The Welsh Local Shop Report

The 2021 Welsh Local Shop Report has revealed the important role that convenience stores play in the lives of customers and communities across Wales, particularly to those who may be more isolated or vulnerable.

Findings from the 2021 Welsh Local Shop Report show that over the last year convenience stores in Wales have invested over £30million in their businesses to ensure that they can continue to provide essential products and services to their communities, including cash machines (73%), bill payment services (77%) and a Post office (29%).

Key figures from the report include:

• Wales has more shops per head than any other part of mainland UK, with 63% of stores trading in rural locations
• Convenience stores in Wales generated over £2.8bn in sales last year
• 88% of independent retailers engaged in some form of community activity over the past year
• The average customer visits their local store around 4.20 times per week
• 42% of stores operate in isolated areas with no retail/service businesses close by

ACS works on devolved issues in Wales with members of the Welsh Parliament, promoting the convenience sector in Wales through the Cross Party Group on Small Shops.

Download the 2021 Welsh Local Shop Report