AN independent convenience store chain has announced its ambition to nearly double the portfolio of outlets it runs under its Scotfresh fascia to 15 over the next 12 months.
Dynamic Retail, run by retail entrepreneur Shaun Marwaha and parents Jack and Rita, is currently looking at potential sites in the central belt to build on its eight-strong chain.
The family opened its first store in Riddrie in Glasgow's east end more than 30 years ago. But since 2009 it has been on the expansion trail.
Its second outlet came with the acquisition of the Churchills convenience store in Glasgow's west end in 2009, which has been followed by stores in Cardonald, Scotstoun, and Denny.
Two outlets in Irvine and one in Armadale have been added this year.
The company retains an affiliation with Premier, the fascia run by wholesale giant Booker, and brought in former Booker retail development controller Chris Gallacher as retail operations manager six months ago. Mr Gallacher was brought in to help develop the company's strategy, which features a prominent role for "food to go", such as salads, bacon rolls, sandwiches and coffee.
Dynamic is Booker's biggest UK customer, but in spite of that close connection the owners see merit in developing their own convenience store brand.
Shaun Marwaha, who graduated in management and finance from the University of Strathclyde in 2010, said: "We've enjoyed an exceptional relationship with Booker and indeed continue to do so.
"However, after taking the decision to grow the business very quickly - we had just three stores just over a year ago - we felt we wanted to shift the focus to our own convenience store brand and develop our own identity in the marketplace."
He added: "Growth has been swift but we are very acquisitive and see a great future for the Scotfresh brand."
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