11 December 2025
Bira has called on the Scottish Government to follow Wales's example and introduce genuine business rates reductions for retail premises ahead of the Scottish Budget on 13 January.
However, Bira has warned that Scotland must go further than England's approach and deliver actual reductions in rates bills, not just caps on increases.
Andrew Goodacre, CEO of Bira, said: "Scotland has got to reduce business rates for independent retail in the same way we have seen in Wales - genuine decreases in rates bills, not just limits on how much they can rise.
"High streets are struggling, and if we carry on increasing the burden on smaller retailers, the only businesses left will be the illicit shops selling illegal vapes and counterfeit goods. We need a thriving legitimate retail sector, and that means making it financially viable for honest independent retailers to trade."
Mr Goodacre added: "The Welsh Government has shown what meaningful support looks like. Scotland cannot afford to lag behind if it wants to protect jobs, support local economies, and keep high streets alive."
"It looks like our unit will cost us approximately £5,000 more next year."
Has the Budget ended up costing your business more?
Our members have already started the conversation over on the forum, which you can access by simply logging into the Bira website. See what fellow retailers think of this Budget and have your say over on Bira Connect.
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
Image credit: maxbelchenko/stock.adobe.com
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