CROSS PARTY GROUP ON SMALL SHOPS

Minutes of the reception held at 12:15pm on 15^th July 2014 at Ty Hywel

SPEAKERS

Suzy Davies AM (SD)
James Lowman (JL)	ACS
Michelle Ovens (MO)	Small Business Saturday

PRESENT:

Mark Isherwood AM, Keith Davies AM, Tom Davies on behalf of David Melding AM, representatives from Association of Convenience Stores, the Rural Shops Alliance, the Booksellers Association, National Federation of Retail Newsagents, Cycle Traders Association, National Hairdressers Federation, and small shop retailers from across Wales.

APOLOGIES:

Janet Finch-Saunders AM (Chair)

1. INTRODUCTION

SD welcomed attendees to the annual reception of the Cross Party Group (CPG) on behalf of Janet Finch-Saunders AM and introduced JL and MO who would present on the success of the convenience sector and small businesses in Wales.

SD then presented to attendees, highlighting the role that independent retailers play in the Welsh economy and society, and how retailers can engage with the political decision making process in Cardiff and their AMs. 

2. PRESENTATION FROM JL

JL from ACS gave a presentation on the success of the convenience sector in Wales. He highlighted that the convenience sector contributes more than 22,000 jobs in Wales and the sector grew by 5% in 2013 alone.

JL then discussed the future of high streets in Wales, speaking of their relevance to small shops who often seek to establish their businesses on high streets. He noted that the Group had previously discussed town centre revitalisation and thanked the Group for its support in promoting this.

JL then highlighted the challenges for the year ahead facing the convenience sector, including actions arising from the review of the 5p carrier bag charge in Wales, opposing the registration scheme for tobacco retailers and public health objectives.

3. PRESENTATION FROM MO

MO from Small Business Saturday gave a presentation on its success in Wales in 2013, and plans for Small Business Saturday in 2014. She stated that nearly 50% of consumers were aware of the day in 2013 and nearly £0.5bn was spent by consumers in small businsses.

MO then discussed the plans for the 2014 launch. She stated that Small Business Saturday will be working with organisations and local entrepreneurs to provide support for small businesses, and promoting the day around the country to raise awareness of the date. MO then highlighted the Small Business 100, which will promote one small business a day in the 100 days up to the launch and encouraged Welsh retailers to apply.

4. CLOSING

The reception was closed by SD.