seen on your promotions page at the end of the newsletter

· It should have a Tic Tac Stand featuring the Minions Banana flavoured Tic Tacs from the August newsletter

· It should have a stand of cough lollies such as Buttermenthols, Soothers and Strepsils

· It should have Codral Tablets for Colds & Flu and Sudafed Tablets for Sinuses

· It should have $2 bags of mixed lollies

· It should have New Line such as Cadbury Cherry Ripe Double Dipped, Kit Kat Chunky 50g or Maltesers Teasers 35g prominently displayed (They’re on TV)

All these lines are available today at Hollier Dickson’s.

See your rep or call them on 08-83412111

EXTRA SERVICES FOR MEMBERS

Do you take advantage of these great people?

· CBA Eftpos terminals – Rizwan Siddiqui 03-96756310

· Protectit Insurance – Doug Napier 08-83727100

· Adelaide Fresh Air for your aerosol Pest Control – Bryan South 0419608570

· Funtoys & Stickers on consignment – Michael Conry 0403946232

· Espresso Essentials Coffee Machines – Martin Langston 0419128753

· Adelaide Pest Control – Keiron Snow 08-83448181

POINTS TO PONDER

· Tobacco sales grew in convenience store in the last 12 months by nearly 9%. This makes you wonder if the plain packaging is working as customers switch to cheaper tobacco options. Make sure you get your share.

· Lion relayed a number of convenience stores recently. They placed Dare, F/U Iced Coffee and Big M at the first line of sight and on average the sales uplift for the entire flavoured milk section was 150%

A survey from the AACS showed that the ‘Ready to Eat’ section within our stores was continuing to grow with fresh cakes, great sandwiches and pastries leading the way.

Retail Brokers - August News / August 1, 2015 by Richard Pascoe

HOLLIER DICKSONS

Did you receive the email about Minions and the Banana Tic Tacs?

This release has been timed to capitalize on the huge success of the Minions movie.

What we need to be aware of is there is only very limited stock so please chase down your rep and order some ASAP.

Place them where they are readily noticeable and you will achieve great sales.

Also at this time of the year with the freezing weather your customers are looking to spoil themselves with something special, some comfort food.

Chocolate sells all year round but its sales peak at this time of the year.

FARMERS UNION ICED COFFEE

Every member worries about their sell price of this icon product. Many members are keeping the price down thinking that the low price is supporting extra sales. In most cases it’s not. The promo price of 2 for $6.00 to $7.00 may be supporting extra sales but if your customers are buying 1 only flavoured milk then the price should reflect that.

Supermarkets may be cheaper but they are cheaper in most things we sell

EXCEPT FOR 1LT WHITE MILK

Hungry Jacks are selling Iced Coffee for $2.50 but when asked they say they aren’t selling a lot and their customers are stopping because they want a some food, the drink is secondary.

The Independent and the Agostino’s below both have a Hungry Jacks right next door to them and they say their Iced Coffee sales haven’t been affected at all.

Selling Price around Town:

Retail Broker Members $3.95 2 for $6.50

Coles Petrol $4.20 2 for $6.00

Liberty Petrol $4.15 no promo

On the Run $4.20 2 for $6.00

Agostino’s $4.30 no promo

Vilis $4.50 no promo

Independent Petrol $4.20 no promo

EXTRA SERVICES FOR MEMBERS

Do you take advantage of these great people?

· CBA also does Eftpos terminals – Rizwan Siddiqui 03-96756310

· Protectit Insurance – Doug Napier 08-83727100

· Adelaide Fresh Air for your aerosol Pest Control – Bryan South 0419608570

· Funtoys & Stickers on consignment – Michael Conry 0403946232

· Espresso Essentials Coffee Machines – Martin Langston 0419128753

· Adelaide Pest Control – Keiron Snow 08-83448181

TOBACCO PRODUCTS

Are you thinking about maybe not carrying tobacco products? BIG MISTAKE!!!!!

This decision WILL impact your bottom line NEGATIVELY, guaranteed.

We understand that the cost of purchase is huge, the fear of being robbed is paramount and the insurance costs can be overwhelming.

But tobacco products are 35% to 40% of your sales each week on average. You can’t walk away from that instead you need to manage it.

Gross Profit at recommended retail price (RRP) is approximately 17% GP but most members are less than this somewhere between 10% and 15% GP

This means that on a $50 sale your profit is between $4.55 at 10% and up to $6.80 at 15%

If you don’t carry a full range you should as a minimum carry the top 25 cigarette products and the top 10 tobacco products.

Retail Brokers - July News / June 29, 2015 by Richard Pascoe

‘A’ FRAMES

How do we best use this signage on our footpaths? Below is a great example of bright, clean, and easy to read signage.

These signs will capture the attention of cars and walkers going past the store.

They tell a crisp clear message, are yours doing the same?

Many members have rubbishy hand written, impossible to read ‘A’ Frames that detract from the store appearance and give an impression of a dirty uncared for business.

SOME DO’S

· Lion White Milk ‘A’ Frame – should be the first sign carried out and displayed boldly. We would cover the word ‘PURA’ at the top with a big price ticket printed and laminated from Officeworks.

ONLY YOU HAVE THIS LINE ON PROMOTION. NO ONE ELSE HAS A 1LT WHITE MILK DEAL.

IT’S YOUR POINT OF DIFFERENCE.

· Balfours ‘A’ Frame – should be the second sign carried out in the morning. This SA Icon Company has supported us as a group for 20 years and is keen for the relationship to continue. They regularly supply each member with new ‘A’ Frame corflutes and ongoing promotions. WE NEED TO SHOW OUR SUPPORT.

· Coca Cola Company ‘A’ Frame or one of your own advertising your delicious food should be the third and LAST ‘A’ Frame taken out in the morning.

SOME DON’TS that should be obvious:

· Old dirty hand written ‘A’ Frames and those with the magic 8’s should never be used

· The Advertiser sign should not go out – EVERYONE knows you sell the Advertiser and at 12.5% GP why would you bother

· Farmer’s Union Iced Coffee signs – All convenience stores, delis, snack bars, service stations, pizza joints even pubs are selling Iced Coffee these days on promo and your customers know you have it too. There is no value to you taking this sign out.

· Streets, Peters should not go out – These partner companies are supporting you but their signage is of more assistance nearer to the point of sale

· Vilis, Red Bull, V Drink Signs should never go out – These companies don’t have trading terms with you or the group so why bother

All ‘A’ Frames should be easy to read, clean and kept to a minimum. Too many signs causes confusion, they can’t be read and often the customer doesn’t stop.

BALFOURS

NEW LINES

Balfours are releasing their SA ICON FROG CAKE in a mini bite sized version. They

will be perfect when teamed with a Barista Coffee or as a kid’s school time snack

The Frog Cakes in 3 flavours will come in packs of 12 and have 4 days shelf life with a

selling price of $3.75 each

Also a regular release is the Football Donuts in the week leading up to the showdown between the Power and the Crows. They will be available from the 13th July for the week leading into the showdown in twin packs

Why not get right behind this game and decorate your store with some streamers and balloons.

The Footy Pie Allocation is still going until the end of August

· 2 only Balfours Footy Pies will be allocated into stores each Monday starting from the 1st June.

· The allocation will run for 13 Mondays, the last delivery being on the 24th August

Along with this allocation comes an A Frame Corflute and an A4 size tickets for your counter or on top of the pie warmer

We have teamed the Footy Pie with Farmers Union Iced Coffee in July and August

FOOD for WINTER

We recently gave you a Pea and Ham Soup recipe that some members have used to increase lunchtime sales.

I also have the privilege of trying a very delicious Chicken Minestrone Soup while in a members store that sold the soup with a thick slice of continental bread for $7

We then tried the following soup in a convenience store in Adelaide.

After some research we discovered that the Number 1 soup customer’s look for is Pumpkin Soup

Why don’t you try it?

Ingredients (serves 6 and can be frozen for 6 to 8 weeks)

· 2 table spoons Olive Oil

· 1lt Vegetable Stock

· 150ml Cream

· 1kg Butternut Pumpkin (peeled, seeded, cubed)

· 1 Potato (peeled, cubed)

· 1 Onion (diced finely)

· 1 Clove of Garlic (diced finely)

· 1 tea spoon Cumin

· ½ tea spoon Nutmeg

· ½ tea spoon Coriander

Optional - to be used as a garnish

· 1 Bunch Parsley (fresh, finely chopped)

· 1 Bunch Spring Onions (fresh, finely chopped)

Method (A Slow Cooker can also be used)

· Heat oil in a large saucepan over low heat, add diced onion and cook for 4 to 5 minutes, until softened and clear not browned.

· Add garlic and spices and cook, stirring, for 30 seconds.

· Add pumpkin and potato and cook for 8 to 10 minutes or until pumpkin is softening

· Then add the vegetable stock and bring to the boil. Add salt and pepper to taste

· Turn heat to low, cover and simmer for 15 minutes.

· Stir in cream and simmer for a further 10 minutes

· Remove from heat and puree using a hand blender

· Return to gentle heat before serving

· Garnish each serve with either Parsley or Spring Onions and a slice of thick buttered continental toast

TAX AUDITS

Tax Audit Insurance through ProtectIt Insurance Services - 08-83727100

Over the years a number of members have been through a stressful and time consuming Tax Audit.

It is where the Australian Tax Office decides to go through your businesses accounting practices. They are checking to see if you are recording the money trail accurately and paying your fair share of taxation dollars including Company Tax, PAYG and GST.

It will involve your ACCOUNTANT which becomes very expensive and you will be required to supply the ATO with endless documentation.

To cover your costs and liabilities every member should take out insurance to cover their out of pocket expenses.

We feel that TAX AUDIT INSURANCE is a must for all business owners and it is relatively cheap.

ProtectIt Insurance Services have policies starting from as low as $145 per annum for peace of mind.

EXTRA SERVICES FOR MEMBERS

Do you take advantage of these great people?

· Protectit Insurance – Doug Napier 08-83727100

· Suncorp for your Eftpos terminals – Sharon D’Silva 1300305130

· Adelaide Fresh Air for your aerosol Pest Control – Bryan South 0419608570

· Funtoys & Stickers on consignment – Michael Conry 0403946232

· Espresso Essentials Coffee Machines – Martin Langston 0419128753

· CBA also does Eftpos terminals – Rizwan Siddiqui 03-96756310

· Adelaide Pest Control – Keiron Snow 08-83448181

Retail Brokers - June News / May 29, 2015 by Richard Pascoe

BALFOURS ALLOCATIONS

Balfours have done this fruit cake allocation and it has been very well received. They are currently looking at making it a regular line that you can reorder and keep on your counter tops throughout the year, especially the colder months.

They are also reviewing the boxing to see if it is possible for these fruit cakes to have their own distinctive packaging so they can sit on the counter. Possibly a bright coloured box of 12 units.

Don’t forget to check your Retail Brokers May Account for YOUR FULL CREDIT

TAX AUDITS

Tax Audit Insurance through ProtectIt Insurance Services - 08-83727100

Over the years a number of members have been through a stressful and time consuming Tax Audit.

It will involve your ACCOUNTANT which becomes very expensive and you will be required to supply the ATO with endless documentation.

To cover your costs and liabilities every member should take out insurance to cover their out of pocket expenses. We feel that TAX AUDIT INSURANCE is a must for all business owners and it is relatively cheap.

ProtectIt Insurance Services have policies starting from as low as $145 per annum for peace of mind.

HOLLIER DICKSON

For a limited time the Cadbury Chocolate With Vegemite is available.

When you order it in place it on your counter near your till. Don’t hide it.

PARTNER COMPANIES

Lion & CCA

Both companies are major supporters and partners of each member of RETAIL BROKERS FIVE STAR FOOD STORES.

These partner companies offer each member substantial discounts, plus regular promotions and personal assistance at store level for being a member of the group.

Both companies also have what is known as a CORE RANGE OF PRODUCTS that each member needs to carry in their stores all the time.

This is part of a set of trading terms agreed to by us ON YOUR BEHALF and is a reason why we enjoy such great discounts on everything we purchase from these companies.

EXTRA SERVICES FOR MEMBERS

Do you take advantage of these great people? Don’t forget to mention that you are a member of Retail Brokers.

· Protectit Insurance – Doug Napier 08-83727100

· Suncorp for your Eftpos terminals – Sharon D’Silva 1300305130

· Adelaide Fresh Air for your aerosol Pest Control – Bryan South 0419608570

· Funtoys & Stickers on consignment – Michael Conry 0403946232

· Espresso Essentials Coffee Machines – Martin Langston 0419128753

· CBA also does Eftpos terminals – Rizwan Siddiqui 03-96756310

· Adelaide Pest Control – Keiron Snow 08-83448181

PFD

We do have trading terms with this company but they aren’t as simple to explain as a straight forward ‘10% discount’.

However on AVERAGE you can expect to receive 10% discount. On some products you’ll receive far more than 10% discount whilst on other lines you’ll receive little or no discount.

PFD who has been a strong supporter of our group since 1994 has given us this list of products that members are currently purchasing. It is based on our group’s purchases and shows the top 24 lines.

Retail Brokers - May News / May 1, 2015 by Richard Pascoe

BALFOURS ALLOCATIONS

Balfours will allocate to stores their NEW Mini Fruit Cakes in May

Watch for YOUR FULL CREDIT on your Retail Brokers membership account in May for the Mini Fruit Cakes

BALFOURS FOOTY PIE

As we head into football season there will be a big push on the Balfours Footy Pie

This is a “ premium “ pie sold at the same cost price of the traditional pie price.

The Balfours Footy Pie will be allocated into stores from the 18th May to the 31st August at 2 only per week on Monday

We will credit your account in May , June , July , August as the allocation progresses.

Balfours reps will deliver the new corflutes for stores promoting this line.

FOOD for WINTER

PEA & HAM SOUP

This soup will warm the cockles of your heart and served with hot buttered toast or a crunchy roll will encourage your customers to purchase

Ingredients

1 Ham Hock or 1Kg of Bacon Bones
1 Packet of green or yellow split peas 500g
2 Onions finely chopped
2 Carrots finely chopped
1 Celery stick finely sliced
2 Bay leaves
1 teaspoon of pepper (hock or bones will have enough salt)
3lts of either water or vegetable or chicken stock
Parsley finely chopped (garnish)
Crusty Bread or Rolls
Slow Cooker Method

1. Wash and soak the split peas, overnight if possible

2. Chop up all the veggies and place them in to a 5lt slow cooker with the split peas, vegetable stock or water and bay leaves

3. Put the ham hock or bacon bones in the slow cooker, cover with liquid and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours

4. Once the meat is starting to fall from the bones, take out the ham hock and bacon bones and let the meat cool while the soup keeps on cooking

5. When the meat is cool enough to handle, remove and discard the fat, rind and bones. Break up the meat and return it to the soup. Add the pepper and let it cook for at least another 60 minutes and serve as required in takeaway cups

Serves about 15 cups of soup for under $1 per cup

Add a slice of fresh crusty buttered bread or hot toasted crusty buttered bread or even a small buttered crusty roll

Cook this soup in the shop overnight so that the fresh delicious aromas fill the shop and seduce the customers

SANDWICHES TO IMPRESS

Great sandwiches wraps, baguettes and rolls will sell all year round and are highly profitable.

These sandwiches wraps, baguettes and rolls will sell for prices above $7 over and over again.

What about a great toasted sandwich to beat any winter chills? Cheese, ham and tomato is perfect. You could add mushrooms or asparagus or chicken.

LION

This partner company is having a price rise on Monday the 4th May. Make sure you adjust your selling prices accordingly.

WHITE MILK FOR OUR GROUP WILL NOT RISE

Please Note: Reps are calling into stores and checking your core range as previously advised.

Daily Juice

EXTRA SERVICES FOR MEMBERS

Do you take advantage of these great people? Don’t forget to mention that you are a member of Retail Brokers.

Protectit Insurance – Doug Napier 08-82988861

Suncorp for your Eftpos terminals – Sharon D’Silva 1300305130

Adelaide Fresh Air for your aerosol Pest Control – Bryan South 0419608570

Funtoys & Stickers on consignment – Michael Conry 0403946232

Espresso Essentials Coffee Machines – Martin Langston 0419128753

CBA also does Eftpos terminals – Lauren Casey 1300007605

Adelaide Pest Control – Keiron Snow 08-83448181

PFD

We do have trading terms with this company but they aren’t as simple to explain as a straight forward ‘10% discount’.

However on AVERAGE you can expect to receive 10% discount. On some products you’ll receive far more than 10% discount whilst on other lines you’ll receive little or no discount.

Retail Brokers - April News / April 15, 2015 by Richard Pascoe

SERVICES FOR MEMBERS

Do you take advantage of these great people? Don’t forget to mention that you are a member of Retail Brokers.

· Protectit Insurance – Doug Napier 08-82988861

· Suncorp for your Eftpos terminals – Sharon D’Silva 1300305130

· Adelaide Fresh Air for your aerosol Pest Control – Bryan South 0419608570

· Funtoys & Stickers on consignment – Michael Conry 0403946232

· Espresso Essentials Coffee Machines – Martin Langston 0419128753

· CBA also does Eftpos terminals – Lauren Casey 1300007605

· Adelaide Pest Control – Keiron Snow 08-83448181

INTERESTING

A bakery advertising FREE COFFEE OR TEA tells me this really works to bring in new customers to his shop resulting in higher sales and profit.

He believes that approximately:

1/3 of the customers who take up the offer buy a cake or a biscuit to go with the Nescafe
1/3 change their mind and purchase a latte or similar
1/3 takes the free coffee and buys nothing else but at least hopefully you have made them feel welcome and they’ll come back the next time and buy something.

PFD

We do have trading terms with this company but they aren’t as simple to explain as a straight forward ‘10% discount’.

However on AVERAGE you can expect to receive 10% discount. On some products you’ll receive far more than 10% discount whilst on other lines you’ll receive little or no discount.

COCA COLA AMATIL (CCA)

CCA has asked if the Station Kiosk, a long term member could be acknowledged for their fridge presentation.

This member has for a long time set sensational cooler standards and adherence to the promotional program, pricing activation and discount structure deliverables at Station Kiosk.

This member, who has experienced very hard trading times in the last few years, has endured the same harsh sales trends as other members due to climate and poor economic conditions.

On top of this the government decided to upgrade the southern rail connections causing rail track closures for 2 years resulting in no customers.

This hasn’t stopped the owners still trying new things, running promotions and general being positive and having a go. Well done to both Glenys and her husband

We also need to congratulate the following 2 members who had a red hot go at the January Powerade promotion. Well done.

To win 1 of the branded bikes you had to:

· Be a Retail Brokers Member and
· Generate the highest percentage increase in sales

Congratulations to both members:

Balaklava Takeaway Balaklava Filip Scaffidi

Tradies Takaway Alice Springs Teresa Hortin

Retail Brokers - March News / March 4, 2015 by Richard Pascoe

LION PRICING

All stores would have received details of the LION milk deal again to emphasise our commitment to this deal and that sales are rising in all stores running this.

If you have any questions contact either your rep or John or Richard.

HOT X BUN ALLOCATION

The Balfours Hot X Bun allocation will be active in stores , please refer to your mailed newsletter for further details

BALFOURS HOT X BUN with COFFEE
Hopefully you are a Barista and can make a great coffee, but how do you prepare the Hot X Bun for your customer.
Hot Cross Buns with their combination of spicy, sweet and fruity flavours have long been a delicious Easter tradition in Australia.

Firstly take a bun out of the pack and cut it horizontally through the centre. You will need to place the 2 halves in a toaster or under the griller until lightly toasted on both sides.

When the halves are golden brown remove them from the heat and liberally butter the inside faces of the bun. Preferable use real butter but margarine will do.
Eat straight away while the butter is melting and the bun is hot.

For a decadent twist add some jam or honey and wash down with a sensational barista made coffee.

HOLLIER DICKSON’S NOVELTIES
Easter Lines & Novelties

Easter Eggs – Crème Eggs & Lindt Rabbits
Novelty Lines – Perfect for the holiday break
These products will sell well when displayed on the counter next to the till
Adventure Time & Monster High Cotton Candy
Popping Candy Lollipop
Monster High

See your rep for details

EASTER DISPLAYS
Do you want to sell more stock?

Display Bins are perfect for increasing sales.
See your Balfours rep or your Hollier Dickson rep to get a single tiered bin for your store.
Place Easter lines in the top 2 tiers and Balfours Hot x Buns in the bottom 2 tiers

COCA COLA AMATIL (CCA)
Did you know that research shows that 7 out of every 10 customers looking for a cold drink will pick a CCA product, INTERESTING.

CCA has recently assisted Toni and Paul at Cheek Ave Super Deli in achieving their full entitlement of 18% discount by activating the 4 areas of execution that are aligned to the trading terms.

CCA has brought their coolroom share to 50% and activated promotional price points on the January promotional packs which have helped to lift sales and increase the dollars spent per transaction in their shop. Through their discussions CCA also brought their products to the front 4 doors.
CCA also provided Toni and Paul with ‘Meal Deal Point of Sale’ that is also expected to lift sales of drinks with food and increasing the dollars per transaction.
Toni and Paul have taken advantage of the January promotional calendar and increased their CCA core range to 18, which has given them the discount on offer for product ranging.
It was also decided to have an ambient 2lt Coca-Cola display which was set up next to the coolroom at a competitive sell price. This gives the customer an opportunity to purchase 2lt drinks at a lower price point as compared to the cold offer from the fridge.
If you are in need of some assistance and would like something like this to happen in your store ask your CCA Sales Representative for help in any relays to make sure you are getting your full 18% trading terms.

Retail Brokers - Feb News / February 6, 2015 by Richard Pascoe

STORE SIGNAGE - LION

NO ONE ELSE HAS YOUR CHEAP WHITE MILK. NO OTHER DELI, SNACK BAR, SERVICE STATION, SUPERMARKET OR GENERAL STORE IN SOUTH AUSTRALIA CAN PURCHASE 1LT PURA, SKIMMER OR LIGHT START MILK FOR THE PRICE YOU ARE

ONLY YOU GET THAT PRIVILEGE DON’T WASTE THIS OPPORTUNITY

Milk sales are rapidly ON THE RISE in our stores and all members should be using the signage that has been delivered to your stores.
Make sure the A Frame is kept close to the shop so your customers can see the price as they walk into your shop.

The A Frame needs to be at the Front Of Your Store as it is for this member!
This sign placed close to the entrance of your shop will work wonders. This member is experiencing great sales increases in his white milk.
Unfortunately placed on the road side away from the shop entrance the pricing is far too small to be read AND IT LOSES ITS IMPACT.

The group is currently up 6% in its white milk sales.
The $1.50 suggested sell price is WORKING and stores are getting increased sales.
Many Members are also using the fridge door ticketing to sell 2 for $2.95. It’s also important to place ticketing on the other white milks you carry to highlight the difference in price between 1lt and 2lt milk.

If you have not put the signage up, silly you, but be warned, over the next few weeks your Lion Territory Manager will be checking all members for pricing and range and if either are not in line with the terms then you as an individual will be move down to Tier 2 pricing.

BALFOURS

Here’s another sign that has customers taking notice. Again it’s close to the shop entrance so customers can read it.

Although the weather has been warm and muggy this sign is working because sales of their Balfours products are up on this time last year. The member is also very competitive with their Balfours pricing.
They also show a price difference on products from other bakeries.

COCA COLA AMATIL
It’s interesting that although white milk sales are up, CCA sales are down and this is reflected state wide.
NO we are not losing sales to any competitor these sales are just not happening.
So what we need to do together (CCA + YOU + US) is find ways of turning those sales trends around.

CCA have a couple of suggestions.
FIRSTLY
They would like to run a competition between all members for 2015.
Each quarter there would be a 1st, 2nd, & 3rd prize draw
Prize Possibilities 1st Corporate Tickets to the Football Adelaide Oval + $250 in CCA products
   2nd $200 in CCA products (value approx. $350)
   3rd $150 in CCA products (value approx. $250)
Territory Managers would score each member on a quarterly basis on things like
   Core Range Compliance
   Shelf Space Share
   Off Location Display
   Meal Deals including CCA product (not Coca Cola Cans)
   Promotions Ticketed

This competition WON’T be based on store sales but whether or not your store is compliant with the current trading terms.
There will be 13 CHANCES TO WIN
• 3 winners each quarter (4 quarters for you to be a winner)
• Plus a GRAND PRIZE WINNER

SECONDLY – COCA COLA LIFE
In early April straight after Easter they are going to launch a NEW LINE of Coca Cola.
It is expected to be BIGGER than Coke Zero launch when most members ran out of stock.
Cola drinks account for 33% of all the drinks sold by each member approximately.

When compared to normal Coke the new line of Coke Life will have:
• 35% less sugar (sweetened by Stevia, a natural product & sugar)
• Best possible Coke taste
The advertising campaign is a huge spend of $10 million.

What CCA would like to do is an allocation of 4 cases of product to all members week commencing the 6th April 2015
The allocated products would be:

• 1 x 600ml Coca Cola
• 1 x 600ml Coke Zero
• 1 x 600ml Coke Life
• 1 x 250ml Coke Life

Each member who accepts this allocation would receive a case of Mt Franklin Water 250ml FREE

PUBLIC HOLIDAYS
What do you do to make extra dollars on long weekends?

What did you do over the Xmas period?
Members who decorated their shops and put in extra displays got a lift in sales.

What about displays of stationery, biros etc. for back to school?
Kids are always excited about pens and pencils, exercise books and pads. They can be purchased very cheaply and sold with high mark up.

What about Australia Day? BBQ’s picnics, paper plates, flags etc.
We are become more proud of Australia and more active each year. The number of cars this year with flags was amazing, and many with huge flags.
Are you selling any Australiana?

What about Valentine’s Day?
Not as big as the other but cards, wrapped chocolates and maybe flowers would be a start.

If you did nothing extra that’s why your sales haven’t increased.

Next we have Easter - What will you do for Easter?

NOW IS THE TIME TO START PLANNING

See your Hollier Dicksons reps for display ideas
• Small impulse delights to tempt your customers to spend more
o Cadbury Crème filled Eggs
o Lindt Rabbits that sell for $1
o Small chocolate eggs
• Bin displays of Smith’s Chips in the smaller sizes
• Specialty chocolate lines that supermarkets aren’t carrying

You could also try dump bins with other lines such as
• Paper plates, paper towels, plastic cutlery
• BBQ related products such as gas bottles, foil trays, gas lighters, long matches, mozzie candles

If YOU want a SALE INCREASE over Easter
YOU will need to do something NOW

Retail Brokers - Jan News / January 2, 2015 by Richard Pascoe

COCA COLA AMATIL – PRICE RISE

There will be a PRICE RISE in February so take advantage of the promotions and buy extra in January.

COCA COLA AMATIL – 18% DISCOUNT

Are you on the 18% discount yet ?
Speak to your rep who should be in your store a minimum of once a month about how you achieve that or speak to John or Richard

COCA COLA AMATIL – 600ml Flavours Promotion

Don't forget the great promotion we have on 600ml flavours from Coca - Cola Amatil this month along with the promotion on 600ml Coke.

WIN A BIKE – BUY POWERADE

For the store that achieves the highest % growth on Powerade sales 600ml for Jan / Feb this year versus last year will win a Coca – Cola Branded Bike valued at $400
There are 2 bikes to win – the bike is for you to do whatever you want to !
This promotion will run from the 1st Jan – Feb 28th and the winners will be announced in the first week in March
Coca-Cola will send out additional paperwork on this promotion to stores and your rep will discuss it with you

LION

The 1lt milk strategy selling the milk for $1.50 is working very well in stores that are actively highlighting and promoting to customers.
Reps are visiting stores and will work with store owners to get full compliance for the terms in place.

PIEWARMERS

We have noticed a lack of cleanliness in some stores pie warmers which customers will surely notice.
Also missing shelves are not a great look and place your pies and pasties in the warmers so they look APPEALING.
Remember this industry was built on the back of pies and pasties and
Sales in this area flow onto the whole store

Retail Brokers - Dec News / November 26, 2014 by Richard Pascoe

CHRISTMAS TIME

As we head into the festive season we can be confident that :

Temperatures will rise

Drinks will sell
Icecreams will sell
Food will sell

But only if you are prepared.

If you need another drink fridge whether it be a one door or two door , speak to your Coca – Cola Amatil rep who should now be calling on your store a minimum of once a month.

If you would like a Golden North freezer speak to Phil Tobin on 0419209266

You need to have stock and should start building up your stock levels in getting ready for the holiday season.

CHRISTMAS ALLOCATIONS

Christmas allocations will be starting from Balfours and into stores starting on the 1st Dec

Stores will receive a CREDIT for this stock with their December invoice.
The credit applies to all the stock so it is effectively coming into stores at NO CHARGE.

WINDOWS & SURROUNDS

When was the last time you looked at your windows ?
There are many stores that could improve their business by :
Cleaning their windows , as many stores need to do this as there are old signs , peeling signs and general dirt plastered on windows and customers DO notice this.

If you have a business with high volume traffic going past every day , putting the lights on so customers can see in the windows and changing / cleaning the windows can result in increased traffic to your store as customers stop and come in to see what has changed.

Stores should also remove old , tired , damaged and out of date signage that is stuck around the entrance or on your building. It is not a good look.

PIE WARMERS – INCREASE YOUR SALES - PRICING

PAYING ATTENTION to your pie warmer will result in increased sales.

Stores that spend time making their pie warmer look good by laying it out correctly with wanted lines ( Balfours ) and making sure that they are presented to the customer and not just thrown in , will result in more sales.

Cleaning your pie warmer and making it sparkle will give customers the confidence to purchase pies , pasties and sausage rolls from your store.
Properly heated pies , pasties and sausage rolls will give customers the confidence to return to your store and give you repeat sales.
Stock that has been heated in the microwave and then placed in the pie warmer is not ideal – ask someone who eats them.

Remember that you should look at the cost price of all your products and sell for the appropriate gross profit.
Do not be lazy and group pricing into categories by saying that , for example , all beef pies should be sold at the same price when there is usually a substantial difference between suppliers . ( Balfours v Opposition )

As well as pricing there is usually a difference in weight – give your customers value for money.

COCA- COLA AMATIL TERMS - PROMOTIONS

Has your rep discussed the new terms that make it easier for you to achieve the discount on offer.
If you have not seen your rep give Richard a call on 0419829145

LION – 1LT MILK SPECIAL

Reminder that this promotion is on for 12 MONTHS and it is making a difference to our stores sales with a 6% increase in milk sales after only 8 weeks.
Lion reps are calling into stores to assist with relays and implementation.

Retail Brokers - Nov News / November 9, 2014 by Richard Pascoe

LION

The 1lt milk is selling extremely well in the stores that are tying up the promotion correctly.
Reps from lion are calling on ALL stores and will report back any anomalies they find.
The A Frames , fridge signage and corflute signage are now being distributed with good customer recognition.

Reps will be coming into stores and offering to assist with relays and tidying the fridges to the following standards.

This deal continues for 12 months and is EXCLUSIVE to Retail Brokers members

TERMS

We are spending a lot of time meeting with companies and negotiating new terms and bedding down issues with recently implemented terms

COCA – COLA AMATIL

There was a lot of confusion in the market regarding Coca – Cola Amatil terms and how to achieve the 18%

Your rep will discuss with you :

•   Range
•   Shelf Share
•   Stand / Floor Stack
•   Meal Deal pricing

It is now far easier to achieve the 18% and your rep WILL work with you to achieve this and will be offering you some great deals.
The terms will now distinguish between traditional convenience / deli outlets and food / snack bar outlets.

CHEAP DRINKS

3rd party suppliers are approaching stores and encouraging them to sell drinks at a price where you only make “ in some cases ‘ 20 -30c a bottle / unit in the hope that children will buy them.
This does not work and we have enough lines on special to attract sales and profit from customers of all ages.

BALFOURS

The “pie of the month” promotions are working EXTREMELY well in stores and over the next few months Balfours and Coke will be changing their lines to deliver you more profit and sales.

CHRISTMAS ALLOCATIONS

As we approach the Christmas period we will be sending stores through Balfours Christmas allocations and as in the past this stock WILL BE CREDITED TO YOUR ACCOUNT at Retail Brokers.

WEBSITE
Just a reminder that we have a website at www.retailbrokers.com.au

REMEMBER :
If you need to reach us your best point of contact is mobile or email
Richard : 0419829145
John : 0409623106

Retail Brokers - Oct News / October 16, 2014 by Richard Pascoe

LION MILK TERMS

The Lion milk terms have now started and are working well.

YOU NEED TO TIE THE PRICE UP

Reps are visiting stores w/c the 29th Sept to deliver the display material for White milk pricing.

This needs to be put up and used or you will lose the pricing on this as per the terms we have issued.

The stores that have shown some effort and put their own tickets up are having GREAT success and increasing sales.

There have been a couple of issues with pricing from the vendors but these have been fixed THIS WEEK and credits will be issued.

BALFOURS

Balfours have undergone a price rise effective the 30th Sept , make sure you have taken this into account with your current pricing.

Remember Balfours are the biggest suppliers to the route trade and there should be a price difference between their products and the oppositions to reflect the cost difference between the 2 companies.

Credits for the recent Balfours allocation will be with your invoices.

COCA – COLA AMATIL – REPS

Following recent discussions with Coca – Cola Amatil we are pleased to announce that they will be offering stores regular contact with their rep to enhance the lines of communication.

This REGULAR contact will allow them to communicate opportunities that Coca – Cola Amatil can offer stores.

Any store that does not see a rep from Coca- Cola Amatil at least once a month is urged to contact Richard who will rectify this situation.

COCA – COLA AMATIL – TERMS

We are also pleased to announce that we have negotiated new terms that are far easier to understand and implement.

Your rep will call and explain these terms but it makes it far easier to understand how stores can achieve the discount on offer.

We will notify stores as soon as these terms are finalized and the reps will call into stores to discuss and implement these new terms.

Retail Brokers - Sept News / October 16, 2014 by Richard Pascoe

LION MILK TERMS

We are visiting all stores addressing any questions on the Lion Terms.
The Lion Reps are also visiting and addressing any queries.

Display material for the new milk pricing will not be far away.

The terms will start THIS week, if you have not had the billing discussion with your milk vendor you need to contact them now

If you have any questions please call your rep or us as many stores have done.

These new terms will drive sales and customers into your stores.

BALFOURS ALLOCATION
The next Balfours Allocation will be Fratelli Cup Cakes and Snag Bags
Allocations will arrive into stores w/c 8th Sept , 15th Sept , 22nd Sept

GOLDEN NORTH

Following the recent publicity that Golden North has achieved in the media we would urge all stores to make sure they are stocking Golden North lines in their freezers.
The current terms we have the suppliers allow for this to occur and do not be convinced otherwise.

Golden North are wanted lines in our stores by our customers.

Stock can be ordered from PFD.

If you would like to carry a Golden North freezer please ring Phil Tobin on 82923500

COCA – COLA AMATIL – TERMS

Following recent discussions with Coca – Cola Amatil we are pleased to announce that they will be offering stores regular contact with their rep to enhance the lines of communication.

This REGULAR contact will allow them to communicate opportunities that Coca – Cola Amatil can offer stores.

We are also pleased to announce that we are negotiating new terms that are far easier to understand and implement.

We will notify stores as soon as these terms are finalized and the reps will call into stores to discuss and implement these new terms.

Retail Brokers - August News / October 16, 2014 by Richard Pascoe

Retail Brokers are pleased to announce that after a long negotiation period we now have NEW terms with Lion that will be introduced from the first week in September with discounts valid until Sept 2015

The exciting NEW terms will mean that the 3 key 1lt products will come into stores at market leading prices

•   1lt Pura
•   1lt Skimmer
•   1lt Light Start

This deal will supersede any deal currently in place.

HOW DO I GET THE NEW PRICING
TO GET THE DISCOUNT PRICING there are requirements that you NEED to adhere to.

Please see your rep for details or john or Richard

COMPLIANCE
LION reps will be into all stores to check whether stores need their fridges to be relayed to comply with the new terms (many will) and to check after that you are complying to the terms

COCA-COLA AMATIL

To maximize your discount you need to put the promotions on or the discounts from promoted lines will be removed.

Stores will see reps from Coke on a vastly increased basis than they do currently due to an internal directive
We welcome this as it will only enhance driving sales in stores

Stores will see in Nov the 250ml can from Coke which is price marked at $2.00

This can is ideal for meal deals , children and customers that only want to spend $2.00 on a quick drink and for those consumers looking for a smaller drink size

Coke are also looking for 10 stores to get an exclusive relay for their fridges , so if you are interested in the benefits of this contact Richard on 0419829145 or your coke rep

BALFOURS

The Balfours pie of the month this month is the Beef Curry Pie using Angus Beef

This pie is LARGER than the opposition companies and substantially cheaper
Reps will be into all stores to setup the signage along with the A Frame signage for the Premium Pie And Custard Tart.

All stores carrying Balfours should be tying up these promotions , with some stores being 20% up on last years sales who are actively promoting these.

Retail Brokers - July News / October 16, 2014 by Richard Pascoe

MANAGING A SUCCESSFUL BUSINESS
To manage, build and grow a successful retail business firstly we all may need to know some of the reasons why many small business owners are not successful.
By knowing and understanding this we can do the opposite and maybe avoid these mistakes.
We are all currently bringing to the market many great products and services. Unfortunately so are many other outlets in our area.
So to succeed you need to be great at business as well.

It is a well-known fact that most people who reach the sort of income from a business that would class them as wealthy come from a family background of business. They are literally born into a life of believing they will be successful, they go to the so-called right schools and do courses in business, marketing, sales, people and time management.
They also have the mindset that they will be successful
and they think and talk in a positive manner at all times.

Unfortunately this leaves the majority of business people in our industry trying to work things out for themselves. Family and friends will offer little support mainly because they either have very little experience in business themselves or because they think you don’t need help, your rich and jealousy may creep in.
This then is the place many of us start from with only a slim chance of earning enough income to survive and even less chance
of becoming one of the wealthy.

10 Reasons Why Businesses Fail – Make Sure This Is Not YOU

Lack of business/management skills, training or experience
Failure to seek and/or take advice
No set strategic goals or reason for going into business in the first place
Procrastination, negativity, lack of motivation and excitement
Lack of sales skills and understanding
No accountability. I’m BOSS???
Lack of financial planning, no banking relationship, insufficient capital
Bad debts and slow collections - Cash flow problems
Not addressing issues before they become a problem
Inadequate bookkeeping records

If you recognize any of the above points in yourself then you need to act to rectify these issues ASAP.
Owning a small business can be very rewarding but equally demoralising if things are not working properly.
Whether your business succeeds or fails will depend largely on your own ability, initiative and capacity to work, knowing the basics of running a small business and doing it to the best of your ability.
The largest number of small business failures is due to a lack of expertise. The key to success is in developing awareness of your own strengths and weaknesses and having a business coach, mentor or joining a mastermind group to provide an insight into what needs to be done before a crisis occurs.