May 2023

Scottish Government Planning New Consultation on ‘Direct and Efficient’ Route to HFSS Restrictions
May 30

Scottish Government Planning New Consultation on ‘Direct and Efficient’ Route to HFSS Restrictions

The Scottish Government have today (May 30th) published a summary of the responses to its initial consultation on high fat, salt, sugar (HFSS) product restrictions, setting out a path toward further consultation in the autumn.

Measures initially proposed by the Scottish Government sought to go further than those already in legislation in England, specifically including islands and freestanding displays within the location restrictions, and banning any temporary price reductions (e.g. 10% off for a certain period of time) within the promotional restrictions.

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Government Publishes Guidance on Single-Use Plastics Ban in England
May 25

Government Publishes Guidance on Single-Use Plastics Ban in England

The Government has published guidance to help businesses prepare for the ban on single-use plastics which is due to come into force in October.

From 1st October 2023, retailers will not be able supply, sell or offer the following single-use plastic items:

  • Plates
  • Trays
  • Bowls
  • Cutlery
  • Balloon sticks
  • Certain types of polystyrene cups and food containers

Retailers are advised to sell through existing stock before October, source alternative single-use materials and consider offering more reusable items.

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One Month Until ACS’ Crime Report Parliamentary Launch!
May 24

One Month Until ACS’ Crime Report Parliamentary Launch!

Book your place at the parliamentary launch of ACS’ 2023 Crime Report, taking place on 22nd June at the Jubilee Room in the Houses of Parliament.

The parliamentary launch will provide the opportunity for retailers and suppliers to come together as a collective to look at the findings of our 2023 Crime Report, talk about the impact that crime has on the convenience sector and share best practice on crime prevention.

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ACS Welcomes Plans for Tougher Sanctions on Illicit Tobacco
May 23

ACS Welcomes Plans for Tougher Sanctions on Illicit Tobacco

ACS (the Association of Convenience Stores) has responded to a HM Revenue and Customs consultation on tougher sanctions to tackle illicit tobacco, welcoming measures that could reduce the impact of the illicit trade on both retailers and consumers.

HMRC is considering the introduction of fines for up to £10,000 for persistent offenders selling large quantities of illicit tobacco, and the six-month removal of track and trace codes (economic operator ID) for severe cases of non-compliance.

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ACS Welcomes Lituanica to Club Membership
May 22

ACS Welcomes Lituanica to Club Membership

ACS (the Association of Convenience Stores) is delighted to announce that Lituanica, the largest importer and distributor of Eastern European Food in the UK & Ireland, has joined ACS as a new Club member.

Lituanica opened in 2009 with the purpose of bringing the finest produce and dishes from homelands around Europe. Their unique selection includes a wide range of products, including: gourmet cured meat, smoked fish, pickles and preserves, as well as traditional dumplings and ice creams.

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ACS Welcomes New Plan to Build a Resilient Retail Sector in Wales
May 19

ACS Welcomes New Plan to Build a Resilient Retail Sector in Wales

ACS (the Association of Convenience Stores) has welcomed a new plan launched by the Welsh Government and Wales Retail Forum, which has been developed to build a more resilient retail sector in Wales.

Published today (19th May) the Together for Retail: a Wales Retail Forum Action Plan highlights a number of key actions, including:

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ACS Reminds Retailers of Age Checking Responsibilities on Vaping
May 18

ACS Reminds Retailers of Age Checking Responsibilities on Vaping

ACS has reiterated its support for tough enforcement action against those who sell vapes and other age restricted products to underage customers.

New figures released today by ASH (Action on Smoking and Health) and YouGov show that of the 7.6% of young people (11-17 year olds) who currently vape, 72% usually buy vapes themselves. Of those, just over a quarter (26%) say they buy them from corner shops.

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ACS Updates DRS Guide for Retailers in Scotland
May 17

ACS Updates DRS Guide for Retailers in Scotland

ACS (the Association of Convenience Stores) has updated its comprehensive DRS guide for Scotland to reflect the delay to the scheme. The Scottish Deposit Return Scheme was due to go live this year on 16th August but has now been delayed until 1st March 2024.

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