Association of Convenience Stores reports rising crime and falling investment

The Association of Convenience Stores (ACS) has raised concerns regarding increasing violence in retail theft and declining investment within the forecourt sector. According to the latest Crime Survey for England and Wales, thieves are increasingly using threats of violence against retailers and shopworkers.

Additionally, the ACS reports that fuel retailers are facing significant economic pressure. Per-site investment is projected to shrink from £15,550 last year to £14,810 in 2026. The organization noted that rising staff and energy costs, combined with a decrease in average shop spending, are squeezing margins.

ACS Chief Executive Ed Woodall has called on the government to freeze fuel duty beyond January 2027 to support operators, who the ACS describes as providing critical national infrastructure. Woodall noted that while ministers often criticize forecourt operators regarding fuel prices, these retailers are often losing out when pump prices rise due to reduced in-store spending.