Chetan Wholesale’s new cash and carry will offer retailers a more focused range, alongside boosted support for deliveries, own label and electric vehicles.
The 16,000sq ft site in Southend will begin trading from November, with an official launch event to commence in spring next year.
It marks a departure from the company’s 68,000sq ft Barking site, which was set up more than 40 years ago by the Mandalias, who had also operated their own convenience store.
Although the new site is smaller, co-founder and associate buyer Nitin Mandalia told Better Retailing this would help the company focus its range for retailers. He added: “A large percentage of customers were already based in and near this area, so it’s easy for them to get to.
“The smaller site allows us to offer a more consolidated range, focusing on core products such as confectionery, snacks and soft drinks.”
The depot will also have a dedicated space for Unitas Wholesale’s new Local Living range, which focuses on value for more cost-conscious customers.
Mandalia added the site will also enable the company to offer delivered wholesale, with a fleet of larger and smaller vans allowing it to visit a larger range of convenience stores.
The car park will also have eight electric vehicle chargers, while 15 digital screens in the depot will ensure retailers receive up-to-date promotional information.
