23 September 2021

Rising energy prices will add further burden on hard-pressed independent retailers, Bira has said.

Energy prices are set to soar this winter, as gas is in short supply, and demand for electricity surges as a result.

Bira has pointed out this could put many indie retailers - already struggling financially post-pandemic - in further difficulties. 

Andrew Goodacre, Bira's CEO, said: "Bira is concerned at the rising cost of doing businesses, with energy being the latest increase faced by hard-pressed independent retailers.

"We have already seen costs in the supply chain increases, increases in national insurance and early next year we will see increases in national minimum wage. At the same time, the recovery in the high streets is very fragile and it is not always possible for the retailers to pass cost price increases on to the consumer.

"It is against this backdrop that Bira is calling on the Government to ensure that business rates are permanently reduced, with effect from April 2022. The Government has to reduce the cost burden on the high street and they have the opportunity to do so in the autumn statement on October 27."

Are you concerned about the rising cost of energy? We'd love to hear from you. Email emily.bridgewater@bira.co.uk

Bira members can benefit from our partnership with Utility Options, to help drive down the cost of energy. More here

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