A success story about hybrid stores and sustainable development
Skaulo Livs Ekonomisk Förening was founded in 2020 when the cooperative association bought the grocery store from the Dyrlinds family, who had run the business in the area for several decades. In connection with the takeover, the association applied for support to carry out renovations, energy efficiency improvements and digitalization of the store. Although the project was delayed due to the Covid-19 pandemic and the long delivery times, the project was completed in May 2023 when the store opened its doors for the first time as a hybrid store.
Store development
When the store opened as a hybrid store, interest was high, and a sneak opening for locals was held on May 17, 2023. This gave the store the opportunity to test the new model and ensure that everything worked as it should.
Sales have increased steadily every month since the start and in June 2024 a sales record was set with SEK 299.
During one year of operation, from May 2023 to May 2024, total turnover increased by 9,3 percent, which corresponded to an increase of SEK 840. Thanks to the new hybrid store, the store was able to report an annual profit of just over SEK 739 for the first time.
Challenges
Despite the success, there have been some problems along the way. Among the minor problems, the store has had to deal with software issues and theft. However, the biggest problem was discovered only after a few months of operation, when the old refrigeration and freezing system, which had been in operation since the 80s, was unable to operate 24/7. The system began to lose efficiency, forming a lot of ice and causing food to be thrown away. It quickly became clear that the system needed to be replaced to ensure the store could continue to operate efficiently.
New refrigeration and freezing plant
To address this problem, Skaulo Livs Ekonomisk Förening applied for investment support from Region Norrbotten to replace the old facility with a modern, environmentally friendly CO2-powered refrigeration and freezing facility. The support was granted and the project was implemented in the fall of 2024 and was recently completed with very positive results.
Results and future
The new refrigeration and freezing facility is expected to reduce the store's energy consumption by at least 50 percent, improving sustainability and reducing environmental impact. The store's turnover and sales via the hybrid store continue to increase. Customers are incredibly well-behaved and the store has had very few problems with theft/vandalism, making the workflow safer and more efficient. Skaulo Livs Ekonomisk Förening continues to invest in environmentally friendly solutions and digitalization, and recommends that others not hesitate to invest in digital stores as an adaptation to future customer needs.
Text: Petra Selberg
Image: Therese Svalkvist