First Choice Group has signed its first ever spares agreement with a coffee equipment supplier in what it describes as a “significant” move for the business.
The Cannock-based outfit – which is in the process of rebranding to Parts Town UK – has become an official authorised distributor for Italian machine manufacturer Nuova Simonelli.
It will stock spare parts and accessories from the espresso machine maker for same-day and next-day despatch, as well as provide dedicated customer support.
This includes 360° spin images on the transactional website and mobile app and fully-trained customer experience support teams available to help customers identify the required part quickly and efficiently.
Nuova Simonelli is known as one of Italy’s finest espresso coffee equipment manufacturers for the professional market with a heritage spanning almost 90 years.
Steven McLaren, head of manufacturer partnerships at First Choice Group, said: “Our new partnership with Nuova Simonelli represents an important milestone in First Choice Group’s history – demonstrating our commitment and support to the professional coffee sector.
“As one of Italy’s most prestigious coffee equipment manufacturers Nuova Simonelli offers a complete range of renowned coffee equipment and accessories and as such, we are proud to have become the recommended supplier of parts and accessories, including cleaners and filters, in the UK.
“Going forward, we are very much looking forward to working closely and building on our relationship with the manufacturer, in doing so, supporting operators, engineers and technicians across the coffee sector.”
Giovanni Fucili, sales director EMEA at Nuova Simonelli, said the brand is confident it has found a partner that will allow it to best support its UK customers, suppliers and distributors with all their spare parts and accessory needs.
“The company’s commitment to customer service and the investment made in UK stock holding will help achieve efficiencies and will ensure that those using Nuova Simonelli coffee machines can get the most from their equipment,” he said. “We look forward to continuing to develop our relationship with First Choice Group going forward.”
The UK’s independent coffee shop sector in the UK was worth £1.6 billion last year and is projected to grow by 7% over the next two years, according to analyst firm Statista.
