SGF Scottish Local Shop Report 2024
Compiled in collaboration with ACS, our Local Shop Report has revealed the enormous contribution that convenience stores in Scotland make to people’s lives, not just as essential grocery businesses, but as job creators, community hubs and beacons of entrepreneurship.
This year’s report highlights the decisions being made in the Scotland’s 5,220 convenience stores in areas like investment, staffing, product mix, technology and service offerings, and delivery.
Key figures from this year’s report include:
There are over 55,000 colleagues working in the convenience sector in Scotland, with 14% of shop owners taking no holidays throughout the year.
76% of stores in the Scottish convenience sector are run by independent retailers, either entirely unaffiliated or as part of a symbol group.
Across the UK, the convenience sector generated over £49.4bn in sales over the last year, with that figure set to grow to over £54.6bn by 2027.
Convenience stores in Scotland have invested over £94m over the last year.
87% of independent retailers engaged in some form of community activity in the past year.
SGF Chief Executive Dr Pete Cheema said, “SGF’s Local Shop Report provides a key insight into the convenience store sector, the vital services our industry provides and the unstinting work of many of those who are employed in our trade.
”The information gathered in the report clearly make the case for targeted support from government, and a more joined up approach to regulation, for our key industry. So that we can continue to deliver for our local economies and communities.”
The full report, which takes a comprehensive look at where local shops trade, what we sell, technology, services, home delivery, how we operate, communities and customers, is available to download below, or you can email our Public Affairs team at jamiem@sgfscot.co.uk for more information.