SGF Annual Conference 2022 Takes Place Amid Spiralling Energy Costs for Retailers
Scottish Grocers’ Federation’s annual conference returns to Glasgow tomorrow and runs from 6th to 7th October with this year’s overall theme being ‘The Future is Now!’. The event will have industry experts across both days covering issues such as what lies ahead for the convenience sector, the outlook for tobacco and nicotine in Scotland, and how data and technology can help develop businesses in the sector. Delegates will benefit from the highly regarded business breakout sessions and will have the opportunity to take advantage of the excellent trade exhibition.
A conference first, the event will also have both UK and Scottish Government Ministerial representation with Lord Offord of Garvald, Parliamentary Under Secretary of State at the Scotland Office addressing delegates (via live video link) on day one and Tom Arthur MSP, Minister for Public Finance, Planning and Community Wealth at the Scottish Government providing the keynote address on day two.
The conference takes place however amid worrying findings from SGF’s latest survey on energy prices which brings into focus retailer fears on escalating costs with many businesses struggling to cope with rising energy bills and calling in question their immediate business survival. On top of this the cost of living crisis is also impacting customers and so reducing spend in-store, creating a perfect storm for retailers.
SGF Chief Executive Dr Pete Cheema OBE said: “I am delighted we are back to hold our flagship event here in Glasgow and that the event sold out so quickly. Clearly, our sector is more relevant than ever as Scottish convenience store numbers continue to rise, now reaching 5,098 and those employed in our sector now having reached over 49,000. The crucial strength of our sector, is that we stimulate economic growth and build resilience into the communities which we serve.
Unfortunately, there are very real threats to that continued progress. Our latest survey on energy prices has shown that retailers are experiencing a wide spectrum of energy cost increases, ranging from 50% to as high as 800%. Also, 100% of respondents are concerned about the increases, with 78% worried that it could put their business at risk. It is clear that the governments, both north and south of the border must do more to address this serious problem and quickly.”
SGF will also launch it’s Scottish Local Shop Report 2022 during conference which will provide a comprehensive view of the convenience sector, looking where and how stores trade, the colleagues employed, the contribution to the economy and the essential contribution made to local communities. The conference is being held at the Crowne Plaza in Glasgow.