ACS

3 September 2010

Rochdale MP Simon Danczuk has met with Londis retailer Bret Mills to discuss the challenges facing local shop owners.

Mr Danczuk, visiting Newhey News in Rochdale, heard about the costs and regulation that retailers have to contend with in order to run a successful local shop. Store owner Bret Mills said: “My staff and I provide a personal service for the community but there are many pressures on my business.

“We have seen increased cost across the board such as bank costs, business rates and employment costs. Retailers need breathing space from their fixed costs to continue to trade profitably.”

During the visit, it was reflected that the convenience sector is an incredibly competitive market and increased threats from large multiple retailers could threaten the service that independent stores offer.

Simon Danczuk MP said: “Newhey News plays an essential role in supporting the community, however I am amazed how many costs and regulations exist to threaten local shops’ ability to trade. The Government needs to ensure that its supports small businesses like this to succeed and drive the economic recovery.”