ACS pledges to deliver more powerful voice for local shops to government
The Association of Convenience Stores has set out a renewed commitment to be a stronger voice for local shops to government.
At its annual conference in Birmingham, the organisation’s recently appointed chief executive, Ed Woodall, outlined its campaigning priorities for the year ahead as he acknowledged the pressures facing local shops.
Subscribe to TRBWoodall said the ACS will focus its campaigning on three core issues raised consistently by members, including the rising cost of trading, retail crime and community safety, and the increasing presence of rogue traders selling illicit products on local high streets.
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 is also planning to expand and strengthen its retailer network, with a focus on engaging the next generation of convenience retailers. As shopping habits change and competition intensifies, ACS will be increasing its support for retailers on issues ranging from regulation and compliance to new research detailing changes in the convenience sector.
Woodall said: “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.”
