Our recent announcement about holding prices seems to have struck a chord with members. Of course, we have always offered great value, as price comparisons with other retailers on like-for-like wines consistently demonstrate, especially when delivery is free.
The key point here is the responsibility we feel towards using your money wisely and, now that our major investments are behind us, we will be using any surplus cash that we generate to support lower prices – this is a bedrock of our mutuality and a hallmark of a member-owned co-operative.
The equation is very simple. The more you purchase, the more we can reduce prices and our most recent strategy reflects this: great wine, better service and a commitment to even better value for money. Although in times past we have asked for your help, for example to acquire the freehold of our cellars and offices in 1983, this is the first time we have set out to galvanise all members to create a virtuous circle between spending and saving. I can guarantee that any additional cash we generate through this initiative will be invested in the same great wine at lower and lower prices.
It is sometimes hard for The Society to stand out in a heavily discounted marketplace, but I do think that this approach really sets us apart. The great value you rightly expect from your Society just got even better! Of course, it also sets a high bar for service and I am pleased to say that our most recent surveys have shown record rates of satisfaction. We never take that for granted, and look at all the feedback we receive from members to see how we can improve. I’m pleased that most of you value free delivery for orders of any size, next day as standard and the flexibility we have already put into our Members’ Reserves operation.
As members ourselves, we will always look for ways to improve and make your experience with The Society both pleasurable and a refreshing change from the everyday.
Your support today will keep prices low tomorrowSteve Finlan, CEO
