Welcome to Velocity This Week, where we dive into the latest news and insights from the world of retailer-owned brands. In this final edition for 2023, we’ll explore some exciting developments in the industry, including HEB’s new Spurs commercials featuring private brand, Waitrose’s international private brand expansion, and Spartan Nash’s “Our Family” scholarship program.

HEB Launches Spurs Commercials Featuring NBA Players

One of the most beloved retailers in Texas, HEB, has launched a new edition of its iconic San Antonio Spurs commercials featuring NBA players. This year’s commercials promise to be bigger and better than ever, with some new additions to the lineup. The spots will feature the seven-foot-three sensation Victor Wembanyama, along with HEB commercial veteran Keldon Johnson, Jeremy Sochan and Devin Vassell.

HEB’s group vice president of marketing, Ashwin Nathan, expressed excitement about the commercials, stating, “For nearly 20 years, we’ve enjoyed teaming up with the Spurs organization for these spots, which have become favorites for our loyal customers and committed Spurs fans.”

The commercials will showcase a wide selection of HEB-owned brand products, highlighting the quality and variety of their offerings. Additionally, HEB will release behind-the-scenes outtakes on social media, adding a playful touch to the campaign.

Waitrose Looks to Grow its Private Brands Internationally

Across the pond in the UK, Waitrose is making strides in expanding its retailer-owned brand exports. Over the past decade, demand for Waitrose products has grown by an impressive 92%. To meet this demand, Waitrose is rapidly expanding its range of products and shipping to more countries.

Waitrose offers a diverse range of private brand products, including chilled, frozen, store cupboard staples, and health and beauty lines. Their essential Waitrose range, as well as premium options like Waitrose No 1 and Waitrose Duchy Organic, are in high demand.

Waitrose has been exporting products for over 25 years, with their brand now available in 42 territories worldwide. They recently showcased their food and drink offerings to large supermarkets and distributors from Asia, Africa, the Caribbean, and Europe, further expanding their export portfolio.

Spartan Nash Supports Students Making a Positive Difference

In a heartwarming initiative, retailer and distributor Spartan Nash announced the winners of its inaugural Our Family Scholarship program. Developed by Spartan Nash, Our Family is their retailer-owned brand, and the scholarship program aims to support students who are making a positive difference in their communities.

Amy McClellan, Spartan Nash’s EVP and chief customer officer, expressed pride in recognizing these student leaders, stating, “These individuals have demonstrated a commitment to serving the communities we love, helping make them better places to live, play, and grow.”

The scholarship program invited students from states served by Spartan Nash to apply for a $2,000 scholarship. Winners were chosen based on their community engagement through extracurricular activities, charity work, and other good deeds. The scholarships can be used towards higher education, including universities, trade schools, or secondary education programs.

Implications and Potential Impact

These developments in the world of retailer-owned brands have significant implications for the industry. HEB’s Spurs commercials not only entertain fans but also serve as a powerful marketing tool for their brands. By featuring NBA players and showcasing the wide selection of HEB-owned brand products, the commercials create a strong association between quality and the HEB brand.

Waitrose’s international expansion highlights the growing demand for retailer-owned brand products globally. By shipping to more countries and offering a greater range of products, Waitrose is capitalizing on this demand and solidifying its position as a leading private brand. This expansion also presents an opportunity for Waitrose to introduce new customers to their brand and build brand loyalty.

Spartan Nash’s Our Family Scholarship program demonstrates the commitment of retailer-owned brands to their communities. By supporting students who are actively making a positive difference, Spartan Nash is not only investing in education but also fostering a sense of community and social responsibility. This initiative helps strengthen the bond between the retailer-owned brand and its customers, creating a positive brand image.

Conclusion and Future Outlook

As we wrap up 2023, it’s clear that retailer-owned brands continue to make waves in the industry. From HEB’s entertaining commercials to Waitrose’s international expansion and Spartan Nash’s scholarship program, these brands are pushing boundaries and redefining what it means to be a retailer-owned brand.

Looking ahead to the future, we can expect further innovation and growth in the retailer-owned brand space. Retailers and their brands are setting the bar high, and others are sure to follow suit. As consumer preferences continue to evolve, retailer-owned brands will play a crucial role in meeting their needs and providing high-quality, affordable products.

So, as we bid farewell to 2023, let’s raise a glass to the exciting developments in the world of retailer-owned brands and look forward to what the new year will bring. Cheers to a prosperous and innovative future for the industry!