Ahead of the SPAR Brand’s 90th anniversary in 2022, SPAR Netherlands CEO John van der Ent shared the company’s refined retail strategy at its annual Retailer Day on 3 November. Further growth in foodservice and store numbers, and continued investment into upgrading existing SPAR stores are key to both entrepreneurs and customers alike, he noted during his presentation.

“Nowadays, everyone wants to be able to shop at any time of day, in any place, for every conceivable convenience. Our vision is to be there and to make life a little easier for our customers. SPAR is always near, offering tasty and healthy choices in a hospitable environment”, John van der Ent said. He added that it is essential for all SPAR entrepreneurs to encourage growth and improvement of stores and foodservice.

SPAR offers convenience

Thanks to its majority stake in The Tosti Club, SPAR Netherlands has accelerated its foodservice ambitions over the past two years. By merging its foodservice and food retail activities, the retailer continues to enhance its convenience proposition. SPAR Netherlands’ online platform is also being further developed to fit seamlessly with this convenience strategy.

SPAR is big in small stores

With its 455 convenience stores, SPAR Netherlands offers a strong local network that stretches across the country. Currently, there are stores ranging from 150m² to over 500m² trading under the brand. The company aims to bring convenience to many more places in the country through this network of independent retailers. The first pilots for this expansion approach have been started.

SPAR answers customer-specific needs

SPAR has a diverse portfolio of stores tailored to their respective communities. Customers find the convenience of SPAR in a different form every time, matching the needs of customers, wherever they may be. For this, SPAR Netherlands focuses on the right range, in the right place, at the right price.

Source: SPAR Netherlands

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About SPAR Netherlands

The SPAR Brand was founded in the Netherlands in 1932 by the Dutch wholesaler, Adriaan van Well and 16 independent retailers. It was established as a voluntary chain of grocers under the name DESPAR – an acronym of a slogan created by van Well to describe the organisation: Door Eendrachtig Samenwerken Profiteren Allen Regelmatig, which translates in English to All benefit from joint co-operation.

The Head Office and Distribution Centre (DC) are located in Waalwijk, from where support is provided for the almost 450 stores in operation.