19 November 2024
The NHBF Top 100 Influencer 2024
Did you miss the NHBF Top 100 Influencer 2024 live event?
No need to worry! You can now watch the event on our YouTube Channel and discover who was crowned this year’s number one influencer.
Next Steps for Permanent Business Rate Cuts for the High Street
Draft legislation has been published that proposes, for the first time, a permanent cut in business rates for retail, hospitality, and leisure properties starting in 2026.
High streets across the UK will benefit from these permanent business rate reductions, following the introduction of this legislation in Parliament last week. This initiative is part of the government’s commitment to reform business rates and support the high street.
The tax cuts will be funded by an increase in taxes for the largest business properties, such as online sales warehouses. NHBF lobbied for the increase in the Employment Allowance and is already in touch with HM Treasury to shape business rates reform.
Read the full Press Release here.
Revitalising High Streets with New Legal Powers
Next month, councils will receive new powers to rejuvenate high streets and transform long-term vacant shops, as announced by the government.
High Street Rental Auctions (HSRAs) will empower local leaders to address persistently empty properties in city, town, and village centres by auctioning the leases. This initiative will enhance the high street by providing a ‘right to rent’ for businesses and community groups. The new powers will come into effect on December 2, following the legislation introduced on Monday.
This measure will prevent disengaged landlords from holding onto empty properties for more than 365 days within a 24-month period. After this timeframe, councils can intervene and auction a lease lasting one to five years.
Read the full Press Release here.
Empower Your Business to Support Your High Street
As an independent business owner, your involvement is vital for the success of the Love Your High Street Week campaign. To assist you in engaging with your customers and promoting local shopping, British Independent Retailers Association has created a suite of downloadable assets along with user-friendly templates for your business.
What's Included:
- Social Media Graphics: Eye-catching visuals to share on your platforms.
- Email Templates: Ready-to-use messages for your customer base.
- Materials: Printable banners and flyers to display in your shop.
- Guidelines: Best practices to maximise your campaigns.
How to Get Started:
- Download the Toolkit: Click the button below to access all resources.
- Customise Your Message: Personalise the templates to reflect your brand's voice.
- Engage Your Audience: Share the assets across your channels and encourage your customers to shop locally.