The British Retail Consortium (BRC) has welcomed Andy Burnham’s pledge to deliver “good growth in every postcode”, saying meaningful business rates reform will be essential if retailers are to invest in revitalising the UK’s high streets.

Responding to Burnham’s first major policy speech, in which he called for high streets to become “the new symbol of Britain’s renaissance”, BRC Chief Executive Helen Dickinson said retail businesses are ready to play a central role in driving local economic growth, provided the right policy environment is in place. Mr Burnham’s wider economic vision includes devolving more powers to local communities and giving councils greater control over areas including business rates as part of a broader programme to boost regional growth.

Ms Dickinson said: “Retailers will be heartened to hear Andy Burnham’s ambition to create ‘good growth in every postcode’. Retail sits at the heart of our local economies, providing jobs, investment and essential goods and services for local people.

“Retailers want to be at the forefront of ‘Britain’s renaissance’, helping revitalise our towns, cities and high streets. Andy Burnham is right to recognise that business rates reform is essential to unlocking that investment. The current system remains broken, holding back growth, jobs and regeneration in communities across the country.

“If government can buy into retail, putting the right reforms in place, retailers will help deliver jobs, support families with the cost of living and create the thriving high streets that sit at the heart of Andy Burnham’s vision.”

The comments come as retailers continue to press for a modernisation of the business rates system, arguing that the current model places a disproportionate burden on bricks-and-mortar stores at a time when many are investing heavily in experiential retail, omnichannel services and town centre regeneration. Business rates reform has been a long-running priority for the BRC, which has repeatedly warned that high property taxes limit retailers’ ability to invest in stores, create jobs and support local communities.

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