ACS (the Association of Convenience Stores) has announced that Commercial Director Paul Chamberlain has decided to leave the organisation, departing in March 2021.

Joining ACS in 2007 after success in previous roles in the news and magazine publishing industry, Mr Chamberlain has led significant growth in the supplier membership base, headlined by the Premier Club which currently includes over 40 supplier members looking to engage with the convenience sector.

He has also overseen the launch of the hugely successful Club supplier package during his time at ACS, which has become a core part of the offer to suppliers since its inception.

During his time at ACS, Mr Chamberlain has planned and developed a huge range of events to provide mutual benefit for both retailers and suppliers, including international and UK study tours and conferences like Summit and the Technology Showcase.

More recently, the ACS Live sessions have been bringing retailers and suppliers together to discuss new insights on the sector despite the Covid-19 restrictions.

ACS chief executive James Lowman said: “Paul has been incredibly important to the growth and success of ACS during his time here, delivering enormous value for suppliers through industry leading events, networking opportunities and building long-term relationships. Paul’s work has enabled ACS to push ahead, invest in the best possible support for retailers and represent our members effectively.”

ACS commercial director Paul Chamberlain said: “I have truly enjoyed my 13 years at ACS and leave proud of what we have achieved in this time. Our sector has always been changing and adapting and never more so than now.

“ACS will as always lead a strategy that allows the sector to thrive both politically and commercially through communication, information and sharing best practice. As ACS adapts and finds new and innovative ways to do this, this becomes the perfect time for me and ACS to let a new team drive and grow the commercial offer which I am sure they will do with great success.

“I leave James and the team with many thanks for their support and friendship and look forward to watching ACS continue to thrive in for coming years.”