24 December 2024
At this time of year we always look forward, make resolutions and plan for a successful year. 2024 has been a difficult year for indie retailers in general and it is normal for entrepreneurs to look for the positives.
Firstly though, let’s deal with the negatives; costs for most of you will rise in April, while national living wage increases, NICs increases and rates increases were all announced in the budget.
Bira is continuing to campaign to reverse these measure but so far this government is showing no sign of changing their minds. I have a meeting with the Secretary of State for Business on the 6th January and I will again raise our concerns about these changes happening all at the same time in April. The fight goes on.
However, I am one of those people who will make resolutions and will try to find room for optimism at the start of the year. Wage rises continue to be above inflation and this would normally lead to improved levels of consumer confidence and customer spending. More positive is the expectation that inflation and interest rates will fall in 2025. Again, this combination is normally a positive for the retail sector. Of course any positive consumer sentiment is dependent on the government delivering far more positive messages about the state of finances and the opportunity for growth. The government has got to change the narrative and put a spring into the steps of our customers. Do that and we all benefit.
I only have one resolution – to get a better deal for independent retailers. We have rates reform planned for 2026 but the work is done next year. We want to see better high street investments in the next few years. We want to retail crime reduced and all police forces supporting retailers. Above all else I want to see this government investing in small independent businesses and giving them the chance to grow
I am privileged and proud to lead this association. I can reassure you that everyone in Bira is fully committed to helping you succeed in 2025 and beyond.
Andrew Goodacre, Bira CEO
Bira's advocacy takes your voice to the heart of Parliament
Bira is at the forefront of championing the cause of independent traders and shopkeepers across Britain.
Our campaigns cover a wide spectrum of issues crucial to the success of independent traders including:
- Combatting the rising tide of retail crime
- Advocating for changes in legislation that promote fairness and flexibility
- Fighting for fairer business rates
- Overall reducing the regulatory burden
- £1 billion damages claim against Amazon by UK retailers
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