The retail sector contributes 5% of GDP to the UK economy and provides direct employment to 3 million people, with a further 2.7 million jobs supported in the supply chain.

The BRC reports that retail provides around 780,000 jobs for 16–25-year-olds, with more than half of these roles offering part-time work.

One in three retail jobs in Britain are based in premises with a rateable value of more than £500,000.

The OBR expects business-rates receipts to rise by 10% in 2026/27, from £34bn to £37bn, before reaching £42bn by 2030/31.