SGF Go Local Grant Fund Now Open
Applications are now being sought from independent and multi-site convenience retailers in Scotland for the match funded Go Local grant, worth up to £5,500 per store, including marketing costs.
The SGF Go Local project aims to support convenience stores throughout Scotland to provide dedicated, long term display space for locally sourced Scottish products, with a bias towards fresh and healthy, coupled with enhanced consumer engagement. The project is funded by the Scottish Government and is being delivered in close partnership with Scotland Food & Drink.
Outlets who took part in the initial pilot saw a 40% increase in sales of local products and delivered additional local economic benefits in excess of £159,000 per store. The programme enables stores to support local, Scottish producers and give these businesses a vital route to market to help with the recovery and regrowth from COVID 19.
Who can apply
The grant is open to all Scottish convenience retailers; however, multi-site operators will be limited to one application per company.
When can they apply
The application process will open on the 1st of March 2024 and will close on the 31st of May 2024, (Subject to the number of applications received, the window may be extended).
Application Process
As there is a limit on the funds available, should the program be oversubscribed, the selection criteria will ensure firstly, a fair spread across fascia’s, secondly, geographic location, thirdly, program potential, fourthly demographics, and fifthly, date of application. All stores selected for the program will be approved by the SGF for the purposes of fairness and transparency. The panel’s decision will be full and final.
The grants for successful applicants will be released on the completion of the agreed work, which must be completed within 9 months of grant approval.
Participating in the program not only gives you access to the SGF and Scotland Food & Drinks teams to help develop your store local proposition, it allows you to play a crucial role in the recovery and regrowth of Scotland’s food and drink industry by providing new routes to market for producers.
The SGF Go Local programme – which is funded by the Scottish Government - was designed to aid the economic recovery of Scotland’s food and drink sector by increasing sales of Scottish local products in the convenience sector to help mitigate losses in other channels because of Covid-19.
I am delighted to offer further Scottish Government support for a fourth phase of the Go Local programme. As well as being a fine example of collaborative working between the Scottish Grocers Federation and Scotland Food & Drink, the widespread participation from local producers and store owners is a testament to the success of this programme.
“It is encouraging to see an increase in shelf space for Scottish produce and a growth of nearly 40% in the sale of eligible products.
“We remain committed to supporting local convenience stores, as well as helping consumers access more of the fresh, quality produce they demand from our fantastic food and drink producers.”
Rural Affairs Cabinet Secretary Mairi Gougeon
“SGF’s Go Local Programme has been a tremendous success and we are delighted that the Cabinet Secretary and the Scottish Government are backing the next phase of the project.
“Local convenience stores are at the very heart of their communities and perfectly placed to support our wonderful local producers and suppliers across Scotland.
“By supporting retailers and helping them offer their customers high quality, locally sourced, fresh, and healthier food, convenience stores are a key driver in growing their local economy. Benefiting everyone, from customers to producers.”
SGF Chief Executive Dr Pete Cheema OBE
“The convenience sector is a critical part of Scotland’s food and drink landscape, both for producers and consumers. Having Scottish products front and centre in community-based stores across the country provides an excellent platform to celebrate and support the very best the industry has to offer.
“We welcome Phase 4 of the Go Local campaign and look forward to seeing the continued success of the programme.”
Scotland Food & Drink Chief Executive Iain Baxter
