TRADE NEWS Advertising on social networks will not be invasive Mexx to withdraw from UK retail industry Waterstones aims to improve supply chain Retailers can use domain name to boost online presence Online shoppers unsure of risks Counterfeit goods harming retail industry Majority of internet users shop online Dragon's Den duo see product take off Online sales increase in January Retail sales slow in February Retailers set for Mother's day windfall Mamas & Papas begin retail expansion Independent retailers urged to assess everything Retailers hope to increase internet exposure Ambitious Britons hope to own businesses Retail sales enjoy quarterly growth Retailers retain confidence in the industry Women prepared to walk the earth for retail Retailers urge chancellor to ease burden Retailers urged to curb discounting Internet claiming increasing numbers of high-street shoppers FPB urges competition commission to help smaller retailers Competition commission set to replace code of conduct London retail sales below par in January Online retailers drive to attract new consumers Retailers taking legal obligations seriously UK wholesalers could be shunned by supermarkets US retailers enjoy shock sales rise Women opt for ethical Valentines gifts Retail sales set to face 2008 dip Sales boost January retail figures Retailers set for prosperous Valentine's Day Groups warn on danger of toy imports Government needs to raise small business legal awareness FWD outline annual conference plans Shop price inflation rises eBay abandons buyer negative comments European retail sales dip in December Demand for British goods increases Cashback websites battling high street for customers US wholesale prices increase Organisations to petition bag ban Capital Gains Tax may not be compatible with EU law Archive January trade news 2008   21 February 2008   Retailers urge chancellor to ease burden The British Retail Consortium (BRC) has urged the chancellor Alistair Darling to provide some relief for retailers in the next budget. With the announcement on the budget due in the next three weeks, the BRC is calling on the Treasury to help reduce the costs of retailers by cutting rates. The change could also help stimulate growth and increase wholesale purchase. Stephen Robertson, director of the organisation, revealed that the government could stimulate the industry with the right changes. He said: "Retail plays a vital part in the lifeblood of the British economy, job creation, skills training and regeneration." He added: "On budget day, the Chancellor has the power to encourage further retail achievements and reduce new cost threats. Mr Robertson continued: "Retailers already pay £4.5 billion a year in business rates. Supplementary business rates could add £130 million to that.     (c) 2008 Adfero Ltd.     Subscribe to The Wholesaler UK regular newsletter featuring trade news, suppliers offers and trade show reminders. . .