Fresh and healthy Food to Go

Scottish convenience stores are to benefit from funding of £300,000 to help meet changing customer demands thanks to the expansion of a scheme which promotes fresh, local and healthy produce.
 
The Food to Go fund, which will be launched by the Scottish Grocers Federation, will be open to small independent convenience stores throughout the country and aims to improve Scotland’s food culture. Acknowledging the impact that food and packaging waste has on our environment, applicants will be expected to undertake a commitment to reduce this.
 
First Minister Nicola Sturgeon made the announcement whilst celebrating the 100th anniversary of the Scottish Grocers Federation.
 
She said:
 
“A diverse and successful convenience store sector is vital in serving communities throughout Scotland. Last year’s Food to Go fund was very effective in supporting small retailers the length and breadth of the country to entice customers into their stores and generate a new income stream for grocers.
 
“This new funding will build on that, helping grocers to provide people with access to good quality, locally sourced and healthy food as well as providing an important focus on waste reduction.”
 
Scottish Grocers Federation Chief Executive Pete Cheema OBE said:
 
“We are absolutely delighted with this announcement. The fact that funding is being increased will be warmly welcomed by everyone in the convenience sector. This will help local shops to stay competitive and to respond to changing customer demand.”

Background

Extra funding has been made available for 2019,  and new criteria aligned to the funding means that successful applicants will also have to undertake a commitment to reduce food and packaging waste. SGF will administer the fund, with further details on criteria and timings to be confirmed in due course.