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At the till
ACS  (Association of Convenience Stores) is the campaigning voice of over 33,000 local shops. As the convenience store champion ACS supports its members through lobbying, advice on legislation and issues that affect retailers, and through learning and networking events. This web site, formerly www.thelocalshop.com, is the focal point for this support.

If you are a retailer and would like to join ACS click here or sign up to receive ACS' free daily news alerts, which send all the day's news direct to your inbox, here.


Apply for Small Business Rate Relief before September 1st

Apply for Small Business Rate Relief before September 1st

In England and Wales small businesses are entitled to small business rate relief if the rateable value of their premises is less than £15,000 (£21,500 in London). Special rules apply for businesses that own more than one property (but with a total rateable value below this limit). Research from the Local Government Association (LGA) suggests that fewer than half of the 870,000 small businesses across England which qualify for the scheme have applied for it. The survey, which was carried…

 
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Have Your Say on Tobacco Restrictions

Cigs ACS has set out its case to Government against a tobacco display ban and in favour of action that will lead to significant reductions in youth smoking. ACS has estimated that the cost of complying with a display ban will be in the region of £252 million for the convenience sector. We also explain why the evidence doesn’t show that a ban would be effective. See ACS’ full response to the consultation here. (link to website page)

ACS has called on Government to take clear and decisive action to tackle the illegal trade, including providing proper resources to Trading Standards and Police to target the street sellers that blight communities, coupled with strong penalties.

ACS is also calling on Ministers to make the supply of tobacco by an adult to an under-18. It’s immoral and it should be illegal.


To make your voice heard click here to email the Consultation

Click here to download the full ACS submission and the executive summary