TheRetailer_Autumn_2019

Sara Jones, Head of the Welsh Retail Consortium, said: “Retail is in the midst of an unprecedented period of transition. These are unsettling times with conditions now the toughest in a decade. The only fixed point in a world of flux for retail seems to be rising costs, which are increasingly difficult to absorb without passing on to shoppers. “However, with the right support in place the industry could do better at revitalising itself for the future. We are therefore keen to progress a retail enabling plan with Ministers, which will become even more important with further devolution on the cards following Brexit. The Welsh Government have previously outlined their welcome commitment to develop a sector plan and we ask that this is now prioritised. “With business rates at a 20 year high and the highest in Great Britain, it is imperative that urgent action is taken. Freezing the business rates multiplier with a commitment to longer term reform remains our top priority, and an early commitment to more frequent revaluations would be seen as a great starting point. “We are also seeking assurances around the skills budget, ensuring that we are able to capitalise on our investment of over £6million to the apprenticeship levy. Retail is an industry of opportunity, with many careers which start in the stockroom ending up in the boardroom; we need a workforce fit for the future, building on the programmes that our retailers currently offer. “With retail under pressure, the Budget is an opportunity for Ministers and AMs to take tangible steps to help retailers as they seek to reinvent themselves for the future. We hope they seize the moment.” See link to budget report

the retailer | autumn 2019 | 7