TRADE NEWS Return of cash ideal for small firms Mayoral candidates urged to engage small businesses High street stores could decline in the face of online retailers Sainsbury's to increase non-food retail Wholesalers could be hit by rising manufacturing costs Technology easing wholesale operations Government urged to tackle corporation tax Carrier bag charges receive consumer backing Credit crunch not dampening online retail spirits Domain name important for small firms Retailers urged to act on climate change Councils urged to help small businesses Borough Market wins prestigious accolade Small retailers web presence vital London retailers thriving despite crunch Thornaby shopping centre to provide space for small retailers Sir Phillip advises retailers to be inventive Retailers property prospects not harmed by crunch Chamber launches new eco-shopping bag Retailers confident despite crunch Small retailers could face legal changes Online fashion retailers drive women to the internet Interest rate cut provides wholesaler boost Online sales set to break £100b mark Independent retailers spring up in the north-east Small retailers face taxation worries Training could boost performance of independent retailers Independent retailers increase online advertising spend Dragon's Den contestant boosts business Google advises independent e-retailers Complex legal changes confusing independent retailers Online retailers urged to address consumer concerns Web sales increase over the Easter period M&S provide green example for independent retailers Retailers back BBFC control of video games Shoppers reject plastic bag tax New regulations unlikely to threaten retailers right to offer 'buy one get one free' Mothercare sales boost retail hopes New campaign to help under-prepared retailers Independent retailers receive legal boost bssa Sales Monitor survey launched Brighton Gift Fair is back Wholesalers and retailers slam property tax changes   Trade News Archive   April 08   March 08   February 08   January 08 Subscribe to our newsletter   Go to The Wholesaler UK Directory 24th April 2008 Carrier bag charges receive consumer backing The majority of consumers would be willing to pay a small fee for the use of disposable carrier bags, new research has revealed. According to the Association of Convenience Stores, some 59 per cent of respondents believe that retailers should charge for the use of carriers. James Lowman, the chief executive of the organisation, revealed that the change in consumer thinking could help businesses improve their green credentials. "Carrier bag waste is a problem that we can address and working together with customers we can achieve a dramatic reduction in their use and their impact," he said. "This poll shows how important it is that every retailer asks themselves how they can make their business greener and do so in a way that means they reap the benefits, not only in cost savings but in local marketing as well," Mr Lowman added. The research also revealed that 64 per cent of people would pay a premium for locally produced goods, providing specialist regional wholesalers with a chance to place more products in stores.   (c) 2008 Adfero Ltd   Find wholesalers of green and eco friendly products here