Removing business rates from retailers for the next 12 months is a “vital shot in the arm for a sector facing enormous uncertainty”, according to the Scottish Retail Consortium.
SRC director David Lonsdale was responding to the Scottish Government's publication of its legislation and guidance which confirms 100% rates relief for retail, hospitality and leisure premises.
He said: “Scottish Ministers have acted swiftly to back businesses grappling with the immense challenges created by coronavirus. This is a hugely positive, welcome and necessary step to protect jobs and businesses in a sector employing a quarter of a million Scots directly and many more in the supply chain.
But he added: “Ministers have shown they can respond quickly to the changing need of the industry. While these are the right decisions today, the Government may have to take further steps as the full effects of the economic situation unfold.”
