Transforming Scotland’s Convenience Store Sector

Scottish consumers are being encouraged to ‘Go Local’ as part of a new initiative that will transform local convenience stores into marketplaces selling more local produce.

The initial phase of this initiative will see £100,000 invested in ten local shops to increase the space given to Scottish products, broaden the range of Scottish products offered and enhance consumer engagement with Scottish products.  Rural Economy Secretary Fergus Ewing MSP said:

“Convenience stores have played a vital role supporting their local communities through the pandemic – this initiative offers the chance to enhance their offering by stocking more Scottish produce.  It will also make a difference for Scottish producers – with many struggling with other markets closed off to them, reaching more customers here at home could make a big difference to their businesses. 

“Most importantly, it will give more people the opportunity to buy and enjoy locally sourced Scottish products, including fresh and healthy produce.

“This initiative is a useful addition to the Healthy Living Programme, which already supports Scottish independent retailers to offer healthy food choices, increase sales and assist in the goal of achieving a healthy nation. It all forms part of our commitment to be a Good Food Nation, helping everyone to take pride and pleasure in, and benefit from, the food they produce, buy, cook, serve, and eat each day.”

The initiative will be delivered by the Scottish Grocers Federation (SGF). SGF Chief Executive Dr Pete Cheema OBE said:

“At a time when the food and drink industry in Scotland faces unprecedented challenges, we are delighted that the Scottish government is providing funding for the Go Local programme. The programme supports not only Scottish retailers but also Scottish manufacturers and will strengthen the entire supply chain. Consumers have embraced shopping locally and conveniences stores can now ensure that customers have access to a wider range of Scottish products.”

One of the pilot stores is Watson’s Grocers in Moniaive, Dumfries and Galloway. The proprietor Graham Watson said:

“I believe that the Go Local programme will be an invaluable tool for retailers to effectively promote Scottish products and will give a much needed boost to the Scottish Food and Drink Industry. We as a trade have punched way above our weight over the last few months of the pandemic and it invariably has been the local shop that has made the difference to our communities. This new programme will enable me to meet the increased demand from customers for quality Scottish products and to support local producers.”

SGF also announced that Jamie Buchanan, previously the Formats and Merchandising Director with CJ Lang,  has been appointed as the Director of the Go Local Program. Buchanan will also take on an additional role as Membership Services Manager with SGF.