Local MP, Sajid Javid, recently met with convenience store retailer, Chaz Chahal, in his Costcutter store situated in Bromsgrove.

With ACS, Chaz invited his local MP to visit his store to highlight the important role that convenience stores play in local communities during the run up to the general election in May 2015. The pair discussed a variety of issues including parking, local competition and help for small businesses.

Mr Javid said: “It was fantastic to meet Chaz in his store. This is another example of a successful local business.

"Small businesses are the lifeblood of our economy.  It is important to understand and listen to them and act on their voice. That is why on Small Business Saturday I unveiled a series of tough new measures to clamp down on the scandal of up to £40 billion in late payments to small businesses”.

During the visit, Chaz discussed an issue his business faced earlier this year when the council proposed placing double yellow lines outside his store. Chaz explained that the proposal was eventually dropped. Mr Javid added that if Chaz had any problems like this in the future, he would be willing to do all he could to help.

At the end of the day, Chaz said: “Although unannounced, it was fantastic to meet Mr Javid. We discussed a variety of issues that I face on a day-to-day basis and it is great to know that he is supportive of small businesses like mine. I’m hoping to build a stronger relationship with Mr Javid in the near future”.

ACS encourages all members to build a relationship with their local MP, for help doing this, please contact Sophie Mew on 01252 533 011 or e-mail [email protected]