The owner of an independent shop in York has written an open letter to the Prime Minister, pleading for financial support.
Isla Coole, the owner of Criminally Good Books on Colliergate, says that the government’s business rates relief policy “leaves our cultural spaces behind”.
Independent bookshops “are facing an incredible challenge on high streets across the UK,” she writes in her letter to Andy Burnham.
“The government recently announced a significant business rates relief package for pubs, clubs and live music venues, recognising them as vital pillars of our local communities.
“While we wholeheartedly celebrate support for our friends in hospitality, independent bookshops have been excluded from these protective measures.”
Bill increases will be capped at £800 per year for the hospitality venues that fall within the policy.
Meanwhile, many independent bookshops face rate increases of up to 100%, “forcing the average store to sell more than 1,141 extra books every single year just to cover the added tax bill”.
Isla said: “It is disheartening and saddening to hear ministers praise our contribution in speeches yet, at the same time fail to offer tangible relief when our high streets need it the most.
“Earlier this year, the Bookseller’s Association conducted a survey, revealing that 85% of bookshops will have to scale back business, in stock, staffing, community events and physical stores.”
Opening in 2024, Criminally Good Books sells every crime friction book you can imagine, as well as hosting author events.
“The prime minister, Andy Burnham, has repeatedly spoken about protecting high street culture, yet this policy leaves bookshops fighting for basic financial survival,” Isla told YorkMix.
Because of the rates rise, Criminally Good Books is just one among many having to make cutbacks , meaning fewer hours for staff, less stock and fewer events, when “events are exactly what brings people together in a bookshop”.
“It makes no sense to raise the costs for the places that put books into people’s hands.”
There has been no contact from any political representatives in response to Isla’s open letter.
She received a huge amount of public support after sharing it on social media.
Isla is encouraging people to write to their MPs and ask for this business relief for independent bookshops.
Isla said: “I’d really encourage the Government to consider a business rates relief package for independent bookshops”.
She wants to make support for bookshops the lasting legacy of this, the National Year of Reading, and would like the Government to meet with the Booksellers Association to agree on a fairer approach.
“I’m delighted for the relief that these hospitality venues are getting and I’m not asking for that to be taken away, but independent bookshops should be eligible for business rates relief,” she added, as they “bring people together and give communities a reason to visit.”
We have contacted The Department of Business and Trade for a response.