That the Parliament recognises the significant contribution of Scotland’s 5,000 independent convenience stores and their workforce during the COVID-19 emergency; applauds the role that many stores have been playing in providing essential groceries and vital services at this time; recognises that they also offer essential frontline services, often delivering vital support to vulnerable and isolated people and families; understands that one in three convenience stores are in rural locations, providing the only shopping option for many small communities, without which access to essential items would not be possible; believes that three quarters of customers know their local retailer well enough to have a conversation with them and that, if the shop was not there, many would have to travel an average of two miles to the nearest grocery outlet; congratulates these retailers on the innovative ways in which they are supporting communities, and acknowledges the key role of the Scottish Grocers Federation in providing support, advice and guidance to convenience stores across the country.