The upcoming general election has the fashion retail industry calling for crucial reforms.
- Prime Minister Rishi Sunak announced the election will take place on 4 July, initiating campaigns.
- Drapers aims to present concerns and demands of the fashion retail industry to new government.
- Key issues include business rates reform, post-Brexit trade, and sustainability regulations.
- Stakeholders in the sector from suppliers to retailers are urged to contribute to a joint manifesto.
Prime Minister Rishi Sunak declared on 22 May that the next general election is scheduled for 4 July, setting off a series of electoral campaigns across various sectors. Among these, the fashion retail industry has mobilised to ensure their concerns are effectively communicated to the potential new government.
Drapers, with its long-standing history as a key voice in the fashion retail sector, is spearheading this initiative. The organisation is determined to scrutinise the policies of all political parties, aiming to secure a commitment to address pressing industry issues. The ultimate goal is to facilitate the survival and flourishing of this vital sector.
The primary challenges highlighted by industry stakeholders include business rates reform, post-Brexit trade complications, and employment issues. Additionally, the growing menace of shoplifting, the need for support for UK manufacturing, and minimum wage regulation are significant areas of concern.
Sustainability regulations, taxation, and urban regeneration, often encapsulated in the broader agenda of “levelling-up,” also form critical points of discussion. These reflect the shared hurdles that the fashion retail community faces in their pursuit of economic and environmental viability.
Drapers has reached out to various industry players, from suppliers and manufacturers to designers and retailers, seeking their input. The idea is to formulate a comprehensive Drapers Fashion Retail Manifesto, which will be presented to the political parties vying for power.
In an initial effort to gauge opinions, feedback was sought from property experts on Labour’s proposed high street strategy. Through these collaborative efforts, Drapers endeavours to present a unified industry front that speaks to the direct needs of businesses, potentially influencing policy in a way that benefits the sector at large.
Drapers’ initiative is a pivotal step in aligning the fashion retail sector with government policies to ensure mutual growth and sustainability.
