OPINION: Independent convenience stores play a vital role in keeping customers safe – James Lowman, chief executive, ACS

We know from talking with consumers that convenience stores have the most positive impact on the local areas where we operate. That’s partly by being there and providing a vital service, but it’s also about what we do to add value to the community. 

This might be in the form of charity work and positive engagement, but it’s also about promoting a safe community, and being a place that customers feel they can rely on and turn to. 

This is one of the reasons we’re encouraging convenience retailers to sign up to the Women’s Night Safety Charter to contribute to helping women feel safer when walking around at night. 

OPINION: We must work together to fight crime at cash and carries – James Bielby, chief executive, FWD