What could be different for independent high street businesses up and down the UK following the appoitment of Andy Burnham as the new Prime Minister?
Read the latest update from Andrew Goodacre, CEO
Hello,
A new PM and already an indication that his tenure will be different – or will it?
Let’s start with the announcement of specific support to lower business rates for pubs. Rest assured we were quick to express our disappointment that this policy was so narrow and ignored the needs of indie retailers, and other high street businesses. I had a meeting with senior Treasury officials on Friday and it became clear that the pub announcement was the beginning of change. They also conformed that the high street is very much at the forefront of thinking. To use the PMs own words, I left the meeting with some hope that there could be good news for small retailers at the next budget (likely to be in October).
However, we cannot take it for granted. More importantly, we want to avoid tinkering round the edges of the rates system – an approach that has proven to be such a disaster this year. Bira is already working on its budget submission to Treasury and we are engaging officials across many government departments.
One of the interesting comments from the PM last week was that he wanted to support business that make a positive contribution to communities and our social fabric. This is why vape shops were highlighted as business that would not receive support. With this in mind, a key part of our rates campaign must be to showcase the social and economic value of independent retail. In this respect I need your help. Please send me examples of how you, or how you have seen independent retail add value to the community. Yes, we know the general value of small retail and small business, but specific examples would be fantastic. Furthermore, do not just tell us, but also tell your local MP. Our upcoming Love Your High Street Awards will highlight much of this.
Bira will do everything we can to obtain a better deal for independents. It will be even more powerful with you input. Please send thoughts to andrew.goodacre@bira.co.uk or go to our member forum.
Thank you.
Andrew
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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