The Scottish government has decided to continue its funding programme to promote the sale of local produce in convenience stores after a pilot phase which it said has exceeded expectations.
The Go Local initiative, administered by the Scottish Grocers Federation (SGF), will see at least 21 grants paid to convenience retailers from an overall fund of £190,000.
“A diverse and successful convenience store sector is ideally placed to give customers the greater choice of locally-produced, healthy produce they are looking for, while at the same time helping to achieve our net zero targets by reducing food miles,” Scottish Rural Affairs Secretary Mairi Gougeon said.
“These grants and the specialist expertise on offer underlines our commitment to supporting this important sector and I would not only urge store operators to apply for funding, but for customers to continue supporting their local shops.”
The stores that took part in the project saw a 40 per cent increase in sales of local produce, while the estimated additional local economic benefits were in excess of £157,000 per store, according to an evaluation of the initial phase which has seen £100,000 invested in ten local shops.
The study found the participating stores have added an average of 30 square meters of extra space, allowing a 34 per cent increase in the number of local products stocked.
In addition to developing retail space in shops, the grants also provide for the appointment of a dedicated specialist with extensive retail and sourcing experience to maximise consumer choice and available display space.
Commenting, SGF chief executive Pete Cheema said: “We are delighted the Scottish Government has continued its investment in the Go Local project, enabling convenience retailers to increase their range of local products.
“The sector has punched above its weight during these difficult times and the fact is it local shops who have made the difference.
“The results we have seen already have been impressive with a clear local multiplier effect, which benefits retailers and Scottish manufacturers, while demonstrating that convenience stores can also play a crucial role in the recovery and regrowth of Scotland’s food and drink industry.”
The programme is now in its second year, with Scotland Food & Drink assisting with local sourcing support.
