More than 10,000 retail jobs have been lost in Scotland over the past year, according to new figures released by Scottish Labour. The data, based on the Scottish Government’s Business in Scotland report, reveals that retail jobs in Scotland are now at their lowest level since at least 2010. The report indicates that there were 235,920 retail jobs recorded this year, a significant drop from 246,270 the previous year and 258,900 in 2010.
Scottish Labour has criticised the SNP Government for not extending rates relief to the retail industry, as they did for the hospitality sector during the recent budget announcement. Finance Secretary Shona Robison unveiled a 40% rates relief for the hospitality sector, but Labour is urging her to extend this tax cut to the retail sector to help alleviate the decline of high streets, especially during the festive season.
Daniel Johnson, Labour’s economy spokesperson at Holyrood, expressed concern over the alarming rate at which retail jobs are disappearing and the impact this is having on town and city centres. He called on the SNP to follow Labour’s lead in supporting struggling high streets with rates relief and a long-term plan to rejuvenate Scotland’s retail sector.
In response, a Scottish Government spokesperson highlighted the competitive non-domestic rates regime in the recent budget, including a freeze to the Basic Property Rate which is the lowest in the UK for the seventh consecutive year. They also mentioned the Small Business Bonus Scheme, which provides relief to around half of the properties in the retail, hospitality, and leisure sectors.
The decline in retail jobs in Scotland is a concerning trend that underscores the challenges facing the industry. As the retail landscape continues to evolve, it is crucial for policymakers to implement measures that support local businesses and revitalise high streets across the country.
In summary, the loss of over 10,000 retail jobs in Scotland is a troubling indication of the ongoing challenges faced by the industry. With high streets experiencing a decline, it is essential for the government to take proactive steps to support local businesses and foster growth in the retail sector. By providing adequate rates relief and implementing a strategic plan for the future, Scotland can work towards revitalising its retail industry and preserving the vitality of its town and city centres.