Independent retailers across Britain are calling on Keir Starmer’s new Labour government to prioritise high street revival in a special episode of Bira’s ‘High Street Matters’ podcast.
The ‘General Election special’ episode features a panel of independent retailers sharing their hopes and concerns for the high street under the new Labour administration.
Hosted by journalist Steve Dyson, the podcast includes insights from BIRA ceo Andrew Goodacre and prominent retailers.
Andrew said: “Labour has come in on a vote for change. We will be asking the Labour government to deliver positive change for our sector by reducing the burden of business rates, reducing retail crime and increasing investment in our towns and high streets. We also hope that a new government with a large majority will bring about stability, which in turn will boost consumer confidence and consumer spending.”
The podcast features several independent retailers, each highlighting critical issues facing the high street.
Surinder Josan of All Seasons DIY in Smethwick, West Midlands, discussed the impact of ‘stealth taxes’ such as parking fines and double yellow lines.
He said: “Last year was one of the worst I have known in our 50-year history. My message to the new government is to recognise the importance of the high street to the economy. We currently feel that we are so far down the pecking order, we aren’t really appreciated and no one is really listening to what we are saying.”
John Jones, managing partner of Philip Morris & Sons in Hereford, emphasised the need for business rates reform. He said: “We are a very old and long-established business, going for 180 years now. Revenue is steady, but it is hard work. You need to put in every effort to get every penny in from customers.”
John called for a change in the business rates system, noting that temporary measures don’t allow for long-term planning.
Karen Forret, md of Wilkies, a Scottish independent multiple retailer trading for over 125 years, highlighted concerns about the rising minimum wage and lack of offsetting measures.
She said: “There are a few huge challenges for all businesses but especially retail. We have a huge rising piece of living wage, there is nothing to offset that. Ultimately, anything the government can do to protect the high street and what they do for the economy would be welcome.”
Andrew summarised BIRA’s campaign priorities, which align closely with the concerns raised by these retailers. These include reforming business rates, implementing policies to drive economic growth, and accelerating investment in high streets.
Independent retailers across the UK can subscribe to the High Street Matters podcast through major streaming platforms to hear these views in full.
New episodes will be released throughout the year, covering issues such as the sale of hazardous substances, the cycle to work scheme, and many other themes relevant to retailers today.
For more information on BIRA’s mission supporting Britain’s independent retailers, visit www.bira.co.uk.
