ACS

15 June 2010

ACS has published a Policy Briefing Book to highlight to MPs the key issues facing the convenience sector. The briefing book aims to cut through the myths and popular perceptions of the sector, giving the facts and figures about the market, the impact of regulation and the role of local shops in the community.

The paper has this week been sent out to all 650 MPs in Parliament. It will help MPs to play an active role in Parliamentary debates relating to local shops, to interact with local shops in their constituency, and to act as a champion for small stores in national policy debates.

ACS Chief Executive James Lowman said: “It is essential that we maintain strong relationships with MPs as the new Parliament beds in. The policy briefing booklet is an important part of our efforts to make MPs aware of the challenges facing our members, and we hope that this will help put local shop issues on their agenda."

The booklet provides information on economic policy, employment policy, alcohol regulations, tobacco policy, supermarket issues and crime issues, along with recommendations from ACS on how to tackle the problems facing local shops.