Labour's 2024 Election manifesto includes many of the right policies to help retail invest for the future, upskill its workforce and grow the UK economy, claims the British Retail Consortium (BRC) in its analysis.

Helen Dickinson, chief executive of the BRC, said that should the party be elected on 4 July, it is “vital” that they continue to engage with businesses on their policies.

“From replacing the broken business rates system, to reforming the rigid Apprenticeship Levy, Labour are promising to make changes that will have a meaningful impact to retailers and their customers,” Dickinson said.

She added that Labour recognises the current business rates system is broken which limits business investment and leaves many retail premises empty.

“It is essential any new system brings down the disproportionate burden on retail, which currently pays 22% of the total rates bill, while accounting for 5% of the economy,” Dickinson said. “Such reforms have the potential to incentivise vital investment and help diverse shopping destinations to thrive.”

Last month, Dickinson warned that the existing business rates system, alongside planning laws, are “holding back the industry”.

On workers’ rights, Dickinson praised the manifesto saying that she was “reassured” by Labour’s commitment to consulting businesses further on implementing proposals to protect workers.

Earlier this week, the BRC responded to the manifestos of the Conservative and Liberal Democrats.

The organisation said the Conservative manifesto “fails to take the bull by the horns” when it comes to major issues affecting the retail industry. Dickinson said that after 14 years in government the party should be aware of the issues facing retailers.

Responding to the Liberal Democrat manifesto, Dickinson welcomed the party’s “ambition to address some of the major issues in our economy.”

She said the party’s commitment to reform the “broken” business rates system could help to revive city centres.

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