In the 46 years since conceiving the idea of pooling buying power to compete against the national chains, Metro Group has developed, adapted and grown to fit the needs of our ever changing market place. As a flooring buying group, Metro always aims to achieve the best terms and prices from over 25 dedicated suppliers which allows its members to sell the best performing products in the market at a profit. This is just one of several benefits to being part of the group.
Over the years Metro Group has developed into a large membership of independent retailers from the smallest one-man operation to multiple-outlet businesses. Retaining independence is very important to the group’s members, who are always given the opportunity to participate in group activity, albeit optionally. This allows them to use all of the best benefits of group membership while being 100% in control of their own businesses.
A huge advantage of group membership is the group’s CarpetFirst own label which, again, is optional. Most retailers appreciate the benefit of rebranding and since the mid-1990s the CarpetFirst branding has been used to great effect by Metro’s members. Originally created by Phil Cotton, a member retailer in the North East of England, the logo and concept has become a familiar sight in Metro members’ shops throughout the UK. Modernised in 2002, the logo has lasted for 23 years before it was felt by many that it needed refreshing and modernising. In light of this the Metro Marketing and design team have recently created new CarpetFirst branding and a logo to give it a modern, clean and professional look, 30 years after its original conception.
The Metro Group marketing and merchandising service has a distinct advantage in that it is completely bespoke to the individual member. The group understands retailers all have different wants and needs, so having the ability to access a whole host of marketing resources means that members have a wealth of experience and facilities available to them that is custom-made to suit their needs. Members currently benefit from £600 plus VAT per year they can use on whatever merchandising they wish. Nothing is out of the question with this service and Metro’s dedicated team will work alongside each member to create what they require.
The marketing service is completely mobile and equipped with printers, cutters, tools and access equipment. Backed by a studio in the North East of England, the team travels the four corners of the UK working on-site with members on whatever project they need assistance with.
One service for members is vehicle graphics. The marketing team design, print and cut the graphics in their studio in the North East of England before the fitting team travel the entire UK installing the graphics on site. This is yet another completely individual and bespoke service Metro offer as part of the extensive marketing portfolio.
There’s so much more to Metro than just buying flooring. The group is currently looking for members in various areas of the UK. Should you wish to find out more please make contact.
Hall M, Stand 53 • 01204 393539 • www.carpet1st.co.uk
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