Released On 18th Dec 2017

President’s Heartbeat - w/c 18^th December 2017

I am pleased to report I was able to act on an opportunity that could mean the difference between a retailer leaving, or staying in Yeovil.  During a 14th November leaflet drop promoting the Christmas window-dressing competition, I spoke with the owner of an independent retail outlet in Middle Street.  The tale I was told by this (non-Chamber member) was of a confusing and demotivating business rates situation.  The retailer told me that high business rates and other footfall factors, have resulted in the Yeovil store being “propped up” by their other location outside Yeovil.  The owner is a retailer, not an expert in business rates, and is understandably feeling crushed.  Using my contacts at SSDC, and via a brief email, I was able to arrange a visit from SSDC, to provide tailored advice on their unique business rates situation, which was causing the retailer to consider moving out of Yeovil.  Whether this retailer stays or goes, they have expressed their grateful thanks to Yeovil Chamber for following up.  This simple act of connection may be the difference between this retailer staying or leaving town, and the PR generated for Yeovil can be considerable.  This is what Yeovil Chamber does for the business community.  If you have any business rates issues, and/or believe you may be entitled to reliefs or exemptions, please email me on president@yeovilchamber.org