A leading independent retailers association has echoed warnings that tomorrow's Scottish Budget could determine the future of the country's high streets, as the Finance Secretary faces mounting pressure to deliver genuine business rates relief.
The British Independent Retailers Association (Bira) joined eleven other retail bodies last month in calling on Shona Robison MSP to introduce a permanent business rates discount for all retail premises, following similar moves in England and Wales.
With the Budget announcement due tomorrow, independent retailers remain in the dark about whether Scotland will match the support given to their counterparts south of the border.
The warning comes as Bira demanded equal treatment for small shops after the UK government announced plans last week to water down business rate rises for pubs in England, while leaving independent retailers to face the full impact of increased bills.
Andrew Goodacre, CEO of Bira, said: "Tomorrow's Budget is absolutely critical for Scotland's independent retailers. We need to see genuine reductions in rates bills, not just caps on increases.
"Independent retailers are suffering the same pressures as pubs - significant increases in rateable values, low sales due to poor consumer confidence, and rising labour costs. Our business model is under real stress, and we also have to deal with online retail giants and low-value imports escaping duty."
Mr Goodacre added: "High streets are struggling, and if we carry on increasing the burden on smaller retailers, the only businesses left will be the illicit shops selling illegal vapes and counterfeit goods.
"We need a thriving legitimate retail sector, and that means making it financially viable for honest independent retailers to trade.
"The Welsh Government has shown what meaningful support looks like with real reductions in rates bills. Scotland cannot afford to lag behind if it wants to protect jobs, support local economies, and keep high streets alive.
"Independent retailers are already walking a tightrope. One bad Budget could be the final straw for many small businesses that are the backbone of our communities."
Bira represents over 6,000 independent retailers across the UK.