If we think Coles and Woolworths have too much power then we’ve seen nothing yet. In the UK, the major supermarkets each have successful local store models which are challenging the existence of local family-run businesses in high streets.
Check out the story from Get Surrey about how a local newsagent is fighting to stop Tesco Express opening in Farncombe.
I have been in several Tesco Express outlets this year. They are impressive, unfortunately.
The Tesco Express businesses are a big success, delivering a professional convenience model to local communities and offering a national outlet for suppliers of food, grocery and publishing lines. The big companies love these outlets because of their consistency.
The Get Surrey store speaks to the small shop difference:
“Little shops are the backbone of the community and now Tesco want that for themselves,” said Manisha Thaker, a long-time friend of the couple and customer at the store.
The challenge for local communities is that these outlets kill off local traditions, stories and connections. They ship more dollars out of the local economy.
They are, in my view, soulless shops.
Once Coles and Woolworths get over their hardware fight and settle in ann expanded fuel network, look for them to go after main street Australia … if they are not there already.
This is why our businesses need to be relevant, strong and ever changing.
We are promoting the latest issue of Melbourne Home Design & Living with a placement of the magazine above its placement in the magazine aisle. It’s the only title we are promoting this way – making it noticeable to everyone entering the aisle.
