The team responds to the Government's January 2026 announcement giving pubs 15% business rates relief while excluding independent retailers entirely.
Host Jeff Moody is joined by Andrew Goodacre, CEO of Bira, and John Jones, managing partner of Philip Morrison Sons department store in Hereford, to examine why this policy has been called "fundamentally misdirected".
The episode reveals that only 32% of pubs are actually on high streets, raising questions about a policy supposedly designed to support communities and town centres. Andrew explains how business rates relief originally covered retail, hospitality and leisure together, recognising they share the same challenges.
John shares the reality of running an independent store, facing the same cost pressures as pubs plus the additional burden of retail crime. The discussion explores why retailers can't invest without long-term certainty, and examines research from Southampton University showing voters rank high streets as their third most important local issue.
An honest conversation about policy that doesn't match the government's rhetoric about supporting high streets.
You can watch the full podcast above, or listen/watch on your preferred platform linked below.
With the deadline only a month away, here's how to challenge and appeal your shop's business rate valuation
Independent retailers can easily check their shop’s business rates valuation through the Government's portal and ensure the details are correct.
With a simple online account, you can review, plan ahead, and even challenge your valuation before the deadline.
View all episodes
High Street Matters Podcast
High Street Matters will discuss crucial subjects such as consumer trends, relevant government legislation, business rates, parking and staffing, providing top tips to help to help businesses stay ahead of the retail curve.
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