Clearview North August 2013 - Issue 141 | Page 68

BUSINESS Business rates need radical overhaul The business rates system needs a radical overhaul as almost one in 10 respondents to a Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) survey say they are paying more in rates than rent. The survey, which polled 2,425 FSB members, found that a fifth of respondents pay full business rates, with three in 10 firms receiving some form of rates relief, such as small business or rural rate relief. However, the FSB is concerned that seven per cent of respondents paying business rates say they pay more in rates than in rent. A further six per cent say their rates and rent costs are about the same. The FSB believes the business rates system is cumbersome and overly complex, and would like to see the Government take a formal review to make it simpler and fairer, as it is doing with other taxes. While business rates generate a huge sum for Treasury, it is a tax not related to economic activity and this needs to be addressed. With another inflationary rise due to be calculated in September the FSB wants to see the Government change the inflation index used to calculate annual increases from the RPI to the CPI to bring it into line with other government policies. The FSB believes that changing the indexation in this way, as recommended by Mary Portas, could help small firms on the high street. www.fsb.org.uk Report reveals the power of small businesses in the local economy Extensive new research from the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) shows that 58 per cent more of the money spent by local authorities with small firms is re-spent in the local economy compared to that spent with large businesses in the same area. In an exclusive report the FSB and the Centre for Local Economic Strategies surveyed local authorities across the UK and found that in the last year they spent a total of £8.7 billion buying goods and services in their local area. firms generated £746 million more for the local economy compared to large local businesses – even though more than £500 million less was spent with them. The research shows that for every £1 spent with a small or mediumsized business (SME) 63p was respent in the local area compared to 40p in every £1 spent with a larger business. John Allan, National Chairman, FSB, said: “This report shows the power and strength of small firms to create jobs and growth in the local economy if they are given the help to do so. While our members do win contracts, many are still deterred by the process. We had a good response to the survey, which shows local authorities working with SMEs, but we say that more of this will help boost the local economy.” www.fsb.org.uk ‘Doing business locally is better value for money’ The findings highlight how doing business locally is better value for money as small local Have You Got The Answers? Allan Tofield of Richmond says very often the quality of a company is only revealed when the customer has an issue. “In my experience clients rarely ask enough questions about the company, its history and credentials, as well as product guarantees and on-going service. The number one question is always: ‘How much?’ Then comes: ‘How soon?’” In fact, Allan welcomes questions from customers and if any situation arises it gives him the opportunity to improve the way Richmond does business. He suggests the main questions customers should ask: ‘Are your operatives fully employed and properly trained?’ ‘Do you have a Waste Licence to dispose of all waste responsibly?’ ‘Are you fully insured (e.g. public liability, professional indemnity) and do you meet Health and Safety requirements? What accreditations and industry standards have you achieved?’ ‘Do you have any client testimonials to substantiate your work? Is it possible to view recent projects?’ Allan said; “Sadly, usually customers do not ask enough questions yet they are happy to allow access to all areas in their most valuable asset – their home.” Richmond was established in 1999 and has grown year on year. They have had a great start to the year having recently received accreditation from three of the Country’s leading Health and Safety organisations, coupled with a move to larger premises. www.doubleglazingdorset.com. 68 AUG 2013 To read more, visit www.clearview-uk.com