Why?
The RSA is the first choice, credible and trusted point of contact for the rural small store sector. Through a network of links with Government Ministers, politicians of all parties, civil servants, national and governmental organisations and the media the RSA …
         (1) represents the business interests of its members
         (2) ensures their views are properly heard
         (3) influences policy and opinion
         (4) lobbies for equity and proportionality in matters impacting upon our industry.

How?

- Regular meetings with Policy Directors at the Small Business service of the Department of Trade and Industry enable the RSA to get advance warning of upcoming issues and matters of impending regulation or legislation as well as monitor progress of ongoing debate.

- Proactive initiatives, getting in early and actually being able to influence Policy Making and decision makers in advance, are critical to our success in this area.

- The RSA’s Public Affairs Group meets quarterly to discuss the output and its members, all experienced retailers representing a broad spectrum of rural stores, assist with developing RSA policy, action plans and campaigns.

- Regular Press releases (see ‘information’ section) to trade and national media ensure high profile and inform a wider audience.

- The RSA attends a quarterly meeting with Camelot, to ensure the interests of rural shops are represented (see link below).

- The RSA chairs a Home Office committee that is concerned with identifying the causes of crime within retail, and seeks to address some of the problems (see link below).

- The RSA Sounding Board (see link below) is a panel of RSA members, who are consulted to provide data and feedback on ‘hot issues’ and give robust evidence for submissions.

- Formal written responses are made to the many lengthy consultation documents published in advance of proposed legislative change, which inform Government and decision makers, and flag up potential unintended consequences for the sector forming the basis of a Regulatory Impact Assessment.