We're making some changes to our promotional planning process

Background

To keep delivering great value for our members and customers, we’re making changes to how we manage the promotional planning process. From P15, we’ll be introducing internal quarterly planning sessions between our buying and finance teams. 

Why are we introducing quarterly planning sessions? 

These sessions will make sure promotional offers are right for our members and customers, while delivering the best possible commercial outcomes. Currently, the first time promotional offers are reviewed is during week 13 and again at week 11, which gives limited time in the process to make any significant changes to the plans. 

Introducing quarterly planning sessions at week 20 will:  

• provide a basis for richer conversations between Co-op and our suppliers  

• help deliver profitable promotions that work for members and customers 

• reduce the need for any last minute changes 

What does this mean for you? 

For quarterly planning sessions to work effectively we need your support:

• Click here to complete the new Promotional Nomination form for - P13, - P14 and - P15

• Beer, Wine and Spirits suppliers should continue to use their current forms 

• Click here to view details of the new promo planning schedule

• You’ll need to complete and upload the form onto Co-op Connect by Friday 21 March (subject to buyer confirmation). We appreciate this request runs alongside P8 to P12 promotional planning. We understand this will, in the short term, mean an increase in workload and as always we appreciate your support while we make this transition

• Please complete the form as accurately as possible for each promotion you put forward (if you’re submitting a Member Upweighted deal this should be submitted as two promotions). This’ll make sure forecasts can be made and space allocated within the correct period. Failure to complete the form fully and accurately may impact the space you’re offered

• For Member Only deals, please complete the form as per a standard promo (albeit columns W, X and V to be completed rather than T, U and V).

• For Member Upweighted deals, please complete the data for both an all customer deal and a member deal

Benefits 

We aim to provide more upfront visibility of promotions and space, thereby reducing the number of last minute changes.

Further questions

If you have any further questions, please contact your buyer.

If you're a Beer, Wine or Spirits supplier, please use your current forms and contact your buyer if you need any further support.