Clwyd West MS Darren Millar has applauded all convenience stores in the constituency after visiting one on Colwyn Bay last week and finding out more about how they have supported their customers throughout the pandemic.

Darren was invited by the Association of Convenience Stores (ACS) to visit Londis, Abergele Road, Colwyn Bay on Friday.

During his visit, he spoke to the owner, Andy Hughes, and staff about the ways in which they have had to adapt due to the pandemic.

Speaking after his visit, he said:

“Convenience stores have done a sterling job of meeting their customers’ needs throughout the pandemic and offered a lifeline to many vulnerable people.

“They have faced some tough challenges over the past 18 months, but have really pulled out all the stops to ensure their customers have been able to access the goods they need.

“Many had to adapt quickly to providing goods in alternative ways and a great many now provide home deliveries.”

He added:

“At the start of the pandemic the media was very much focused on the supermarkets, and convenience stores were somewhat overlooked. At the time I backed the Federation of Independent Retailers (NFRN)  ‘Shop Local, Shop Little’ campaign and urged people to use their local convenience stores and corner shops during the crisis.

“As the country recovers from the pandemic,  I encourage people to continue supporting their local shops.”