The Association of Convenience Stores (ACS) has set out a renewed commitment to be a stronger voice for local shops to government, alongside a clear ambition to support and grow the next generation of convenience retailers.
Speaking at ACS Conference26 in Birmingham, recently appointed chief executive Ed Woodall outlined the organisation’s campaigning priorities for the year ahead, rooted in the real pressures facing local shops.
ACS will focus its campaigning on three core issues raised consistently by members:
• The rising cost of trading
• Retail crime and community safety
• The increasing presence of rogue traders selling illicit products on local high streets
ACS chief executive Ed Woodall said: “Government cannot take the role of convenience retailers in their communities for granted. Local shops provide essential goods and services, often in isolated areas, and they deserve the right conditions to invest and grow. This means tackling the rising pressure of regulation and employment costs, and taking action on crime and the illegal trade that undermines responsible retailers and blights communities.”
ACS has also set out its ambition to expand and strengthen its retailer network, with a renewed focus on engaging the next generation of convenience retailers. As shopping habits change and competition intensifies, ACS will increase its support for retailers from regulation and compliance to new research detailing changes in the convenience sector.
Woodall added: “The convenience sector is changing faster than ever. ACS has a vital role in helping the next generation of retailers succeed by sharing practical advice, insight and evidence based guidance. Our research, expertise and network are foundational tools for anyone trading in the convenience sector today and for those building the local shops of the future.”
