‘Tremendously’ successful Go Local Programme wins ScotGov approval for Phase 4
Following the outstanding success of the Scottish Grocers’ Federation’s Go Local Programme, launched in December 2020, the Cabinet Secretary for Rural Affairs Mairi Gougeon has approved the roll-out of the next phase of the project. Which went live from 1st March 2023.
The fourth phase of the Programme will build upon the aim to support convenience stores the length and breadth of Scotland to provide dedicated, long-term display space for locally sourced Scottish products.
The target is to increase the turnover of locally and nationally produced Scottish products within the convenience store sector, to mitigate lost volumes in other sectors and to aid economic recovery for Scottish manufacturers and producers. It’s success significantly contributes towards Ambition 2030, and to promote a sustainable and prosperous convenience industry in Scotland.
Phase 4 will see a further allocation of £190k for the Programme and the selection of at least forty geographically, and demographically diverse stores, to secure increased display space for Scottish products. As well as using the available Scottish supplier databases to grow the number of suppliers and improve customer choice.
Rural Affairs Secretary Mairi Gougeon said: “I am delighted to offer further Scottish Government support for a fourth phase of the Go Local programme. As well as being a fine example of collaborative working between the Scottish Grocers Federation and Scotland Food & Drink, the widespread participation from local producers and store owners is a testament to the success of this programme.
“It is encouraging to see an increase in shelf space for Scottish produce and a growth of nearly 40% in the sale of eligible products.
“We remain committed to supporting local convenience stores, as well as helping consumers access more of the fresh, quality produce they demand from our fantastic food and drink producers.”
SGF Chief Executive, Dr Pete Cheema OBE added: “SGF’s Go Local Programme has been a tremendous success and we are delighted that the Cabinet Secretary and the Scottish Government are backing the next phase of the project.
“Local convenience stores are at the very heart of their communities and perfectly placed to support our wonderful local producers and suppliers across Scotland.
“By supporting retailers and helping them offer their customers high quality, locally sourced, fresh, and healthier food, convenience stores are a key driver in growing their local economy. Benefiting everyone, from customers to producers.”
Scotland Food & Drink chief executive Iain Baxter said: “The convenience sector is a critical part of Scotland’s food and drink landscape, both for producers and consumers. Having Scottish products front and centre in community-based stores across the country provides an excellent platform to celebrate and support the very best the industry has to offer.
“We welcome Phase 4 of the Go Local campaign and look forward to seeing the continued success of the programme.”
Stores participating in ‘Go Local’ see an average increase in the Local Multiplier of £159k per annum on the healthier products and producers also benefit from a “meet the buyer” opportunity. Which will take place at the SGF Annual Conference in October. Phase 4 of the program will be open to applications between 1st March 2023 to 31st May 2023.
