We are delighted to announce our acceptance in becoming Co-Chairs of Efficient Consumer Response Ireland and to acknowledge that it is a great honour for us to do so. Our tenure will uphold the established ECR principles of Irish retailers & suppliers - working together to better serve the Irish consumer.

It is obvious that our world is changing and that trading conditions in Ireland are as challenging and demanding as they ever have been. As tough as these conditions are, our industry must ensure that it continues to develop improved methods of operating. We believe that the principles of ECR and the collaborative strategies initiated by ECR Ireland are more vital than ever, if our industry is to respond more efficiently to Ireland’s changing consumer needs.

We intend placing consumer needs to the forefront of ECR Ireland’s projects and projects will focus on delivering consumer value. We are committed to continuing the retailer/supplier initiatives on successful ECR projects that have helped shape many industry strategies to date, such as product availability, category management and shrinkage management. However, we are also keen to break new ground by examining how costs can be removed from the domestic supply chain. ECR will conduct consumer research to understand changes in shopper behaviour and how Irish consumers perceive value.

Above all, we want ECR to focus on practical issues, which will bring short-term benefit in the context of very tough economic conditions. To help us better understand the needs of the industry and your approach to the current environment, please indicate three major issues facing your business, as highlighted in the questionnaire overleaf.

We believe that current and future members of ECR Ireland will benefit greatly from their involvement and request that you contact ECR Ireland for membership enquiries.