CJ Lang chief executive Colin McLean confirmed robust growth over the past 12 months as well as another year of record sales and profits for the Spar Scotland wholesaler.
Speaking at the company’s annual trade show and conference in which more than 800 attended, the event brought together store colleagues, industry leaders, suppliers, and colleagues from SPAR across the UK and internationally.
“Rising operational costs, inflationary pressures, changing consumer habits, and supply chain unpredictability are critical factors that will shape the year ahead,” said McClean. “Yet despite these pressures, we have shown incredible resilience and innovation, and as a symbol group we are committed to working even harder to remain agile and proactive in addressing these issues.”
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In addition to the acquisition of nine Scotfresh stores and three Eddy’s Food Station stores, the business is now focused on consolidation and improving existing sites. McLean explained: “We have an ambitious programme in place that includes adding digital ESELs to all stores, a busy schedule of major store refits, the rolling out of our Barista Bar coffee offer and the new addition of the latest version of our food-to-go offer into more stores. This follows its successful trial in our SPAR Garthamlock store.”
In the background, the business has also made a big investment into a fleet of vehicles, equipment, and systems and processes. Relex Solutions is delivering integrated store and distribution centre forecasting and replenishment as well as providing improved allocations, promotional estimating, order accuracy and forecast sharing.
