The British Retail Consortium (BRC) has called on the UK government to ensure equal business support for retailers across all nations, following the Lionesses' recent triumph which has thrown the spotlight on disparities in funding and opportunities.
Helen Dickinson, Chief Executive of the BRC, highlighted that while England's success in women's football is celebrated, businesses in Northern Ireland, Scotland, and Wales face unequal access to government support schemes. "The Lionesses have shown what can be achieved with the right backing," Dickinson stated. "Retailers across the UK deserve the same level playing field."
Business Rates Disparity
The BRC's appeal focuses on business rates relief, which has been more readily available to English firms compared to their counterparts in devolved nations. Dickinson argued this creates an unfair competitive disadvantage, particularly for high streets already struggling with rising costs.
Impact on Devolved Nations
In Scotland, retailers face higher business rates than in England, while Northern Irish businesses have seen slower implementation of support measures. Welsh firms, meanwhile, operate under a different relief system altogether.
"When one part of the UK thrives while others are held back, we all lose out," Dickinson emphasised, calling for a coordinated approach to retail support across all four nations.
