Discover who's been shortlisted for the 2024 Scottish Grocer Awards.

Thurso

A substantial investment by the retailers, considerable research and detailed planning has totally transformed this store and provided fresh propositions across the shop for customers. The revamp not only shows the owners’ commitment to their local community by providing a significantly enhanced store but also future-proofs the business, ensuring it will remain popular and profitable for years to come. Highlights include an impressive food-to-go area and an upmarket beer cave that provides a point of difference from rival c-stores and supermarkets. There is a great flow to the store and LED lighting, dark ceiling tiles, wood finishing and wood-effect flooring all give the outlet an upmarket appearance. And the changes are paying off as footfall and revenues have increased noticeably.

Whitburn

This custom-built Scotmid store is a testament to thoughtful design and innovation. The overall layout is clean, smart and well-mechanised, with spacious aisles that prioritise accessibility. Notably, the store features an impressive food-to-go counter and a wide range of self-serve drinks further elevate customer convenience. Fresh ideas such as Shake Sundays, food bank donations, and a Just Eat pizza service demonstrate the store's commitment to community and innovation. Although newly opened, the store is poised for success with plans for future enhancements, including a dual-serve self-checkout system. The impressive outlet is a result of close collaboration with the project management team and developer. And analysing customer demographics has made it a success from the first day of opening.

Airdrie

This Spar store showcases a meticulously designed and visually striking layout, which is flooded with natural light and character. Converted from a closed pub, this store saw the independent retailer refine the plans with both Spar Scotland and the shopfitters to get things just right. It has incorporated a number of features to make it stand out from a standard convenience store. There is a full fresh range (with advice sought from the SGF Healthy Living Programme), impressive food to go stations with digital menus, barista coffees and a beer cave for its customers – for which no ask is too big. Success is evident in the store's bespoke approach to consumer needs, with sales growing steadily each week.

Clydebank

Merchandising throughout this store encourages impulse purchases of soft drinks. For example, multipacks on mixers are placed close to alcohol and multivitamin drinks are sited near the fresh fruit. The comprehensive range of single cans and bottles, including sugar-free and water drinks, is presented in a long aisle facing the store’s large window, making it visible as shoppers approach. New varieties of popular soft drinks are placed alongside best sellers.

Grangemouth

Soft drinks play a major part in this store’s sales and the comprehensive range is given prominence in fridges and ambient aisles. Effective merchandising displays make sugar-free varieties and water easy for the shopper to find. The retailer is keen to keep the drinks range interesting with new releases and variants. Promotions such as drinks in meal deals are highlighted throughout the store and multipacks are positioned in impulse spots.

Soft drinks are easy to find throughout the shopper journey in this store and a dedicated deals area close to the tills offers regular promotions. Energy drinks and sugar-free varieties are easy to locate in fridges and on well-merchandised ambient aisles. New drinks are placed close to the best-sellers in the category to draw shoppers’ attention. Signage throughout the store alerts the shopper to promotions and drinks in meal deals.

Baillieston

The store's commitment to becoming a true community beacon is genuinely commendable. It consistently launches creative and engaging initiatives that not only uplift the community but also inspire active participation. The store's generous spirit is evident in its unwavering support for those struggling with hardships, offering help when it’s needed most. Its collaborative approach with local businesses further strengthens the fabric of the community, building strong, lasting bonds. Through these ongoing efforts, the store has cultivated a vibrant, connected community that everyone can take pride in and rely on.

Edinburgh

The store’s warm and inviting atmosphere immediately draws people in, but it's the deep commitment to the community that truly sets it apart. Its close relationship with local schools is evident in a variety of creative fundraising and fun initiatives, turning the store into a genuine community hub. Beyond this, the store’s dedication shines through in its support for those facing difficult times, always extending a helping hand to those in need. Through these efforts, the store has cultivated a welcoming and supportive environment that resonates throughout the community.

Perthshire

The store's ingenuity has transformed it into the beating heart of the local community. Through a wide range of community projects, it provides essential support to those in need, making the store a vital hub of connection and care. Beyond its immediate impact, the store is also focused on the future, spearheading an environmental project that inspires the entire community. By keeping the next generation of shoppers at the forefront of its efforts, the store has become much more than just a place to shop – it's a cornerstone of the community's future.

One Stop Partick, Glasgow

Owner Nathalie Fullerton describes shop manager Eileen as her “right-hand woman” who, thanks to her years of experience, “is lovingly known as Mrs One Stop”. A dedicated professional, Eileen is a shining inspiration to females cutting their teeth in retail. As well as training and incentivising staff, Eileen’s eye for detail ensures planograms are followed, shelf labelling is correct and that the store is “can and packet perfect”. Trusting, genuine relationships she has built with shoppers include helping a disabled customer daily and she regularly sources products that she thinks will appeal to individuals. Grandmother Eileen has even looked after Nathalie’s three kids to let the boss and her husband enjoy a rare night out.

Spar Market Crosshouse, Kilmarnock

Experienced retailer Kelly took over as manager at this company-owned store as it underwent a major refit to become the symbol’s flagship outlet in Scotland – and she had to ensure staff could rise to the challenge. An ambassador for Spar Scotland, Kelly now relishes showcasing the store to independent retailers who visit from across the country, helps train managers in other shops and supports new Spar openings. She’s also embraced a world-first trial of ESEL cameras to assist with stock control. Kelly has helped grow the relationship between CJ Lang and Brownings The Bakers, while local community activity includes sponsoring the hospital radio and pipe band, as well as working with the school and food bank.

Spar Penny Petroleum Great Glen, Fort Augustus

Young retailer Robyn Salmond really does know all about going the extra mile – as her store is a three-hour drive from her home. Initially parachuted in as a temporary manager, she’s still there more than a year later having fallen in love with the service station, although she tries to get home at weekends. Robyn has risen to the tasks of overseeing a refit and training staff to create a solid team. Moreover, she has learned to cater to the needs of a wide customer base that includes tourists throughout the summer and locals all year round. She has achieved a record turnover at Penny Petroleum’s leading Scottish site, with a new food-to-go offering doubling revenue in that category.

Livingston

Located beside a train station, this store serves many travellers who want a quick purchase before they board the train. To satisfy this demand, the store has an easy-to-follow layout with the most popular items, including soft drinks and snacks, close to the entrance. A dedicated impulse area near the tills offers regular special purchases. The staff know their regulars’ habits and encourage trial purchase of new items.

Dundee

From soft drinks to stationery, this store is laid out to encourage its shopper to notice everything on the shelf. If a new product comes in it is placed beside the best-seller in that category and handwritten signs are strategically placed to encourage the casual shopper to consider attention to items by highlighting things like ingredients and value for money. Impulse stands at the tills help boost fruit sales.

Perthshire

Positioned on the junction of a busy road leading to Perth, Dundee and Forfar, this store takes full advantage of passing impulse purchases with large window posters encouraging drivers to stop. Inside the store, video boards and an upselling food-to-go offer are all prominent in the shopper journey. Merchandising complementary products alongside each other, such as cakes beside the coffee machine, also encourages the shopper to pick up something extra.

Tranent

This may not be the largest c-store but its owners have big ambitions – and haven’t been afraid to splash the cash to prove that. The result is a transformed outlet that boasts unique features in its locality, such as the beer cave and food-to-go offering, and a great store flow that makes use of every inch. Clever ranging and offers across many categories are clear thanks to investment in technology and displays. Turnover has doubled despite some strong multiple and rival symbol competition. The close-knit team constantly shares best practices and benefit from symbol and supplier support. These independent retailers have been hugely generous to an array of local worthy causes.

Glasgow

Tech savvy and in tune with what his consumers want, this young independent retailer has turned a tired store into a highly successful business. That has been hugely beneficial for the local community and nearby good causes. The team spirit engendered among the staff is clearly evident, with top-level support both personally and through technology. Despite facing fierce competition from a nearby supermarket and other c-stores, the owner hasn’t been afraid to invest heavily to make this a destination store. Arguably, though, this store’s USP is its innovative customer engagement – with fun competitions run through social media, a loyalty scheme that offers significant benefits and major support for local charity initiatives.

Experience can count for a lot in the convenience channel but while this renowned independent retailer has been around for decades, neither he nor his store rest on their laurels. Constantly evolving to meet rapidly changing consumer trends – whether in use of social media, category NPDs or shopping habits – and investing in the latest technology means this outlet has maintained impressively consistent footfall and financial results. The store’s Daily Deli fresh food counter also provides a point of difference from nearby rivals, while its charity work for struggling families and involvement in the HLP programme for local schools is unwavering. Staff training, and loyalty, is unquestionably high, too.

Clydebank

The manager’s knowledge and enthusiasm are clearly evident in this store’s excellent licensed section. Energy-efficient chillers show off numerous beers, ciders, RTDs and white, rose and sparkling wines that cater to local demands. There is a solid selection of red wines, too. Standout features are an area highlighting the wide range of low/no options and a fridge behind the tills securely housing drinks popular with shoplifters. The gantry, with multi-coloured backlighting, includes malt whiskies to suit all tastes. Staff engage enthusiastically with regular promotions based around sporting and celebratory events. Monthly training, spot checks and a refusals book ensure strict adherence to a Challenge 25 policy.

Rutherglen

It seems fitting that a c-store based in a former pub should have a great off-trade proposition. A beer cave sited in the area once used by publicans for off-trade sales features the Tennent’s sign that used to hang outside the bar, adding a touch of theatre. The owners are obviously knowledgeable as the store offers a sound range of brands and formats across the categories. Social media is used to highlight promotions, while staff are kept up to date on NPDs and top sellers via WhatsApp. All staff receive training that is backed up by managerial support and there is clear “Under 25?” signage.

Banff

This is something of a destination store when it comes to its licensed offering. The sizeable beer cave draws in customers from outwith the community, with kegs a big seller thanks to a loyalty scheme. Moreover, there are impressive ranges of RTDs, UK beers, world beers, ciders and red, white, rose and sparkling wines – with a lot of the choice based on shopper requests. A cabinet housing premium whiskies and gins is also a point of difference, while the regular spirits area offers a wide variety of products. There is also good use of promotional activity, and training and compliance with licensing regulations is top-class.

Isle of Skye

Every aspect of sustainability has been carefully considered and covered at the community-owned and run Armadale Stores. Heating is provided by an air source heat pump and solar panels, while “intelligent” lighting is triggered on and off by movement and outside light. There are large refill sections and fresh produce is sold unpackaged. A huge number of products are eco-friendly and locally sourced to cut food miles, while items such as the soft toys are made from recycled materials. Local food deliveries are made in an electric vehicle and even the diesel and petrol pumps on the forecourt are recycled – having been bought second-hand. Community engagement drives home the sustainability message.

West Lothian

The extensive solar panel installation on this store's roof is a testament to its leadership in sustainability within the retail industry. Impressively, these panels supply 50% of the store's total energy needs. This commitment is further enhanced by the store's focus on reducing packaging and food waste. By leveraging technology and implementing various innovative measures, the store not only addresses these challenges but also encourages active participation from staff and the community. Through these efforts, the store exemplifies a forward-thinking approach to environmental responsibility.

Kilmarnock

This store fully embraces the sustainability challenge with a comprehensive approach to reducing packaging and waste. It stands out as a pioneer in adopting energy-efficient technologies, placing a strong emphasis on environmental responsibility. The store's commitment is further amplified by actively engaging with local schools, encouraging participation in sustainability efforts. Additionally, its collaborative approach with local trade and community groups enhances its impact, fostering a united effort toward a greener future. Through these initiatives, the store not only leads by example but also inspires broader community involvement.

Baillieston

“If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it” – and this must be the case for Londis Solo Convenience as the store has been successfully operating as a Londis outlet for a decade now. Since winning a competition for a refit to the symbol, the retailers at this store have been working alongside the Londis team to build up what is clearly a strong relationship. And this goes both ways, as the team at Londis have taken on board plenty of advice from these retailers over the years, including further investments into Scottish products as well as a stronger understanding of the Scottish convenience scene as a whole.

Bellshill

A recent refit and switch of symbol has paid dividends for Spar Motherwell Road, promoting a fresh and up-to-date store in the independent Spar estate. After a desire to find a new symbol for the outlet with a local promise, the store owner made the move to the Spar estate and has since seen a 30% increase in sales at his shop. This loyalty to the symbol has also been returned by CJ Lang & Son, as Spar Motherwell Road showcases the latest benefits to be gained from the Spar fascia, including the Barista Bar coffee to go service as well as the firm’s ‘Spar Family’ approach to its retailers.

Fife

It’s clear from the off-set that Avens Retail offers a truly community-focused approach to its stores. Whether this is through its sustainability initiatives or food and drink donations to the local hospital and schools in the area, there is plenty of heart to be found across these stores. It then makes sense that Avens uses Nisa’s Making a Difference Locally charity, as well, to further benefit the community. The stores are also presented at a high level of polish, with fresh takes on the latest developments in convenience such as with a beer cave or food-to-go offer.

Greater Glasgow

Managing a portfolio of stores is no small matter but being able to navigate a variety of symbols to suit the area shows a true knowledge about the convenience sector in Scotland. Trinity Retail has shown it has this knowledge in spades when it comes to its store estate, boasting two Nisa stores, two Spar stores as well as a Morrisons Daily. Through this, the manager of the estate effectively and clearly brings his own expertise to each store and continually seeks to improve it where he can, to provide a high quality of service throughout the store portfolio.

Edinburgh

Following a refit that gave more focus to the store’s hot food and cakes counters, video screens have been installed to broadcast content created in-store, meaning consumers can watch a film of meals being home-made while they queue at the food counter. QR codes placed in strategic positions around the store guide shoppers to the store’s website highlighting offers. Local shoppers are regularly featured on the store’s social media channels.

Lanarkshire

This large store offers everything from cigars to hot food to go, including an opportunity to do your laundry while you shop. Every aisle offers at least one product you are unlikely to see in other Scottish stores while colour-coding and dedicated video screens in each sector make the store easy to navigate. Touchscreen ordering at the hot food counter makes the experience more convenient for shoppers and staff.

Kilmarnock

Video screens, including animated shelf-edge screens, throughout this store advertise current promotions and electronic price cards on shelves ensure that shoppers are fully informed before making their choice. A system of cameras provides constantly updated, accurate information on stock levels and shelf replenishment requirements. A reverse vending machine encourages locals to return used bottles and cans and rewards them with vouchers that can be exchanged for goods in the store.

Edinburgh

When consumers are coming to your store from across the city, and further afield, for the tobacco range, you know you’ve got the right set-up. And plenty of people flock to the doors of Best-One Mace South Bridge in Edinburgh’s city centre for just this. A reputation for some of the most affordable tobacco products in the capital has helped to ensure a success story for this store owner’s gantry but some savvy retailing has seen this c-store excel with visitors to the capital. An enticing impulse range and luggage storage in the store keeps Mace South Bridge a must-stop for the capital’s tourists.

Aberdeen

Never letting a customer down is the clear mission for the staff members and store owner at KeyStore Cults, and this has been reflected right across the shop’s tobacco range. Aiming to create a store that the local population knows it can rely on, KeyStore Cults carries a massive range of tobacco products for its local customers to match demand. This can see the store stock up on the more standard cheap options for consumers or a far more exclusive offering for those shoppers who still want to enjoy a more premium quality smoke from the gantry.

Baillieston

Every retailer knows the pain of navigating legislation in tobacco, but those ones that find a way to overcome this and ensure their range is successful shows a true understanding of the category. And that’s just the case at Londis Solo Convenience in Baillieston, with the retailer at this store effectively using their knowledge to ensure customers get a good deal. Using the store’s Snappy Shopper delivery service, the retailer can pin the cheapest tobacco products or those on promotion from the company to the top of the category’s page on the app, helping to make sure it is the first thing smoking customers see.

Edinburgh

Providing a shining example of how a store can prepare for the incoming disposable vapes ban, Day-Today Drylaw is an informative and expansive store for vaping customers concerned about the new legislation. While still offering disposable options for those looking for them, the retailer has future-proofed the store well in advance to meet any concerns the ban could bring. This has seen the store owner take the initiative to go on courses to further their own knowledge about the section, with this information then passed on to staff members to improve their own training in the field.

Ayrshire

Although the store owner may be more of a fresh face to the convenience retail game, there is plenty of knowledge still to be found in Nisa Kilbirnie. Boasting an expansive range of both disposable and refillable vape options across multiple sites in store, the retailer has so far demonstrated a level of savviness and ambition to further grow this section in time to come. Despite the owner only being 20 years old, a personal passion for convenience has helped to bring this store into the limelight, and this is excellently reflected across the vaping section.

Glasgow

Boasting a massive selection of vapes that have been simplified in the display, RaceTrack Pitstop Bearsden offers everything vaping consumers could need from the category. With disposables sited in different cabinets from the refillable options, navigating the section remains simple and informative, and showcases the range available for consumers as well as the promotions on offer, which are also highlighted across the store’s TV screens. Further to this, the store’s security policies, inclusive of a double age-check system and hi-tech advancements, ensure not only customer safety but that of staff members, too.