2006 Award Winner – Retail Award

Thresher Group

The past year has seen significant innovation and change from Thresher Group. Stores are now segmented into three rather than the previous seven fascias. This allows each of the three stores to be very clearly targeted, with The Local shops catering primarily for branded wines, for example. A collaboration with E&J Gallo was initiated to improve staff members’ wine knowledge. Thresher’s introduction of the 3-for-2 promotion last year has significantly contributed to the group’s growth, encouraging consumer trial and raising the average price per bottle purchased. There has also been a focus on improving the range of wines in Thresher stores, as well as Wine Rack outlets.

Being a high-street off-licence is increasingly difficult, and yet Thresher’s results from the last year are impressive. The acquisition of 200 Unwins stores in 2005 also contributed to growth, as well as saving around 1,200 jobs. The group has an extensive responsible drinking campaign, including staff training and a comprehensive refusal system in place. An area in which Thresher Group stands out is consumer education, and one of the benefits of this has been growth in sales of wine at higher price points. In this category, Thresher Group is undoubtedly moving forward with the times, fearlessly innovating and achieving the results it deserves.

The Shortlist 2006

Harrods
No one doubts that Harrods knows what it’s doing when it comes to drinks retailing. With a selection of 3,000 lines of wines, beers and spirits, Harrods caters not only for the luxury market, but offers a wide range at all levels. This vast selection is supported by frequent promotions, with newsletters and brochures, prizes and discount schemes, as well as a Champagne and a spirit on promotion every month. Harrods is also well equipped to find rare bottles at a consumer’s request.

Oddbins
Oddbins’ wine fairs last year saw an opportunity for consumers to taste a variety of wines, as well as attend masterclasses, while contributing to charity. Committed to consumer education, Oddbins also runs a number of in-store tastings throughout the year. The last year has seen business continue to grow, as well as the refurbishment of over 60 stores. The bold “I love YN” promotion included staff recommendations which encouraged interaction with consumers. Oddbins has also made a very recent investment into its new website, again with a focus on consumer education.

© db May 2006