Booker invites pubs to 'thank you' event

Booker is kicking off 2009 with a two-day 'thank you' to customers.

On January 22 and 23, the cash and carry group will empty its head office, with all senior staff working in branches to meet customers. Staff in all 172 Booker outlets will also take to the shop floor to welcome customers to the event.

"2008 was a challenging year for independent businesses," said Charles Wilson, chief executive. "The credit crisis, reduced consumer spending and the lack of support for small business from the Government and banks conspired to make it a difficult year for our customers.

"We are therefore grateful that customers increased their spend at Booker and we want to say thank you."

The event will include discounts on food and drink, including major brands There will also be product tastings and free stock. Invitations have gone out to existing customers, but all publicans are welcome - whether they are current Booker customers or not.

"We wanted to get the New Year off to a great start by thanking our customers for their business in 2008," said Ron Hickey, director of catering. "Last year was tough for the trade, as we don't take that business for granted."

He added: "This is a massive event and the first of its kind we have done. I hope all independent pubs will come to their local branch so we can say a special thank you to them.

"Our priority for 2009 is to get even closer to our customers, to understand their business, and this is a great way to kick off that process."