Local MP Talks Shop in Northampton
03 May 2006
Northampton South MP Brian Binley took time out on Saturday 29th April to visit his constituent Nick Brocklehurst at his SPAR store in Northampton. Mr Brocklehurst has written to Mr Binley on many occasions as part of ACS’ Campaign Champion programme and built up a good relationship with his MP.
This is the latest store visit as part of an ongoing programme by the Association of Convenience Stores (ACS) to promote grass roots lobbying by local retailers.
The key issues that were raised with the MP, who is keen to promote the importance of the local shop in the local community, were the relaxation of Sunday trading hours and the upcoming Competition Commission inquiry into the grocery market.
Mr Binley said: “I was delighted to visit one of my key convenience stores. It is important to hear first hand the issues local businesses are facing. It was useful to hear about the services Nick provides his community and ways that MPs can help businesses like his.”
Mr Brocklehurst said: “I believe small shops play a vital role in communities and the store visit was a useful opportunity to meet Brian Binley face to face and discuss the issues that affect my store and others like it. I am particularly concerned action is taken to ensure that businesses like mine can continue to compete with the major multiples; especially in the sale of fuel where there are real long term problems that will affect all customers.”
James Lowman, from the Association of Convenience Stores, said: “The value of running our store visits gives MPs first hand experience of what retailers concerns are. I would encourage all members to become a Campaign Champion and take part in our MP visit programme. I am delighted that Brian Binley MP was eager to hear about Mr Brocklehurst’s concerns, and I hope it has heightened his awareness of the issues faced by retailers.”
This is the latest store visit as part of an ongoing programme by the Association of Convenience Stores (ACS) to promote grass roots lobbying by local retailers.
The key issues that were raised with the MP, who is keen to promote the importance of the local shop in the local community, were the relaxation of Sunday trading hours and the upcoming Competition Commission inquiry into the grocery market.
Mr Binley said: “I was delighted to visit one of my key convenience stores. It is important to hear first hand the issues local businesses are facing. It was useful to hear about the services Nick provides his community and ways that MPs can help businesses like his.”
Mr Brocklehurst said: “I believe small shops play a vital role in communities and the store visit was a useful opportunity to meet Brian Binley face to face and discuss the issues that affect my store and others like it. I am particularly concerned action is taken to ensure that businesses like mine can continue to compete with the major multiples; especially in the sale of fuel where there are real long term problems that will affect all customers.”
James Lowman, from the Association of Convenience Stores, said: “The value of running our store visits gives MPs first hand experience of what retailers concerns are. I would encourage all members to become a Campaign Champion and take part in our MP visit programme. I am delighted that Brian Binley MP was eager to hear about Mr Brocklehurst’s concerns, and I hope it has heightened his awareness of the issues faced by retailers.”