Soft drinks company Boost has committed to increase its store visit programme in 2018 following positive feedback from independent retailers.

The firm recently sponsored its first round table meeting with a panel of leading convenience store owners, organised by HIM. Following the session, the company has pledged to incorporate a number of the group’s suggestions into its 2018 strategy for the Boost brand, which is only available via the independent supply chain.

Founder and managing director Simon Gray said: “For over 16 years we have created a brand and product portfolio to provide independent retailers with a strong commercial package, focussed brand support and a point of difference for their shoppers. And the mutual respect we could see, hear and feel in the room during the day gives me confidence that it’s working for everyone involved.

“Retailers want to see feet on the street and suppliers in their stores. In 2017 Boost visited over 20,000 retailers and now, understanding how important this is to retailers, we’re planning to upscale our work in this area in 2018 to continue to build distribution.”

The company also promised to “shout even louder” about its commitment to support local shops.

“In one campaign alone we reached over 40 million consumers,” continued Gray. “As a business we’re really proud of what we have achieved so far this year, and we have even bigger and better plans for 2018. We’ll continue to build brand awareness and increase demand, driving consumers into their local store to seek out Boost products.

“We’ve still got a lot to do, not only in terms of selling more Boost but also making sure that more consumers than ever know about us and our support for local shops, “ he added. “Indeed, I was humbled by the suggestion that we should shout louder about our achievements.”