Spurred on by competition, retailing couple re-invent family store

Siva and Jamuna Thampoo, who had been trading under an independent fascia with Nisa for more than a decade, initially decided to put the store on the market when a Tesco Express launched nearby.

But, husband-and-wife team later decided to invest in their shop and show shoppers how independent retail can really stand out from the crowd.

Early signs following the refit are showing a steady increase in turnover and as shoppers become aware of the improved offer, footfall and basket spend is expected to grow accordingly.

“Sales are going up which we are obviously pleased with and we are getting shoppers back and especially more youngsters coming in,” Siva Thampoo said.

“With the cost-of-living crisis it is a difficult time for trading but it was the right decision to keep the store and develop it and we are looking forward to seeing how it goes over the next few months.”

Once the Thampoos abandoned their plans to sell up and look for a new venture, the store underwent a complete overhaul. With the support of the Nisa team, the couple created a modern and contemporary convenience store, adding in a wide variety of products and services which was completed with the installation of latest Nisa Local fascia.

Nisa Retail Development Manager, Richard Bishop, said: “We spent a lot of time discussing how to take the store forward and the changes that could be made to really make it stand out.

“They saw the opportunity to make a go of the business by adding in some features that would appeal to their shoppers and dived headfirst into the refit.”

Completing the refit in summer and launching in early September, the Guildford store has been totally transformed, incorporating a range of ideas designed to make the store individual and a go to destination shop in the neighbourhood.

Store development manager, Derek Saunders, added: “The store was tired and in need of some attention. We introduced food to go and fresh coffee, extended the space for alcohol and increased the chilled offering as well as undertaking a full range review and increased the Co-op offering. It has given the store a whole new lease of life and there has been some great feedback.”