Independent retailers across Scotland have been left disappointed by the Scottish Budget, with Bira, the British Independent Retailers Association, warning that the measures announced fall short of what is needed to protect high streets from further decline.
The Scottish Government confirmed a reduction in the basic property rate to 48.1p, the intermediate property rate to 53.3p and the higher property rate to 54.8p. It also announced a 15 per cent relief for retail, hospitality and leisure businesses with a rateable value of up to £100,000, capped at £110,000 per business per year, for 2026 to 27.
Further measures include transitional relief to cap increases in non domestic rates bills following revaluation, the continuation of the Small Business Bonus Scheme at current thresholds for the next three years, and a new 100 per cent relief for eligible electric vehicle charging points from April 2026.
However, Bira said these measures do not go far enough to address the reality facing independent retailers.
Andrew Goodacre, Chief Executive of Bira, said: “Whilst we welcome some new support for high street businesses, this Budget was a missed opportunity to take bolder action to revitalise Scotland’s high streets.
“Business rates are rising following revaluation, and a 15 per cent discount does not reflect the scale of the challenges facing independent retailers. The Scottish Government could have gone further while still maintaining overall income.
“Independent retailers are dealing with weak consumer confidence, rising labour costs, higher property costs and intense competition from online retailers and low value imports. Many high streets are already on a knife edge.
“Without stronger support, we risk losing the legitimate independent businesses that keep our town centres alive and support local jobs and communities. Bira will continue to press for fairer, long term business rates reform so independent retailers can survive and thrive," he added.
