A north-east MP has backed a national campaign to support local retailers amid the closure of convenience stores.
Banff and Buchan MP David Duguid is backing the Association of Convenience Stores’ effort to stay local, and help rural areas fight the loss cash machines.
The organisation won cross-party approval at Westminster for the My Local Shop initiative after their latest report revealed there are more than 46,000 local stores in the UK employing 405,000 people.
Despite latest ACS figures claiming these stores generated sales of £40.3billion last year, small retailers struggle with the cost and customer access to cash machines has also had an impact.
Mr Duguid said: “There are small shops all across Banff and Buchan – many of which are the only available store in smaller communities and villages.
“These outlets play an important role in the community. Some convenience stores now provide Post Office services and cash points in areas where there are no longer banks.
“It is important that all levels of government support our local retailers as it can be very challenging running a small shop due to the high cost of doing business.
“I know of at least one shop owner who has since contacted me to seek support, and I will be more than happy to meet any local retailer in the constituency.”
