Retailers body calls on councils to follow Barnsley's lead

A leading independent retailers association has applauded Barnsley Council's support package for local businesses, calling on other councils across the UK to follow suit with similar measures.

Bira, the British Independent Retailers Association, praised the council's £5 million initiative offering 100 per cent business rate relief for qualifying retail, leisure and hospitality businesses from April 2025 to March 2026.

Andrew Goodacre, CEO of Bira, said, "We strongly applaud Barnsley Council for this exemplary initiative that directly addresses the mounting challenges facing our high streets. This is exactly the type of support that independent retailers desperately need in the current economic climate.

"We are now calling on councils across the UK to follow Barnsley's lead and implement similar support packages. If there is a surplus of business rates income, that surplus should be returned to businesses in this way.

"It's not only fair but makes economic sense for local communities.

"The triple impact of rising costs, cuts to business rate relief, and increased employer National Insurance contributions has created a perfect storm for retailers.

"Barnsley has shown leadership by listening to its business community and taking decisive action. Every council in Britain should be examining how they can replicate this model," he added.

Bira, which works with over 6000 independent businesses nationwide has consistently campaigned on business rates reform as part of its commitment to revitalising and preserving high streets.

Earlier this month, Bira pointed to BRC Consumer Sentiment Monitor's "worrying picture" saying that these figures represent a concerning trend for high street retailers.

Jeff Moody, Commercial Director for Bira, said, "These figures align with what our members are telling us - over 57 per cent of independent retailers surveyed by Bira reported feeling somewhat or highly unconfident about business prospects for the remainder of Q1 2025, with 56 per cent expressing the same lack of confidence for the rest of the year.

"With consumers actively looking to reduce spending and seeking out cheaper alternatives, independent retailers face significant headwinds.

"This situation is exacerbated by the upcoming cost increases set to take effect from April, including higher National Insurance contributions, National Minimum Wage rises, and Business Rates increases," Moddy said.

Bira has been at the forefront of championing the cause of independent traders and shopkeepers across Britain. Its campaigns cover a wide spectrum of issues such as retail crime, business rates, fair legislation and overall reduction in the regulatory burden.