The Association of Convenience Stores (ACS) marked International Women’s Day with its Women’s Independent Retailer Network (WIRN) at Mondelēz International in Bournville on 8 March.

The event celebrated the global holiday and aimed to inspire inclusion, marking three years of WIRN.

WIRN was started by Sarah Johnson, head of retailer engagement at ACS, to bring together women from within the independent convenience store sector.

Johnson spoke at the event of her inspiration setting up the group along with independent retailers Susan Connolly, Josie Chamberlin and Sunita Aggarwal.

Johnson said: “One of the most important things I have done was set up the Women’s Independent Retailer Network, which brings together women from across the sector to support each other, both in their businesses but also in their personal lives. Due to the support that they have been given by the other women in the group they have grown much more confident and are now being seen by the wider sector. They are in supplier expert groups, being interviewed for trade press, and not just attending events but being part of them as panellist and speakers. Bringing them together on International Women’s Day on Friday was a great way to celebrate the day and spend it with some truly inspiring women.”

Susan Nash, communications manager at Mondelēz International, said: “The event was a privilege to host on International Women’s Day at Mondelēz ‘s Bournville site, as Cadbury marks its 200th Year. It was a fantastic opportunity for Mondelez to help contribute to some personal development topics and play our part in helping the women in retail group. The group has made fantastic progress since starting three years ago which Mondelez are delighted to be able to help and support.” 

The afternoon also featured roundtable discussions focusing on key topics the group wanted additional support with, and Johnson was joined on ACS’ Local Shops Podcast by retailers Aggarwal and Charlotte Dant.

Register to attend this year’s Women in Convenience event