In 1999 Holmes Wholesale Services – Northern Ireland’s leading cash & carry wholesaler - made the decision to introduce XL Stop & Shop symbol in Northern Ireland to support independent retailers seeking the benefits of a symbol group.

Initially, only a few stores were opened to test the water, but during 2001 a heavy investment programme and trade marketing campaign was initiated in support of a sustained store recruitment drive. The company now supports in excess of seventy XL Stop and Shop stores throughout the province. The growth of this relatively new symbol group in Northern Ireland mirrors the growth achieved in the Republic of Ireland, where the tally has reached in excess of 180 stores.

The XL Stop & Shop brand is positioned as a mid-market symbol providing a secure and viable option for small- and medium-sized independent retailers. Currently, the average size of member stores is 1,000 square feet. It is a transitional retail brand that introduces independent retailers to both the disciplines and support structures of symbol group membership. As the retailer’s business grows and evolves it is better placed to progress to a larger store format, if appropriate.

The key to the popularity of XL Stop & Shop brand is its ability to offer the benefits of a large symbol group while allowing the retailer to remain independent.