Independent retailers Kully and Sandy Sandhu hosted a visit with Nottingham North MP Alex Norris, discussing their concerns about deposit return schemes on retailers and the impact that the business rates revaluation had on their store.

The Nisa Heathfield store was established in 2011 after retailers’ Kully and Sandy converted the site from a derelict pub. The store currently employs 12 people and offers an extensive range of fresh produce, food to go, National Lottery and services such as Click and Collect.

During the visit, the retailers discussed the impact of deposit return schemes on convenience stores, in particular the lack of space for retailers to store returned bottles, increase in queuing time and hygiene implications for staff.

The visit also gave Kully and Sandy the chance to discuss the impact that the business rates revaluation had on their store, which saw their rateable value more than double.

Alex Norris MP agreed to work together with the retailers to help the store receive support with their business rates bills.

Alex Norris MP commented on the visit; “I know that the store plays an important role in the community, but it’s easy to overlook some of the difficulties that come with running a smaller store, not least business rates and deposit return schemes as we discussed during my visit. When overheads greatly increase like they have, I can appreciate that it has a real impact so it was good to discuss this with Kully and Sandy and take away their good ideas as to how I might be able help them, their store and others like it in the area.”

If you would like to arrange a store visit with your local MP to discuss the issues affecting your business, contact ACS Public Affairs Executive Steve Dowling at [email protected]