Bira are teaming up with the BRC and other key stakeholders to collect your thoughts on the implementation of an Online Sales tax (OST).

This is your opportunity to have your voice heard on an important area of potential change for the future. Please complete the survey by clicking the button below as soon as possible but before Friday 22nd April. 

Andrew Goodacre said: “This survey is your chance to help us influence the government regarding the implementation of an OST.  It does not mean one is definitely coming. The focus of the Government’s consultation is to better understand how such a tax might be designed and the impact it might have. 

Indie retailers have a clear view that business rates are an unfair burden. There has also been a clear view that the large internet companies do not pay their fair share of tax. Finally, we have always wanted to see a more ‘level playing field’ for physical stores.

However, we also recognise that more smaller retailers are now trading on-line as a result of the pandemic so an OST may not be the best way of addressing the burden of business rates.   This is why we want to hear from you.

Bira has always campaigned for lower business rates and the Government has confirmed that income from an OST would be used to reduce rates. Bira has also campaigned to reduce the admin burden on smaller retailers and make taxes proportionate. With regards to an OST, we feel there should be a sales threshold (for online sales) of £2M, and businesses with online sales below this threshold should be exempt.  

It is a complex subject and your insight will greatly help us to submit a quality response to the consultation. It will also help us develop future campaigns on the issue of business rates.”

 Complete the survey 

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