The next phase of the Scottish Grocers’ Federation’s (SGF’s) Go Local Programme has been approved, with a further allocation of £190,000.
The fourth phase of the programme, which launched in December 2020, will build upon the aim to support convenience stores the length and breadth of Scotland to provide dedicated, long-term display space for locally sourced Scottish products.
The target is to increase the turnover of locally and nationally produced Scottish products within the convenience store sector, to mitigate lost volumes in other sectors and to aid economic recovery for Scottish manufacturers and producers. It’s success significantly contributes towards Ambition 2030, and to promote a sustainable and prosperous convenience industry in Scotland.
Phase 4 will see the selection of at least forty geographically, and demographically diverse stores, which will receive support to increase display space for Scottish products, using the available Scottish supplier databases to grow the number of suppliers and improve customer choice.
Applications are now being sought from independent and multi-site convenience retailers in Scotland for the match funded Go Local grant, worth up to £5,500 per store, including marketing costs.
Outlets that took part in the initial pilot saw a 40% increase in sales of local products and delivered additional local economic benefits in excess of £159,000 per store. Phase 4 of the program is open to applications between now and 31st May 2023.
Retailers can apply here
The cabinet secretary for rural affairs Mairi Gougeon said: “I am delighted to offer further Scottish Government support for a fourth phase of the Go Local programme. As well as being a fine example of collaborative working between the Scottish Grocers Federation and Scotland Food & Drink, the widespread participation from local producers and store owners is a testament to the success of this programme.
“It is encouraging to see an increase in shelf space for Scottish produce and a growth of nearly 40% in the sale of eligible products.
“We remain committed to supporting local convenience stores, as well as helping consumers access more of the fresh, quality produce they demand from our fantastic food and drink producers.”
SGF chief executive, Dr Pete Cheema OBE added: “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.”
Scotland Food & Drink chief executive Iain Baxter said: “The convenience sector is a critical part of Scotland’s food and drink landscape, both for producers and consumers. Having Scottish products front and centre in community-based stores across the country provides an excellent platform to celebrate and support the very best the industry has to offer.
“We welcome Phase 4 of the Go Local campaign and look forward to seeing the continued success of the programme.”
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