Asda is one of the first supermarket chains to declare it will not be using the extended business rates holiday, revealed in the budget.
The retailers’ CEO Roger Burnley, says: “There are clearly many industries and businesses that have been hard hit by the pandemic, we hope that by continuing to pay business rates in full this year, that we can continue to support the nation’s economic recovery from the pandemic.”
Some supermarkets classed as “essential” retailers during the COVID-19 lockdowns were criticised last year for benefiting from the business rates holiday while paying dividends to their shareholders.
Roger Burnley’s sentiment is one that CPA hopes will be taken up by the other major food retailers, as a way of re-directing much needed funds to other retail business’ that are currently suffering.
