Convenience retailers in England are being reminded that regulations restricting the promotion of products high in fat, salt or sugar (HFSS) will come into force from 1 October.
Under the new rules, volume-based promotions on HFSS products will be banned, meaning retailers will no longer be able to offer:
- Multi-buy deals such as ‘3 for £10’
- Free product incentives like ‘Buy One Get One Free’ (BOGOF) or ‘50% extra free’
- Loyalty point incentives on HFSS items
- Promotions on party-style platters containing HFSS items
- ‘Meal deals’ and pre-packaged multipack offers will still be permitted under the legislation.
The Association of Convenience Stores (ACS) noted that regulations apply to businesses with 50 or more employees, regardless of store floor space size. Symbol group or franchise retailers may also fall within scope, depending on how staffing and operations are structured.
The restrictions affect specific categories of pre-packed food and drink. Within these categories, products are assessed against the government’s nutrient profiling model to determine whether they meet HFSS criteria. Affected categories include items such as breakfast cereals, yoghurts, cakes, ready meals, confectionery, and soft drinks.
The government’s recent Ten-Year Health Strategy suggested a potential repeal of the HFSS promotion restrictions, although at a later date in favour of a “smarter regulation”.
To support retailers with the upcoming restrictions, ACS has developed an Advice Guide – download here
