Planning.
Planning developments can leave independent retailers at a severe disadvantage especially where there is a lack of understanding about the needs of smaller retailers. The IRC would like to see the creation of a planning special interest group which concentrates on the role smaller retailers play in delivering a vibrant community.
Skills.
The retail sector is a priority in terms of training needs, however existing support can be fragmented. The IRC believes that greater interaction between skills support and the independent retail sector could be vital in addressing the gaps in the current system.
Regulation.
Legislation can cost independent retailers anything from under £100 to over £10,000 a year and the burden of red tape on smaller retailers is disproportionate compared to that of larger retailers. The IRC is working to raise awareness of the issues smaller retailers face from red tape, particularly from increasing employment law regulation.
Crime.
Retail crime costs the sector over £2 billion per annum and can have a damaging effect on local communities. The IRC recognises the work that is being carried out to address this issue and supports Government led retail crime partnerships. Our members look forward to working with these partnerships to address the serious issue of retail crime.
Access to Finance.
Recent years have seen a wide-scale reduction in the flexibility of banking support over the past year with banks introducing more stringent lending criteria and reducing overdraft facilities for independent retailers. The IRC is working to ensure that Government is informed about banks introducing and continuing to maintain restrictions on lending at a time when many retailers are in most need of credit.
The IRC represents over 100,000 independent retailers across the UK and the membership is united in seeking the creation of a level playing field for specialist retailers. The membership highlights the importance of the following issues to the retail sector: 