The government has set a target of March 2011 for Change4Life convenience stores to be active throughout the UK.

In a new white paper on public health released by the department of health this week, the coalition government stated its intention to have dedicated fruit and vegetable chiller cabinets in prominent positions under Change4Life branding in every region of the country.

The partnership between the department of health and the Association of Convenience Stores has been credited with an increase in fresh produce sales of up to 50 per cent in some stores.

The document states: “Many stores have used the programme to engage with local schools and cooking clubs and are supporting them through fruit tuck shops, providing fruit at parents’ evenings and providing fresh ingredients for use in cooking lessons at cost price.”