- Introduction
- Case Study 1
- Case Study 2
- Case Study 3
To help safeguard the position of Northern Ireland's smaller independent grocery retailers in the face of new competition from the large supermarket multiples.
Nick Carson was appointed the spokesperson on behalf of the major wholesale suppliers to the smaller independent shops. His mission was to try to ensure that a sensible balance was struck between the provision of new multiple outlets and smaller local shops. He also played a lead role in the setting up of what is today the Northern Ireland Independent Retail Trade Association
Over a two-year period he secured many column inches and broadcast time on behalf of the smaller shops. He also briefed politicians and planners to start the ball rolling in relation to securing changes in planning legislation in Northern Ireland where the rules were much more lax in comparison to those in Great Britain and the Republic of Ireland. In addition he liaised with the already well-established trade associations in England, Scotland and the Republic of Ireland and studied their models and methods of operation.
The Northern Ireland Independent Retail Trade Association was set up and continues to fight the case.
" Mr Carson played a key role in setting up and launch of the organisation of which I am currently Chief Executive. He coordinated the launch, in association with the major independent grocery wholesalers in Northern Ireland and his role included all launch preparation and media relations. He personally prepared and delivered the launch address to an invited audience of political representatives, key opinion formers and journalists. He also gave live and recorded interviews for television and radio and briefed print journalists on the aims and objectives of the organisation. In addition he produced the launch policy document from concept to final production - a full colour summary of the key issues."
Bryan Gray, Chief Executive, Northern Ireland Independent Retail Trade Association