SMITH'S MOBILE SUPERMARKET
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GOLNG into service this week with Newcastle upon Tyne Co-operative Society are the first two Shopmobiles built by Smith's Delivery Vehicles Ltd., of Gateshead. Although broadly similar to the Swiss Migros units, this new Smith's mobile shop is based on the Bedford SB p.s.v, chassis and has been tooled up by the Gateshead company on a scale which will make it available at less than half the cost of the Swiss counterpart.
Up to four tons of merchandise can be carried and Smith's suggest that each Shopmobile can provide a weekly turnover of more than £1,201) with two operators serving some 2,000 customers from an assortment of about 500 items.
The 30-ft. by 8-ft. vehicle can accommodate at least 12 shoppers at a time.
The all-plastics-panelled interior of the shop has fluorescent strip lighting, heating and air conditioning; a separate plant provides power for refrigeration and all other electrical services. A two-way radio link with a central warehouse provides for requisitioning of emergency stock, while washing and canteen equipment provides meal facilities for the staff.
Shoppers enter at the rear and have 11 four-tier display counters to select goods from before leaving via the checkout counter near the front, the exit being on the near side.
The Shopmobile can, if desired, be leased under Smith's Blue Chip scheme.