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Blakemore Trade Partners supports the independent SPAR estate of A.F. Blakemore & Son Ltd. 

The division was rebranded in 2011 as a result of the merger between A.F. Blakemore’s SPAR Distribution division and the SPAR trading, marketing and sales functions of Capper & Co Ltd. 

SPAR is the world’s largest international food retail chain and encompasses more than 12,000 stores in 35 countries.  With more than 2,500 stores, SPAR is also one of the UK’s leading convenience store groups. 

SPAR UK has five retail distribution centres (RDCs), which offer retailers everything from fresh food to financial packages and a comprehensive own brand product range. 

A.F. Blakemore & Son Ltd looks after all stores located across SPAR UK’s Meridian & Welsh Guild.  This is the largest guild of retailers within SPAR UK and covers an area which stretches from the Welsh coast to East Anglia and from the south east coast to north Lincolnshire. 

The guild system encourages retailers to exchange ideas with each other and to build successful partnerships with both their customers and suppliers. 

This is an integral part of the original concept of SPAR, which aims to bring independent retailers together and allow them to benefit from increased buying power and a strong brand.  This idea has become increasingly relevant in today’s highly competitive retailer marketplace. 

Blakemore Trade Partners also has a number of national accounts including Bourne Leisure, Pace forecourt convenience stores, ISS foodservice providers, and leading privately owned convenience retail groups such as GT Retail. 

As a family business, A.F. Blakemore understands the needs and values of our SPAR independent store estate and we are committed to achieving mutual success alongside the dedicated retailers we serve.

The company is constantly seeking new ways to support its independent retail estate and in 2011, launched the pioneering Retail Partners Programme.  This represents a £3m investment to reduce wholesale prices and the removal of distribution charges to participating stores across the Meridian & Welsh Guild.