ACS

ACS has written to the Chancellor of the Exchequer to outline what local shops want from the Pre Budget Report. The letter conveys the most pressing issues facing the convenience sector and how the Government can support retailers during the downturn.

The key recommendations in the letter include:

• Reconsider the increase in National Insurance contributions, which is ultimately a tax on jobs
• Adjust the duty on tobacco and alcohol in line with the increase to VAT
• Delay VAT increases until 1st February 2010
• Action on rates relief for small business and the petrol forecourt sector
• Freeze the national minimum wage for 2010/11

ACS Chief Executive James Lowman said: “We believe the convenience sector will play a vital role in encouraging economic recovery and creating jobs. However, the Government must not impose costs that will hamper growth and investment.

“The planned increase in National Insurance contributions is a bad idea. Even with growing pressure to increase revenue imposing a tax on jobs is not the answer.”

“We are also calling on Government to reverse the hike in alcohol and tobacco duty that was imposed when VAT was reduced. Now that VAT will be reinstated the duty must return to the original level. The repeated hikes in duty at every budget are fuelling an illegal trade that not only takes sales away from legitimate and responsible businesses but is accelerating social and health problems in our most deprived communities.”

Contacts:
Shane Brennan Public Affairs Director
01252 515001/ 07921 372 978
Nina Collins Communications Coordinator
01252 515001

Notes to Editors:

1. ACS (Association of Convenience Stores) is the voice of local shops, representing over 33,500 convenience stores. ACS helps local shops thrive through lobbying, support and networking opportunities.
2. The pre Budget Report is expected mid November.