The Association of Convenience Stores is the campaigning voice of more than 33,500 local shops. As the convenience store champion, ACS supports its members through lobbying, advice on legislation and issues that affect retailers, and through learning and networking events. Membership of ACS comprises both retailers and suppliers, and the organisation prides itself on its ability to garner information and knowledge from the sector as a whole. This is then used to provide insight and practical help to benefit all members. The core purpose of ACS is to lobby and champion the convenience store channel through strong leadership and good communication. ACS complements this by providing a range of services designed specifically for local shops to help them develop their businesses.