Scottish convenience retailers, government officials and industry leaders gathered in Falkirk on Thursday (11 June) for the Scottish Grocers' Federation's annual Mini-Summit, where the sector's looming regulatory challenges took centre stage.
The event brought together representatives from across the convenience retail supply chain to examine a series of significant legislative changes set to reshape the operating environment for local shops over the coming years.
Among the key issues discussed were new restrictions on the sale and promotion of high fat, salt and sugar (HFSS) products, which are due to come into force this autumn. Retailers also received updates on forthcoming tobacco and vape regulations, with tighter controls on the sale and supply of these products expected to be introduced from later this year and continuing throughout 2027.
The UK's Deposit Return Scheme (DRS), scheduled to launch in October 2027, was another major focus of the summit, with delegates discussing the practical implications of the scheme for retailers and suppliers.
Expert panellists from the Scottish Government, Trading Standards and across the industry provided guidance on the upcoming changes, outlining compliance requirements and highlighting the potential impact on convenience stores and the communities they serve.
The event also offered retailers an opportunity to raise concerns, share experiences and engage directly with policymakers and regulatory bodies as the sector prepares for one of the most significant periods of regulatory change in recent years.
The session also covered the impact of the growing trend in illicit trade and the urgent need to support enforcement to crack down on rogue sellers.
Following the session, SGF Chief Executive, Dr Pete Cheema OBE commented: “To begin with, I want to give a huge thank you to all of our expert panellists from across the UK, who represented every aspect our sector, government officials and leading experts in their field. I also want to thank our members, without whom, the event could not take place.
“The Scottish convenience sector is under immense pressure both from external and global issues, from the worrying trend in retail crime and illicit trade, and from a conveyor belt of new regulation coming into force over the next year.
“Our event highlighted those challenges, provided important guidance on compliance and the best advice for businesses on how to manage those changes.
“SGF will continue to engage with government and decision makers on these key issues and ensure our sectors voice is heard.”