Morrisons unveils improved terms for independent retailers

Morrisons has introduced improved terms for independent retailers as part of its efforts to expand its convenience business.

The supermarket currently has around 1,700 Morrisons Daily stores across the UK, many operated by independent retailers. From July, franchise partners will be able to earn up to a 6% volume rebate, compared with the previous maximum of 1.5%, and wholesale prices will remain lower than retail prices in company-owned Morrisons Daily stores.

Independent retailers will continue to have access to Morrisons’ own-brand products, including its premium The Best range, alongside branded goods. The company said its fresh food, including bakery lines, supports margins for partners.

Morrisons has also invested in its logistics network, opening a new dedicated ambient distribution centre at its Swan Valley site to improve service to franchisees.

This summer, independent retailers will gain access to the Morrisons More Card loyalty scheme, allowing customers to earn points and benefit from promotional prices in convenience stores.

Several senior appointments have been made to support growth plans, including Michael Kosciukiewicz as supply chain and logistics director for convenience and wholesale, and Victoria Lockie as head of wholesale – strategic projects and acquisitions.

Paul Dobson, director for wholesale convenience at Morrisons, said: “We have made significant strides in recent months to strengthen our Morrisons Daily proposition and set ourselves up for future growth.

“Our new and existing franchise partners are pivotal to our overall success and the team and I have been out and about listening to feedback from them and their customers, seeing first hand what is working well and what we need to improve on.”

He added: “We’re excited to implement these enhanced terms for our independent retail partners and confident they will help us meet our ambitious growth plans for our Morrisons Daily estate.”