Other News

Minister for Rural Affairs Confirmed to Speak at ACS’ 2021 Rural Shop Report Launch!

Lord Gardiner of Kimble, Minister for Rural Affairs has been confirmed to provide a keynote address at the event, reflecting on the findings of the report and detailing the Government’s plans to support rural shops.

Taking place virtually on 23rd February, ACS’ Rural Shop Report launch event will provide an insight into the essential role that rural shops play in their local communities and to the wider economy.

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Save the Date for ACS’ 2021 Crime Seminar!

ACS (the Association of Convenience Stores) has confirmed the date for its annual Crime Seminar, which will take place virtually between 10-11.15am on 23rd March 2021.

The event will feature the launch of the 2021 Crime Report, provide the opportunity to hear about best practice from industry experts and explore how the sector is working to tackle crime.

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Retailers and Trade Bodies Call for Business Rates Reform in 2021 Budget

ACS has joined retailers and trade bodies in calls for the business rates system to be reformed to make it fairer for physical stores.

In an open letter to Chancellor Rishi Sunak, published this morning, 18 groups including ACS, BIRA, USDAW, Tesco and Waterstones have called on the Government to make fundamental changes to the way that business rates are collected so that physical stores aren’t at a disadvantage compared to online retailers.

The letter makes the following specific recommendations:

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Shortlist Announced for Upcoming ACS Technology Showcase!

Taking place virtually on 10th February 2021, ACS’ Technology Showcase is the unique chance for retailers and suppliers to come together to explore the latest technology trends, products and services set to transform the sector.

The following companies were selected by ACS’ Independent Board and have been shortlisted to demonstrate their product or service at the event:

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More Speakers Announced for ACS’ 2021 Rural Shop Report Launch!

Taking place virtually on 23rd February, ACS’ Rural Shop Report launch event will provide an insight into the essential role that rural shops play in their local communities and to the wider economy.

The morning launch event will reveal the findings of this year’s report, providing a comprehensive overview of rural shops in the convenience sector, the services that they offer and the people running the stores.

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ACS: Government Announces Plans to Simplify Kickstart Scheme

ACS (the Association of Convenience Stores) has welcomed an announcement from the Government on plans to simplify the ‘Kickstart Scheme’, making it easier for retailers to create new job placements for their local communities.

The Department for Work and Pensions has announced plans to amend its Kickstart Scheme to allow employers to apply directly from 3rd February, regardless of the number of jobs to be funded.

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ACS Welcomes New Protections for Shopworkers in Scotland

ACS (the Association of Convenience Stores) has welcomed the Scottish Parliament’s decision to pass a Bill to create a new statutory offence for assaulting, threatening or abusing a retail worker, particularly those applying or enforcing an age-restriction in relation to the sale or supply of goods or services.

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