Having released its Q3 results, the retailer reported a very strong performance, with retail sales up over 13% and the ninth consecutive quarter of market share growth for Boots UK.

The retail performance was driven by a “very strong beauty performance” particularly in skincare, while healthcare also performed well and pharmacy sales at their “best level” in six quarters.

In a statement to NR, Boots said the company’s successful transformation plan has created a “strong and stable platform for growth”.

‘EVOLVING STORE ESTATE’

“This has included out store rejuvenation programme, which will now accelerate ongoing investment into our store estate,” said Boots.

“In addition to uplifting existing stores, over the next year Boots will continue to consolidate a number of stores in close proximity to each other.”

They said that evolving the store estate in this manner allows Boots to “concentrate its team members where they are needed” as well as focusing investment “more acutely in individual stores”, enabling the retailer to fulfil its ambition of “consistently delivering an excellent and reliable service in a fresh and up-to-date environment”.

While details of the affected stores aren’t being released at the moment, Boots will share further information on the planned closure in the coming months.

The pharmacy chain added that there were no proposed redundancies, with impacted team members being offered redeployment.

“This is part of ongoing reviews to ensure the company has the right stores and resources in the right locations that can be invested in significantly,” said Boots.

Following the closure of some 300 stores, Boots will still have 1900 stores across the UK.

CONTINUED COMMITMENT

Boots’ in-house brands were stand-out performers, with the launch of No7’s Future Renew range seeing one product sold every two seconds on launch day and over half a million customer transactions in the first four weeks.

Store footfall increased 6.9%, ahead of the national average of 2.8%, while digital sales increased more than 25% and the app growing 37.9% year-on-year, with some 6.2 million active users.

Seb James, Managing Director at Boots UK and ROI said: “Our focus on offering our customers the best in healthcare and beauty, together with a continued commitment to great value, has been well received, and it is lovely to see more people choosing to shop with Boots.

“It is particularly pleasing to see our owned brands proving popular, including an exceptional No7 performance. I would like to thank al of our team members for their hard work in delivering these results.”

The post Boots confirm store closures amid consolidation of estate first appeared on Neighbourhood Retailer.

The move comes after plans announced in March of this year that Superdrug aimed to create an online marketplace, which would see them double the number of products available on their website.

The health and beauty marketplace opened in time for the key Black Friday and Christmas trading periods.

It has been integrated into the retailer’s existing Superdrug.com website and sees third-party marketplace products now sit alongside Superdrug’s own range.

Some 300 brands have signed up to the marketplace, such as UK brand Nature Spell, women’s razor brand FFS Beauty and cruelty-free ethical skincare range Up Circle.

Matt Walburn, Superdrug’s Marketing and E-Commerce Director, said: “Marketplace is the exciting next step in our digital transformation programme.

“Our intention is twofold; to promote diversity by supporting entrepreneurs and small businesses within the industry and to dramatically increase our range on Superdrug.com; broadening and strengthening our accessible beauty and health offering to our customers.”

The post Superdrug’s online marketplace goes live first appeared on Neighbourhood Retailer.

Almost half of those surveyed (45%) claim they have avoided visiting the dentist since the beginning of the pandemic with those aged between 18-24-years-old significantly more likely to have avoided the trip (57%).

When asked the reasons for avoiding the dentist over the last eight months, 44% of people said it was to reduce their contacts while almost a third of people (28%) said they wouldn’t feel safe being that close to someone.

“Our health is in more focus than ever at the moment and dental health is a key part of that,” Dr. Niall Vallely of 3 Dental comments. “Prevention is always better than cure, so it is worrying to see that 22% of people are only visiting the dentist in an emergency. Having your teeth checked by a dentist every six months will significantly reduce the chances of bigger problems occurring down the line. Also concerning is that 19% of respondents say their teeth feel healthy so they don’t think they need to attend the dentist, catching a problem before there are symptoms will mean a much easier solution. All dentists are taking their role in preventing the spread of COVID-19 very seriously. With the guidance provided by the HPSC and HSE we are able to treat patients with the highest cross infection control measures keeping them and our staff as safe as possible.”

However, COVID-19 has also encouraged some people to make changes to their dental care regime, with almost one in five claiming to have made some element of change. Interestingly, those aged between 18-24-years-old (45%) are considerably more likely to have done so. Amongst those who have made a change as a result of the pandemic, over 80% said they made a positive change to their regime including brushing their teeth for longer (46%), making sure they are brushing their teeth properly (24%) and using an electric toothbrush (21%).

Dr. Niall Vallely added; “Many people have taken the opportunity to make positive lifestyle changes during the COVID-19 pandemic and it is great to see that so many people have improved their oral hygiene regime. I recommend all my patients use an electric toothbrush, so it is heartening to see this was one of the changes many were embracing. I can usually tell who is using an electric toothbrush from the quality of their oral hygiene and my patients tell me they can feel the difference when they make the switch.”

When it comes to the use of electric toothbrushes in Ireland, 37% of survey respondents said they currently use an electric toothbrush. Just over half (51%) of those who have never used an electric toothbrush before said it is because they feel their manual toothbrush “does the job”. Oral-B electric toothbrushes remove up to 100% more plaque, giving you healthier gums versus a manual toothbrush.

Survey participants were also asked what they felt the most important part of their dental care regime was, with 55% of saying it was their toothbrush. Respondents aged 65+ feeling particularly strong about this (63%). The remaining respondents said toothpaste (33%) or the use of dental floss (13%). While the toothpaste you use is important, the tool you use with it should also be considered. The Oral-B electric toothbrushes have round brush heads which are a similar shape to what dentist’s use, giving you that dentist clean feeling at home.

Adam Parker, Oral-B Brand Director UK & Ireland, commented;  “Electric toothbrushes should be the first step of your dental care regime in order to achieve your own personal dental care goals, whether that be brushing for the recommended time, getting a whiter smile, or just getting that Dentist clean feeling at home. We know that the three biggest issues for Irish people when it comes to their teeth are insufficient plaque removal, overbrushing leading to gum recession, and inadequate brushing time. Our electric toothbrush range was developed with these key areas in mind. Using an Oral-B electric toothbrush removes up to 100% more plaque, giving you healthier gums versus a manual toothbrush, avoiding overbrushing through built-in sensors, and proportionate brushing time through built-in quadrant timers.”

52% of respondents believe that an electric toothbrush would result in a better overall clean than a manual toothbrush. Oral-B have electric toothbrushes for every price point and life-stage, with everyone from kids to adults to those that want the most advanced technology with the latest Oral-B iO, or the simpler Vitality range starting from just €24.99 (down from €49.99).

The Oral-B electric toothbrush range is now half price in Dunnes Stores and Boots from now until Christmas. For more information on the range, see www.oralb.co.uk.

The post Research Shows Changes In Dental Care Regime Due To Covid-19 first appeared on Neighbourhood Retailer.

September which is the most popular month for births in the UK according to the Office of National Statistics.

With the highest number of births occurring over the next four weeks, Lidl Northern Ireland is holding its biggest ever baby event from Thursday 3^rd September and includes almost 70 baby products launching in 39 stores across Northern Ireland for a limited time only. This includes its much loved Lupilu nappies which, at just 4 pence per nappy, means that savvy parents can purchase a year’s supply of nappies for just over £200.

Savings

New parents can save more than £780 per baby by shopping at Lidl Northern Ireland

Starting at just 4p per nappy, this is Lidl Northern Ireland’s biggest ever baby event.

With one baby’s entire first year supply of nappies available for just over £200, it’s no wonder that 100% of parents surveyed agree Lupilu are ‘good value for money.’*

Private Label

The retailer’s private label range also ranks on quality, featuring skin-friendly leak safeguards, magical tubes for a long-lasting feeling of dryness and a flexible fit to keep your little one comfy.

Lidl Northern Ireland’s biggest baby event ever takes place from Thursday 3^rd September in stores across Northern Ireland. The first baby event of this scale will see the retailer launch a range of almost 70 baby products into its 39 stores across Northern Ireland for a limited time only, including new Lupilu Organic Baby Fruit Pouches and GOTS certified Lupilu baby clothing made with certified organic cotton.

The post Nappy Days at Lidl first appeared on Neighbourhood Retailer.

To stave off that hot, sweaty feeling, most of us will reach for a chemical-based deodorant hoping to stay cool and dry. Unfortunately, these man-made chemicals are going to do more harm than good. Most aerosols and roll-on deodorants will clog pores, meaning sweat will do it’s very best to escape somehow. The result? Irritation, discomfort and aggravation of conditions such as prickly heat. Because of these chemicals, our body is unable to eliminate toxins through natural perspiration, meaning inflammation can spread around the body. Our ability to regulate our body temperature is even reduced.

Thankfully, Green People can promise more comfort, less chemicals with their award-winning range of natural deodorants. So, why go natural? Green People deodorants are ultra-gentle and made with natural actives that really work. You won’t find any pore-clogging aluminium here; instead, safe, earth minerals and plant extracts work together in a 3-way action to offer you the best natural protection. Did you know chemicals in deodorants which prevent bacteria from growing have been linked to a range of health concerns including contact dermatitis? Most familiar brands will also contain alcohol and triclosan, while excessive use of spray deodorants have been linked to a number of serious conditions including asthma and breathing difficulties.

Green People’s certified organic Quinoa & Prebiotics Deodorant – £10.50 (75ml) provides natural protection against odour. Formulated without any trace of aluminium chlorohydrate, this roll-on deodorant contains prebiotics to promote the skins own healthy natural bacterial flora, thereby restricting the odour-forming bacteria. In fact, 93% of testers reported 24 hours of protection. Zinc ricinoleate, a salt from ricinoleic acid works like a sponge, absorbing odour molecules before they can enter the air while potassium alum (a mineral salt from volcanic rock) boasts powerful antibacterial action without blocking pores. Finally, rosemary, aloe vera and shea butter soften, soothe and calm the underarm to prevent irritation, whilst regulating the skin’s acid balance. Skin is left beautifully scented with a fresh citrus aroma. Other formulas include Aloe Vera & Prebiotics Deodorant – £10.50 (75ml) and Rosemary & Prebiotics Deodorant – £10.50 (75ml).

For those suffering from particularly sensitive skin, look to the Green People Scent Free Deodorant – £10.50 (75ml), an effective roll-on with prebiotics and aloe vera. Naturally free from parabens and pore-clogging aluminium, it has been made without essential oils and is certified organic; ideal for ultra-sensitive skin and allergy sufferers. Ammonium alum, a naturally occurring mineral salt, packs a punch against germs whilst zinc ricinoleate, derived from castor oil, acts as an effective natural deodorant without inhibiting normal perspiration.

The whole family can make the transition to natural skincare with the Organic Young! Deodorant – £10.00 (75ml), an organic alternative specifically designed for young skin. Formulated with ammonium alum, this roll-on stops odour in its tracks. This plant-based deodorant is pH balanced to be gentle on sensitive underarm skin and contains prebiotics to kill off bad bacteria. A gentle scent of orange and vanilla will leave you feeling fresh and dry for the day ahead.

Green People products are available from www.greenpeople.co.uk, independent health stores, Ocado and selected Waitrose, Wholefoods, Planet Organic and Revital.

The post Stay cool with skin-friendly natural deodorants from Green People first appeared on Neighbourhood Retailer.