The Fed has written to new Prime Minister Andy Burnham
THE national president of the Federation of Independent Retailers (the Fed) has written to the new Prime Minister Andy Burnham urging him to support retailers across the UK.
In his letter, national president Hemanshu Patel congratulated the Prime Minister on his new appointment and pushed him to build on proposals from the previous Labour cabinet and introduce support that could level the playing field for independent retailers.
He said: “Independent retailers play a vital role in our communities and our economy. The independent convenience sector remains an essential part of the retail landscape, providing not only everyday convenience products but also a growing range of essential services, including payment facilities, postal services and parcel collection.
“However, this is an increasingly challenging time for the sector. Our members continue to face rising levels of retail crime alongside growing operating costs.”
As part of the support for retailers, Patel has urged Burnham to reform the business rates system south of the border in order to deliver greater support for independent retailers.
To discuss the matters further, Patel has also suggested meeting with members of the new Labour cabinet to allow retailers’ voices to be heard and highlight those policy issues that impact on independent stores across the UK.
Patel said: “A recent Fed survey found that 72% of members experienced retail crime during the past year. At the same time, businesses are facing increasing pressure from rising energy costs, changes to taxation and an outdated business rates system.
“We are keen to work constructively with you and your government, just as we have engaged with colleagues in the Home Office on measures such as the Crime and Policing Act, and with DEFRA on opportunities including the forthcoming deposit return scheme.
“The Fed has met with a number of senior ministers since the Labour government took office in 2024, and we look forward to continuing that positive engagement with your new administration, whether in Westminster or Manchester.”
