Posts by theo@aacs.org.au

Queensland has closed 148 stores and seized more than $15.7 million worth of illegal smoking products in a 10-day blitz. Operation Major, which the state says is Australia’s largest coordinated enforcement action against illicit tobacco and vapes, resulted in the seizure of 11.8 million cigarettes, 1.7 tonnes of loose tobacco, 87,000 vapes, 4.2 litres of vaping liquid and 270,000 nicotine pouches. The closures were issued under new laws that allow Queensland Health to shut stores for 90 days without a court order. Theo Foukkare, CEO of the Australian Association of Convenience Stores (AACS), praised the operation, saying it sends a strong signal to black-market operators. “That’s 148 less stores selling illicit tobacco and vapes to the public and our members – and the Queensland community is far better off for it. “It’s a show of strength by the Crisafulli Government and that is a big ask when they are fighting…

Yesterday, New Sunrise hosted over 120 supplier partners on the picturesque backdrop of Darling Harbour as they celebrated its strong 2025 performance and introduced its 2026 supplier partnership strategy at the Supplier & RDM Forum, reaffirming its commitment to industry leadership, member success, and future-proof investment across its network. Opening the forum, New Sunrise reinforced its purpose and strategic direction, highlighting its unwavering focus on helping members win every day through targeted investments that keep their business ahead of the competitive curve. “Our purpose is simple: help our members win every day. That means investing ahead of the curve and partnering with suppliers to create enduring value,” said Director, Andrew Cardinale. “Our stores are more than just a place to shop, they’re about creating meaningful connections within the community. This commitment is exemplified by our members, who have saved seven lives through our ‘Heart of the Community’ initiative”. Proudly announcing…

The European Commission gives final, unconditional approval for merger, paving the way to unite two iconic snacking businesses on December 11, 2025. McLean, Virginia, and Chicago, Illinois (December 8, 2025) – Mars, Incorporated, a family-owned, global leader in pet care, snacking and food and Kellanova (NYSE: K), a leader in global snacking, international cereal and noodles and North America frozen foods, today announced that Mars has received unconditional approval from the European Commission for its pending acquisition of Kellanova. As a result, all required regulatory approvals and clearances for the pending transaction have been obtained. Mars and Kellanova anticipate closing the pending transaction on December 11, 2025, subject to the satisfaction or waiver of customary closing conditions. Upon close, Kellanova’s portfolio of snacking brands, which includes Pringles®, Cheez-It®, Pop-Tarts®, Rice Krispies Treats®, RXBAR® and Kellogg’s international cereal brands, will join the existing Mars Snacking portfolio, which includes beloved brands like…

Duracell E-Charge has officially launched its first UK charging location at Bath Terrace Car Park in Cheltenham. The new site brings ultra-rapid EV charging to one of the region’s busiest town centres, giving drivers fast, reliable charging with a trusted household name behind it. The Bath Terrace site features ten ultra-rapid (300 kW) charging bays, getting drivers to more than 80% power in less 30 minutes. The location has been designed with convenience in mind. Bath Terrace sits moments from Sandford Park and Cheltenham Town FC, and just a short walk from The Brewery Quarter. It’s surrounded by local shops, cafés, pubs, and everyday essentials, which means drivers can make the most of their time while charging. Duracell E-Charge drivers benefit from free parking while charging for up to one hour. Standard tariffs apply once the charging session ends. The EV Network developed and delivered the site, continuing its strategy…