Parfetts’ turnover increased by 6.7% to £646m last year with operating profit going up by 51% to £8.5m from £5.6m, with the employer-owned wholesaler putting it down to growth in its retail offering.
As a result, the company has rewarded staff with a 10% pay rise and an overall 14% bonus, with joint managing director Guy Swindell calling it a notable year after the launch of the Birmingham depot.
“Whilst continuing our significant investment plan in our wider depot network, which, alongside our ever-improving digital channels, means we are constantly enhancing the experience for our customers and suppliers,” he said.
Read more: Parfetts makes investments into digital platforms
“The Go Local and The Local symbol estate continues to go from strength to strength, and we now have over 1,300 retailers in the group. We’ve invested in our national network of retail advisors and continue to invest in our retailers with store refurbishments and new concepts. We are focused on continuing to deliver growth for our suppliers, and we’re proactive in ensuring they have the best support for their brands,” he added.
Over the last 12 months, Parfetts has also rolled out solar panels and LED lighting in all its depots to reduce carbon emissions. It is moving towards a corporate fleet of electric vehicles.
Noel Robinson, joint managing director of Parfetts, added: “Parfetts doesn’t stand still, and we are constantly looking at ways to improve efficiency to free up resources that can be reinvested back into the business. New technology will continue to improve the efficiency of our logistics and depot operations. I firmly believe that we have the best team in the business, who work hard every day to move the business forward and support our thousands of customers.”
