Wholesalers set to receive rates relief

Foodservice wholesalers look set to finally receive business rates relief after the government announced £1.5 billion in extra support.

Aimed at helping those businesses that have fallen through the cracks of previous financial aid, the new package specifically targets “businesses affected by Covid-19 outside the retail, hospitality and leisure sectors”.

While final details are yet to be confirmed, the government announcement includes a case study of a foodservice wholesaler as one of the businesses to receive the rates relief.

The news has been welcomed by FWD Chief Executive James Bielby, who – along with a host of members – has been tirelessly campaigning for a year to secure support for foodservice wholesale.

And discretionary grants and furlough have helped, it was business rates relief that was seen as the biggest support wholesalers needed.

“This is fantastic news for wholesalers and reflects the increased recognition within government of the vital role of food and drink wholesalers,” said Bielby

“The past year has had a devastating impact on foodservice wholesalers and support with business rates has been the main ask of government to support the sector.

“The Treasury highlights food wholesalers as an example of where this fund should be distributed and it couldn’t be clearer that our sector is at the front of the queue.

“It’s a reflection of the great pressure that the wholesale sector has put on government by campaigning intensely for the glaring anomaly on business rates to be corrected.”

coronavirus covid-19 Foodservice FWD hospitality James Bielby wholesale