The Forecourt Report for this year highlights the ongoing investment and commitment of forecourt retailers in enhancing the range and quality of services they provide to customers. Notably, popular services include free-to-use ATMs, available in 39% of stores, click and collect services available in 31% of stores, and standalone parcel collection points available in 26% of stores.
In addition, the report reveals a strong dedication to improving technology within forecourt stores. Approximately 31% of retailers investing in their till systems and electronic point of sale (EPoS) platforms, while 30% are focusing on enhancing, expanding, and replacing refrigeration units in-store.
James Lowman, the CEO of the Association of Convenience Stores (ACS), emphasizes the impressive range of services and technology incorporated by the best forecourt retailers, allowing them to outperform their convenience counterparts. However, he acknowledges the challenges faced by forecourts this year, including the impact of business rates costs and energy bills on overall investment. Lowman urges the government to recognize the vital role that forecourts play in sustaining their communities.
The key findings from this year’s Forecourt Report are as follows:
- The UK forecourt sector generates over 89,000 jobs, with 25% of colleagues having been in the industry for over 10 years.
- The value of sales within the forecourt sector, excluding fuel, has reached £4.9 billion in the past year.
- About 78% of forecourt retailers actively support their communities by fundraising for local charities, participating in local projects, and donating to food banks.
- 21% of independent forecourt retailers do not take any days off throughout the year.
- Independent forecourt businesses have invested an average of approximately £11,700 in store improvements during the last year.
This year’s Forecourt Report shows a significant development in the UK’s transition toward electric vehicles. Sales of new hybrid and electric vehicles are now surpassing those of petrol and diesel vehicles for the first time. Furthermore, the UK network has added over 8,600 public charging points. However, the government has recently delayed the ban on new petrol and diesel cars from 2030 to 2035.
Lowman adds, “Forecourt retailers will undoubtedly play a role in an electric vehicle future. However, we are not witnessing a rush among all stores to install charging points. For many, the current value of a parking space for customers coming in to shop exceeds the potential value of a charging point on the premises.” Currently, approximately 8% of the forecourt sector offers EV charging, with steady growth expected in the future as forecourts become one of several charging options for consumers.