Economy, Science and Transport Minister Edwina Hart AM has addressed the Welsh Cross Party Small Shops’ annual reception, commending the economic and social contribution of local shops in Wales.
Speaking at the reception, which was attended by retailers from across Wales along with representatives from the Association of Convenience Stores and the Independent Retail Confederation, the Minister outlined that she wanted to work with the group more closely and understand the challenges faced by small shops.
Cross Party Group chairman Janet Finch Saunders said: “The work of the Cross Party Group is essential in explaining to policymakers the important social and economic contribution that local shops make, both to the Welsh economy and to local communities across Wales.”
Figures from the recently-published ACS investment tracker have revealed that convenience stores in Wales are investing more per store than any other part of the UK. Welsh stores have spent an average of £14,310 per store, totalling over £11m over the last three months.
Janet Finch Saunders has been the Chair of the Cross Party Small Shops Group for three years and is also a member of the Assembly’s Committee on Communities Equality and Local Government. For more information about the work of the Cross Party Group, please contact Morgan Brobyn at [email protected]
