Sainsbury’s to enter the NI heating market

Sainsbury’s has today (6th December) unveiled plans to sell a range of highly efficient gas and oil boilers in its 13 stores in Northern Ireland in a move into the home heating market. In partnership with Carillion Energy Services Sainsbury’s will offer a complete customer experience with installation and support marking a first for a supermarket in this field in Northern Ireland.

Justin James, Head of New Business Development, Sainsbury’s said, “Sainsbury’s has identified a need for a stimulant in both the gas and oil market, with many oil boilers old and inefficient while there are many homes/businesses on the gas network which are not yet connected. It is a critical time for our customers as home heating is one of the biggest expenses in the average household budget. As with food and other household purchases Sainsbury’s wants to improve accessibility and choice to help our customers manage their weekly and monthly budget.

“We are offering a complete customer experience including a free home survey, Nectar points, support through the grant and discounts process for those who are eligible, extended warranty and out of hours breakdown all managed through our local call centre.

“We believe that as a consequence of us entering it, the home heating market will grow significantly. Sainsbury’s will stimulate greater awareness for home energy efficiency and provide a helping hand every step of the way for those interested in renewing their oil boiler or changing to gas.

“Ultimately we want to offer our customers a service and facility which will save them money and make their homes/businesses more economical to run. The energy efficient boilers we will be selling will also significantly reduce carbon emissions, helping our environment.”

Jillian Ferris from Carillion Energy Services said, “It is a real boost for the local energy market to see a trusted name like Sainsbury’s enter the field. Customers are interested in the additional services they can provide. They offer great value, great customer service, and a quick and easy installation. This new service from Sainsbury’s will make changing your boiler hassle free.”

Sainsbury’s Boiler Service will be available in store across Northern Ireland from this week.

Source : J Sainsbury PLC
www.j-sainsbury.co.uk/media/latest-stories/2012/20121206-supermarket-first-as-sainsburys-enter-the-ni-heating-market/