Boots in Sainsbury's tie-up

TWO of Britain's best-known retailers, Boots and Sainsbury's, are linking arms in a shopping scheme that could lead to a nationwide joint venture.

Boots is to set up health and beauty outlets in six of Sainsbury's large out-of-town superstores.

The trial will begin next March and, if the project is successful, it could be rolled out at about 100 Sainsbury's sites.

At the designated supermarkets, Sainsbury's health and beauty range of 4500 products will be removed and replaced with Boots' 10,000-strong range.

These will include medicines and well-known brands such as No7 makeup and Soltan suncream.

A confidential profit share agreement has been drawn up between the two retailers and customers will be able to use their Sainsbury's Reward card and Boots Advantage card when paying for Boots goods.

"This arrangement with Sainsbury's enables us reach out-of-town shoppers, in line with strategy, quickly and cost effectively," said Boots chief executive Steve Russell.

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