Scotmid at No. 10 Scotmid President Eddie Thorn joined co-operative and mutual leaders at a reception at 10 Downing Street on 9 June, where ministers reaffirmed their commitment to doubling the size of the UK’s co-operative and mutual sector. Hosted by Secretary of State for Business and Trade Jonathan Reynolds, Minister for Small Business Gareth Thomas, and Economic Secretary to the Treasury Emma Reynolds, the event brought together representatives from across the sector. The reception underscored a renewed government focus on supporting growth, innovation and investment in the social economy. A new Call for Evidence on Co-operatives and Mutuals was launched to help shape future policy and unlock the sector’s potential.
A new Business Growth Service was also announced, aimed at supporting organisations to start, scale or convert to co-operative models. While financial mutuals are not within the scope of the Call for Evidence, ministers acknowledged their value and confirmed that broader support is being explored. The announcement comes during the UN-designated International Year of the Co-operative, adding momentum to sector-wide advocacy and reform.
Double Win at the Sammies At the prestigious Sandwich & Food-to-go Industry Awards—known as The Sammies—Scotmid was honoured with a double award performance: • Convenience Retailer Award, recognising the excellence of our food-to-go offerings. • Business & Product Innovation Award, spotlighting our deployment of Symphony AI for smarter food-planning strategies.
Brian Boyle, Scotmid's Chief Operating Officer for Retail, commented: “Winning not one but two Sammies is a fantastic endorsement of the work our teams are doing… Food-to-go remains a key focus and growth area for us.”
Crime Prevention Retailer of the Year Our Leven Street store in Edinburgh was recognised as the Crime Prevention Retailer of the Year at the Convenience Awards 2025. The store's proactive measures—such as relocating spirits displays, introducing pictorial sleeves, body-worn cameras, and advanced CCTV analytics—have drastically reduced crime rates and enhanced safety for both customers and colleagues.
Debbie MacDonald, Lead Profit Protection Manager, said: “We are incredibly proud. By implementing smart, intelligence-led security measures, we have not only reduced crime but also created a safer environment for colleagues and customers.”
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Jigsaw - Summer 2025
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