The British Independent Retailers Association (Bira) has vowed to continue to fight for retailers that missed out on government support. The pledge follows the findings of the Treasury Select Committee that one million people missed out on receiving any financial support during the pandemic.

Bira’s own research supports the committee’s report and reveals many members found themselves ineligible. People who missed out on Covid-19 support include those who recently started a business; therefore not having enough information about company turnover. Also, those who pay themselves through dividends.

Commenting is Andrew Goodacre, Bira’s CEO. “Bira has been saying since the government’s schemes were introduced that too many independent retailers would not receive any support; rates too high, previous income too high, and earnings through dividends were all barriers to receiving urgent support. Even though shops are reopening we believe that more must be done to support these people whose livelihoods are at risk.”

Bira has vowed to continue to raise the matter with government Ministers. For more on Bira, including information on membership, please click here.