Moving forward with Todays

Moving forward with Todays

Retailer Seamus McFadden has seen some major changes to the retail market during his time as a convenience retailer in Strabane.

Seamus from Todays Local Strabane explained: “The business was started in 1972 by my father as a specialist newsagent and we are proud that the site has maintained that point of difference to this date. We have always stocked an extensive range of local and national newspapers, specialist magazine category titles, along with a fantastic range of greetings cards (of which we can personalise in-store as required) and giftware. Over that time the business has evolved into a local convenience store serving the heart of the community in this area of Strabane. It is important as a retailer involved in the local community, that you meet the needs of your customers and provide them with the best service and value possible.”

Being the President of the Foyle and District branch of the NFRN, and a previous winner of the Neighbourhood Retailer CTN of the Year, Seamus is well aware of the challenges that face local Newsagents and Convenience retailers in the current climate. It was also the additional challenges with service and support from his previous wholesaler, that made Seamus recognise that a change was needed for his business, so he could move forward in an ever challenging market.

Already dealing with Savage and Whitten, as a wholesale customer Seamus felt that the move to Todays Local was the best option to take his business forward.

Today's Local 2

The newly branded Todays Local store site has been fully relayed and merchandised, along with the introduction of three new promotional bays to help drive value in-store. The recent introduction of new energy efficient refrigeration for chilled foods and soft drinks has greatly reduced running costs along with contributing to the new enhanced lay-out.

“The new look store has now enabled me to expand on my current product range, provide extra services and along with the introduction of the new 3-weekly promotional leaflet I am able to provide my customers with better value for money in store. This has proved to be a major benefit to my business, and proving a great attraction for my local customers. In-store we have Paypoint, Lottery, ATM, both whipped and scooped ice cream, Slush Puppy/Tango Ice Blast along with Hot Snacks and the introduction of a new Robert Roberts Bean to Cup Coffee has proved very successful.”

Seamus commented: “The move to Todays has been the correct fit for my business.

“Their dedicated BDM for the Tyrone area is always on site weekly, supporting me in maintaining standards, growing the profile of the site but more importantly, driving sales and profitability in store. Support is always available when required”

The new Todays Local store faces tough competition in the Strabane area, but the newly refurbished and rebranded store is now well equipped to cope with the ever growing trade that the site is attracting.

Seamus is now confident that with the current service and business support from Savage and Whitten and Todays his business is now set up to move forward in the current challenging climate.