ACS is highlighting the importance of women working as colleagues, store owners and leaders in the convenience sector to celebrate International Women’s Day today (March 8th).
There are currently over 392,000 people working in the convenience sector, 70% of which are women. Working in the convenience sector is secure, local and flexible, especially for those who have childcare commitments or are caring for other family members.
Figures from the 2021 Local Shop Report also show that a third of the people running the UK’s independent convenience stores are women. This includes award winning retailers like Susan Connolly (SPAR), Josie Chamberlin (J Robarts and Son), Sunita Aggarwal (SPAR) and Julie Duhra (Premier Jules).
ACS is also celebrating the impact and contribution of women in prominent leadership roles at large retail businesses, including Louise Hoste, SPAR Managing Director and current chair of the ACS board; Debbie Robinson, Central England Co-operative Chief Executive and former chair of the ACS board; Ali Jones, Customer Director at the Co-operative Group; and Hanna Hofer, BP Vice President of Operations and Dealers – both of which are currently serving on the ACS board.
To support women that are running independent businesses, ACS created the Women’s Independent Retailer Network at the end of 2021. The group was formed to provide women with a space to connect with each other and share their experiences and perspectives. ACS facilitates quarterly meetings for the group, featuring guest speakers and workshops where the group explores a range of topics, including: public speaking, confidence and how to use social media.
ACS chief executive James Lowman said: “One of the most powerful paths to success in convenience is having a strong network, so we’re keen to ensure that women in retail have the confidence to come to events and study tours and engage with their peers, as well as having the ability to learn from other leading women in the sector. We urge any women running independent stores that are looking to strengthen their engagement to join the ACS Women’s Independent Retailer Network.”
Rachael Hockmeyer, Hockmeyer Motors said: “In the world of convenience, women are in the majority as management, staff and customers. However we are under represented on boards, committees and in the press. I am delighted to be part of the WIRN which enables passionate retailers to support each other, share best practice and learn new skills.”
For more information about joining the Women’s Independent Retailer Network, please contact Sarah C Johnson at [email protected]
