Representatives from the Federation of Independent Retailers (the Fed) met with Robbie Moore at the business of Kishor and Hema Patel in the MP’s Keighley & Ilkley constituency last week, where they discussed the challenges facing small businesses, including the rogue trade in tobacco as well as high energy and tax costs, including the threat of rising business rate bills.
Kishor explained that he and his wife had operated Riddlesden Convenience Store for the past 23 years and that he had experienced a growing number of challenges as a retailer.
Also attending the meeting was Doug Oliver, the Fed’s political engagement coordinator, who spoke about the national situation facing similar small businesses around Britain.
Kishor, vice president of the Fed’s Yorkshire district, focused on the growing concern about trade lost to black market tobacco and alcohol across northern England, as well as the need for proper resourcing for Trading Standards and greater strategic collaboration between them, the police and other branches of law enforcement.
He added this was a particular concern as there was a range of regulatory reforms planned as part of the Tobacco & Vapes Act, which completed its passage of Parliament in April.
Rogue alcohol
The Fed team also discussed concerns about smuggled alcohol, following the end of the Alcohol Duty Stamp Scheme in May 2025, which meant stronger alcoholic items above 30% abv were no longer physically stamped for duty.
Kishor also spoke about higher NI Contributions which made it more expensive for him to consider employing new staff, as well as concerns about rising business rate bills and the fact the current regime disincentivised further investment in his business because it would raise the rateable value of the store, making it more likely he would lose his small business rates relief and be in scope to pay rate bills.
The pair also spoke about the work the Fed was doing to help members prepare for the launch of the Deposit Return Scheme (DRS) for recycling bottles and cans when it goes live in October next year.
Moore said: “It was a pleasure to meet Kishor and Hema to discuss the current challenges facing their business. Riddlesden Convenience Store is one of many local independent retailers facing pressure from increased taxes, higher energy costs and competition from illegal tobacco trade and alcohol products being sold elsewhere.”
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