The initiative will give retailers the chance to familiarise themselves with the latest product launches and ‘must stock’ core lines, with a view to stocking the products and increasing profitability and sales in their stores.

Sugro has already run a successful trial with its Northern Ireland based member O’Reilly’s Wholesale. Managing director Derek O’Reilly commented: “This has been a great success. Our customers enjoyed receiving the sample box free of charge and thought it was a nice gesture from O’Reilly’s and Sugro. 75% of the customers that have been offered the O’Reilly’s/Sugro box have given the representative an order for the products listed in the box.”

Yulia Petitt, head of commercial & marketing at Sugro UK, added: “At Sugro, we’re committed to working with both members and suppliers to deliver new and exciting marketing initiatives to maximise sales growth and distribution opportunities across the wholesale and retail arenas.

“I’m delighted with the launch of the Retail Sample Box, which is a fantastic opportunity for the suppliers to showcase their products to retailers who are the final decision makers when it comes to purchasing stock.

“It is encouraging to see the results of the first trial with such a high rate of purchase orders from the retailers on receipt of the Sample box. I encourage all suppliers to get involved in this fantastic initiative.”