The British Independent Retailers Association (Bira) is urging the Chancellor to support independent retailers in the Budget on 28th October, warning that rising business rates, employment costs and energy bills are putting high street businesses under increasing pressure
Bira, which represents more than 6,000 independent retailers across the UK, warns that the average independent retailer could face a business rates bill 25% higher next year than this year, before inflation.
The association is calling for targeted rates relief, an increase in the Employment Allowance to help reduce staffing costs, and greater flexibility for small businesses to switch energy suppliers.
Rates, employment and energy costs are all heading in the wrong direction, and independent retailers need to see action on all three.
Andrew Goodacre, CEO of Bira
Bira has also welcomed reports that the government plans to fund business rates cuts by requiring online marketplaces to collect VAT, and wants confirmation that the money raised will go directly towards high street rates relief.
For independent gift shops and greetings card retailers already working with tight margins, the Budget could prove significant in determining their ability to manage costs and continue investing in their businesses.
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