09 July 2024
In a meeting with Jonathan Reynolds and the Department for Business and Trade, Andrew Goodacre, CEO of Bira, welcomed the focus on supporting small businesses among the government’s four key priorities. The meeting, called at short notice, provided a platform for business leaders from various sectors to engage directly with policymakers.
The four priorities outlined by the Secretary include:
- Creating a “Mission-Driven Industrial Strategy”: This strategy aims to boost productivity and promote clean and green energy initiatives.
- Supporting Small Businesses: Emphasis will be placed on improving cash flow for small businesses and reforming the British Business Bank.
- Improving UK Trade: Efforts will be concentrated on enhancing export capabilities and opportunities.
- Ensuring Fair Work Practices: The focus here is on improving working terms, conditions, and job security.
Expressing his enthusiasm for the discussion, Andrew Goodacre highlighted the importance of reducing operational costs for independent retailers through business rates reform, addressing retail crime, and fostering investment in high streets.
Andrew Goodacre, CEO of Bira said: "Great to hear about the 4 priorities and even better to know that supporting small business is one of those priorities. I am looking forward to further discussions to make this a reality for indie retailers by reducing the cost of running a shop through business rates reform, reducing retail crime and encouraging investment in our high streets."
"It is great for Bira to have been invited to such an early meeting. We will be following up by reaching out to the business ministers once they have been announced.” he added.
The meeting underscores the government’s commitment to engaging with and supporting the independent retail sector, promising a collaborative effort to enhance the business environment for small enterprises across the UK.
Find out more about Bira's policies and campaigns.
Got something to say on this story? Scroll down and leave a comment.
Related News
All News-
Bira and PSR Research on Cross Border Interchange Fees
Retailers, online marketplaces and sellers are urged to take a risk-based approach to sales as concerns grow over extreme heat and wildfire risk.
-
Independent retailers cautiously welcome fall in shoplifting but warn true scale of retail crime remains hidden
Bira has cautiously welcomed a fall in recorded shoplifting offences, while warning that official figures likely understate the true scale of retail crime facing independent businesses.
-
Bank of England says counterfeit notes rose by over 100% in 2025 but still 'only fraction' of circulation
The number of counterfeit banknotes detected in the UK more than doubled in 2025, rising from 99,000 in 2024 to 200,000, according to new data from Bank of England.
-
Independent retailers welcome business rates reform pledge - but urge delivery over rhetoric
Bira has welcomed Labour leadership candidate Andy Burnham's commitment to reforming business rates for high streets and pubs, but warns that independent retailers will need to see action, not just promises.
-
Independent retailers welcome low-value import reforms but warn two-year wait leaves high streets exposed
Bira has welcomed government moves to accelerate reforms to low-value import rules, but warned that the October 2028 timetable still leaves UK high streets exposed.