Key SummaryACS warns rising NLW and NI costs are hitting small stores hard. Retailers are cutting profits, staff hours, and raising prices. Calls made for phased NLW rollout and business-friendly reforms.Convenience retailers are urging Low Pay Commission to take measured approach to future headline rate recommendations and take into account the impact of rising employment costs on small businesses.The Commission’s consultation follows changes in the National Living Wage in 2025 which brought the headline rate up to £12.21 per hour in April and increased the eligibility for the headline rate so that anyone aged 21 or over could receive it. The headline rate of the National Living Wage has now increased by over 40 per cent since April 2019, and has met Government targets of first 60 per cent and then two thirds of median earnings.In its submission, Association of Convenience Stores (ACS) has outlined the measures that retailers ... Continue Reading »
Final EPR fees spark backlash from wine makers and retailers. High glass charges may drive shift to less eco-friendly packaging. Industry urges delay, calling scheme costly and ineffective.Wine makers and retailers have slammed the recently-confirmed fees for the Government’s Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) scheme, saying it comes as a blow to the sector which is already reeling from consecutive duty hikes. Government organisation PackUK on Friday (June 27) published the 2025 base fees for the EPR scheme, confirming the amount firms will have to pay for producing packaging, thus providing crucial certainty to producers ahead of the first invoices in October 2025. Nearly all fees have reduced compared with the illustrative base fees published in December, with glass down by 20 per cent. The 2025 base fees are calculated using packaging tonnages reported by producers for 2024 and local authority waste management costs. DEFRA had previously announced a ... Continue Reading »
Sofina Foods Europe has acquired Finnebrogue, a family-owned food manufacturing business. Finnebrogue produces a wide range of food products, including pork, sausages, and plant-based alternatives. Sofina Foods Europe is a leading supplier of branded and own-label seafood and pork products.Sofina Foods Europe, a leading supplier of both branded and own-label seafood and pork products, has announced the acquisition of Finnebrogue.Finnebrogue is a family-owned food manufacturing business, established in 1991 and currently employing around 1,200 people across four state-of-the-art facilities in County Down, Northern Ireland. Finnebrogue produces a wide range of food products, including outdoor-bred pork, sausages, rashers, and ham, as well as plant-based alternatives. The pork division of Sofina Foods Europe is one of the largest processors and suppliers of products across the UK and Ireland. The seafood division is the largest provider of chilled and frozen products across the UK, including the Young’s brand, and is a major ... Continue Reading »
Fuel prices across the UK decreased for both petrol and diesel from end of February 2025 to end of May 2025 Fuel margins were similar to high levels seen during the CMA's road fuel market study in 2023 The CMA will undertake a review of fuel retailer operating costs in its first annual road fuel monitoring report later this yearFuel prices across the UK decreased for both petrol and diesel from end of February 2025 to end of May 2025, the Competition and Market Authority (CMA) said in its monitoring report published today.The reports sets out the watchdog’s observations on developments in the UK’s road fuel retail market since the previous update in March. The CMA noted that these movements reflect in part changing crude oil prices and refining spreads, both of which are driven by global factors. The average petrol and diesel prices at the end of May ... Continue Reading »
Social media viral food trends bring the possibility of added revenue in convenience storesNeeds constant monitoring and extensive search for consistent suppliersSupermarkets proving to be slower in the adaptation, giving an edge to independent storesTikTok and Instagram viral food trends are unlocking a fresh revenue stream for the convenience retail sector, giving independents a clear edge over supermarkets in the race to meet new demand.There was a time when supermarkets dictated food trends, often borrowing cues from restaurants to recreate bestsellers for the masses. But that dynamic has shifted and this time, the power swing feels permanent.Today, social media calls the shots, and the stores that respond fastest are the ones cashing in.From matcha lattes to spicy Korean noodles to Viele Angel Hair Strawberry Chocolate and Squid Games energy drinks, shoppers’ cravings are now shaped online and sometimes overnight. PRIME is a textbook example, a brand born from social buzz ... Continue Reading »
Key SummaryUK launches global-first plan to make healthy food the easy choice via new standards. Supermarkets must report on healthy food sales and promote better options. Tesco and Sainsbury’s back the move, calling for a level playing field.Food retailers and manufacturers will be told to “make the healthy choice the easy choice” in a world-first partnership between government and industry to tackle the obesity epidemic and ease pressure on the NHS as part of the Plan for Change. The new scheme, announced on Sunday (June 29) by the Department for Health and Social Care, is part of the forthcoming 10-Year Health Plan, through which the government is seeking to shift from sickness to prevention to alleviate the burden on the NHS.Businesses will be given the freedom to meet the standard however works best for them.Measures could include reformulating products and tweaking recipes, changing shop layouts, offering discounts on healthy foods, ... Continue Reading »
Key SummaryAspall launches ‘Y Do Ordinary’ – an all-new brand platform placing Aspall Cyder as the drink of choice for elevated social occasionsCampaign supported by out-of-home activations, targeted social ads, plus digital assets and point-of-sale material for retailersAspall Cyder is the number one super premium cider in the GB, with plans to expand its success to reach a new cohort of cider drinkers and occasions.Aspall Cyder, the leading super premium cider in Britain [Circana and CGA, 52w/e 25.01.25], has unveiled a new campaign designed to position the brand as the drink of choice for elevated social occasions for a new generation of cider drinkers.Titled ‘Y Do Ordinary’, the campaign emphasises the unique spelling of Aspall Cyder which emphasises its 300-year heritage and a cider-making history that sets it apart from other brands in the category.The campaign showcases Aspall Cyder as a sophisticated alternative to Prosecco, wine, cocktails and aperitifs. Crafted ... Continue Reading »
Sandea Wholesale Ltd today (June 30) announced the acquisition of Swastik International (UK) Limited, a well-established and respected player in the fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) sector. This strategic acquisition marks a significant milestone in Sandea Wholesale’s growth trajectory and strengthens its position as a leading force in the UK’s wholesale and distribution industry.The unified business will operate under the Sandea Wholesale brand, offering an expanded product portfolio, enhanced logistical capabilities, and a deepened commitment to service excellence and customer satisfaction.“This acquisition represents an exciting new chapter for both companies,” said Sanjeet Manek, Director at Sandea Wholesale. “Swastik International has built a strong reputation and loyal customer base. '"We are thrilled to welcome their team into the Sandea family. Together, we are better positioned to meet the evolving needs of our customers and accelerate our growth plans across the UK and beyond.”The integration process will begin immediately, with both organizations focused ... Continue Reading »
A record number of people in Britain say they are struggling to make ends meet, according to a major new study that underscores the ongoing economic pressures facing consumers – and the potential knock-on effects for retailers.The latest British Social Attitudes report by the National Centre for Social Research (NatCen) reveals that 26 per cent of people now say they are finding it difficult to live on their current income, the highest level ever recorded in the survey’s four-decade history. This figure is up sharply from 16 per cent before the pandemic.The findings come a year after Labour returned to power promising to rebuild the economy and improve public services. But despite a shift in political leadership, consumer confidence remains fragile. The report shows that only 35 per cent of people say they are living comfortably, a record low, down from 50 per cent pre-COVID.Even as inflation has eased from ... Continue Reading »
SummaryPost Office has announced the third tranche in its franchise plans for the remaining 108 directly managed branches Wester Hailes Post Office in Edinburgh is set to relocate within the same shopping centre and be franchised to Mohammed and Aamir Arshad Previous tranche announcements involved franchising branches to various operatorsPost Office has moved another step closer to its goal of a fully franchised network, announcing on Wednesday (25 June) the third tranche in its franchise plans for the last remaining 108 directly managed branches (DMBs).With this latest update, a total of 76 branches have now been earmarked for transfer across the first three tranches. The latest proposal involves the Wester Hailes Post Office in Edinburgh, which is set to relocate within the same shopping centre and be franchised to father-son duo Mohammed and Aamir Arshad. The experienced retail operators previously ran the Whitecraig Post Office, near Mussleburgh, and currently ... Continue Reading »
The man, who threatened the staff of a convenience store in West Lothian with a weapon before stealing £2,000 in cash, has been arrested.The 46-year-old man is due to appear at Livingston Sheriff Court on Monday, June 30.According to local news outlets, at around 8.15pm on Thursday (June 26), a balaclava-clad man dressed in a grey tracksuit entered Armadale's Premier Lower Bathville store. In the shocking CCTV footage shared by the store owner, the man is seen aggressively pushing the man behind the till before raising a large knife and ordering him to open the till.While the man threatened and forced the store assistant to open the till, he himself came forward and took the cash from till before walking out of the store, as can be seen in the footage shared below. Abdul Manan, who owns the Premier convenience store said they had minor incidents in ... Continue Reading »
From mochi ice cream to matcha cookies, Japanese-style desserts have been steadily gaining ground on UK shelves as British retailers are taking note of consumers’ growing appetite for “joyful” sweet treats.According to the food experts, soft, sweet and full of character Japanese-style desserts, further driven by TikTok, are gaining popularity among shoppers in the UK, pushing many retailers to look for options to stock.Recent example of this line of product is M&S' own take on the Japanese convenience store favourite, a sandwich made with soft milk bread, whipped cream and neatly layered fruit.“We’re seeing people turn to food as an antidote to life’s uncertainties – they’re looking for small, joyful indulgences that feel novel, premium and culturally rich,” The Guardian quoted Charles Banks, a co-founder of The Food People, a UK-based food trends consultancy.“Japanese sweets bring playful formats, surprising textures and beautifully balanced flavours that tap into this ... Continue Reading »
SummarySouthern Co-op is selling 22 stores to streamline operations, Two will be converted to operate under Southern Co-op’s Welcome franchise while the rest sold to two third-party retailers Southern Co-op to work closely with the acquiring parties to ensure a smooth transitionFollowing a period of sustained market change and operating cost increases across the retail sector, Southern Co-op has taken the decision to sell 22 of its directly operated food convenience stores. 20 stores are being sold to two third-party retailers, and two will be converted to operate under Southern Co-op’s Welcome franchise.Simon Eastwood, Southern Co-op’s Chief Operating Officer for Retail, said, “As a food business, we continue to evolve and develop our offering to meet the changing needs of our customers and members. "The sale of these stores reflects our ongoing efforts to optimise our store portfolio and strengthen our long-term operating model and in no way reflects ... Continue Reading »
Lancashire-based vape specialist Totally Wicked has been acquired by Chinese investors in a deal that will support its expansion across the UK and German markets.The new owner, Wittyace UK Holding – controlled by Chinese national Ying Wang and registered in Cambridge – is a subsidiary of Hong Kong-based Wittyace HK Holding Limited. Recent filings with Companies House show that Wittyace now holds at least 75 per cent of shares in Totally Wicked.The retailer confirmed the deal in a statement, describing it as a “significant” investment that positions the business for further growth. CEO Marcus Saxton will continue to lead the company, and the wider management team will remain in place.“This new investment is a testament to the confidence in Totally Wicked’s robust business model and the potential for further success in the vaping industry,” the company said. “We look forward to leveraging this opportunity to accelerate our growth and deliver ... Continue Reading »
France will ban smoking on beaches and in parks, public gardens and bus shelters from Sunday, the government said.The decree, published in the official government gazette on Saturday, will also ban smoking outside libraries, swimming pools and schools, and is aimed at protecting children from passive smoking.The decree did not mention electronic cigarettes. Violaters of the ban will face a fine of €135 (£115)."Tobacco must disappear from places where there are children," Health and Family Minister Catherine Vautrin had said in May, underscoring "the right of children to breathe pure air".Cafe terraces are excluded from the ban.Some 75,000 people are estimated to die from tobacco-related complications each year in France.According to a recent opinion survey, six out of 10 French people (62%) favour a smoking ban in public places.In the UK, Tobacco and Vapes Bill, currently under the consideration of the House of Lords, will give the government powers to ... Continue Reading »
Key SummaryACS warns rising NLW and NI costs are hitting small stores hard. Retailers are cutting profits, staff hours, and raising prices. Calls made for phased NLW rollout and business-friendly reforms.Convenience retailers are urging Low Pay Commission to take measured approach to future headline rate recommendations and take into account the impact of rising employment costs on small businesses.The Commission’s consultation follows changes in the National Living Wage in 2025 which brought the headline rate up to £12.21 per hour in April and increased the eligibility for the headline rate so that anyone aged 21 or over could receive it. The headline rate of the National Living Wage has now increased by over 40 per cent since April 2019, and has met Government targets of first 60 per cent and then two thirds of median earnings.In its submission, Association of Convenience Stores (ACS) has outlined the measures that retailers ... 
Final EPR fees spark backlash from wine makers and retailers. High glass charges may drive shift to less eco-friendly packaging. Industry urges delay, calling scheme costly and ineffective.Wine makers and retailers have slammed the recently-confirmed fees for the Government’s Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) scheme, saying it comes as a blow to the sector which is already reeling from consecutive duty hikes. Government organisation PackUK on Friday (June 27) published the 2025 base fees for the EPR scheme, confirming the amount firms will have to pay for producing packaging, thus providing crucial certainty to producers ahead of the first invoices in October 2025. Nearly all fees have reduced compared with the illustrative base fees published in December, with glass down by 20 per cent. The 2025 base fees are calculated using packaging tonnages reported by producers for 2024 and local authority waste management costs. DEFRA had previously announced a ... 
Sofina Foods Europe has acquired Finnebrogue, a family-owned food manufacturing business. Finnebrogue produces a wide range of food products, including pork, sausages, and plant-based alternatives. Sofina Foods Europe is a leading supplier of branded and own-label seafood and pork products.Sofina Foods Europe, a leading supplier of both branded and own-label seafood and pork products, has announced the acquisition of Finnebrogue.Finnebrogue is a family-owned food manufacturing business, established in 1991 and currently employing around 1,200 people across four state-of-the-art facilities in County Down, Northern Ireland. Finnebrogue produces a wide range of food products, including outdoor-bred pork, sausages, rashers, and ham, as well as plant-based alternatives. The pork division of Sofina Foods Europe is one of the largest processors and suppliers of products across the UK and Ireland. The seafood division is the largest provider of chilled and frozen products across the UK, including the Young’s brand, and is a major ... 
Fuel prices across the UK decreased for both petrol and diesel from end of February 2025 to end of May 2025 Fuel margins were similar to high levels seen during the CMA's road fuel market study in 2023 The CMA will undertake a review of fuel retailer operating costs in its first annual road fuel monitoring report later this yearFuel prices across the UK decreased for both petrol and diesel from end of February 2025 to end of May 2025, the Competition and Market Authority (CMA) said in its monitoring report published today.The reports sets out the watchdog’s observations on developments in the UK’s road fuel retail market since the previous update in March. The CMA noted that these movements reflect in part changing crude oil prices and refining spreads, both of which are driven by global factors. The average petrol and diesel prices at the end of May ... 
Social media viral food trends bring the possibility of added revenue in convenience storesNeeds constant monitoring and extensive search for consistent suppliersSupermarkets proving to be slower in the adaptation, giving an edge to independent storesTikTok and Instagram viral food trends are unlocking a fresh revenue stream for the convenience retail sector, giving independents a clear edge over supermarkets in the race to meet new demand.There was a time when supermarkets dictated food trends, often borrowing cues from restaurants to recreate bestsellers for the masses. But that dynamic has shifted and this time, the power swing feels permanent.Today, social media calls the shots, and the stores that respond fastest are the ones cashing in.From matcha lattes to spicy Korean noodles to Viele Angel Hair Strawberry Chocolate and Squid Games energy drinks, shoppers’ cravings are now shaped online and sometimes overnight. PRIME is a textbook example, a brand born from social buzz ... 
Key SummaryUK launches global-first plan to make healthy food the easy choice via new standards. Supermarkets must report on healthy food sales and promote better options. Tesco and Sainsbury’s back the move, calling for a level playing field.Food retailers and manufacturers will be told to “make the healthy choice the easy choice” in a world-first partnership between government and industry to tackle the obesity epidemic and ease pressure on the NHS as part of the Plan for Change. The new scheme, announced on Sunday (June 29) by the Department for Health and Social Care, is part of the forthcoming 10-Year Health Plan, through which the government is seeking to shift from sickness to prevention to alleviate the burden on the NHS.Businesses will be given the freedom to meet the standard however works best for them.Measures could include reformulating products and tweaking recipes, changing shop layouts, offering discounts on healthy foods, ... 
Key SummaryAspall launches ‘Y Do Ordinary’ – an all-new brand platform placing Aspall Cyder as the drink of choice for elevated social occasionsCampaign supported by out-of-home activations, targeted social ads, plus digital assets and point-of-sale material for retailersAspall Cyder is the number one super premium cider in the GB, with plans to expand its success to reach a new cohort of cider drinkers and occasions.Aspall Cyder, the leading super premium cider in Britain [Circana and CGA, 52w/e 25.01.25], has unveiled a new campaign designed to position the brand as the drink of choice for elevated social occasions for a new generation of cider drinkers.Titled ‘Y Do Ordinary’, the campaign emphasises the unique spelling of Aspall Cyder which emphasises its 300-year heritage and a cider-making history that sets it apart from other brands in the category.The campaign showcases Aspall Cyder as a sophisticated alternative to Prosecco, wine, cocktails and aperitifs. Crafted ... 
Sandea Wholesale Ltd today (June 30) announced the acquisition of Swastik International (UK) Limited, a well-established and respected player in the fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) sector. This strategic acquisition marks a significant milestone in Sandea Wholesale’s growth trajectory and strengthens its position as a leading force in the UK’s wholesale and distribution industry.The unified business will operate under the Sandea Wholesale brand, offering an expanded product portfolio, enhanced logistical capabilities, and a deepened commitment to service excellence and customer satisfaction.“This acquisition represents an exciting new chapter for both companies,” said Sanjeet Manek, Director at Sandea Wholesale. “Swastik International has built a strong reputation and loyal customer base. '"We are thrilled to welcome their team into the Sandea family. Together, we are better positioned to meet the evolving needs of our customers and accelerate our growth plans across the UK and beyond.”The integration process will begin immediately, with both organizations focused ... 
A record number of people in Britain say they are struggling to make ends meet, according to a major new study that underscores the ongoing economic pressures facing consumers – and the potential knock-on effects for retailers.The latest British Social Attitudes report by the National Centre for Social Research (NatCen) reveals that 26 per cent of people now say they are finding it difficult to live on their current income, the highest level ever recorded in the survey’s four-decade history. This figure is up sharply from 16 per cent before the pandemic.The findings come a year after Labour returned to power promising to rebuild the economy and improve public services. But despite a shift in political leadership, consumer confidence remains fragile. The report shows that only 35 per cent of people say they are living comfortably, a record low, down from 50 per cent pre-COVID.Even as inflation has eased from ... 
SummaryPost Office has announced the third tranche in its franchise plans for the remaining 108 directly managed branches Wester Hailes Post Office in Edinburgh is set to relocate within the same shopping centre and be franchised to Mohammed and Aamir Arshad Previous tranche announcements involved franchising branches to various operatorsPost Office has moved another step closer to its goal of a fully franchised network, announcing on Wednesday (25 June) the third tranche in its franchise plans for the last remaining 108 directly managed branches (DMBs).With this latest update, a total of 76 branches have now been earmarked for transfer across the first three tranches. The latest proposal involves the Wester Hailes Post Office in Edinburgh, which is set to relocate within the same shopping centre and be franchised to father-son duo Mohammed and Aamir Arshad. The experienced retail operators previously ran the Whitecraig Post Office, near Mussleburgh, and currently ... 
The man, who threatened the staff of a convenience store in West Lothian with a weapon before stealing £2,000 in cash, has been arrested.The 46-year-old man is due to appear at Livingston Sheriff Court on Monday, June 30.According to local news outlets, at around 8.15pm on Thursday (June 26), a balaclava-clad man dressed in a grey tracksuit entered Armadale's Premier Lower Bathville store. In the shocking CCTV footage shared by the store owner, the man is seen aggressively pushing the man behind the till before raising a large knife and ordering him to open the till.While the man threatened and forced the store assistant to open the till, he himself came forward and took the cash from till before walking out of the store, as can be seen in the footage shared below. Abdul Manan, who owns the Premier convenience store said they had minor incidents in ... 
From mochi ice cream to matcha cookies, Japanese-style desserts have been steadily gaining ground on UK shelves as British retailers are taking note of consumers’ growing appetite for “joyful” sweet treats.According to the food experts, soft, sweet and full of character Japanese-style desserts, further driven by TikTok, are gaining popularity among shoppers in the UK, pushing many retailers to look for options to stock.Recent example of this line of product is M&S' own take on the Japanese convenience store favourite, a sandwich made with soft milk bread, whipped cream and neatly layered fruit.“We’re seeing people turn to food as an antidote to life’s uncertainties – they’re looking for small, joyful indulgences that feel novel, premium and culturally rich,” The Guardian quoted Charles Banks, a co-founder of The Food People, a UK-based food trends consultancy.“Japanese sweets bring playful formats, surprising textures and beautifully balanced flavours that tap into this ... 
SummarySouthern Co-op is selling 22 stores to streamline operations, Two will be converted to operate under Southern Co-op’s Welcome franchise while the rest sold to two third-party retailers Southern Co-op to work closely with the acquiring parties to ensure a smooth transitionFollowing a period of sustained market change and operating cost increases across the retail sector, Southern Co-op has taken the decision to sell 22 of its directly operated food convenience stores. 20 stores are being sold to two third-party retailers, and two will be converted to operate under Southern Co-op’s Welcome franchise.Simon Eastwood, Southern Co-op’s Chief Operating Officer for Retail, said, “As a food business, we continue to evolve and develop our offering to meet the changing needs of our customers and members. "The sale of these stores reflects our ongoing efforts to optimise our store portfolio and strengthen our long-term operating model and in no way reflects ... 
Lancashire-based vape specialist Totally Wicked has been acquired by Chinese investors in a deal that will support its expansion across the UK and German markets.The new owner, Wittyace UK Holding – controlled by Chinese national Ying Wang and registered in Cambridge – is a subsidiary of Hong Kong-based Wittyace HK Holding Limited. Recent filings with Companies House show that Wittyace now holds at least 75 per cent of shares in Totally Wicked.The retailer confirmed the deal in a statement, describing it as a “significant” investment that positions the business for further growth. CEO Marcus Saxton will continue to lead the company, and the wider management team will remain in place.“This new investment is a testament to the confidence in Totally Wicked’s robust business model and the potential for further success in the vaping industry,” the company said. “We look forward to leveraging this opportunity to accelerate our growth and deliver ... 
France will ban smoking on beaches and in parks, public gardens and bus shelters from Sunday, the government said.The decree, published in the official government gazette on Saturday, will also ban smoking outside libraries, swimming pools and schools, and is aimed at protecting children from passive smoking.The decree did not mention electronic cigarettes. Violaters of the ban will face a fine of €135 (£115)."Tobacco must disappear from places where there are children," Health and Family Minister Catherine Vautrin had said in May, underscoring "the right of children to breathe pure air".Cafe terraces are excluded from the ban.Some 75,000 people are estimated to die from tobacco-related complications each year in France.According to a recent opinion survey, six out of 10 French people (62%) favour a smoking ban in public places.In the UK, Tobacco and Vapes Bill, currently under the consideration of the House of Lords, will give the government powers to ...