The British Independent Retailers Association, (Bira), which includes gift and lifestyle retailers among its members, has revealed that independents plan price increases and a reduction in staff ahead of soaring energy prices.
Almost 88% of the Association’s members feel they are being forced into raising their prices to shoppers once the energy price jump comes into effect this Autumn.
In a recent survey, which was completed by members before today’s Ofgem announcement (Friday August 26) – with energy prices predicted to jump by up to 80% – it was revealed that business owners are preparing for tough times.
Among those questioned, 65% said they would be forced to reduce the number of staff they had or reduce wages, while 40% were considering limiting opening hours, and almost 23% would be looking to permanently or temporarily close the business.
“Businesses are under great pressure at the moment, and with some concerned that they need to reduce hours or even close permanently, it is incredibly worrying for us and the local economy,” stated Bira’s ceo Andrew Goodacre.
“There has been no specific help coming through from central or local authorities to help businesses who are struggling with their bills, which has been very disappointing. While some areas may have hardship funds or slight reductions in business rates, this is not seen across the country. It is clear to us that businesses are being targeted by energy providers to make up for any restricted price caps on consumers.”
Andrew added that while business rate relief would be welcome, small businesses would still be paying 100% more this year compared to last year. “We asked the government not to do this as long ago as last October, as we were seeing huge increases in retailer energy bills,” he explained. “More recently, it has been 500%, and keeping rates lower would have helped independent retailers absorb the higher energy costs. They will certainly need help, as the rates for electric are increasing daily. We have just been told that one provider is charging 94p per KWH for electric – the highest we have seen so far.”
Bira has written an open letter to the two leadership candidates, Rishi Sunak and Liz Truss, urging them to take action, with the following especially highlighted:
– Maintain 100% business rates relief for retailers;
– Persuade energy companies to place a cap on energy increases for businesses;
– Reduce to the multiplier for small businesses from 2023/24;
– Cut VAT for retailers to stimulate demand;
– Provide more funding to encourage investment in low energy technology in retail shops to protect retailers from higher energy bills in the long-term.
Andrew Goodacre also urged independents to contact their local MPs to detail their own experiences.
Top: The findings of a recent Bira survey reveal that many independent retailers will be forced to raise prices due to soaring energy costs.
