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The British Independent Retailers Association (Bira) has urged the Government to issue more support for indie retailers that are forced to close if staff are self-isolating.
The calls follow the prime minister’s announcement that most Covid-19 restrictions will be lifted on 19 July.
However, self-isolation will remain until 16 August, with only those who are double vaccinated then not having to isolate if they come into contact with the virus and test negative.
Andrew Goodacre, CEO at the trade association, said that there is “some nervousness” as cases continue to rise and businesses may be forced to close “through no fault of the business owner”.
In turn, the group called for a review to the track and trace system, as younger staff will still need to self-isolate.
It also urged the Government for better use of the restart grant, which local authorities supposedly have almost £1bn to distribute.
Goodacre added: “As we learn to live with the virus and we ask people to take responsibility, we must not forget the support needed to business that are currently being responsible by self-isolating and closing down if required to do so.
“I hope the Government will accept that one ‘final push’ is needed to protect the livelihoods of hard working independent retailers and businesses on the high street in general.”
