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AUSTRALIAN MADE FROM PAGE 35 the supply arrangement was a win for the industry and for Coles customers. “Coles is committed to supporting local producers and providing great value for customers, and this is a fantastic example of how we have been able to act quickly to support our suppliers with an income stream during a very challenging time while also benefiting our customers at the checkout,” he said. Finding and promoting Aussie made Retailers embrace a variety of ways when it comes to sourcing Australian made products. Coles says it’s constantly on the hunt for new and innovative products, scouring the market locally and internationally, watching trends and testing products from independent retailers. “We also hold regular Meet the Buyer events,” the retailer said, “where suppliers can meet Coles buyers and ask any questions they may have about working with Coles.” ALDI also says that it is continually looking for new opportunities to partner with local suppliers and welcomes any customer enquiries or suggestions about local products. “If you’re interested in joining ALDI’s supplier network, you can register your interest at www.aldisuppliers.com.au,” the retailer said. Drakes Managing Director Roger Drake highlights the benefit of being an independent local supermarket: “unlike the major players, the smaller producers will come to us as we are able to introduce new local products within a particular category and have it on our shelves almost immediately.” “We also work closely with Food SA, and our buyers are always looking at new and fresh ideas which we sometimes see in smaller corner stores or at local markets.” At Foodland, Mr dos Santos says the business has a strong relationship with South Australian producers and suppliers. This is something “which we pride ourselves on”, he adds. “At a store level, we work with small local companies to help them find a place on our supermarket shelves. We go beyond supporting just the bigger producers,” Mr dos Santos said. “In just about every single Foodland store, you’ll find that small cottage industry companies who have approached their local store to test their products. Essentially, that’s how we find out about local products. If you ask many of the bigger brands in SA, many will say they got their start at Foodland.” Ritchies is implementing a mixed bag of processes to source Australian made products. “It may be from a team member offering a suggestion, or our store manager visiting a weekend market or local shop,” Ritchies CEO Fred Harrison said. “Often a supplier will come into our store to introduce their products. There are a variety of ways, but if we believe there is a good opportunity, we will pursue it. “When we open a store in a new location, we traditionally advertise in the local papers and on Facebook, inviting local suppliers to present their wares to our buying team at some point over a two-day program. This has proven popular with many suppliers, particularly in regional areas and they embrace the opportunity to catch up with our buyers close to home. “There is no doubting that the market is shifting to customers wanting a higher quality of product and local manufacturers have a greater ability to tailor make a high-quality product than many of the mainstream offers.” “There is also the traditional method of suppliers coming to the office to meet with the buying team by appointment.” Mr Harrison adds: “Social media has provided many opportunities, whereby we can see commentary from the local customers who may share what’s new, what’s hot and what’s ‘flavour of the month’.” The future of Aussie made The demand for Australian made appears that it’s here to stay. ALDI anticipates demand for Australian products to continue to grow. “As such, our priority is to maintain strong relationships with our business partners to ensure that we keep bringing a wide range of quality, locally made 36 CONVENIENCE WORLD JAN/FEB, 2021