As Nearby continues to grow, so too does its commitment to independent retailers. 2025 marks four years of building strong community relations and nurturing successful partnerships through this modern symbol brand.
Since launching their first store in 2021, Nearby has expanded significantly and now boasts over 160 locations across the island of Ireland. This rapid growth celebrates the brand’s market knowledge, flexible business model, and strong branding, all of which have persuaded local retailers from all over Ireland to join the Nearby family as independently owned convenience stores. A retailer-first approach is at the heart of Nearby’s success. Jason McSteen, Nearby IRL Sales Manager, emphasises the brand’s dedication to partnering with retailers who are as passionate about their customers, products and stores as they
are.
This commitment is evident through Nearby’s flexible model, which includes no fees, avoids long term contracts, and supports retailers on the ground with award-winning marketing, as well as store and1 design teams. “From day one, the Nearby teams work directly with our retailers to fully understand what makes their store unique,” says McSteen. “This collaborative spirit ensures that each store retains its unique identity while benefiting from the strength and positioning of the brand.”
Community first
Nearby’s community first philosophy is another key USP. It is evident in the brand’s strapline – ‘Never too far from home’ – which resonates deeply with both retailers and their communities as it highlights the convenience and accessibility of their stores, which are helping their local communities to thrive. This focus on community is further reinforced by the brand’s modern design, which enhances the customer experience and drives increased footfall. Retailers have also witnessed significant growth in impulse sales and the popularity of Nearby’s exclusive coffee concept, CUPPA, which demonstrates the brand’s ability to cater to evolving consumer preferences.
A strong partnership with S&W Wholesale, Nearby’s wholesale partner, provides retailers with a significant advantage. S&W Wholesale offers competitive pricing across over 8,000+ ambient, chilled, fresh, and frozen product lines, ensuring retailers can provide a wide variety of choices to their customers. This, coupled with their award-winning ‘Bring Home the Value’ in-store,
value-driving concept, which features four key deals during each promotional period, addresses the ongoing cost-of living crisis and offers value to local customers daily. Additionally, Nearby retailers
benefit from a minimum of two deliveries per week, with chilled and fresh ranges ordered on a pick-to-zero basis to guarantee freshness and quality.
Ongoing expansion
S&W Wholesale’s commitment to supporting Nearby retailers is further demonstrated by its ongoing expansion. The company is developing a 20-acre landmark site near Newry, Co Down, which will nearly double its warehouse space to 180,000 square feet. This expansion will allow for increased delivery
capabilities into dual markets, an expanded workforce, and a reduced carbon footprint through the introduction of solar panels, electric vehicles, and a new recycling area. This redevelopment project reinforces S&W Wholesale’s dedication to strengthening relationships with local suppliers, retailers, and consumers, ensuring well stocked shelves and a wide variety of product choices.
Staying ahead
Nearby’s commitment to staying ahead of consumer trends and providing proactive support to its retailers is crucial in today’s ever-changing market. By offering a flexible, modern, and strong brand that
maximises sales and margins for each store, Nearby empowers its independent retailers to thrive while maintaining their unique identity and service to their local communities. This is further enhanced through the brand’s award-winning marketing team, expert sleek store design, and 24/7 online ordering system, all of which provide Nearby retailers with the tools they need to succeed. Nearby is more than just a
symbol brand – it is a partner dedicated to the success of its retailers and the well-being of the communities it serves. Team up with Nearby today. Our passionate team is always Nearby.
The opportunity of being a successful franchise
You can learn more about the journey of becoming a Nearby franchise right here.
