A Retail Policy Forum will be established so that retailers have an early warning system about new regulations affecting the sector, the government announced last week. The forum is a recommendation from the Retail Strategy Group (RSG) - set up in 2002 and includes representatives from Tesco and Asda - to increase UK competitiveness and provide the government with a better understanding of the retail sector.
Secretary of state for trade and industry Patricia Hewitt welcomed the creation of the forum. “ This work has helped the government develop a stronger relationship with retailers and a better understanding of their needs. Retail is vital to our economy - employing over three million people and generating over £200 billion in annual turnover - and some of our best retailers are internationally respected brands. The Retail Policy Forum will help us maintain the UK’s thriving retail industry,” she said.
Chief executive of Asda and chair of RSG Tony de Nunzio said: “The retail industry has huge economic and social significance. The industry and government must now step up to the challenge of engaging and co-operating on the right issues in a way that will benefit our customers.”
The forum membership will consist of large and small retailers to discuss regulations affecting the UK retail sector as well as at a EU level.
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