Low Row Spar makeover drives higher sales
Spar makeover at Low Row boosts sales after a 400-sq ft expansion, new kitchen and Food To Go options like a hot bakery unit, attracting customers.
M&L Richardson & Sons Ltd, a Spar North of England retailer, has seen success after refitting their Low Row store and forecourt. The store, located on the A69 trunk road between Brampton and Haltwhistle, has undergone a complete refurbishment and expansion, adding around 400 sq. ft. to its size.
The refit has incorporated a new kitchen area, taking the total space to 1,500 sq. ft. The changes include an enhanced Food To Go offering, featuring a hot Clayton Park Bakery food unit and two new Cheeky Coffee machines dispensing iced coffees.
New energy-efficient refrigeration, modern space-saving shelving, and bright LED lighting have been installed throughout the store. A new customer counter has also been introduced, improving the overall shopping experience.
Externally, the Shell forecourt has been updated with the latest graphics and branding, and new lighting has been fitted around the canopy. The refurbishment has been well-received by customers, with sales improving since the changes were made.
Martyn Richardson, one of the four brothers who are directors of M&L Richardson & Sons Ltd, expressed his satisfaction with the refit, thanking the team and James Hall for their work. He noted that the development has been positive, with the introduction of the Cheeky Coffee brand and the Clayton Park Bakery unit improving margins and allowing for link deals.
The Richardsons have continued to grow and invest in their business, currently operating 11 sites across Cumbria, Northumberland, and County Durham. Planning has been approved to redevelop the family’s forecourt and Spar store at Crossways in Gretna, and Spar Frizington in West Cumbria has been given the green light for an expanded community store and brand-new forecourt.
Martyn Richardson emphasized the importance of progressing and innovating, particularly with the next generation of the family, including his niece Ellie, joining the business. Ellie, who started in the business after completing a Level 2 Retail Apprenticeship, is training to be an Area Manager and is currently focused on the Spar store at Low Row.
Ellie highlighted the variety and fast-paced nature of the industry, noting that no day is the same. She has been involved in various aspects of the business, including washing cars, covering shifts on the tills, and helping manage the car workshop at Low Row. With the recent store refit and expansion, Ellie is prioritizing food hygiene and safety, a growing part of the business.
