SPAR UK partner A.F. Blakemore has launched an online ordering website to make it easier for customers to browse products from SPAR stores offering home deliveries. Customers can view a range of circa 1,100 products across all categories, including fruit and vegetables, bread, meat, dairy, drinks, snacks, alcohol, tobacco, and household goods. The new online platform complements the phone ordering options the SPAR UK partner has in place to help vulnerable shoppers during the pandemic.

To place an order, customers can log in or register at www.afbspar.co.uk, select their nearest store and start shopping. Once their order has been placed, their chosen store will give them a call, take payment over the phone, and arrange a convenient delivery slot.

“In recent weeks, SPAR stores have played a key role in local communities delivering essential groceries to those most in need”, said Blakemore Retail Managing Director Matt Teague. “We hope that this new platform improves our home delivery service by making it easier for customers to see what products we have available without leaving their homes.”

Stores are aiming for same-day delivery, although due to high demand they may on occasion not be able to fulfil orders until the next day. Store colleagues will let customers know when they can expect their orders when they call up.

The online ordering platform is aimed at all customers within two miles of participating stores. There is a £3 delivery charge on orders. Key workers, NHS staff and vulnerable customers who are self-isolating will, however, be able to take advantage of free delivery if they notify their local store.

“Our IT, Proposition and Marketing teams have done a fantastic job to develop this for us in such a short space of time; it really does demonstrate the agility we have in the business”, said Matt Teague. “The website is straightforward to use on mobile, tablet and desktop devices. Like many online shopping sites, you place items in your basket, and the system keeps track of your bill as you shop, so there are no surprises when it comes to payment.”

“Of course, customers don’t have to use the platform either – they can still order over the phone if that’s what they would prefer.”

Source: SPAR UK

About SPAR UK

The UK became a member of SPAR in 1956 when a group of independent wholesalers was granted the SPAR licence by SPAR International. There are five regional partners in the UK with strategically placed Distribution Centres in each region. A central office, located in London, provides national marketing and buying services for the group and supports the development of the brand.

SPAR has led the convenience market in the UK for many years but has faced increasing competition. Always innovative, the five regional partners have continued to grow the brand. Throughout the UK, a combination of independently-owned licensed retailers and company-owned stores can be found, spanning forecourts, airports, train stations, city centres, and local neighbourhoods.