There is a report in the Irish media that Superquinn, just recently acquired from the Quinn family by Select Retail Holdings, is considering the possibility of franchising both its supermarket and convenience store concepts.
While the company’s supermarkets have been legendary for their customer service levels, Superquinn has had less success in the c-store business. Its first foray, SuperQ, was a joint venture with Texaco that didn’t work out. However, the company has been plotting a new convenience strategy, convinced that c-stores would give it access to customers and real estate that would generate growth.
The new c-store strategy was largely plotted by Eamonn Quinn, though – who departed Superquinn when it was sold to Select Retail.
While the company’s supermarkets have been legendary for their customer service levels, Superquinn has had less success in the c-store business. Its first foray, SuperQ, was a joint venture with Texaco that didn’t work out. However, the company has been plotting a new convenience strategy, convinced that c-stores would give it access to customers and real estate that would generate growth.
The new c-store strategy was largely plotted by Eamonn Quinn, though – who departed Superquinn when it was sold to Select Retail.
- KC's View:
- We don’t know enough about this plan to make a final judgment, but our first instinct is to worry that franchising out the Superquinn name will result in a diminution of the company’s reputation. After all, there always was a thick straight line running between each of the stores and Superquinn’s support office. The line would be dotted at best if franchising takes place.
