UK grocers warn business rates rise will push up costs

Britain's major supermarkets are pressing the chancellor to exempt them from a new business rates surtax, warning consumers will ultimately face higher prices.

- ANNA WISE

A letter from the British Retail Consortium (BRC) to Rachel Reeves argues that limiting the tax burden on grocers is vital for tackling food inflation.

It has been signed by UK executives and directors from Tesco, Sainsbury's, Aldi, Asda, Iceland, Lidl, Marks & Spencer, Morrisons, and Waitrose.

The BRC said it is concerned that large shops could see their business rates rise if they are included in the government's new surtax for properties with a rateable value over £500,000.