July 2021

Jul 09

Chief Executive's Blog: Making Freedom Day a Success

The Prime Minister has announced plans for the full re-opening of the economy and the end of legal restrictions on how people can behave, from 19 July. I leave the debate on whether this is strategically the right decision to the epidemiologists and behavioural scientists, but of course I’d like to see a return to normal as soon as we can. The problem is that the way the government is taking this next step is already looking flawed, and we need to see some changes in their approach right now if we’re going to move forward safely.

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Jul 08

Supplier News: EnergyBillKill - Small businesses urged by PM to pledge net zero emissions by 2050 or sooner

Content supplied by EnergyBillKill: 

Every small business in the UK is being urged to take “small, practical steps” this November as part of their journey towards net zero by 2050.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson, Business and Energy Secretary Kwasi Kwarteng, have launched a new drive to encourage small businesses in the UK to commit to cutting their emissions by half by 2030. 

Through the newly formed hub for this initiative (UK Business Climate Hub) these companies will be able to find practical tools and guides on how they can reduce their CO2 emissions.

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Jul 07

Local Shops Urge Government to Bring Forward Self Isolation Rule Changes

ACS has written to Business Minister Paul Scully MP, urging the Government to bring forward the change in self-isolation rules.

Under current Government proposals, from 16th August, anyone who has had their second vaccine dose more than two weeks prior, or who is aged under 18, would not have to self-isolate due to being identified by NHS Test and Trace as a result of close contact. ACS is calling for this rule change to be brought forward to now to avoid significant operational challenges for retailers, staff shortages and unnecessary short term business closures.

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Jul 07

ACS: Entries Open for Raj Aggarwal Trophy to Celebrate Outstanding Community Retailers

ACS (the Association of Convenience Stores) is encouraging retailers to submit their entries for a new trophy marking the legacy of independent retailer Raj Aggarwal. The trophy will be awarded to retailers who have been exceptional in community retailing and helping their fellow retailers.

Applications are welcome from any convenience store operator, independent retailers and managers of multiple-owned outlets.

To enter, applicants must submit a short film (maximum of 5 minutes), which will show:

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Jul 05

Government Votes Down New Offence for Attacking Shopworkers

ACS (the Association of Convenience Stores) has criticised MPs’ decision to vote down the introduction of a new clause in the Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Bill that would have made attacking a retail worker a separate offence.

New Clause 31, proposed by Shadow Policing Minister Sarah Jones MP, would have created a new offence for assaulting a retail worker with the following provisions:

•             Introduces a new, separate offence for assaulting, threatening or abusing a retail worker

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Jul 05

ACS Urges Consistency in Business Recycling Regulations

ACS (the Association of Convenience Stores) has responded to a consultation launched by the Department for Environment Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) on Consistency in Household and Business Recycling in England, highlighting the impact that new regulations would have on the convenience sector.

As part of the Environment Bill, businesses will be required to separate their waste for collection from 2023. This consultation is seeking views on the:

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Jul 05

Supplier News: Fiserv - Is Your Shop Ready for Sales to Soar?

Content supplied by Fiserv: 

IS YOUR SHOP READY FOR SALES TO SOAR?

With summer in full swing, people are getting out and about and “popping to the shops” left, right, and centre.

Get ready for increased footfall with a POS system that will save space on your countertop, keep queues moving, and provide a seamless shopping experience.  

MAKE YOUR BUSINESS MIGHTY WITH CLOVER MINI

Sleek, smart and full of handy features, Clover Mini is a small POS system with big business benefits! 

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