Arpico initiative to protect consumers

At a time when the global financial crisis has put a severe dent in consumers' wallets and their purchasing power, Arpico Supercentre, a pioneer in hypermarket shopping, has implemented a series of new initiatives to protect shoppers and the interests of community stakeholders.

Strategy

The hypermarket giant's strategy involves a careful analysis of every level of the supply chain to give shoppers the best deals and quality and also safeguard more than 1,500 suppliers, who directly and indirectly provide employment to over 20,000 farmers and other small business owners around the country.

Arpico Supercentre achieves both these objectives by dealing directly with small-scale growers and cottage industry entrepreneurs to obtain toys, linen, kitchenware, and other items, as well as home-garden and farm-sourced produce which are fresh.

By eliminating the middleman, the company manages to get the best possible price for both shoppers and suppliers.

It also supports small businesses islandwide by encouraging them to constantly upgrade the quality of their products and even facilitating bank loans on the strength of the Arpico Purchase Contracts they hold.

The ten Arpico Supercentres stock the widest range of products possible under one roof, with over 40,000 items on their shelves.

Consumers can choose from a selection of brands, be it homeware, kitchenware, electronic appliances, furniture and the most extensive range of groceries, food items and personal care products.

The company's dedication to giving Arpico Supercentre customers true freedom of choice is evident in its decision to stock competitor brands, in addition to its very own Arpico Family range of products, which include dhal, sugar, green gram, jams, sauces, spices, detergents, cleaning products and much more.

These Arpico Family products give shoppers the very best quality at prices that are often more than 10% cheaper than the competition.

Quality

By insisting on highest levels of quality, Arpico Supercentre ensures that shoppers always get nothing but the very best, whether its speciality meats and premium cuts or individually hooked fish that is free from the defects of mass-netted fish. Every Arpico Supercentre has a series of built-in cool-rooms that are temperature-controlled to guarantee that products are always fresh.

The Arpico Supercentre Training Academy was set up to give its staff rigorous training in customer service to allow them to anticipate and respond to customers' needs with utmost professionalism and courtesy.

The measures taken by Arpico Supercentre to offset the negative impact of the credit crunch are indicative of the company's attitude towards the relationships it has built with shoppers and suppliers.

By supporting its community and prioritising people over short-term profits, Arpico Supercentre has demonstrated its commitment to long-term sustainability.