When Convenience Store last visited the One Stop store run by Priyesh Vekaria in Salford, we were impressed with the steps he’d personally taken to reduce the risks of complications from things like heart attacks, seizures and more in and around his shop.
These included a 24-hour accessible defibrillator outside the store, a Major Trauma Bleed Kit for serious emergencies and a clearly signposted safe place policy for any vulnerable individuals - whether child or adult - seeking immediate support.
Priyesh’s store also utilises the Zello app to protect its staff and customers, and his CCTV system incorporates facial recognition as well as numberplate recognition.
Priyesh said: “These technological and procedural safeguards reflect our deep commitment to the safety and wellbeing of our team, customers and wider community. Our staff are trained not merely to sell, but to observe, support and respond - treating every visitor with dignity, compassion and care.”
Recently, Priyesh has also taken delivery of a LifeVac anti-choking device (pictured above), added to assist in asphyxiation incidents.
So, we thought it would be a great opportunity to chat with him about his motivation behind all this work and expense – and to find out how other stores might do exactly the same…
What inspired you to take on extra work like this?
“My background in law and law enforcement played a significant role. Having served as a police officer for over a decade, I’ve witnessed first-hand how critical the first few minutes are in a life or death situation.
“That experience shaped my belief that retail spaces should also be community-first spaces, places of care, connection and calm.
“Installing life saving equipment was not a commercial decision. It was a moral one. If we can help even one person in crisis, every effort will have been worthwhile.”
Has it been easy?
“Not always, but it’s been deeply meaningful. There are costs, training requirements and logistical considerations, but with the support of supplier reward schemes such as JTI and IQOS, and strong community backing, we made it happen.
“What made the process easier was the clarity of our intent. This was never about fulfilling compliance obligations. It was about living up to our values and our responsibilities as a community hub. When your purpose is authentic, people - from customers to staff to partners - rally behind you.”
What advice would you offer other retailers considering this sort of work?
“Start with one meaningful step, whether that’s installing a defibrillator, providing a trauma kit or clearly designating your store as a safe space. Engage your suppliers, local authorities and wider networks as there’s more support available than you might realise. Make your initiative visible and well communicated, because awareness is just as important as action.
“Most importantly, train your staff not only in how to use the equipment but also in empathetic communication. The ability to de-escalate, offer comfort and provide real-time support can be just as critical as the tools themselves.”
What’s a good first move if someone hasn’t done this before?
“Install a public access defibrillator. It’s a visible, trusted and high-impact safety measure that could be the difference between life and death. Complement this with basic staff training and a simple but clear policy that your store is a safe place for those in need. These early steps help build momentum, community trust and a deeper sense of purpose.”
What’s next for your own store, in terms of safety and wellbeing?
“We’re now focused on integrating AI-driven solutions into our store to enhance both security and emergency responsiveness. Our chosen partner for this is Retail AI, whose platform offers a robust and scalable approach to modern safety management.
“At One Stop Carlton Convenience, we don’t see the cost of implementing emergency aid and security infrastructure as an expense - we see it as an investment. An investment in human life, community wellbeing and operational resilience. Because if, or when, that equipment is needed to save a life or support someone in distress, the value of that investment becomes immediately clear.
“To be a retailer of this calibre is to be genuinely committed to those around you. It’s what transforms a local shop into a pillar of the community - not just a place to buy essentials, but a place where people feel safe, supported and valued.”
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