Retailers who open their doors will need extra help

With thousands of retail stores given the green light to open in the next few weeks the government needs to think

of helpful tax breaks and further assistance, say leading tax and advisory for Blick Rothenberg.

“The problem is that many retailers are already on their knees having had no income for some three months now they will have to spend money that they don’t have on making sure that both staff and shoppers are safe when they re-open their doors,” said Richard Churchill a business advisory partner at the firm.

He added: The Government have already done a great deal for business and are encouraging shops to open to give that much needed kick start to the economy but for many it’s going to be another expense and they are going to have try and find the money for things like screens, protective equipment and extra security to police the measures they introduce.

“With the June rental payment looming it is clear the bounce back loan scheme may provide insufficient funding for all these additional costs.”

Richard said: “ The Government should consider a one-off grant or voucher system specifically for the purchase of equipment or modifications to shops designed to mitigate the risk of Covid-19 spreading and to observe social distancing guidance.”