ALMR urges Welsh Government to take sector-specific approach to rates

The Association of Licensed Multiple Retailers (ALMR) has urged the Welsh Government to reinvest business rates revenue back into the eating and drinking out sector to help support businesses disproportionately hit by increases.

The Welsh Government is considering removing Small Business Rates Relief from companies operating multiple properties. The ALMR has recommended a sectoral approach to business rates relief, to reflect the disproportionate burden being carried by eating and drinking out businesses in Wales.

ALMR Chief Executive Kate Nicholls (pictured) said, “The Welsh Government is showing a welcome degree of pragmatism, looking into the possibility of supporting small businesses.

“The suggestion of removing relief for businesses with multiple sites is, however, going to hit small and medium sized businesses in our sector, already struggling against a disproportionate rates burden.

“If the Welsh Government is keen to support businesses in Wales and encourage investment and employment in vital businesses, then a sector-specific approach is preferable.”