Flagship report underlines the essential role of local convenience stores, at SGF’s Annual Conference 2023

SGF is to launch its Scottish Local Shop Report 2023 this morning, on the final day of its Annual Conference in Glasgow. The annual spotlight on the retail market in Scotland provides the most comprehensive overview available on one of the nation’s key sectors.

SGF Chief Executive, Dr Pete Cheema OBE will unveil the report during his conference address at 11:45, ‘Don’t stop thinking about tomorrow’. The conference takes place over Thursday 12th and Friday 13th October at the Crowne Plaza, Glasgow.  

The Scottish Local Shop Report 2023 breaks down the substantial contribution of the convenience retail sector to the Scottish Economy and highlights the lifeline services many local shops provide for their communities across Scotland. All in the midst of a very challenging time for many homes and businesses.

The latest figures show a welcome increase in the number of convenience stores over the past year, up 73, to 5171 in 2023. Accounting for over 49,000 jobs across Scotland.

Pete said: “I’m delighted to launch our annual report here at our yearly flagship event, in Glasgow.

“Despite very difficult and challenging circumstances for many in convenience retail, the contribution of convenience stores and retail over the past few years cannot be overstated. Staff and local shop owners across Scotland have continued to play an essential role in both the Scottish Economy and for people in their communities.

“SGF’s Local Shop Report provides a key insight into the convenience store sector, the vital services our industry provides and the tireless work of many of those who are employed in our trade.

”Once again, the information gathered in the report clearly make the case for targeted support from government, for our industry. So that we can continue to deliver for our local economies and communities.”   

Compiled in collaboration with the Association of Convenience Stores, 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.

Across the UK, the convenience sector contributed more than £10.6 billion in Gross Value Added and over £9.1 billion in taxes, in 2022/23.