Bira calls for extra support for retail tenants

Representing independent cookshops and housewares stockists, the British Independent Retailers Association (Bira) is calling for ‘positive action’ from the Government to help retail businesses meet rent demands as they continue to recover from the Covid-19 crisis.

Bira is backing the British Retail Consortium’s (BRC) proposals for a Property Bounceback Grant, after exclusive research revealed independent retailers were concerned about paying their rent while trade struggled to return to pre-lockdown levels.

Under the BRC’s proposals, a government grant scheme would be established to bridge the gap between what tenants can pay and what landlords can forego, following negotiations based on the Government Code of Practice.

According to the draft document, the grant would cover rent and service charges for properties in the retail, hospitality and leisure sectors that have been required to close by the Government. A grant amount will be awarded where tenant and landlord have come to a mutual agreement on their rent arrangements.

The BRC says that a similar scheme has been adopted in Denmark to help both tenants and landlords through recovery.

Andrew Goodacre, Bira’s ceo said: “Many retailers need more support with rental payments if we are to avoid even more job losses and potential business failures.

“The research shows that independent retailers have real concerns about future rental payments and the attitude of landlords

“It is clear that retailers need ongoing support as they continue adjust their business to current trading conditions, which as we all know are not easy.

“We have seen some new proposals from the BRC regarding government support for rental payments and Bira supports this initiative.

“We have been raising concerns about rental payments for some time and positive action is needed.”

MORE NEWS
Copy of Progressive Preschool featured image (36)
 
WildBrain CPLG has been appointed by ETABLISSEMENTS PEUGEOT FRÈRES and its subsidiary PEUGEOT FRÈRES INDUSTRIE to represent the PEUGEOT brand globally....
Copy of Progressive Preschool featured image (35)
 
One of the key tools of any kitchen, knives make up an important part of the housewares landscape. PH finds out about the latest launches and what drives sales....
Copy of Progressive Preschool featured image (34)
 
This month, Andrew Goodacre, ceo of BIRA, weighs in to the question on every supermarket's lips - to serve or self serve? ...
Copy of Progressive Preschool featured image (33)
 
Spring Fair will launch the Licensing Lab in partnership with Fabacus and Licensing International at the next show....
Copy of Progressive Preschool featured image (32)
 
HORL has introduced scissors which can be sharpened at home – with the HORL Sharpener....
Copy of Progressive Preschool featured image (31)
 
New research by Joseph Joseph has revealed that 72% of Brits struggle to clean or organise rooms in their home. ...
Get the latest news sent to your inbox
Subscribe to our daily newsletter

The list doesn't exist! Make sure you have imported the list on the 'Manage List Forms' page.