Bira has welcomed a move by the Scottish Government to give additional financial support to small retail businesses.
Scottish Ministers have announced a second phase of funding – worth £120m – in response to the outbreak of coronavirus, which results in businesses with one property will get a 100% grant. Those with more than one property will receive 100% grant on the first, then a 75% grant on all subsequent properties.
Since the £2.2bn package was announced, promising grants for each “property”, a number of firms had reported that those with more than one property (a small chain of shops, for example) were only eligible for one single £25,000 payment.
Bira CEO Andrew Goodacre said: “We welcome this enhanced package of funding for small independent retailers when they need it the most. This move proves that the Scottish Government has listened to our concerns and acted appropriately.”
David Londsdale, director of the SRC, added: “The economic response to the coronavirus challenge is both broad and complex. Governments have to take bold and unprecedented steps to protect businesses who otherwise may not survive – but of course there is a need to balance support to those who require it.
“This announcement is clearly in that spirit, and retailers will be pleased the Finance Secretary has listened to our representations.These grants, along with the generous but vital 100% business rates relief, are vital steps in ensuring when we eventually open our doors we can return to vibrant and successful high streets.”
