The recent launch of the SPAR Brand in the capital of Provence was carried out with much fan-fare, to the delight of the local customers. With a focus on providing shoppers with convenience, the new 275m2 store has put an emphasis on Food-to-Go and fresh foods.

Building on his expertise and experience of running stores in Pertuis, Toulon and Cassis, SPAR retailer Laurent Brunengo, worked with SPAR France to develop the best solution for this location. The state-of-the-art SPAR Supermarket includes an instore bakery, which provides fresh bread throughout the day. Another popular feature of the store is a rotisserie, offering customers delicious, freshly cooked chicken.

Organic ranges and Food-to-Go sections complement the fresh produce, and an excellent wine department completes the offer, creating a vineyard atmosphere with wooden crates and stylish displays.

An instore microwave for heating up meals for consumption instore is particularly welcomed by the large student population from the nearby universities and schools.

Electronic shelf labels have been incorporated bringing efficiency to the stock management system. A digital communication system working through screens located all over the store highlights promotions and offers to customers.

Prior to the launch, an SMS campaign with a raffle was held, followed by 2,500 leaflets being distributed to the mailboxes of consumers in the neighbouring areas. Additional leaflets were also given out in the city centre over the opening weekend. The festive opening was celebrated with officials from the city’s main businesses and institutions and a taste testing of a number of great products added to the experience.

Sales results have been strong so far, with the ready-to-eat meals and Food-to-Go offerings showing the greatest contribution to turnover. On average, there are 500 transactions a day and the average basket spend is €8.