Bestway Group is committed to support Costcutter retailers to help them thrive, said the wholesaler, amid the reports that Nisa is not extending the long-term supply arrangement to the symbol group.
Nisa, now rebranded as Co-op Wholesale, will cease supplying fresh, chilled and own-label to Costcutter stores from Jan 1, 2026, bringing an end to the long-term supply arrangement with The Co-op.
The present contract is ending on Dec 31 this year. It was initiated in 2018.
Reaffirming its support to Costcutter retailers, a Bestway spokesperson told Asian Trader, "At Bestway, our number one priority is supporting our customers and, in this case, our Costcutter retailers.
"Like all businesses we are looking to the future to remain competitive in the market and provide our customers with the best offer, to help our retailers thrive.
"We appreciate your understanding and will provide additional information when appropriate.”
The ceasing of Bestway Nisa contract has been confirmed by a Nisa spokesperson who told Asian Trader, "We are not in negotiations and our contract with Costcutter ends on 31 December, 2025.”
It is understood that Bestway is in talks with Sainsbury's to procure supplies for Costcutter. Morrisons is also reportedly being considered though the wholesaler is yet to confirm the details.
Costcutter retailers have not received any formal communication yet from the wholesaler.
Contrary to the media frenzy reports, some of the leading Costcutter retailers to whom Asian Trader spoke to appeared unperturbed by the reports and are looking out for more details and clarification.
The report comes amid as Co-op rebranded Nisa as Co-op Wholesale, marking a fresh new era for Nisa.
As announced last week (March 28), Co-op Group re-affirmed its commitment to the independent retail sector through the launch of Co-op Wholesale, with its fascia brand being fully retained as part of the suite of services available to Co-op’s independent partner.
Marking a pivotal milestone in the growth trajectory for the business, Katie Secretan, has also been appointed as the Managing Director for Co-op Wholesale.
