retra Helps to Keep Trade Local

The Keep Trade Local Campaign, launched this month by the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB), will focus on keeping the high street alive despite increased competition from supermarkets and out-of-town retail centres.

Bryan Lovewell, Chief Executive for retra, said: “This is a great campaign and one that retra is delighted to be supporting.

“The high street is at the heart of many communities in the UK and we will support any measure that fights to keep it that way.

“Without the variety offered by independent businesses, retailing would soon become a dull and soulless experience for consumers.

“It has never been more important to make a stand in support of small businesses and retra will be encouraging its members to get involved.”

Retailers are being encouraged to take an active role in the campaign by signing a petition and writing to their local MP. The petition calls on the Prime Minister to secure the future of small shops across the UK by safeguarding the choice that people expect from the marketplace.

Andrew Cave, Deputy Head for Public Affairs at the FSB said: “The FSB launched this campaign because it believes that government and the Competition Commission have failed to represent the interests of independent retailers.

“ Independent electrical retailers are particularly under threat from aggressive marketing by supermarkets, but the Competition Commission has so far only considered the groceries market.

“We welcome retra’s support for this campaign and urge their members to sign our petition and make their voice heard.”

Peter Mann, retra President and owner of seven Sony Centres agrees that as many people should get involved as possible. He said: “I hope all independent retailers take the opportunity to make a difference and support the Keep Trade Local campaign.

“The high street is far more interesting than the supermarkets and offers far greater choice. To take away that choice would be disastrous for consumers. In Brighton and we’re fortunate to have a fantastic range of shops and I wouldn’t want to have it any other way.”

The Keep Trade Local petition can be signed online at http://petitions.pm.gov.uk/keeptradelocal. retra members can also print off copies of the petition here for family, staff and customers to sign.

For more information please call Louise Lloyd-Jones, Communications Executive for retra, on 01234 269110 or email louise.lloyd-jones@retra.co.uk

No role for retailers in digital help scheme

retra attracts new Industry Support

The Eurosat Group, Dimplex UK Ltd, and Pama & Co. Ltd are the first companies to become associate members in 2008.

retra associate membership is a simple yet successful way for manufacturers, suppliers and distributors to communicate with independents and send a clear message of support.

Bryan Lovewell, retra Chief Executive, said: “On behalf of retra I would like to extend a very warm welcome to the Eurosat Group, Dimplex UK Ltd and Parma Co. Ltd. I am delighted they have chosen to join retra and support the UK’s independent channel.

“retra is working hard to bring about positive change within the industry and I hope that many more companies will come on-board in the months ahead.”

Speaking of their decision to become associate members, Mike Locke of the Eurosat Group said: “We have been serving the independent retailer and installer since the launch of Astra 1A in the analogue eighties.

“As new digital TV products and services launch, we are looking forward to working with retra members so they can make the most of these new opportunities.”

Sony UK is retra’s longest serving associate member and will mark 18 years this March. Managing Director Steve Dowdle said: "During my many years with Sony UK we have always strived to build strong ties with the independent electrical retailer.

“Our 18-year associate membership of retra has been the key relationship, providing improved communication and understanding of the issues that affect the electronics industry.

“A common bond and sense of purpose unites us both. Sony has, and will, continue to work closely with retra and the independent dealer to create the business opportunities that bring mutual benefit to us all.”

Other associate membership benefits include a free copy of retra’s annual members’ directory, regular mailings of retra’s Alert magazine and preferential advertising and mailing rates.

For details on how to become a retra associate member please call 01234 269110 or retra@retra.co.uk

• The Eurosat Group is a global manufacturer and distributor of satellite & terrestrial TV & communication equipment. It is the UK’s leading supplier of satellite & terrestrial digital TV & consumer electronics to the independent sector via nine regional Eurosat branches.

• Pama & Co. Ltd is an international company, involved in the wholesale, distribution and product development of mobile phone accessories.

• Dimplex is the brand leader in electric space and water heating. The range covers an extensive commercial heating portfolio, domestic installed heating, renewable solutions such as heat pumps and solar hot water, water heating portable heating and electric fires.

For more information please call Louise Lloyd-Jones, Communications Executive for retra, on 01234 269110 or email louise.lloyd-jones@retra.co.uk

Big Names Confirmed for Annual Industry Conference

Billed as ‘A Time to Talk’, the event will feature two days of presentations covering both brown and white goods issues. An open forum will also give delegates the opportunity to put their questions to a panel of industry experts.

Speakers include Stephen Robertson, newly appointed Director-General of the BRC, and John Clare, who recently stood down after 13 years as Chief Executive of DSG International, the parent company for Dixons, Currys and PC World.

Market analyst GfK will take a look at current trends, and Richard Hammond, a leading Marketing Consultant will provide practical advice on how independents can improve their business in today’s challenging economic climate.

Danny Churchill, a Director of the Digital TV Group, and Mike Chandler, Managing Director of ASTRA (GB) Ltd will give their thoughts on the ever-changing landscape of the various digital television platforms.

Denver Hewlett, Chief Executive of Glen Dimplex Home Appliances and Jamie Lennox, Managing Director of Home-tek International Ltd will demonstrate how there is still good money to be made in the white goods market, while Chris Lucas, Sales and Marketing Director for Toshiba will examine the future of electronics.

Chaired by Geoff Woodman, former Group Field Sales Director for the Indesit Company, this year’s conference promises to be both enjoyable and informative.

Peter Mann, retra President, said: “We have secured some of the biggest names in the industry to share their expertise with independent retailers at this year’s Annual Industry Conference.

“It promises to be a fantastic event, packed with lively debates and controversial discussions. Delegates will have plenty of expert information and advice to take away and apply to their own businesses.”

The Annual Industry Conference will start on Sunday 27 April with dinner and live entertainment. During the course of the event, excursions will be available to Faro and Albufeira. Conference will close on Tuesday evening with a back tie gala dinner.

Partners will further benefit from luxurious spa treatments available at discount prices, and a special tour of the famous winery that produces Sir Cliff Richard’s wine.

The conference price, including Faro airport transfers, drinks, entertainment, most meals and five-star accommodation, is only £695 per couple.

For more information, please contact retra on 01234 269110 or email retra@retra.co.uk

The Annual Industry Conference is sponsored by:
• Alphason Designs
• ASTRA
• BISSELL
• General Domestic Appliances Ltd
• Home-Tek
• Indesit Company
• Roberts Radio
• Samsung
• Sony

For more information on the Annual Industry Conference, please contact Louise Lloyd-Jones, Communications Executive, on 01234 269110 or email louise.lloyd-jones@retra.co.uk

Bank of England cuts interest rates to 5.25 percent

For more information, please contact Louise Lloyd-Jones, Communications Executive for retra, on 01234 269110 or email louise.lloyd-jones@retra.co.uk

retra President and Chief Executive Announce Talks with Members

Bryan Lovewell and Peter Mann will travel around the country, visiting Scotland, Northern Ireland and Lancashire in the first of a series of meetings with members.

The visits form part of Peter’s work to ensure retra is talking with all sides of the industry. Peter said: “My presidential theme is communication, which is so important in a fast-moving industry such as ours.

“In particular, I want to listen to what retra members have to say. retra exists for their benefit, so it is crucial we understand the issues that matter to them.”

retra’s Chief Executive Bryan Lovewell also plans to attend centre meetings in Devon, Bristol, Derbyshire and Hampshire.

He said: “I hope as many members as possible will take the opportunity to meet with Peter and myself over the coming months. It is important that members feel they can approach me on any issue.”

There are 17 retra Centres, which hold regular meetings throughout the UK. These meetings provide a valuable forum for retra members to meet fellow retailers and listen to industry experts, who are often invited to speak.

For more information on retra’s Centre meetings, or for details on how to join retra, please call 01234 269110 or email retra@retra.co.uk

Consumers Prefer Independent Electrical Retailers

Independent electrical retailers were placed fourth in the survey of 77 UK retailers, who were judged on convenience, customer service, experience, pricing and product.

Many consumers said they were impressed by independents’ ‘excellent knowledge of products and good customer service.’

The only electrical retailer ranked higher in the survey than independents was John Lewis, who achieved second place.

Which? magazine concludes that the results show consumers are prepared to pay extra for quality service and an enjoyable shopping experience.

The findings have been warmly welcomed by leading electrical retailers’ association, retra.

Bryan Lovewell, Chief Executive for retra, said: “We are delighted with the findings of the Which? magazine survey.

“It shows what independent electrical retailers have known for years - that expertise and a commitment to good customer service are key to building lasting relationships with consumers.

“We urge the industry to take note of these results and seek to engage with the UK’s independent channel at every opportunity. With their support, independents can only improve on these achievements, which will be for the benefit of all concerned.”

Further down the table, Argos ranked 33rd, with Tesco and ASDA close behind in 37th and 38th place. Comet, Currys, PC World and Currys.digital fared badly, with rankings of 66, 70, 72 and 74 respectively.

retra and CIH Forge Closer Links

The move will see retra and CIH consulting on a broad range of issues to ensure the interests of independent electrical retailers are fully represented.

These issues will include Government legislation, problems with service and spares, and the involvement of independents in product launches and associated marketing opportunities.

Bryan Lovewell, Chief Executive for retra, said: “retra and CIH have a common aim but different areas of expertise. By combining our strengths we can help ensure a complete package of support is available to the independent channel.

“It is important that retra and CIH remain separate and distinct, but we will collaborate closely on key issues. By doing so, we can make sure our activities complement each other and achieve the maximum possible impact.”

For CIH the collaboration with retra represents an important step forward in their relationship with the independent sector.

Stuart Cook, Chief Executive for CIH, said: “We at CIH are delighted at the opportunity of bringing these two organisations closer together. In a highly competitive, service driven market, focussing our efforts will ensure we deliver the maximum benefits to our members and ultimately the consumer.”

• retra is the UK's leading trade association for independent electrical retailers. We represent more than 1,400 members, trading from over 2,300 outlets.

retra wants to see an electrical retail industry built on openness and integrity, which values, respects and actively supports independent retailers in the UK.

For more information, please contact Louise Lloyd-Jones, Communications Executive for retra, on 01234 269110 or email louise.lloyd-jones@retra.co.uk.

• CIH is part of Euronics Europe’s largest buying group, with 700 members and more than 1500 retail outlets UK wide.

For more information, please contact Gary Millar, Opportunities Development Manager, on 01264 320500 or
email millarg@cihgroup.com.

No Time For Stock Shortages

Flat panel TVs were one of the most difficult items to get hold of, with some retailers only receiving a fraction of their orders after enduring lengthy delays.

Syd Smith, from Aberystwyth, Wales, said: “We only received around 60 percent of our original order in time for Christmas. This was really disappointing and a missed opportunity for manufacturers.

“We also had to loan out a lot of TVs and stands, which are being replaced this month. These are difficulties that no retailer should have to face.”

Warren Butler, from Hawarden, Flintshire, added: “In the run-up to Christmas we experienced a shortage of Hitachi, Panasonic, Toshiba and Sharp televisions.

“Many independents are not in a position to place the large forward orders that manufacturers would like. All manufacturers need to understand this and explore other ways to accommodate the independent channel.

“The simple fact is that we would love to sell their products, but if they’re not available, we have to promote what is in stock. So it’s in the manufacturers’ best interests to find a solution.”

retra is calling on all manufacturers to act now to help prevent future problems.

Bryan Lovewell, Chief Executive for retra said: “The three months between October and January account for around 40 percent of retra members’ annual sales. So it’s imperative that the stock is there for them to sell.

“For many years, independent retailers have put up with stock shortages. It’s about time that manufacturers reviewed their supply chain processes to ensure independents do not miss out again at this crucial time of year.”

Independent retailers excluded from Freesat launch

Freesat is a joint BBC/ITV venture, which aims to provide over 200 channels and free HD content, for a one-off payment with no contract or subscription.

For the first six months following launch, Freesat has handed Comet, Currys and John Lewis exclusive rights to stock the product. Independent retailers will not be involved until phase two in September, and only then if they are members of Euronics.

Bryan Lovewell, Chief Executive for the Radio, Electrical and Television Retailers’ Association (retra), said: “We are disappointed and quite frankly astonished that independents have been cut out of the supply chain for the first six months.

“retra strongly believes the independent sector should have been involved from the outset, but Freesat did not even have the consideration to consult with us before drawing its conclusions.”

Representatives from retra met with Freesat on Wednesday 12 December to raise their concerns.

At the meeting, Emma Scott, Managing Director for Freesat explained that the three retailers were selected on their ability to provide comprehensive UK coverage, consumer electronics expertise, sales advice and back office operations to enable installation.

She said: “The key issue is the provision of support and installation at a national level. We have a strict set of criteria and selected a range of retailers who we felt were equipped to provide a quality service.”

But retra maintains that many of its members are well placed to provide this fully assisted service across the UK.

Bryan said: “retra represents 1,400 members who trade from over 2,300 outlets nationwide. When you compare this to John Lewis, who only have 26 stores, it is difficult to understand how Freesat considers them to be better placed to give a comprehensive level of service across the UK.”

Current retra President, Peter Mann, added: “When it comes to selling and installing specialist satellite services, you need only look back to the 2007 Sky awards. All the top awards went to retra members. It is a real testament to their commitment and their strength in this field.”

In an attempt to reassure independents, Emma Scott stated that Freesat did not anticipate the bulk of sales to happen until Christmas 2008.

John Hutchinson, former retra President believes otherwise. He said: “Consumers will be tempted by offerings such as free HD content instead of paying a monthly fee. With the current confusion over DTT services, the relative simplicity of satellite transmissions to consumers’ homes will be a compelling proposition for many.

“With digital switchover picking up pace, Freesat will attract a lot of interest early on. In my view, the decision to exclude independents for the first six months is undoubtedly a damaging one.”

When asked what independent retailers should say to customers looking to purchase Freesat during the first six months, Emma Scott said: “They will have to say that Freesat is available through major high street retailers,” adding, “though I appreciate that they won’t want to say that.”

retra is now seeking to involve independents in future Freesat developments. Bryan said: “We are pleased that Freesat is now prepared to discuss these issues with retra, but it is a case of too little too late. Rest assured, we will do all we can from now on to ensure Freesat involves independents in its future marketing strategies.”

retra Dinner mixes Business and Pleasure

Manufacturers and retailers mixed business with pleasure at a retra dinner held at the Redworth Hall Hotel, County Durham, on Thursday 14 November. The annual event, organised by retra’s North East Centre, attracted 140 guests from across the North East of England. Following a three-course dinner, a Ceilidh band persuaded many to take to the dancefloor. The evening culminated with a performance by a Freddy Mercury sound-a-like, who wowed the audience with renditions of Queen classics, such as ‘Bohemian Rhapsody’, ‘Radio Ga Ga’ and ‘It’s a Kind of Magic.’ Stuart Wiggins, North East Centre Chairman, said: “The North East Dinner is a popular event where manufacturers and retailers can relax together and enjoy a well-earned night of entertainment. This year was no exception, and I am delighted so many people came along and had a good time.” There are 17 retra Centres around the UK, which regularly hold meetings for the benefit of independent electrical retailers. The Centres give retra members the opportunity to meet locally and discuss topical issues with fellow electrical retailers, as well as with industry experts who are often invited to speak. For more details about retra’s Centres, please call retra on 01234 269110, email retra@retra.co.uk

2008 retra Annual Industry Conference is Your ‘Time to Talk’

Peter Mann, current retra President, said: “Without doubt, the Annual Industry Conference is the highlight of the electrical retailing calendar. It is the only opportunity for everyone involved in our industry to gather in one place and really get to grips with the issues affecting our businesses today.”

Speakers will include Danny Churchill, Director of the Digital TV Group and Ford Ennals, Chief Executive of Digital UK. With the digital switchover now well and truly underway, Ford’s progress report will be eagerly anticipated. Motivational speaker Richard Hammond will provide practical ideas for retail success, and Geoff Woodman, former Group Field Sales Director for the Indesit Company, will chair the event. More names will be confirmed in the near future.

Bryan Lovewell, Chief Executive for retra, said: “I am looking forward to my first retra Annual Industry Conference. We have some incredible speakers lined up and I am confident that a broad range of topics, affecting both brown and white goods will be addressed.”

The conference will feature a series of presentations each morning, with the afternoons free to enjoy the hotel facilities or take part in an organised excursion. Delegates will be welcomed with a drinks reception on the Sunday evening, manufacturers will entertain guests on the Monday, and the event will close on Tuesday with a black tie gala dinner and a performance by an internationally acclaimed singer.

The package price - inclusive of hotel facilities, evening functions (with wine and beer), excursions and transport facilities to and from Faro airport – is only £695 per couple.

The conference brochure is available to download here.

New President Set to Speak Up for retra

Taking up the post yesterday (10 October), Peter Mann, from Brighton, announced his plans to communicate more with retra members, manufacturers and fellow trade associations.

He said: “retra is a vital link between manufacturers, distributors and other retailers. I plan to talk with, and perhaps more importantly, listen to, all sides of the industry.

“We need to ensure we do all we can to secure the future success of independent electrical retailers throughout the UK. By working closely with the new Chief Executive Bryan Lovewell and the team at retra, I hope to help make the association even more widely known than it is today.”

Integral to Peter’s communications strategy is the Annual Industry Conference, which will be held next year in Portugal between 27th and 29th April. The theme for the Conference will be ‘A Time to Talk’.

Peter is an established independent retailer and retra member who owns seven Sony Centres across East Sussex, West Sussex and Kent. He takes over as President from John Hutchinson who completes his second term in the prestigious role.

Peter said: “I wish to congratulate John and thank him for all his hard work. He will be a very hard act to follow, but he has left retra in a strong position and I am confident that I can build on his success.”

The President’s charity of the year is the Grace Eyre Foundation, a charity dedicated to supporting adults with learning difficulties. In total, £2,000 was raised for John Hutchinson’s charity of the year Macmillan Cancer Support.

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