Convenience sector continues to grow

The 2020 Local Shop Report, published today by the Association of Convenience Stores, shows in the past year convenience stores have invested more than £585m in improving their businesses and introducing new services for customers.

The 46,955 stores in the convenience sector provide jobs for around 412,000 people across the UK, the report finds.

ACS chief executive, James Lowman, said: “The convenience sector’s role as a substantial job creator cannot be overstated. Retailers provide secure, local, flexible jobs that fit alongside other commitments like childcare and helping relatives. This is why job satisfaction in the sector is high, and more than half of the colleagues working in stores see themselves staying in a similar role in five years’ time. Our role as an employer has never been more important.”

This year’s Local Shop Report also includes information about the convenience sector’s experience of lockdown, showing two-thirds of retailers reported an increase in sales over the lockdown period, and that more than half of retailers now provide ‘card not present’ transactions, making it easier for volunteers to shop for those who are vulnerable or isolating

Lowman added: “When the UK went into lockdown in March, millions of people turned to their local shops to help keep them going with essential groceries and services. Retailers have done a stellar job of adapting and developing their businesses to keep up with demand, with no greater example than the incredible growth in home deliveries.

“We anticipate continued growth in the convenience sector in the coming months and years, as both new and existing customers keep coming back to their local shop.”

The full report is available here.