MP for Bromsgrove Bradley Thomas has held a meeting with local business owners to look at ways of working together to support independent traders in the town.
Last Friday (March 21), Mr Thomas brought together local businesses for a breakfast meeting at No3A in Aston Fields. Also in attendance was Worcestershire Regulatory Services.
They had a positive discussion about how they can all work together to support independent businesses in Bromsgrove and the surrounding area.
Mr Thomas was keen to hold the meeting as he’s increasingly concerned about the impact of the incoming triple whammy of the National Insurance contribution hike, national minimum and living Wage increases and a reduction in business rates relief for hospitality businesses.
In the government’s October 2024 budget, it was announced that Employers’ National Insurance contributions would rise from 13.8 per cent to 15 per cent.
Also announced were plans to reduce business rates relief for retail, hospitality and leisure venues (from 75 to 40 per cent), up to a cash cap limit of £110,000 per company. This will be introduced from 2026-27.
There were also minimum wage increases for every age bracket up to a maximum of £12.44 per hour for those aged 21. Those earning minimum wage in different age brackets are paid different rates as standard.
The group of local entrepreneurs will be meeting again and independent businesses owners who would like to join should are encouraged to reach out. Email [email protected] for more information.
Mr Thomas said: “I want to thank everyone who attended the meeting and to Gavin at No3A for hosting it.
“We had a really useful discussion, and the issues raised will certainly help me in my work as the local MP. I certainly have a lot to feed back to Government and to our local councils.
“Independent and hospitality businesses need all the help they can get at the moment, especially with the triple whammy of the National Insurance contribution hike, national minimum and living wage increases and a reduction in business rates relief for hospitality businesses coming in April.
“Please continue supporting our independent shops and hospitality businesses because they really are the backbone of our local economy.”
