Leading cigar manufacturer, Scandinavian Tobacco Group UK Limited (STG UK), has announced the launch of a new online platform this Autumn to provide retailers with key industry information and advice on how to maximise the cigar opportunity in their stores.
The new trade website, www.stgtrade.co.uk, centred around the strapline ‘Let’s Talk’, builds on the consumer insights STG UK recently revealed, which showed many retailers are missing out on tobacco sales due to not proactively engaging with customers.
Jens Christiansen, Head of Marketing & Public Affairs at STG UK, comments: “Our research findings showed that over half (51%) of retailers aren’t offering their customers the all-important guidance they need on which tobacco products to purchase*. As one of the leading cigar manufacturers, we recognise we have an important role to play in helping retailers realise this opportunity by educating them on the category and how best to engage with customers.”
The online platform will provide retailers with everything they need to know on the cigar category, with a host of tools designed especially with the trade in mind. This will include everything from information on STG UK’s brands and products, the top-sellers in each segment, recommended ranging and planograms, as well as category management advice and top tips on how to build customer loyalty, along with retailer testimonials and success stories.
Christiansen continues: “The relationship between independent retailers and their customers is integral to sales success, especially within the Tobacco category. Taking the time to engage with shoppers and forge a stronger connection by proactively offering advice can really pay off in sales. The average profitability for cigars is double that of cigarettes[1] so it’s really worth investing the time and effort in understanding the category and different products available so you can in turn offer well-informed advice to your customers. With the launch of our new website, we want to provide retailers with all the tools they need to help them take advantage of this opportunity, so they can successfully grow and enhance their businesses.”
As part of its new online platform, STG UK has more plans in the pipeline to help engage with retailers and recognise the important role they play within their communities. More details will be revealed later this year so be sure to watch this space for further details.
*The research was conducted by Censuswide UK on behalf of Scandinavian Tobacco Group UK Limited (STG UK), and undertaken between 7th March 2018 – 12th March 2018. Sample: 1,000 UK adults, who smoke daily and also visit their local convenience store at least once a week.
[1] Based on RSP and average margins for cigars and cigarettes
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