Co-op warns 60,000 small shops and 150,000 jobs at risk without urgent business rates relief

""Local shops aren't just businesses; they're part of the social fabric of Britain," said Shirine Khoury-Haq, chief executive of the Co-op Group."

""For some people, a visit to a local store is one of the few chances they have to chat to someone and feel connected.""

""This research shows a clear public mandate for action. Regardless of how they vote, the majority of people want the Government to do more to protect their high streets.""

Research warns that 60,000 small shops and 150,000 jobs could be lost in Britain without urgent reform of the business rates system. YouGov polling shows 69% of Britons doubt the Government will deliver meaningful rates relief despite repeated promises. Seventy-seven percent of small high street owners say rates reform is essential for survival. One in ten small businesses could lay off staff and one in eight could close entirely if no changes are introduced. Over half of adults say local shops are important to their wellbeing and 74% say communities would lose part of their identity without them. The Co-op launched 'On Your Corner, In Your Corner' to press for maximal support for community retail ahead of the Autumn Budget.

Read at Business Matters