Celebrating the resilience, personality and pivotal role of our corner shop bosses in their local communities
From trusted shopkeepers to community heroes, Britain’s corner shops are a vital part of daily life. Coca-Cola’s new docu-series ‘The Bosses’ celebrates the people behind them
For generations, the corner shop has been a constant and familiar presence on high streets and in neighbourhoods up and down the country. And while the traditional high street has faced challenges in recent years, convenience stores have shown that they continue to thrive – now, over a third (34 per cent) of Brits say that their corner shop is an essential resource in their everyday life.1
At Coca-Cola Europacific Partners (CCEP), we wanted to recognise the important role that these local stores at the heart of British retail play, spotlighting the everyday heroes shaping communities across the UK with a new docu-series from Coca-Cola called ‘The Bosses’. It’s a powerful series of six films that recognises the dedication and value that convenience store owners bring, not just in economic terms, but in the trust, care and connection they foster in their communities every day.
A pivotal role in the community
For many, their local shopkeeper is more than just a retailer; they are a familiar face, a trusted advisor and often the first to lend a hand when it is needed most. Their stores are community hubs, providing access not just to food, drinks and services, but also a place they can find reassurance and advice.
And at the same time, they play a crucial role in their local economies, sustaining jobs and generating value year after year. Last year alone, our portfolio generated £317m in sales through convenience outlets,2 which is a sign of the strong partnerships we have built over many decades with the entrepreneurs at the heart of these businesses to drive mutual success.
The remarkable stories of ‘The Bosses’
Each of the corner shop bosses in the series has incredibly inspiring stories which highlight their hard work and dedication to their community. A story which I found particularly stirring was that of Sunita Aggarwal, who became the owner of three convenience stores following the death of her husband Raj – himself a leading retailer, entrepreneur, innovator and philanthropist – in April 2020 from Covid-19.
After helping Raj in the background for 20 years, Sunita suddenly had to learn every aspect of running her businesses overnight – from how to take inventory to liaising with suppliers and paying wages. Since then, through sheer resilience and determination, she has become a highly respected member of her community and a strong advocate for other women working in the retail industry, as a member of the ACS’ Women’s Independent Retailer Network (WIRN) and Women in Convenience.
Her journey through grief and the resilience and empowerment she has shown are a powerful reminder of the strength of communities and the local people and businesses at the heart of them.
Supporting our local retailers
At CCEP, we’re proud to be a local business, with 97 per cent of our products sold in GB, made in GB. Together with the support of our dedicated team of 750 Field Sales representatives, we’re committed to playing our part in helping retailers adapt and grow their business and continue to be that vital link for the people and communities they serve.
We’re committed to providing retailers with the tools, insights and infrastructure they need to thrive, from supporting with online delivery services and social media engagement, through to helping stores to diversify their services with parcel collections and ATM access.
We’re also committed to supporting local communities – with each boss from the series nominating a local cause to receive a five-figure donation.
Looking ahead with confidence
The outlook for the convenience channel at the moment is looking very positive, as Gen Z are currently spending more than any other age group in their local stores, averaging £19.30 per visit.3
It’s a clear sign that the community corner shop will continue to be an integral part of our everyday lives for years to come. And at CCEP, we are committed more than ever to continue building on our strong partnerships with corner shop bosses across the country to deliver long-lasting success for all.
- Opinium research, sample of 2,000 nationally representative UK adults. Data collected between 21.02.2025 and 25.02.2025
- Nielsen Total Impulse - Independents Sales Value data MAT to 22.03.25
- Opinium research, sample of 2,000 nationally representative UK adults. Data collected between 21.02.2025 and 25.02.2025
