Spar Scotland revealed plans to launch its first solo gamification campaign – Spin into Spring – as well as a CJ’s food to go loyalty app, at its annual Tradeshow in Aviemore last Thursday (25th September).
Almost 900 retailers, suppliers and colleagues gathered under the event’s 2025 theme, ‘Inspiring Success’, to explore how to unlock future growth through new product development, smarter systems and bold investment.
CEO Colin McLean reflected on the tough times facing the convenience channel. “It’s been a difficult year for convenience in Scotland,” he said. “Trading conditions have been challenging, and we expect to face continued economic headwinds in the months ahead. Inflationary pressures, shifts in consumer behaviour and rising operating costs are all contributing to an environment where resilience and adaptability are more important than ever.”
Yet despite the pressures, McLean delivered a message of cautious optimism and determination, reaffirming Spar Scotland’s long-term commitment to strengthening its retail and wholesale offer.
“We are under no illusion about the realities of the market, but we remain absolutely focused on building the best possible version of Spar for shoppers, suppliers and independent retailers alike. That means doubling down on investment where it counts – modernising our stores, supporting our people, developing our supply chain and backing innovation that adds real value.”
Discussed on the day was the advancement of Spar Scotland’s technology infrastructure, with the Relex demand planning and forecasting platform now live across the supplier network. Rollout across all 115 company-owned stores is complete, a significant step toward improving product availability and forecasting accuracy.
The business has acquired 12 new company-owned stores in the last year, including three former Eddy’s Food Station outlets and nine Scotfresh convenience stores. These sites have undergone a transformation, with new store fronts, signage, product ranges and upgraded interiors that reflect Spar Scotland’s modern identity while retaining the trusted local feel shoppers expect.
The continued rollout of Barista Bar coffee and the deployment of Electronic Shelf Edge Labels (ESELs) and digital signage is further enhancing the shopping experience across the estate. Meanwhile, the company’s Dundee head office has undergone a refurbishment, creating a modern and welcoming environment for colleagues.
“We have made a huge investment across transportation, systems, stores and people,” added McLean. “This is not just about growth; it’s about delivering value and resilience in a sustainable, scalable way. We are here for the long haul, and we want to ensure Spar remains the fascia of choice for ambitious independent retailers in Scotland.”
The event also spotlighted Spar Scotland’s own label innovation, market-leading promotions and first-to-market launches, as well as the ongoing Discover Spar Scotland campaign, designed to attract new independent retailers by showcasing the benefits of joining the symbol. Fully funded places for prospective retailers were offered in the run up to the event, providing first-hand insight into the tools, infrastructure and support behind the brand.
Digital progression remains a strategic focus, with Spar Scotland continuing its progress in enhancing its capabilities in hyper-local targeting, gamification and email marketing – all tools that help drive footfall, deepen shopper engagement and reinforce local relevance at store level.
As well as unveiling the new CJ’s food to go loyalty app, Spar Scotland revealed it was “going solo” on the gamification front with a Spar Scotland exclusive Spin into Spring activation, which will launch on 12th March. Suppliers will be invited to a virtual briefing on 16th October to find out more.
The initiative follows on from past collaborative success with fellow Spar UK Regional Distribution Centres with Win with Every Goal and Frozen Fortune.
Delegates were also inspired by Alf Dunbar, creator of the ‘You Are The Difference’ coaching programme, whose real-life retail experience and motivational delivery re-energised company-owned store managers.
A record-breaking number of suppliers showcased NPD and bestselling lines in the tradeshow, building momentum for 2026.
McLean concluded: “We know the road ahead won’t be easy, but we are not here to stand still. We are investing in the future of convenience retail in Scotland, and we are calling on our suppliers and independent retailers to join us. Together, we can continue to raise the bar for what Spar can deliver – locally, nationally and beyond.”
