Go Local grant application now open for Scottish C-stores

Independent and multi-site convenience retailers in Scotland can now apply for the match funded Go Local grant, worth up to £5,500 per store.

The SGF Go Local project aims to support convenience stores throughout Scotland to provide dedicated, long term display space for locally sourced Scottish products, with a bias towards fresh and healthy, coupled with enhanced consumer engagement. The project is funded by the Scottish Government and is being delivered in close partnership with Scotland Food & Drink.

The application process has opened on March 1 and will close on May 31, 2023.

Outlets who took part in the initial pilot saw a 40 per cent increase in sales of local products and delivered additional local economic benefits in excess of £159,000 per store. The programme enables stores to support local, Scottish producers and give these businesses a vital route to market to help with the recovery and regrowth from COVID 19.

The grant is open to all Scottish convenience retailers; however, multi-site operators will be limited to one application per company.

As there is a limit on the funds available, should the program be oversubscribed, the selection criteria will ensure firstly, a fair spread across fascia’s, geographic location,  program potential, demographics, and date of application- in that order. All stores selected for the program will be approved by the SGF for the purposes of fairness and transparency.

The grants for successful applicants will be released on the completion of the agreed work, which must be completed within 9 months of grant approval.

“Participating in the program not only gives you access to the SGF and Scotland Food & Drinks teams to help develop your store local proposition, it allows you to play a crucial role in the recovery and regrowth of Scotland’s food and drink industry by providing new routes to market for producers,” Scottish Grocers Federation states on its site.

“SGF’s Go Local Programme has been a tremendous success and we are delighted that the Cabinet Secretary and the Scottish Government are backing the next phase of the project.

“Local convenience stores are at the very heart of their communities and perfectly placed to support our wonderful local producers and suppliers across Scotland.

“By supporting retailers and helping them offer their customers high quality, locally sourced, fresh, and healthier food, convenience stores are a key driver in growing their local economy. Benefiting everyone, from customers to producers,” SGF quotes its Chief Executive Dr Pete Cheema OBE as saying.