Waverley TBS drops a 'minority' of customers
Drinks wholesaler WaverleyTBS has informed a "minority" of its customers that it will no longer be able to supply them from 16 April.
Waverley has sent out letters to customers who will be affected by the move but has refused to comment on how many customers it is dropping. It is believed a few hundred are affected.
The decision to cut some customers follows a strategic review to streamline the business. It recently announced 200 jobs could go as it moves to centralise its telesales and support functions.
As part of a new commercial strategy, Waverley has also reviewed all its individual accounts.
"In doing so the business identified that it could no longer afford to service all of its customers at the current level," it said. "Regrettably this has meant WTBS closing some of its customer accounts."
Little acorns
Licensee Linda Arthur of Bar TxT in Croydon said: "I felt very hurt. They are saying I am not good enough for them. We only order soft drinks from them but it will be a pain to source from somewhere else.
"I think I will try and find a local business that is small and keen to please."
Tina Saxon of the Haygate in Wellington, Shropshire said: "We are feeling a bit peeved that we have to go through having to find a new supplier."
Licensee Sam Mcgunigle added: "I have sent them an email telling them how I feel. They should remember from little acorns big oak trees grow."
Difficult decision
Mark Riley, Sales Director, WaverleyTBS said: "These have been difficult decisions to make, but WTBS has always prided itself in its level of service, but that service also comes at a cost. The harsh reality is that in the present economic circumstances with some customers that cost outweighs the benefit to our business.
"It is well documented that the drinks sector continues to face some considerable challenges and our business has to evolve to remain sustainable and competitive.
"The changes will affect a minority of our customers but will enable WTBS to be in a position to provide a more tailored, relevant and responsive service to its customers going forward."
