In light of the election result, the association is reiterating its key priorities for the new government. These include lowering business rates for smaller retailers and reviewing corporate tax to encourage more investment by smaller businesses. Additionally, Bira is calling for continued investment in local high streets, addressing issues such as parking availability and cost, and increasing focus on combating retail crime, the association said in a news release.

Other key priorities include a review of the cycle to work scheme to ensure that retailers also benefit, a coordinated plan to reduce wastage in the retail sector, and a review of regulations to prevent disproportionate impact on smaller retailers. Bira emphasised that these priorities are crucial for the survival and growth of independent retailers, which are the backbone of local economies and communities across the UK.

"We know there is a commitment to reforming business rates—that needs to happen at the earliest opportunity to protect high street businesses. We also need to see the commitment to investing in our town centres and local areas, where independent retailers play such a vital role in the local economy. We also hope that the nature of this election result boosts consumer confidence, resulting in economic growth," said Andrew Goodacre, CEO of Bira.

Fibre2Fashion News Desk (DP)