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Discount Retailer Mere Entering Germany

Aldi and Lidl have over the last few years been seen as major disruptors in the European grocery market, initially starting in Germany, the home of hard discount, between them they now operate in many European countries. However, the model has evolved over the last few years, with expanded ranges from Premium, Organic, free from etc. All combined with consumer interest initiatives such as animal welfare, packaging reduction and increasing awareness to supply healthier food. Whilst brands do play a part, the majority of this range expansion and new product development has come from Private Label. This supermarketisation of what was once a hard discount model may now provide an opportunity for an old style hard discounter, but what are the possible ramifications of this?

Mere, a new hard discount format has opened in Germany. Owned by Torgservisa a Russian company, only formed in 2009. They now operate 900 stores across Eastern Europe and Asia. The first Mere store opened in Leipzig, in the Eastern part of Germany, with plans to open a 100 stores, Mere could be a new market disruptor. This first store is in an area of low economic activity, so it may appeal to consumers on low budgets. With a very limited assortment of products displayed in a store that has many features associated with Aldi in the early years of their foundation. Products displayed on pallets, no outer cases, no fresh fruit and vegetables. Even no Beer (remember this is Germany), rice, bread, noodles or water. Around 70% of the assortment is grocery (including chilled and frozen), the remaining range consists of pet food, household goods, drug store items and clothing. The group also seems to have a laser focus on costs, even using second hand customer trolleys, as evidenced by the mixed design and colours.

Mere budget supermarkets opening in Germany

However it is their pricing policy that stands out, with an EDLP (Every Day Low Pricing) pricing strategy, no promotions were evident. They are half the price of Aldi & Lidl. This price survey on 10 items demonstrates just how low their prices are. Aldi and Lidl have built a compelling proposition by offering extraordinary value through a combination of low retail prices for good quality products. This position, built over many years means they both have massive volumes of single products, which in turn provides economy of scale for their suppliers.

Mere Aldo Lidl price difference

(Source Bild, at IPLC we have made some slight adjustments to allow for pack size differences) Both companies follow a similar strategy of matching the quality of brands or indeed Private Labels that they see as best in class and then use production volume plus a very efficient supply chain to offer a range that resonates with so many European consumers.

Mere budget supermarkets opening in GermanyBoth Aldi and Lidl have also now evolved to ensure they have a high quality offering in fresh fruit and vegetables, with a high turnover on volume freshness is combined with amazing value. Also in most markets this category when optimised gives a halo effect on quality and freshness through the rest of the store. It is notable that Mere does not currently offer this category.

The products stocked in Mere at half the prices in the two biggest discounters must raise many questions. The first concerns quality, are they matching the quality or are products chosen just to hit a price point. This could mean, if the chain is successful a downgrading of food quality across the market.

It may also not stop at quality of the final product, we could see the impact along the entire supply chain. We could have lower standards for animal welfare, environmental protection, food safety and workers rights. All areas that have benefited from retailers looking to ensure the brand equity of their Private Label is not put at risk.

From Company Practice into Consulting?

We are looking for an industry specialist with a background in private label manufacturing or retail

IPLC is a boutique consulting firm specialised in strategic consultancy services and project management support to manufacturers and retailers. With a broad and unrivalled understanding of the Private Label industry we help our clients with a pragmatic and action-orientated approach.

With a deep knowledge based on many years of experience in both European retail and Private Label manufacturing, IPLC consultants interact closely with their clients. Founded in 2003, IPLC has been involved in many international assignments for manufacturers, retailers and the supply industry.

We have offices in the Netherlands, Belgium, France, United Kingdom, Ireland, Italy and Portugal working with:

  • Private label manufacturers in food and non-food.
  • Suppliers in short life fresh categories.
  • Food retailers and drugstores
  • Supply industry (raw materials, packaging and ingredients).
  • Private equity.

Currently we have an opening for the position of

IPLC partner for Germany

Our strategy is to have two partners in key countries one with a manufacturing background and one from retail. We have found that this combination provides the optimum when working on projects for clients.

Profile

The professional we are seeking should math the following profile (announcement in Lebensmittelzeitung 3 May 2019)

The ideal candidate has at least 10 to 15 years experience. Has a proven track record in the commercial role of Private Label gained in a major German retail or manufacturing operation. Possess an excellent understanding of the dynamics of the market and be comfortable in operating at board room level. Experience in strategic project management in an international environment would be an advantage.

Personal skills should ideally be:

  • German resident with good verbal skills.
  • Academic background combined with good writing skills.
  • Good analytical skills with the ability to focus on key issues.
  • Ambitious and passionate, with a result-driven attitude.
  • Charismatic personality combined with an ability to communicate at all levels.
  • Entrepreneurial drive.
  • Relationship builder.
  • Self-starter who is not afraid to be hands on, combined with persistence.
  • Understands and meets deadlines with attention to detail.
  • Self-confident and optimistic by nature.

For more detailed information on IPLC please visit our website

Interested candidates that feel they match this profile can send their applications by mail or post to:

IPLC
FAO Koen de Jong, Managing Partner
5263 CM Vught
Netherlands

kdejong@iplc-europe.com