Scooping up the next generation of shoppers
Shoppers at a family run grocery store in Co. Tyrone are enjoying an abundance of locally made fresh products thanks to an impressive extension that has seen the premises grow by a massive 60%.
Springisland Supermarket in Coalisland now stands at 16,000 sq ft after work was undertaken to develop the 10,000 sq ft store enabling an expansion of an already vast range of locally produced goods.
The development, which includes the addition of an ice cream parlour to target the younger generation of shoppers, was completed at the end of last year having been largely completed during lockdown.
Owner and Nisa partner Peter Rice, said: “It took quite a long time to get planning permission and so we started work as soon as we got it passed; it just happened to coincide with the start of the pandemic!”
The additional space has enabled the retailer to build on an already credible range of freshly prepared foods, something local shoppers are extremely receptive to.
Peter said: “We already had a good business before the extension but adding on the extra space allows us to develop what we were already doing and expand.
“Our baking is something for which we have been renowned for many years, especially our scones, and we also do lots more cooking and bakery products, prepared fruit and vegetables for shoppers to take home and cook, baby meals, cakes and desserts.
“We make it all on site in the shop and customers can see the work being done behind the scenes and that is an element they also enjoy with our bakery being part of the shop. The extra space allows us to build on that and increase our offer.”
The extended fresh food offer, teamed with a butchery counter supplied by Rice’s own cattle, ensuring Farm Quality Assured Irish Beef and now the enticing ice cream parlour, are all key to future proofing the family business.
“We have a very loyal customer base but as our loyal shoppers get older, we needed to ensure we continue to attract the younger market and get them coming in and shopping with us.
“The ice cream parlour is one way we’re targeting them; getting the families into store for the ice cream treats and then they move into the store and pick up their shopping.”
