Premier has told its major suppliers about plans to grow eight ‘power brands’ including Hovis and Mr Kipling.

At its annual supplier conference, last week, Michael Clarke, chief executive officer, outlined the key elements of Premier’s strategy and its commercial priorities going forward.

Clarke said the group planned to grow the highlighted brands through increased investment in innovation and marketing, together with a renewed emphasis on customer engagement and enhanced in-store execution.

“Everyone here today recognises that trading conditions across the industry are tough,” said Clarke. “We’re focused on building a business that is sustainable over the long term.”

Ian Deste, group sales director, set out the group’s plans to work more collaboratively with major retail customers, and said Premier recognised the need to develop innovative new solutions to drive sales in the major multiple retailers.

Following the conference, attended by 450 suppliers, Premier hosted a charity dinner which raised over £60,000 for its nominated charity, Help for Heroes.

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