SPAR Scotland, operated by SPAR UK wholesaler CJ Lang & Son Ltd, brought together almost 900 delegates for its annual trade show in Aviemore, under the theme of 'Inspiring Success'.

Retailers, suppliers, and colleagues came together for an engaging day of innovation and strategic direction. With the theme of ‘Inspiring Success,’ the event explored how to unlock future growth through new product development, smarter systems, and investment.

Cautious optimism

Through a challenging and turbulent Scottish retail market, SPAR CEO Colin McLean described the business resilience in the face of difficult trading conditions. Colin McLean emphasised the importance of “building the best possible version of SPAR for shoppers, suppliers and independent retailers alike. That means doubling down on investment where it counts – modernising our stores, supporting our people, developing our supply chain and backing innovation that adds real value.”

Developing stores and infrastructure

The trade show reflected on strides made by SPAR Scotland to grow its retail footprint, including the addition of 12 company-owned stores last year. The continued developments from instore convenience solutions, including the Barista Bar and introduction of Electronic Shelf-Edge Labels (ESEL) are enhancing the shopping experience for customers throughout Scotland.

SPAR Scotland also highlighted its private label innovations, market-leading promotions and first-to-market launches, as well as the ongoing Discover SPAR Scotland campaign, designed to attract new independent retailers by showcasing the benefits of joining the SPAR family. The use of digital innovations to engage customers through hyper-local campaigns, gamification, and email marketing were all showcased.

New developments

Announced at the trade show was the company’s new food-to-go loyalty app, as well as a new ‘Spin into Spring’ digital campaign which will launch in March 2026.

In looking ahead, SPAR Scotland CEO Colin McLean said, “We know the road ahead won’t be easy, but we are not here to stand still. We are investing in the future of convenience retail in Scotland, and we are calling on our suppliers and independent retailers to join us. Together, we can continue to raise the bar for what SPAR can deliver – locally, nationally and beyond.”

Source: CJ Lang & Son Ltd.

Read more about SPAR UK

About SPAR UK

The United Kingdom became a SPAR member in 1956 when SPAR International granted a licence to utilise the SPAR brand to a group of independent wholesalers. There are five regional organisations in the UK, continually building the brand’s presence. A central office in London provides national marketing and buying services for the group. SPAR in the UK comprises independently owned and licensed retailers as well as company-owned stores.