Tesco Perth: Grocer 33 store of the week

How have you adapted the store to changing shopping patterns, being a Tesco Extra?
Although we are classed as an Extra, I class this very much as a food store. Non-food is of minor importance to my customers.

Do you carry out online deliveries from the store?
We have a very big dotcom operation. I have 40 to 50 drivers who have a radius of about 50 miles. We deliver to places that are right out in the sticks. It can be quite an experience for our drivers in the winter.

How is click & collect going?
It’s been very busy, though we stopped providing it on Wednesdays because that was quiet and it enables us to use our staff in the best way.

How have customers reacted to Tesco getting rid of 5p plastic bags?
Since we stopped I have had no negative feedback at all. The public are far more concerned about the environment than people used to be. Customers bring their own bags.

Are staff taking part in Tesco’s Land’s End to John O’Groats walk to raise funds and awareness for Diabetes UK and the British Heart Foundation?
I’ve got 10 people doing the leg from Coupar to Dundee, which is about 25 miles. Our staff are fantastic and they do a lot for local and national charities. We’re going to have a running machine in the store for other staff to join in, too.

How have customers reacted at being asked to round up the odd pence of their change for Tesco’s charity causes?
We’ve done this a couple of times now. It’s only been for the odd penny and it’s all down to the customer’s choice. We’ve not had any negative reaction.

How important is locally produced food for your customers?
Virtually all the meat on the fresh counter is Scottish and pretty much all our fish and poultry is too. Our counter won the Meat Trades Journal award for best in Scotland last year. The people here want local food and food that is in season.