18 November 2024
Bira has held a meeting with members of the Treasury team to discuss concerns following its robust response to the Government’s recent Budget announcement.
The Budget, labelled by Bira as ‘devastating’ for independent retailers, was met with widespread indignation from Bira members.
Andrew Goodacre, CEO of Bira, said: “Thank you to all the members who have shared their thoughts on the impact of the budget. Based on this feedback, Bira has been robust in its response and judgement of the budget, especially where it is hurting the medium sized independents by as much as an extra cost of £200K per annum.
“We have also held a meeting with members of the Treasury team to discuss our concerns. Whilst there were no indications that any changes would be made, our concerns were listened to.
“We also discussed the proposed reform to business rates which is due to be in place for April 2026. It was clear from the meeting that Bira will be fully involved with this reform.”
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
Related News
-
Retailers urged to check pricing compliance as CMA highlights delivery fee rules
Retailers are being urged to review their pricing practices and make sure customers can see the total cost of products up front.
-
Scottish shops still paying the price as rates gap with rest of UK widens
Bira has warned that Scottish shops risk falling further behind unless next month’s Scottish Budget closes the business rates gap with England and Wales.
-
Bira backs call for tougher rules on unsafe products sold through online marketplaces
Bira has joined dozens of trade bodies, safety organisations and businesses in calling on the Government to introduce stronger rules to prevent unsafe products being sold through online marketplaces.
-
New Bira President vows to fight for fairer costs for independent retailers
Fairer business rates and better support for independent retailers will be the priorities of the new president of Bira.