The Association of Convenience Stores (ACS) has urged the Low Pay Commission to consider the rising operating costs and financial pressure on local shops, as a consultation on future minimum wage rates for April 2027 is launched.
From 1 April 2026, the National Living Wage increased by 4.1% to £12.71 for workers aged 21 and over. The Low Pay Commission’s consultation on the 2027 rates sets out an indicative National Living Wage range of £13.02 to £13.34, with a central estimate of £13.18.
ACS will be submitting evidence to the Commission, highlighting the impact that rising labour costs are having on retailers and the difficult decisions that many businesses are already making as a result of the increases taking effect from April 2026.
The consultation also comes as retailers prepare for further changes arising from the Employment Rights Act, including reforms to Statutory Sick Pay. ACS is urging the Government to ensure that these measures are implemented in a way that is proportionate, workable and does not place further unnecessary burdens on local shops.
ACS chief executive Ed Woodall said: “Local shops are facing multiple increases in operating costs, alongside new regulatory requirements, which are having a material impact on their hiring and investment decisions in their businesses.
“We want the Low Pay Commission to understand the challenges facing local shops when forming its recommendations for 2027 wages. Convenience stores play a vital role in communities and want to invest in their people, but achieving this depends on having greater stability and certainty around the costs they face.”
ACS’ forthcoming Employment Survey will gather further evidence from retailers on the effect that recent wage increases and food inflation are having on their businesses.
