The Association of Convenience Stores (ACS) opened its annual conference at Birmingham’s NEC, held alongside the National Convenience Show.
For the first time, new chief executive Ed Woodall took to the stage to welcome over 500 industry leaders and retailers, acknowledging the tough year that has passed – and the potentially even more challenging one to come.
He said: ”I’ve worked here for a long while, but obviously it’s now a different perspective about the future of the ACS we’re presenting today.”
“There’s been lots going on in the world in politics and in government relations. We’ve been in Parliament, and we’ve talked out about the illicit trade and rogue businesses operating on high streets. The ACS’ work on that won’t change with me taking over. That strong voice of local shops and government is absolutely our priority.”
Woodall went on to detail how the work he has been doing recently - really hitting the ground running - has continued to be centred on keeping retailers as a focus for the ACS. “The thing I’ve prioritised in the first six weeks has been making sure we’re listening to retailers and the issues that really matter to them.
“I’ve been out to stores, trade shows and head offices to hear what retailers are thinking and feeling. To be honest, some of those conversations have been difficult. People are finding it tough. It’s a difficult training environment. We need to help retailers navigate those things.”
Woodall then introduced a panel of experts speaking about the future for retail and its challenges. Costs came in as the number on priority, with the changing face of the sector following – all on top of a shifting political landscape.
“We’ve got to build the network,” Woodall said. “For me, that means bringing through the next generation of convenience retailers - those who use data to inform their future questions around their business.
“We want to welcome those are looking at last mile solutions and new food missions in stores - so the ACS can be a place for the next generation of convenience retailers in future.”
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