Barry’s Stores switches from Premier to SPAR

Barry’s Stores – a group of four stores in Glasgow and Paisley – has switched from Premier to SPAR.

Run by father and son Barry and Steven Oujla, Barry’s Stores has been operating since 1981 and today employs 30 people.

Colin McLean, CEO of SPAR Scotland wholesaler CJ Lang & Son, said: “We are delighted to welcome Barry’s Stores to SPAR. Barry and Steven are great retailers offering their local customers a good range of food to go and fresh foods.

“They are firmly part of their local community with over 40 years’ experience in the convenience sector. It’s fantastic to see Steven working alongside his father as the next generation of independent retailing. The longevity of a family business is important.

“We look forward to supporting the family as they grow and develop their business over the years.”

Since moving to SPAR, the Clarkston store has been refitted, and plans are in place to improve the other three stores. SPAR Giffnock will be extended into the unit next door to create more space for fresh foods and a ‘beer cave’. SPAR Cathcart will receive a modernised shop front, while SPAR Paisley will be given a new exterior and refit inside.

Barry Oujla commented: “We are very pleased with our decision to join SPAR. We wanted a strong brand with a well-developed own-label range to take us forward. We are looking to expand our business and were looking for a partner to support us with our ambitions. The team at CJ Lang with the SPAR brand have been providing us with a huge amount of business support and we are impressed with the business development plans in place. We are excited about our future with SPAR.”