The Independent Retailers Confederation (IRC) is actively engaged in various policy and campaign initiatives to support and advocate for independent retailers in the UK. Some of their key focus areas include:

Active Campaigns

• Reforming Business Rates: Advocating for a fairer business rate system that reduces the financial burden on small and independent retailers.
• Protecting Small Retailers from Crime: Working to address issues like shoplifting, vandalism, and other crimes that disproportionately affect small retailers.
• High Street Revitalisation: Promoting initiatives to revitalize and sustain high streets, ensuring they remain vibrant and viable for independent retailers.
• Supporting Digital Transformation in Retail: Encouraging policies that help small retailers adopt digital technologies and compete in the modern retail landscape.

Policy Impact

The IRC demonstrates its influence through:

• Submitting consultation responses to shape policy decisions.
• Appearing in government hearings to represent the interests of independent retailers.
• Collaborating on national reports to highlight key issues and propose solutions.