October 2020

ACS (the Association of Convenience Stores) has responded to the second part of the HM Treasury’s fundamental review of business rates in England, outlining the key measures needed to ensure that the system supports local shops’ ability to invest and continue to provide their communities with essential products and services.

The second part of the review focused on valuations, appeals, the administration of business rates and alternatives to business rates.

In its submission ACS made a number of key recommendations, including:

Taking place virtually on 25^th November, ACS’ Innovation Showcase is the unique chance for retailers and suppliers to come together to explore the latest products and services set to transform the sector.

This morning the WRC, CBI  and ACS has presented the Welsh Government with our recommendations to resolve the confusion over non-essential items. We hope government will agree to these recommendations and the people of Wales can refocus all their energies on respecting the Fire Break.

We believe these recommendations will fulfil retail’s role in tackling the spread of the virus while allowing for discretion to be used on an individual basis – as recommended by Health Minister Vaughan Gethin yesterday.

Our recommendations are as follows:

The Welsh Government have now confirmed guidance for retailers on the types of products that can and cannot be sold, just a few hours ahead of the introduction of the firebreak lockdown restrictions at 6pm today.

The Welsh Government states that the products and services which can be sold in stores are any products which would normally be sold in:

ACS has written to the Transport Secretary, calling on the Government to support the UK’s 8,000+ forecourts with additional funding to help the expansion of the electric vehicle charging network.