Industry Bodies call for Rates discount for all retailers

Twelve retail representative groups and industry bodies have jointly written to the Scottish Finance Secretary, Shona Robison MSP, asking her to introduce a permanent business rates discount for all retail premises. 

SGF Chief Executive, Dr Pete Cheema OBE, appeared on BBC Radio Scotland on 11th December, calling for the Finance Secretary to support Scotland’s retail sector by introducing discounted business rates in the forthcoming Scottish Budget on 13th January.

It is SGF’s view that Scottish retailers should receive business rate discounts that at least match those available elsewhere in the UK. Without this, Scotland may become a more expensive place to operate, risking investment being diverted south of the border and making economic recovery more difficult.