Southern Co-op has successfully integrated electronic shelf labels (ESLs) in all of its 197 UK stores, significantly reducing operational costs.
- Over half a million ESLs have been installed, aiming to save the company approximately £220,000 annually in paper and printing expenses.
- The ESL implementation was part of a collaboration with Scotmid Co-op, which initially trialled the technology.
- Feedback from employees has been overwhelmingly positive, highlighting efficiency and ease of promotion updates.
- The ESLs offer additional benefits including displaying legal information, enhancing customer experience.
The Southern Co-op has rolled out over 500,000 electronic shelf labels (ESLs) throughout its 197-store footprint across the United Kingdom. This strategic move is projected to reduce annual paper and printing costs by an estimated £220,000, marking a significant financial benefit for the company.
The initiative was executed in partnership with Scotmid Co-op, which conducted the initial technology trial in a Scottish store in December 2020. This collaboration extends to Scotmid’s own deployment of ESLs, having completed installations in 189 locations by October.
Southern Co-op’s retail proposition manager, Pete Treasure, emphasised the positive reception from staff, noting that, “The feedback from store colleagues was so overwhelmingly positive that we knew we needed to move forward and roll this out across all of our stores.” Staff members found that the new system alleviated the previously tedious task of updating paper labels.
ESLs are not only for price displays; they allow for immediate promotion changes upon store opening and can include crucial legal information, such as allergen warnings and reminders about age restrictions with the ‘Think 25’ initiative. They also inform customers about available home delivery options.
Earlier this year, Southern Co-operative members also demonstrated their community support by raising £75,000 for local initiatives, underscoring the company’s commitment to both operational efficiency and social responsibility.
The complete implementation of electronic shelf labels marks a noteworthy advancement in Southern Co-op’s operational approach, enhancing both efficiency and customer service.
