Lobbying
ACS is an established, credible and influential voice for the local shop sector in Government. ACS ensures that local shops are heard at national, local and European level. This is achieved by remaining plugged into key decision makers within Government and Parliament.
Our strength is based in our well researched and presented arguments, whether that be in putting the issues that matter to retailers on the Governments agenda or being first and most effective in reacting to the issues of the day.
ACS is also a strong campaigning organisation, providing dedicated and passionate members with the support they need to be their own spokespeople on the issues they care about. click here to find out more.
ACS is always open to hear the views of retailers, we are only as strong as our members so join today. If you have any questions or comments our public affairs team will be happy to help, click here to email the team.
Issues
ACS lobby hard for local shop retailers on the issues that affect them most.
Click on the 'Issues' tab in the left hand menu to read more about the work we do in the areas below.
Tobacco
Alcohol
Crime
Environment
Planning
Food Policy
Employment
Better Regulation
Budget
ACS is seeking politically interested shop managers or owners who would be interested in joining our Local Shop Campaigners (LSC) initiative. LSC aims to get retailers involved in grassroots lobbying work, developing our previous work under Campaign Champions.
ACS believe that LSC is invaluable because it enables retailers to express the reality of dealing with policy changes that impact on their businesses to decision makers. LSCs can be powerful lobbyists because they are local business people who speak from experience.
Europe
Much of the regulation and burden that retailers face originates not in Westminster but Whitehall therefore it is important the UK small retail sector is effectively represented at EU level.
ACS works closely with two partners to ensure that ACS is an effective lobby group at EU level.
Sustainable Communities
On 14 October 2008 the Sustainable Communities Act process began. This new law came about due to a large scale campaign run by the Local Works coalition, of which ACS is a leading member. The Act empowers local traders, local businesses and communities to drive the actions of central Government.