Small Shops Welcome Increase in Small Business Bonus Scheme Thresholds

The Scottish Grocers’ Federation (SGF) has welcomed the announcement made by the Scottish Government’s Finance Secretary, John Swinney, during Stage 3 of the Scottish Government Budget on the uplift on the rate relief threshold.

John Drummond, Chief Executive of SGF said:

“We will need to wait until the new rateable values are released before we can understand the full impact of the new thresholds. However, if the rise reflects any rise in rateable values, the Finance Secretary’s announcement is absolutely the right thing to do.

“The Small Business Bonus Scheme has made a dramatic difference for many small shops during challenging times. The Minister’s announcement, depending on the new rates threshold, will lead to a fairer business rates regime. In the long term this will secure the future of small shops which is good news communities across Scotland.”

On a Post Office diversification scheme Mr Drummond said:
“In many rural and remote locations closure of the post office often leads to the loss of the local shop which has often become the community hub. Any moves to safeguard and boost the network are therefore particularly welcome.”