Tesco looks forward with Dunfermline traders

The opening of a major new Tesco store in Dunfermline in 2011 has not been without controversy, but with the plans now approved for the Carnegie Drive site, the supermarket giant is taking a positive and opendoor approach to working with local businesses.

It’s been tough times for high streets across the UK and the arrival of Tesco in Dunfermline raised concerns amongst local traders.

Susan Hughes, Chief Executive of Dunfermline Delivers, the city centre’s business improvement company explains, “The superstore will no doubt attract additional footfall to the area but many of our members were wary that they may lose business.

“Dunfermline Delivers was proactive in contacting Tesco at an early stage and we’ve been pleasantly surprised that they have taken a partnership approach to the new store and have entered into a positive dialogue with local businesses to explore ways of working together.”

Tesco Corporate Affairs Manager, Douglas Wilson has attended meetings organised by Dunfermline Delivers, the latest one being a traders’ forum at the city’s Alhambra Theatre.

Businesses were invited to a brief presentation and then entered into a question and answer session to discuss the retailer’s plans and possible benefi ts for local traders.

“Tesco has stated that it is very open to suggestions and has made a pledge to work with local businesses for the good of Dunfermline as a whole,” Ms Hughes continued.

“Dunfermline Delivers has developed a wish list of potential initiatives that we are now working through with Douglas and his team to try and maximize the benefi ts of the new store to local businesses.”

The wish list includes initiatives such as a free, high street shoppers’ bus, retail and advertising opportunities within store, technical support and business mentoring for retailers and the collaborative marketing of Dunfermline as a destination.

Mr Wilson told the Alhambra meeting that Tesco is keen to work with Dunfermline’s business community and welcomed the dialogue with Dunfermline Delivers.

“We recognise that a new store prompts concern amongst local traders but our statistics illustrate that it helps bring additional visitors into a town centre.

“By working with Dunfermline Delivers over the coming months I’m confi dent that we can build a benefi cial partnership and we welcome the many ideas and suggestions that have been forthcoming.”

The store is due to open in the spring/summer of 2011 and is expected to create 300 new jobs in Dunfermline.

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Permalink: http://www.fifebusinessmatters.co.uk/articles/404541-tesco-looks-forward-with-dunfermline-traders.html

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