New data by the Association of Convenience Stores (ACS) has revealed that convenience stores have slashed 2,000 jobs over the past 12 months.
Rising labour costs and intense price competition from large supermarkets is adding more and more pressure on local retailers.
Sales and investment across the industry have declined and there is now call for the government to provide urgent support as the sector has been hit with an “extremely challenging year.”
The ACS said the cost of doing business is soaring and demands by consumers has flatlined.
The number of stores slightly rose to 50,486 and the number of jobs fell from 445,000 to 443,00.
James Lowman, chief executive of the ACS said, “This has been an extremely challenging year for local shops as the cost of doing business has risen significantly while sales have stagnated due to fierce competition from discounters, supermarkets and other retailers.
“These figures should serve as a warning to Government that we cannot continue taking the brunt of additional costs and other burdens without the impact being felt by the communities that these essential stores serve.”
He added, “Convenience stores are still right at the heart of communities, more relevant than ever to people’s daily lives, and making a positive difference not just through diversified products and services, but as job creators, investors and social hubs.
“Every community has different needs and our members’ greatest asset is being able to adapt their offer to meet those needs.”
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