ScotGov should see value of retail in Budget
THE Scottish Grocers’ Federation (SGF) has called on the Scottish Government to help deliver growth for the economy through small retail businesses.
The trade association said that small retailers are looking to invest further in their businesses, but could potentially be hampered in these aspirations by the upcoming Scottish Budget.
Set to be announced on 4 December, the SGF has said that should ScotGov ensure that 40% of reliefs on Non-Domestic Rates be announced for Scottish businesses, similar to stores south of the border, then Scottish retailers will be able to take advantage of new technologies and sustainable practices.
Alongside these reliefs, the SGF has said that ScotGov should focus on growth by ring-fencing funding through the Small Business Bonus Scheme and freeze the poundage rate for the foreseeable future.
The SGF has also called for an uplift for Police Scotland and Scottish Justice to help tackle the sharp rise in retail crime that continues to plague businesses across Scotland.
Pete Cheema, chief executive at the SGF, said: “The Scottish Government has a real opportunity to boost growth in communities across Scotland, and help rejuvenate town centres, by passing on the NDR reliefs announced by the Chancellor.
“In past years, convenience stores in England have benefited from 75% reliefs, that support has dropped to 40% this year, but it could still be crucial in helping put the Scottish Economy back on track.
“Many SGF members, and small store across Scotland, are facing a raft of challenges. Alongside increases to National Insurance Contributions, hire wage rates, higher inflation, energy costs and the cost-of-living crisis. Not to mention a pile on of regulation across a range of product categories.
“Scottish Businesses have been operating at an economic disadvantage to our counterparts in England. Sorting out the damaging impact of business rates on economic growth and small business in Scotland is a no brainer.”
