Speaking at the annual TUC conference in Manchester, Dave McCrossen
– Usdaw Deputy General Secretary said: “It is no secret that the
retail sector is facing one of the most challenging periods in its
history.
"Developments in technology, changes in customer spending and
rapidly rising costs have all contributed to the very difficult
trading environment."
“We’ve seen a huge failure by Government to form any clear or
coherent strategy to help the retail sector and a failure to
address the worries and concerns of retail workers, our members,
who are living under a constant cloud of uncertainty and
insecurity.
“The retail sector employs nearly 3 million people, contributes
11% to the UK economy and is the largest private sector employer
in the UK. Retail offers real jobs to hard-working people and
provides flexibility for workers balancing other commitments.
“Retail jobs lie at the heart of our communities and town
centres. In some areas, retailers are the major employer and we
see a huge local impact when store closures or redundancies take
place.
“It is clear that the current economic framework – from taxation
to commercial rents to business rates – is not working for the
retail sector. This is why Usdaw is calling for a proper
industrial strategy for retail, developed in partnership with
business, government and unions. A robust strategy that provides
a level playing field between online and bricks-and-mortar
retailers.
“It is clear that significant challenges lie ahead for the retail
sector. To put it bluntly Government and retailers are faced with
a stark decision on the future of retail: Short term measures
that focus on cuts, low pay and insecure work; or a long term
strategy. A strategy that makes practical changes and provides
economic reforms, offers decent pay and secure work and changes
attitudes towards retail work, giving retail workers the respect
and acknowledgement they deserve."
