Tthe Association of Convenience Stores (ACS) has welcomed launch of the Great British High Street (GBHS) Awards 2019. The Government-run awards, in partnership with Visa, celebrate the nation’s leading high streets and recognise local achievements.
Entries for the GBHS Awards 2019 have just opened, and a selection of 40 shortlisted finalists will be chosen by an independent judging panel and are eligible to win up to £15k for their local community.
Visa also published the findings of their research, coinciding with the launch of the awards, which found that three in four (74%) independent shops and businesses across Britain are optimistic about the future of their local high street; up from 52% last year.
ACS chief executive, James Lowman said, “We are keen supporters of the Great British High Street Awards and we are pleased to see recognition of the key role that high streets play in our local communities.
“Convenience stores are important to communities for keeping access to services local and our Voice of Local Shops survey has found that retailers remain optimistic about the future. We would encourage retailers to take part in the Awards by entering their local high street.”