Words: c-store, n.

THE SENSITIVE should continue to avoid the minefield that is The Grocer magazine. Paul Baxter, commercial director of the Alldays chain, not only sells such groceries as Pot Noodles but asserts: "the c-store sector is constantly evolving and competition is increasing".

A word need not be in a dictionary to exist, but who says, "I'm going to the c-store. Do you want anything?" It sounds like c-word. In any case, nobody calls it - in that peculiar, lavatorial formation - a convenience store. Meanwhile, surreally, the same issue advises: "Biscuits should always be within arm's reach of desire."

Mr Baxter's staff might gesture towards the custard creams and ask, "Something for the weekend, sir?"