The Association of Convenience Stores has again called on the Government to include local shops in any additional business rates support measures currently being drafted.
In recent weeks, ACS has written to Exchequer Secretary Dan Tomlinson MP, outlining the effect of changes first announced in the Budget which will remove the remaining 40% Covid relief on rates bills for local shops and other retail, hospitality and leisure businesses whilst also leaving retailers to face the prospect of significantly higher bills as a result of the 2026 rates revaluation.
ACS has highlighted to the Exchequer Secretary that it is independent retailers, including those operating on petrol forecourts, that will face the most significant impact to their businesses in April.
The Chancellor has reiterated in recent days that the proposed support package for pubs is unlikely to be extended to other businesses because of the specific impact that was felt by pubs during the pandemic. ACS has questioned this with the Exchequer Secretary and with MPs, as trade was decimated during Covid for many local shops, particularly those trading in and around transport hubs.
ACS chief executive James Lowman said: “The increases in rates bills coming in April will have a direct impact on investment, employment and services, particularly for independent retailers who are the foundation of community retailing in this country. Local shops are under extreme pressure and should all receive support.
“Providing additional funding to support some businesses but not others risks creating further uncertainty and does not represent a responsible or sustainable approach. The Government has an opportunity now to demonstrate that it values local shops and the hard-working retailers that keep the nation moving.”
The full letter to the Exchequer Secretary is available here.
