TRADE NEWS FEBRUARY 2010 Retailers experience sales growth in February Online retailers to benefit from universal broadband Retailers face disproportionate utility costs Counterfeit goods seized in Norfolk BPF calls for public debate on CVAs NFRN quits JIG Tories reveal new supermarket planning laws NI independent fashion retailers folding Clothing retailers buck sales trend Isle of Man Tesco could 'impact' independent retailers Asda expansion threatens independents Scarborough's independent shops suffer rise in closure rate Small retailers 'not understanding shoppers' needs' Oxfordshire retailers come together to encourage local trade Scottish retailers left exposed to business rates UK retailers facing closure epidemic Computer chip counterfeiter prosecuted Village Shop of the Year named Family furniture retailer sees sales soar Counterfeit goods recycled Retailers receive grants to bolster security Inflation slow as retailers ignore VAT rise Uncertainty over economic policy Britons are biggest online shoppers   European visitors to The Wholesaler please click here   What’s New At The Wholesaler UK New Categories added recently Wholesale Fabric Tents and Camping Equipment Nautical and Marine Gifts Wholesale Golf Products Fireside Nostalgia, Nostalgic gifts, retro and vintage Wholesale Haberdashery Trade News Archive 2009  January   February   March   April   May   June   July   August   September   October   November   December Subscribe to our newsletter   Go to The Wholesaler UK Directory 11th February 2010 UK retailers facing closure epidemic Britain's retailers are under threat, with the rate of store closures increasing over the last six months of 2009, it has been revealed. Research from the Local Data Company indicates that retail vacancy rates across the UK increased by two per cent in the half-year period. Vacancy rates are now at 12 per cent, with some towns seeing a cessation in trade in as much as 24 per cent of outlets. Stephen Robertson, British Retail Consortium director general, said that while the surrounding economic conditions were difficult for stores, it was imperative that the future of the UK's high streets were secured. He said: "High street shops are often battling big bills for business rates and rents [but they] are the heart of local communities and economies, providing jobs and essential services. "Their future success cannot be left to chance. Town centres need to be actively managed by local authorities with their retailers, other businesses and residents." While the recession has had a significant impact on the UK's high streets, many also believe that an increase in the popularity of internet shopping is affecting footfall. © 2010 Comment on this news story   Trade News Archive 2008  December   November   October   September August   July   June   May   April   March   February   January