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 22nd February 2010 NI independent fashion retailers folding A number of fashion retailers on one of Northern Ireland's trendiest retail streets have been forced to close. Several independent shops on Lisburn Road, once labelled the Bond Street of Belfast, have been forced to close as a result of diminished sales in the wake of the economic downturn, according to the Belfast Telegraph. The street, which now has 40 empty units and has seen five outlets close down since November, is also believed to have struggled as a result increased numbers of consumers visiting Belfast's city centre stores. However, Hugo Thomas, chairman of the Lisburn Road Business association, believes that the closures are simply part of a widespread trend and should be of no particular concern. He told the new provider: "Everyone has become a bit sensitive. But things have been sensationalised. It is the same everywhere - there are openings and closures. It is the normal ebb and flow of business and of the economy." The Northern Ireland Independent Retail Trade Association recently voiced its concern over the implementation of higher business rates on the country's smaller stores, with some expected to rise by more than eight per cent. © 2010 Comment on this news story   Trade News Archive 2008  December   November   October   September August   July   June   May   April   March   February   January