C-store body discusses challenges over responsible retailing

Association of Convenience Stores (ACS) has highlighted the upcoming challenges facing retailers in key areas like vaping, HFSS products, digital proof of age, and recycling at its Responsible Retailing Forum.

At an online forum held on Tuesday (31), retailers and suppliers discussed the latest developments on HFSS in Wales and Scotland, upcoming environmental regulations including the disposable cup takeback scheme, developments in digital proof of age schemes to help prevent underage sales, and how vaping enforcement is being carried out to reduce the impact of illicit and illegal vapes on our streets.

ACS chief executive James Lowman said, “Responsible retailing is absolutely essential for a convenience store business operating successfully within a local community. This is not just about minimising the risk of underage sales through robust age verification policies like Challenge25, it’s also about being environmentally responsible and in tune with the needs and concerns of customers when it comes to the in-store offer.

“There are a number of challenges still on the horizon when it comes to responsible retailing, especially in areas like vaping and HFSS products, so it’s important that retailers are across the latest developments discussed today.”

The Government is currently consulting on options to restrict the impact of vaping products on young people and the environment. Interventions being considered include restricting flavours and colours, regulating the packaging and presentation of vapes, restricting the sale of single use (disposable) vapes, regulating the point of sale for vapes and looking at the products’ overall affordability. More information on the consultation, which ACS will be responding to in full, is available here.

ACS’ Selling Vapes Responsibly guide is backed by Surrey and Buckinghamshire Trading Standards as part of our industry-leading Assured Advice scheme. The guide details simple ways that retailers can check whether products are legitimate or not. The Selling Vapes Responsibly guide is available here.

The Briefings and Advice section of the ACS member portal sets out the latest developments in all relevant policy areas for retailers, including environmental interventions and product regulation. More information on the Member Portal is available here.