Online tool gives direct access to Coles buyers

Coles has recently adopted an online tool developed in Australia that gives smaller companies the opportunity to promote their products and exchange information with the Coles buying team over the internet.

Developed by Nicky Jackson, who experienced difficulty accessing potential buyers for her baby skincare range, RANGEme gives producers direct access to Coles’ team of buyers.

“Small and medium businesses can often spend large amounts of time and resources looking to secure a buyer for their products. RANGEme provides them with an easy and confidential way to access the right buyers at Coles and promote their products directly,” Jackson said.

“Buyers are time-poor but they don’t want to miss out on new and innovative ideas either. This allows them to know about emerging products simply by accessing the website.”

After learning that 70% of customers want to buy locally grown or made food, Coles decided to increase its supply of locally produced food and drink. Its partnership with RANGEme is part of that initiative.

“We are keen to meet potential suppliers face to face and try to do that nationally whenever we can. However, this new online tool means that small and medium businesses have an easy and direct way to approach us with their new products,” said Coles Head of Merchandise Support Jon Haggett.

The partnership also comes two years after Coles instigated a Meet the Buyer program, whereby Coles team of buyers visit different locations around Australia to meet with local producers who are keen to show off their products. Since the Meet the Buyer program, Coles has signed on more than 140 new local products.

For more information about the service, visit www.rangeme.com.au.