Tesco removing confectionery from checkouts at all stores

 

Tesco has announced that it will remove sweets and chocolate from checkouts across all of its store formats by the end of the year in what it claims is a first amongst the big four multiples. .

The move follows research by the group that found nearly two thirds (65%) of customers said removing confectionery from checkouts would help them make healthier choices. Just over two thirds of parents (67%) told Tesco that confectionery-free checkouts would help them make healthier choices for their children.

A spokesman said confectionery would also be removed from areas adjacent to the tills - for example racks of sweets at children's eye level next to checkout queues.

Tesco removed confectionery from its 740 larger stores 20 years ago but the most recent move will apply to all stores in the UK including 1,800 smaller Metro and Express outlets. It will trial a variety of healthier products at checkouts before implementing the full change by the end of December.

Tesco Chief Executive Philip Clarke said: "We all know how easy it is to be tempted by sugary snacks at the checkout, and we want to help our customers lead healthier lives.

"We've already removed billions of calories from our soft drinks, sandwiches and ready meal ranges by changing the recipes to reduce their sugar, salt and fat content. And we will continue to look for opportunities to take out more.

"We're doing this now because our customers have told us that removing sweets and chocolates from checkouts will help them make healthier choices."

In January, Lidl banned confectionary from the checkout at all 600 of its UK stores after surveying parents. It replaced racks of sweets with dried and fresh fruit, oatcakes and juices.

Health campaigners and parents' groups welcomed Tesco's move. Katie O'Donovan of Mumsnet said: "Popping into a shop with a small child in tow can sometimes feel like navigating an assault course. If you've made it to the checkout in one piece it can be really frustrating to then be faced with an unhealthy array of sweets designed to tempt your child. It's really positive to see a supermarket responding to the views of their customers and trying to make life that little bit easier."

NamNews - Thursday 22nd May 2014