Elena Dimama

Beer and cider continue to act as a cornerstone to the convenience market, with craft beer in particular giving the category a boost. by Elena Dimama Beer and cider enjoyed a welcome boost in the final quarter of year, as a result of the Fifa World Cup taking place just a few weeks before Christmas.…

Energy drinks are enjoying a sales boom in Scotland just now, and there are plenty of products and pack formats to help retailers get their range right.

Continuous investment helps forecourts continue to drive margins in spite of the cost-of-living crisis and a less-than-favourable economic backdrop. By Elena Dimama Forecourt retailers have been resilient in their commitment to invest in the sector, continuing to put money into their businesses despite rising costs and a looming financial crisis. According to the 2022 Forecourt…

Shoppers are still looking for on-the-go treats that won’t break the bank. By Elena Dimama Value for money plays a crucial role in this volatile economic environment of squeezed incomes and could give the snacking category its moment to shine in the convenience sector. Affordable treats “The cost-of-living crisis will continue through 2023 and so…

The snacking category still remains strong with PMPs driving growth for the convenience sector.

Cigars are still a favourite in the festive season and brands are pulling out all stops to offer a variety of flavours. By Elena Dimama Cigars continue to play an important role in the tobacco category, despite not matching the sales volumes of cigarettes or roll-your-own tobacco (RYO). According to IRI, the cigar category in…

Shoppers can be reluctant to forgo alcohol over the festive season, so offering a wide range of tipples can help you end the year on a high.

The stimulation segment is still big within the soft drinks category, so making the most of it in the busy festive period could be key to driving sales.

The vaping category is still crucial for independent retail despite anxieties over potential legislative changes. By Elena Dimama An array of flavours, varieties and brands makes the vaping category a crucial one for independent retailers, despite regulatory roadblocks. Smoking alternatives make up 12.4% of the total nicotine category, with e-cigarettes, heated tobacco and oral nicotine…

With the warm weather beckoning, the strong soft drinks category is expected to supercharge sales once again. By Elena Dimama The soft drinks category is a constant positive sales driver for the independence channel and this is projected to continue as the warmer weather approaches. The total category is now worth more than £12bn, according…