2 minute read
Welsh Retail
by 55 North
Consumers put Welsh c-stores at heart of their community
The almost 3,000 convenience stores in Wales continue to provide an essential service forcustomers during the ongoing pandemic, says ACS 2022 report.
Consumers in Wales rate convenience stores as the service that has had the most positive impact in the community and one of the top three most essential services, according to the ACS’s 2022 Welsh Local Shop Report.
There are almost 3,000 convenience stores in Wales. These have continued to provide an essential service for their customers due to the efforts made by the sector’s 25,000 colleagues. Key figures from the report include:
● The convenience sector in Wales generates more than £2.7bn in total sales.
● Convenience stores in Wales have invested £35m in their businesses over the past year.
● 82% of stores now accept contactless payment.
● 83% of independent retailers in Wales engaged in some form of community activity over the last year.
The report also reveals that 20% of people working in local shops have been in the business for more than 10 years, with just 18% being there for less than a year. The convenience sector is also an important place for age diversity, with 21% being between 16 to 24-years-old and 14% being over 60. In addition, the majority of Wales’ local shop colleagues (61%) plan to keep working in the convenience sector in the future, with around one in three looking toward a more senior role.
ACS Chief Executive James Lowman said: “Local shops in Wales are essential job creators, providing local, flexible and secure employment for over 25,000 people in communities across the country. Despite challenges in the employment market, we’re pleased to say that less than one in five people working in local shops have been there for less than a year. This is a long term, secure career path.”
Lowman added: “Our colleagues working in Welsh local shops should be celebrated for going above and beyond, supporting customers throughout the pandemic, adapting to new and changing regulations, and organising community activities to help local charities.”
