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More Mugg & Beans for Total

This morning we received an announcement from Famous Brands who have entered into another interesting and innovative deal.

"Fambrands announced that it has expanded its existing relationship with strategic alliance partner, Total South Africa, to introduce a new offering to the upper-end metropolitan service stations in the petroleum supplier's service station network. Famous Brands will simultaneously retain its current agreement with Total South Africa to supply the Mugg & Bean brand as the exclusive coffee offering across the petroleum business.

We looked long and hard at various options before finally deciding and we are of course delighted that Thrupps has come on board in this exciting venture. This is taking retail convenience to another level. We are piloting this project and will then identify other sites that complement the Thrupps LSM range so that we ensure a perfect fit."


So basically they are going to start opening up Thrupps convenience stores at Total garages in affluent areas. I think this a fantastic idea. People have less time on their hands and this creates an offering that is almost unparalleled in SA. Their biggest competitor is Woolworths with their convenience stores but I think this will be a level above.

In case you haven't heard of Thrupps, here is a brief explanation from the release. Go check out their website for a better feel, there is a nice explanation of the grand history of the business.

"Since the business was established by Charles Thrupp in Johannesburg in the last century, Thrupps has enjoyed the reputation of Grocers of distinction

Targeted at key upper-LSM service stations, Thrupps will be positioned as a competitive alternative within metropolitan markets. Sites will be clearly branded as Thrupps, and co-branded with Mugg & Bean On The Move. Each Thrupps store will comprise value adding services including a bakery, hot food selection, pre-prepared and made-to-order cold food, salads, and fresh produce, a delicatessen range, fresh flowers, and a limited high-end grocery and commodity convenience product range."


Knowing the quality that Thrupps portraits these convenience stores will be a huge hit especially with upper end consumers who are always on the go. In South Africa we do not have the High Street culture where many people walk around in the Cities. Our Cities are big and spread out and petrol stations are a great stopping point for quick and easy consumption. Now we have a high end quality option.


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