Edinburgh retailer Sophie Williams has been chosen as one of the stars of a major new campaign by Coca-Cola, spotlighting the invaluable role that convenience stores – and the real people behind the counter – play in their local communities.
Sophie, who runs Premier Broadway in the Oxgangs area of Edinburgh alongside her parents Dennis and Linda, is one of six business owners from across the country who will feature in the campaign.
A new short film reveals Sophie’s multigenerational story of family, community and resilience. Dennis and Linda built their award-winning store – named Scottish Local Retailer of the Year in 2018 – through decades of change, serving their neighbours with trust and consistency for 41 years. Now former theatre professional Sophie is stepping into the spotlight, bringing new energy, social media flair and fresh ideas to the business that raised her – qualities that earned her the Up And Coming Star award at last year’s Above & Beyond Awards.
As well as being the subject of her own micro-documentary, Sophie’s face will be on display on out-of-home ads across Edinburgh, signifying the importance of convenience stores and their owners to their local communities, as Coca-Cola celebrates 125 years of its products being sold in Great Britain, hand-in-hand with local retailers.
The campaign comes as corner shops play an increasingly important role in daily life despite the struggles of the high street, with over one-third (34%) of Brits saying their local shop is an essential resource in their everyday life and almost a quarter (23%) saying they depend on them more than any other retailer, according to Coca-Cola research.
Sophie commented: “For 41 years, Premier Broadway has been more than a store; it’s been a cornerstone of our family and community. Our passion goes beyond transaction, embodying a belief that the shop does not just belong to us – but to everyone it serves.
“As we join Coca-Cola’s latest campaign, we are reminded of the dedication my parents have shown since 1983, and the legacy we continue to build in Edinburgh. Their expertise, combined with my fresh perspective, social media presence and innovative ideas, ensures our commitment to keeping the store vibrant for future generations to enjoy.”
Stephen Moorhouse, General Manager of Coca-Cola Europacific Partners (CCEP) GB, added: “Local retailers are more than just shopkeepers; they are community builders, and often the first to lend a hand when it’s needed most. This series is about recognising their dedication and celebrating the value they bring, not just in economic terms, but in the trust, care and connection they foster every day. At CCEP, we’re proud to be a local business, with 97% of our products made in GB. Together with the support of our dedicated team of 750 Field Sales representatives we’re committed to playing our part in helping retailers adapt and grow their business and continue to be that vital link for the people and communities they serve.”
