Unitas to launch new HFSS product check tool

Unitas Wholesale is set to launch a new High Fat Sugar & Salt (HFSS) product check tool through its Plan for Profit platform in mid-September.

The initiative is designed to help independent retailers prepare for the legislation.

From October 2022, the Government is introducing new regulations that will affect thousands of independent retailers firstly in England. Regulations in Wales and Scotland are also currently being reviewed and are set to be announced soon.

Location restrictions will come into force from October 2022, meaning that the placement of HFSS products in high footfall areas like checkouts, end-of-aisle units, store entrances, and designated queueing areas will be banned for some stores.

Speaking about the new product check tool, Tracey Redfearn, Plan for Profit controller, said: “With many brands set to reformulate their key lines to ensure compliance, it is important that retailers are aware of the products this new legislation affects.

“The Plan for Profit HFSS product check tool allows retailers to identify which of their stocked lines are HFSS compliant, as well as those that are impacted, so they can make an informed decision about potential changes to their product range.”

Further restrictions are to be introduced, including a ban on volume-based promotions, such as ‘buy one get one free’, for HFSS products from October 2023, and there will be additional TV/online advertising restrictions for HFSS products from January 2024.

This HFSS product check tool will be available for retailers to access through Plan for Profit or directly at www.hfssproductcheck.co.uk