The Association of Convenience Stores (ACS) introduced one of the finalists of its Community Heroes Awards in a panel discussion at the Convenience Retailing Show, to brainstorm how independent retailers can bond with their local communities.

Nigel Dowdney, who owns and manages Stalham Shopper and Open All Hours, in West Earlham, both in Norwich, revealed that he had battle to shake off the perception that he was an outsider, having moved up from London.

He said: “We realised we needed to be proactive and do something to become part of the community. We started to support local charities and the local football team, then we formed a local trade association when we lost our Post Office. This has helped generate up to £90,000 to regenerate the parade of shops we are on.

“We have also sourced local produce and supported local farms for a number of years.

“The locals have become really proud of the area, and the spin-off for us is that we have had good publicity and increased footfall,” he added.

ACS chief executive James Lowman said: “Being near a community does not make you a community retailer; that is something you have to earn every day.

“Independent retailers can offer their customers a link with their community, whether it is by championing a local cause or supporting the local football team.”

The two other finalists for the ACS Community Heroes Awards are Jonathan James, in Cambridgeshire, and Nita Shah, in Hermitage, Berkshire.

The vote for a winner is open until April 21.

Topics