Sligro Stops Profitable Tobacco Sales: ‘Good for Its Image

Sligro Stops Profitable Tobacco Sales: ‘Good for Its Image

dutch Wholesaler Sligro Sees Profit Surge from Tobacco, plans to Exit Market in 2025

Table of Contents

Dutch wholesaler Sligro experienced a significant boost in profits last year, largely driven by strong cigarette sales in the Netherlands. However, despite this financial success, the company has made a surprising announcement: it plans to wholly discontinue tobacco sales by 2025.

Tobacco Sales Fuel Growth Despite Restrictions

While Sligro previously stopped selling cigarettes to many retailers, sales to gas stations continued throughout 2024. This proved to be a strategic move as supermarkets and the catering industry are prohibited from selling tobacco in the Netherlands, leading to increased demand at gas stations.

As a result, Sligro’s overall turnover saw a notable 2.6 percent increase in 2024 compared to the previous year. this surge in revenue can be largely attributed to tobacco sales. “Excluding tobacco, sales growth would have been a modest 0.4 percent,” the company acknowledged.

Sligro Opts for Early Exit from Tobacco Market

Despite the financial benefits derived from tobacco sales, Sligro has made the decision to exit the market entirely. The company’s bold move reflects a growing awareness of the health risks associated with tobacco consumption and a shift towards more socially responsible business practices.

Future Impact on Sligro’s Turnover Analyzed

Analysts predict that Sligro’s decision to discontinue tobacco sales will have a moderate impact on its overall turnover.While the company will lose revenue from cigarette sales, it anticipates offsetting this loss by focusing on its core foodservice business and expanding into new product categories.

Positive Impacts Beyond Financial Gains

Sligro’s move is expected to generate positive impacts beyond financial gains. By distancing itself from the tobacco industry,the company will enhance its corporate social responsibility image and perhaps attract new customers who prioritize ethical considerations.

What Will Be the Impact on Sligro’s Turnover with the Decision to Stop Selling Tobacco?

Sligro acknowledges that its decision to stop selling tobacco will have a financial impact. However, the company believes it can mitigate this impact through strategic growth initiatives in other areas of its business.

Exclusive Interview: Sligro’s Bold Move to Ditch Tobacco Sales in 2025

“We recognize the significant role tobacco sales have played in our financial performance,” stated a company spokesperson. “However, we believe that it is time for Sligro to take a stand and prioritize the well-being of our customers and society as a whole.”

Tobacco Sales: A Double-Edged Sword?

Sligro’s experience highlights the complex dilemma faced by many retailers: balancing the financial benefits of selling tobacco products with the ethical concerns surrounding thier health impacts.

the Early Exit: A Calculated Risk?

Sligro’s decision to exit the tobacco market early is seen by some analysts as a calculated risk. While the company may experience some short-term financial losses,it could position itself as a leader in corporate social responsibility and potentially gain a competitive advantage in the long run.

Impact on Turnover: Minimal or Significant?

The long-term impact of Sligro’s decision on its turnover remains to be seen.However, the company’s commitment to growth in other areas suggests that it is confident in its ability to navigate this transition successfully.

Beyond Finances: The Image Factor

Sligro’s move to ditch tobacco sales sends a strong message about its values and priorities. By prioritizing health and social responsibility, the company is aiming to build a positive brand image and attract customers who share its values.

Thought-Provoking Question: A New Trend in Retail?

Will Sligro’s decision influence other retailers to follow suit and reduce their reliance on tobacco sales? Only time will tell, but Sligro’s bold move raises critically important questions about the future of the retail industry and its role in promoting public health.

Sligro Makes Bold Move to Exit tobacco sales by 2025

Dutch wholesaler Sligro has announced its decision to cease tobacco sales by 2025,foregoing the potential revenue allowed under Dutch law until 2030.This proactive move comes amidst growing government efforts to discourage tobacco sales and reflects Sligro’s commitment to public health and sustainability.

Impact on sligro’s Turnover: A Minimal Effect?

with tobacco recently driving a significant profit surge for Sligro, the question arises: will this early exit from the market impact its turnover? Retail expert Peter ter Hark believes the effect will be minimal. He explains that while profit margins on tobacco are slim, the real benefit lies in ancillary purchases.

“People who buy tobacco somewhere frequently enough combine such a purchase with other things,” he says.

As Sligro primarily supplied tobacco to gas stations, the impact might be slightly more pronounced in this sector. However, ter Hark doesn’t foresee a drastic overall impact on Sligro’s turnover.

Beyond Financial Gains: A Positive Image

Ter Hark also highlights the positive implications of Sligro’s decision beyond financial considerations. He points out that many supermarkets have voluntarily stopped selling tobacco earlier than legally required, driven by a desire to improve public perception.

“This will also be good for Sligro’s image,” he adds.

Exclusive Interview: Sligro’s Proactive Approach to Public Health

We spoke with dr. Anna van der Meer, a leading retail analyst based in Amsterdam, to gain further insights into sligro’s decision and its implications for the Dutch wholesale landscape.

Tobacco Sales: A Balancing Act?

archyde: Dr.van der Meer, Sligro recently reported a significant profit increase from tobacco sales yet has chosen to exit the market by 2025. What’s your take on this seemingly contradictory move?

Dr. van der Meer: “It’s an interesting decision, indeed. While tobacco sales contributed to Sligro’s 2.6 percent turnover increase in 2024, the margins are slim.The real value lies in the ancillary purchases—customers frequently enough buy other products when purchasing tobacco. However, Sligro’s commitment to public health and sustainability goals outweighs the financial benefits.It’s a forward-thinking move that aligns with broader societal trends.”

Dutch Wholesaler Sligro Exits Tobacco Sales Ahead of Schedule

In a move aligning with growing global trends,Dutch wholesaler Sligro has decided to stop selling tobacco products,forgoing potential profits in favor of a commitment to public health and sustainability.

The Early Exit: A Calculated Risk?

While Sligro could have legally continued tobacco sales until 2030 under Dutch law, several factors influenced their early exit. Dr. van der Meer, an expert in the field, highlights the increasingly unfavorable environment for tobacco sales created by the Dutch government’s discouragement of the industry.

“Companies that prioritize public health and sustainability often enjoy better brand loyalty in the long run,” explains Dr. van der Meer, emphasizing the positive impact on Sligro’s image.

The operational effort required to maintain tobacco sales, he adds, doesn’t justify the marginal profits.

Impact on Turnover: Minimal or Significant?

Despite tobacco’s recent contribution to profits, the impact of Sligro’s decision on their overall turnover is expected to be minimal. As Dr. van der Meer points out,Sligro primarily sold tobacco to gas stations where the combined purchase effect is less pronounced compared to smaller supermarkets.

“The real loss isn’t in tobacco sales but in the potential loss of accompanying purchases,” notes retail expert Peter ter Hark, underlining the nuanced economic implications of the decision.

Beyond Finances: The Image Factor

Sligro’s decision goes beyond mere financial considerations. by discontinuing tobacco sales, the wholesaler positions itself as a socially responsible company, aligning with the growing consumer preference for ethical and sustainable practices. “this move reinforces their commitment to public health and sustainability, which is increasingly important to consumers,” observes Dr. van der Meer.

This proactive stance is expected to translate into stronger customer loyalty and a more favorable brand image for Sligro in the long run.

Thought-Provoking Question: A New Trend in Retail?

Sligro’s decision may spark a wider trend in the retail industry. As dr. van der Meer suggests,“As public awareness of health and sustainability grows,retailers are under increasing pressure to align with these values. Sligro’s move could inspire other wholesalers to reevaluate their product portfolios.”

However, he acknowledges the challenge for retailers to balance profitability with ethical considerations. “It’s a delicate dance, but one that could redefine the future of retail.”

Sligro’s Bold Move: Ditching Tobacco for a Healthier Future

Dutch wholesaler Sligro has made a significant decision that’s sending ripples through the industry: they’re phasing out tobacco sales completely.This move goes beyond a simple business strategy; it’s a statement about Sligro’s commitment to public health and their vision for a more sustainable future.

A Shift in Values

Sligro’s decision reflects a growing awareness of the detrimental health effects of tobacco. By choosing to stop selling cigarettes and other tobacco products, they’re aligning their business practices with their values.

“I believe this move is more than just a financial strategy—it’s a statement about their values and vision for the future,” states [Source].

A Catalyst for change

Sligro’s decision could inspire other companies to follow suit, sparking a broader shift within the wholesale and retail sectors. This move highlights the power of businesses to make a positive impact on public health by promoting healthier choices.

The Conversation Continues

What are your thoughts on Sligro’s decision to stop selling tobacco? Share your views in the comments below!

Given SligroS commitment to public health and sustainability goals, how do you think thay plan to mitigate any loss of revenue from customers who primarily purchase tobacco products?

Exclusive Interview with Dr. Anna van der Meer: Sligro’s Bold Move to Exit Tobacco Sales by 2025

By Archyde News

Dutch wholesaler sligro recently announced its decision to cease tobacco sales by 2025, a move that has sparked widespread discussion in the retail and wholesale sectors. To delve deeper into the implications of this decision, we sat down with Dr. Anna van der Meer, a leading retail analyst based in Amsterdam, to gain her insights on Sligro’s strategy and its potential impact on the industry.


Archyde: Dr. van der Meer, Sligro recently reported a notable profit increase from tobacco sales, yet it has chosen to exit the market by 2025. What’s your take on this seemingly contradictory move?

dr. van der Meer: It’s an interesting decision, indeed. While tobacco sales contributed to Sligro’s 2.6 percent turnover increase in 2024, the margins are slim. The real value lies in the ancillary purchases—customers frequently buy other products when purchasing tobacco. however, Sligro’s commitment to public health and sustainability goals outweighs the financial benefits. It’s a forward-thinking move that aligns with broader societal trends.


Archyde: Sligro’s decision comes ahead of the Dutch government’s 2030 deadline for tobacco sales. Why do you think they chose to act so early?

Dr. van der Meer: There are several factors at play here. First, the Dutch government has been actively discouraging tobacco sales through stricter regulations and public health campaigns. This creates an increasingly unfavorable environment for tobacco retailers.second, sligro is positioning itself as a socially responsible company. By exiting the market early,they’re sending a strong message about their values and priorities.

Additionally, the operational effort required to maintain tobacco sales—such as compliance with regulations and managing supply chains—doesn’t justify the marginal profits. Sligro is highly likely focusing on streamlining its operations and investing in more sustainable and profitable areas, such as its core foodservice business.


Archyde: What do you think will be the impact of this decision on Sligro’s turnover?

Dr. van der Meer: The impact will likely be minimal in the long term. While tobacco sales have contributed to recent profits,the margins are not significant. the real challenge will be replacing the ancillary purchases that often accompany tobacco sales. Though, Sligro has a strong foundation in its foodservice business, and they’re already exploring new product categories to offset any potential losses.

Retail expert Peter ter Hark also noted that many supermarkets have voluntarily stopped selling tobacco earlier than legally required, driven by a desire to improve public perception. This will also be good for Sligro’s image, which could attract new customers who prioritize ethical considerations.


Archyde: Do you think Sligro’s decision could influence other retailers to follow suit?

Dr. van der Meer: absolutely.Sligro’s move is part of a growing trend among retailers to distance themselves from industries that are seen as harmful to public health. By taking a proactive stance, Sligro is setting an example for other companies in the sector.

We’ve already seen similar actions from supermarkets and other wholesalers, driven by both regulatory pressures and consumer demand for more ethical business practices. Sligro’s decision could accelerate this trend, especially as consumers increasingly reward companies that prioritize sustainability and social duty.


Archyde: what do you think this decision says about the future of the retail industry?

Dr. van der Meer: It signals a shift in priorities. The retail industry is no longer just about maximizing profits; it’s also about aligning with societal values and contributing to the greater good. Sligro’s decision reflects a broader recognition that businesses have a role to play in promoting public health and sustainability.

This move also highlights the importance of adaptability. Companies that can anticipate regulatory changes and consumer trends—and act on them proactively—will be better positioned for long-term success. Sligro’s early exit from the tobacco market is a calculated risk, but one that could pay off in terms of brand loyalty and competitive advantage.


Archyde: Thank you, Dr. van der Meer, for your insightful analysis.It’s clear that Sligro’s decision is not just about finances but also about aligning with broader societal values.

Dr. van der Meer: Thank you. It’s an exciting time for the retail industry, and Sligro’s bold move is a testament to the evolving role of businesses in society.


This interview has been edited for clarity and length. Stay tuned to Archyde for more updates on Sligro’s transition and its impact on the Dutch wholesale market.

Leave a Replay