{"version":"1.0","type":"rich","provider_name":"Acast","provider_url":"https://acast.com","height":250,"width":700,"html":"<iframe src=\"https://embed.acast.com/$/68ba90fb4629f1c6be8b1259/68cd215b203f72ea57e07799?\" frameBorder=\"0\" width=\"700\" height=\"250\"></iframe>","title":"MICHAEL FLETCHER","thumbnail_width":200,"thumbnail_height":200,"thumbnail_url":"https://open-images.acast.com/shows/68ba90fb4629f1c6be8b1259/1758273858640-d99d90d7-e503-426c-9aeb-d15b5b86f429.jpeg?height=200","description":"<p>In this episode, Eimear Andersen is joined by SPAR UK MD, Michael Fletcher, a leader who has shaped the UK grocery and convenience sector for more than three decades.&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>From starting out at Tesco in the 1990s to now guiding thousands of independent stores across the country, Michael brings a wealth of experience and a passion for retail that shines through every conversation.</p><p><br></p><p>Michael shares:</p><ul><li>How he first stumbled into retail and why he still considers it the most fun industry to work in.</li><li>The unique opportunity and challenge of working with SPAR’s five shareholder businesses while protecting their independent spirit.</li><li>Why customer focus always beats shareholder focus — and why every senior leader should spend time working on the shop floor.</li><li>What today’s convenience shoppers really want, from value and promotions to food for tonight solutions.</li><li>The critical role of own label in driving value and competitiveness.</li><li>How independent retailers can balance local autonomy with the strength of a national brand.</li><li>The innovations, challenges and opportunities shaping convenience retail, from gamification and loyalty to food-to-go, own brand and digital engagement.</li><li>His advice to retailers and brands entering the sector: pick the right site, stock for your local community, surround yourself with great people and choose the right partner.</li></ul><p><br></p><p>This wide-ranging conversation is full of practical insights and big-picture perspective from one of the sector’s most experienced voices.</p>","author_name":"Eimear Andersen"}