SELF-SERVICE—WITH A PERSONAL TOUCH

Press, Volume CII, Issue 30211, 16 August 1963, Page 19

SELF-SERVICE—WITH A PERSONAL TOUCH

[By Our Grocery Correspondent]

Most grocery shops in the city and suburbs have switched to self-service and new stores being built offer this type of service, but some customers, particularly the older ones, still look for personal service.

Because of this many grocers are thinking again about self-service and are offering more of the old-fashioned personal service to their customers. They are finding that shoppers are looking for the personal touch more than just the latest “specials.” This trend is just another indication of today’s intense competition in the grocery trade.

Australian Dried Vine Fruits. —At the beginning of the month the Australian Dried Fruits Control Board informed their New Zealand agents that the total tonnage of New Zealand orders for seeded raisins exceeded the tonnage available, and it was necessary to reduce orders. The currant position was also serious, and latest information is that all orders on hand will be reduced by onethird. The board has declined orders from other countries, and only 674 tons is available for New Zealand

Instant Mashed Potato. —Several weeks ago the release of an instant mashed potato under the brand of ''Deb” in Christchurch was announced. Deb is distributed by New Zealand Foods. Ltd., marketers of “Surorise” peas. The instant mash technique originated in Canada and enables the housewife to serve mashed potatoes in their original state Deb potatoes are packed in an attractive carton containing sufficient for four people, and retail for 2s 6d. Sultana Pack.—From Australia comes a new Uoz pack known as Tanas. It is a brightly-designed carton directed at the younger generation These types of packs have become very popular since the

introduction of seedless raisins from California tn this form.

Preserving Jars. Although this is not the season for preserving jars, the New Zealand Glass Manufacturers Pty., Ltd., of Hornby, are asking merchants to notify their requirements for the coming season. This, of course, is advantageous to them, and gives a general indication of what will oe required later tn the year. Last year was a good bottling season, but, in some cases, merchants failed to predict the quantities required, particu'arly the quart size, which ran out towards the end. Prices for the coming season are expected to be the same as last year’s.

Spanish Apricots.—lt will be recalled that Australian apricot orders had to be curtailed through a short pack. This, of course, means only limited quantities will be available for export. Other areas have been Investigated, and now supplies from Spain are available. These show a slight increase, and buyers could possibly fulfil the balance of their requirements from this area.

Bleach.—Messrs Reckitt and Cdiman (New Zealand), Ltd., the marketers of Janola bleach, have now introduced a larger size to cope with inquiries they have had for a larger pack. The new size will contain 64 ounces and is expected to retail at 5s lid.

Dates.—Earlier in the year agents were booking new season’s dates at prices to be arranged, and these were declared a short time ago. However, there have been discussions regarding freight rates, and this could affect date prices. Large surplus stocks are held in the United Kingdom, not only of last season’s but the previous year's. These dates are being offered at low prices to other markets, and could possibly have an effect later on new season's prices.

Trustee Merger.—Perpetuai Trustees Australia, Ltd., has been formed in the proposed merger of the Perpetual Trustee Co., Ltd., Perpetual Executors and Trustees Assn, of Aust., Ltd., and Queensland Trustees, Ltd. Mr D. R. Lysaght has been appointed chairman and Mr J. W. Dunlop vicechairman.