150,000 shop jobs at risk without help, Co-op warns

AROUND 60,000 small shops could close with the loss of 150,000 jobs without extra help in the Budget, the Coop warns.

- BY GRAHAM HISCOTT

The supermarket chain said many community businesses are at risk of disappearing unless there are urgent tax reforms.

The retailer urged the Chancellor to go further when it comes to business rates relief for small shops.

Labour has promised a shakeup that would mean higher rates for bigger stores to fund cuts for smaller ones.