The Scottish Grocers' Federation (SGF) has highlighted the essential role convenience stores play in sustaining local communities as Scotland Loves Local Week gets underway.
The seven-day campaign, organised by Scotland's Towns Partnership (STP) with support from the Scottish government, launches on 13 June and aims to encourage consumers to support businesses in their local areas.
Ahead of the initiative, SGF president Graham Watson urged shoppers to recognise the importance of independent retailers in maintaining vibrant communities, particularly in rural areas.
Watson, who has operated Watson's Grocers in the Dumfries and Galloway village of Moniaive for 25 years, said local businesses provided much more than products and services.
"Local businesses are so important to our communities," he said. "Businesses and people build a relationship with each other. We try to do our very best for them."
He warned that the loss of local shops could have wider consequences for communities.
"In small communities, when assets like local shops go, schools often follow - and all sorts of local assets. It's a two-way street and it's vital that we support each other," Watson said.
"I know everybody. We look out for people, we deliver things for free. I can stand out the front of the shop and wave at every second car that comes through."
Watson added that convenience stores offer reassurance and support at a time of uncertainty.
"We live in a really uncertain world. Community shops bring a lot of security to communities - heart, soul and decent groceries," he said.
His comments come as Scotland prepares to begin its FIFA World Cup campaign, with organisers encouraging consumers to back local businesses while stocking up for match celebrations and other events.
The SGF is a longstanding supporter of the Scotland Loves Local campaign and also operates its own Go Local initiative, which promotes products from Scottish suppliers and producers.
According to STP, spending locally can have a significant impact on the wider economy. The organisation estimates that if every person in Scotland spent an additional £1 per week with local businesses, it would generate almost £283m annually for the national economy.
Throughout Scotland Loves Local Week, politicians are expected to visit businesses across the country to promote the benefits of supporting local enterprises, protecting jobs and retaining spending within communities.
Kimberley Guthrie, chief officer of Scotland's Towns Partnership, said consumers had an opportunity to make a difference by changing their shopping habits.
"We can all play our part in helping local businesses - and places - to thrive by simply choosing local," she said.
"That's something we can start this weekend, by supporting local shops when stocking up to watch World Cup matches or organising events.
"The critical thing is making this a habit that we all stick with - supporting countless fantastic businesses across Scotland, creating a future where they thrive and everyone wins through their success."