Scottish Wholesale Association responds to Budget

SWA welcomes a number of announcements made in the Scottish Budget

Following the Budget announcement on 12 December 2018, SWA has welcomed moves including the decision to rule out an out-of-town levy for businesses at the moment, although Finance Secretary Derek Mackay said it would be kept under review.

SWA chief executive (designate) Colin Smith welcomed the decision to scrap the proposed new business rates levy. He also welcomed the decision to cap the increase on business rates at the below inflation rate of 2.1%.

“This will come as welcome relief to SWA members’ customers,” he said. “We also welcome the announcement that the Scottish Government will maintain the Small Business Bonus Scheme.”

The Finance Secretary also announced a new £50 million capital fund to support town centres to diversify and develop which will boost small businesses across Scotland.

Colin Smith Scottish Budget Scottish Wholesale Association