SGF’s Scottish Local Shop Report is out now

The Scottish Grocers Federation has launched its Scottish Local Shop Report 2024 at its Annual Conference in Glasgow. The annual spotlight on the retail market in Scotland provides the most comprehensive overview available on one of the nation’s key sectors.

The Report 2024 breaks down the substantial contribution of the convenience retail sector to the Scottish Economy and highlights the lifeline services many local shops provide for their communities across Scotland. All in the midst of a very challenging time for many homes and businesses.

The latest figures show a welcome increase in the number of convenience stores over the past year, up 49, to 5,220 in 2024. Accounting for over 55,000 jobs across Scotland.

Dr Pete Cheema OBE

“The contribution of convenience stores and retail over the past few years cannot be overstated, despite the very difficult and challenging circumstances facing many in convenience retail," said SGF Chief Executive, Dr Pete Cheema OBE. "Staff and local shop owners across Scotland continue to play an indispensable role in both the Scottish Economy and for people in their communities.

“SGF’s Local Shop Report provides a key insight into the convenience store sector, the vital services our industry provides and the unstinting work of many of those who are employed in our trade.

”The information gathered in the report clearly make the case for targeted support from government, and a more joined up approach to regulation, for our key industry. So that we can continue to deliver for our local economies and communities.”

Compiled in collaboration with the Association of Convenience Stores, the SGF Local Shop Report has revealed the enormous contribution that convenience stores in Scotland make to people’s lives, not just as essential grocery businesses, but as job creators, community hubs and beacons of entrepreneurship.

Across the UK, the convenience sector contributed more than £10.8 billion in Gross Value Added and over £9.4 billion in taxes, in 2023/24.