Budget reaction: ‘This will relieve some pressure on small businesses’ – Indie York

The new chair of Indie York, Rebecca Hill, said the measures in the budget will help the city’s independent business – but it will still be a challenging few months.

“The extension of the business rates holiday, and then the two-thirds discount after that, is a very welcome result from today’s budget announcement, as this will relieve some pressure as businesses work hard to re-open over the next few months,” she said.

“There was widespread hope that the 100% business rates holiday night be extended to the end of the year, rather than only until the end of June.

“But York’s independent businesses are nothing if not resilient, and will continue to serve the local community as they have done throughout the pandemic.  

“The extension of the furlough scheme is a relief, and the VAT cut for hospitality is also a huge help for our hotel and restaurant members.

“There is no doubt that this will continue to be a challenging time for many, especially independent business owners who have adapted and diversified throughout this pandemic.  

“Sixty-five per cent of businesses in York are independently owned, and we believe that this is a huge part of what makes York special and unique, so our goal as Indie York is to promote these businesses as much as possible.  

“Of course the government support is a huge help, but we will continue to ask York’s residents to shop local as much as possible, and also to support our members in other ways as much as they can.

“Follow them on social media, like their posts, recommend them to friends, or write a review – it really does mean the world to our members, and helps to keep up morale during these still very challenging times.”