We're now just a few weeks away from the 2026 Safe and Responsible Retailing Conference, taking place at the Birmingham Rep on 18th March 2026.
This unmissable event brings together retailers, policy experts and industry partners to explore the major regulatory and operational changes shaping the year ahead. The event is designed to give convenience retailers clear, practical guidance on what’s coming next and how to prepare.
Whether you're an independent retailer, a head office representative for a wider retail business, or a supplier into the convenience sector, there is essential content and discussion for you on changes coming over the next 12-18 months in stores and the impact that they'll have.
Places are limited at the event on 18th March in Birmingham, so confirm your spot here.
What to expect on the day
Are You Ready for the Deposit Return Scheme (DRS)? - This session will look at Deposit Return Schemes and include practical guidance and resources to help retailers prepare their store and colleagues. The session will feature an expert panel, including retailers where DRS is already live and discussions about how the scheme impacts operations and customer behaviour.
Speakers in this session include Chris Furey (Smyth Furey Group), Raymond Gianotten (Exchange for Change) and Aishwari Mahavir (ACS).
Retail Crime Fight Back - This session will explore the 2026 Crime Report and take a look at the illicit trade and what enforcement bodies are doing to tackle this growing issue.
Speakers and panellists in this session include Priyesh Vekaria (One Stop Salford), Gareth Lewis (UK PAC), Marsha Bell (Salford Council), Natalie Lightfoot (Londis Solo) and Rosie Wiggins (ACS) presenting the findings of the 2026 ACS Crime Report.
Stay Ahead of New Age Verification & Product Regulations - The final session of the day will be a policy update from the ACS team exploring the issues affecting local shops in 2026 including: new tobacco & vape rules, changes to energy drink age limits and the generational tobacco ban.
Speaking in this session and presenting new guidance for retailers will be Daniel Askew (ACS).
Alongside the main programme, delegates will have the opportunity to meet exhibitors offering products, services and solutions that support responsible and compliant retailing.
The 2026 Safe and Responsible Retailing Conference is sponsored by Exchange for Change, Carnaud Metalbox, Smiths News and TOMRA.
