Ryan joins *shopt to continue growth of retail-tech revolution for convenience channel
The UK’s largest retail engagement multi-brand cash incentives app *shopt has appointed Martin Ryan as its new Managing Director to spearhead the platform’s development in the UK alongside expansion into new markets – hot on the heels of the app recording its biggest ever month in December 2020.
Martin Ryan joins *shopt from parent company CPM after the platform reached a milestone of more than £2m paid out across its 20,000+ registered users; a successful launch into Ireland and the Netherlands; and more than 35 brands signing up to use the app and digitally engage with convenience retailers.
Ryan has a 20-year association with CPM – first joining in 2000 as Sales & Marketing Director and most recently holding the position of Chief Developmental Officer and Global Client Lead, having spent time running the CPM Asia business. He brings a wealth of experience in sales and marketing and is charged with bringing *shopt to new markets, expanding the apps recent on-trade launch, implementing enhancements to the app for its user base and building on its success to date.
The app supports many leading UK brands by facilitating NPD launch and roll out, providing unrivalled access to the independent convenience sector at a time when brands have spent almost 12 months adjusting product and promotional plans in line with evolving government guidance. According to Ryan, increased engagement in the app over the last year demonstrates a clear desire from retailers to have digital communication with brands, and for brands to find new ways to connect with the channel, whilst they grapple with restrictions on traditional routes to market and lack of opportunity for face-to-face rep drop-ins, as well as budget restrictions.
*shopt provides a unique platform connecting its 20,000+ registered users with global brands such as LRS, Diageo and Mars – covering key categories from soft drinks, beer, wine and spirits, to snacks, healthcare and confectionery.
The platform saw a 49% increase in activity within the app from retailers during 2020. Sanjiv Kumar, an independent retailer, said: “It’s like having a rep in your hand.”
Ryan said: “We’ve proven ourselves to be a viable, cost-effective platform that provides an invaluable link between retailers and global brands and we are keen to build on that success in 2021, enhancing the app further and expanding to new markets.
“We’ve provided brands with fast, tactical support in a time of unprecedented crisis, but the appeal of *shopt for brands is an important pillar in their convenience strategy.
“The benefits provided by *shopt are easily transferable across sectors, and we are looking at an extended roll-out into the on-trade through 2021. We will continue to innovate and work with users to develop and improve the service. As with many technological innovations, the biggest challenge is getting users to experience the platform and understand its value but we’ve developed a sizable and loyal customer base that’s still growing.”
The *shopt app now boasts more than 35 brands across all major categories with more than 100 offers live at any one time. In addition to cash offers, the app also provides support to retailers, offering resources to help grow their businesses on subjects including merchandising and ranging advice.
