ACS is encouraging retailers to have their voices heard at this year’s Heart of the Community Conference and Reception, taking place on 2 September in the House of Commons Attlee Suite and the House of Commons Terrace.

Heart of the Community 2025 is ACS’ biggest political conference and reception of the year, giving retailers an opportunity to engage directly with MPs on the issues that matter. There has been significant change since the General Election, with many new MPs still only just getting settled into their posts, so this event is a great opportunity to hold them to account and set out how new regulations are affecting your business.

We’ll also be launching the 2025 Local Shop Report at Heart of the Community, outlining the economic, social and community contribution of the convenience sector over the last year whilst also bringing those findings to life with an expert panel of award-winning retailers.

This year’s Heart of the Community Conference and reception will feature the following:

• An exclusive address from the New Statesman’s Rachel Cunliffe on how the new Government is performing in its first year
• Speeches from High Streets Minister Alex Norris MP and Shadow Local Government Secretary Kevin Hollinrake MP
• The presentation of the 2025 Raj Aggarwal Trophy for outstanding community retailing by Small Business Minister Gareth Thomas MP

ACS chief executive James Lowman said: “It is absolutely crucial that the convenience sector has a strong voice in Parliament, and one of the best ways to demonstrate that is to engage with MPs directly about the incredible contribution that our members are making to their communities every day.”

Places are limited at the Heart of the Community Conference and reception, and priority will be given to retailers on the day, so secure your place now: https://www.acs.org.uk/events/heart-community-2025