UK retail leaders have met the Chancellor at 11 Downing Street to set out their priorities for the Autumn Budget 2025.

The meeting, held on 3 September, was led by Helen Dickinson, Chief Executive of the British Retail Consortium (BRC), who took a small delegation of industry representatives to highlight mounting concerns over costs and taxation.

The talks came as retailers face continued pressure from inflation, energy costs and wages, with business rates singled out as the sector’s most pressing issue. The Budget is scheduled for 26 November.

Business rates dominate discussions

Executives warned that any rise in business rates would risk undermining investment and driving up shop prices.

Larger stores are expected to feel the sharpest impact, with supermarket and high street leaders making clear their opposition to additional cost burdens.

Reporting from the meeting confirmed that business rates were the central topic at No. 11, reflecting long-standing industry frustration over the system’s complexity and perceived unfairness.

Calls for reform and relief

The meeting followed an open letter signed by more than 60 retail chief executives, urging the government to deliver a “meaningful reduction” in rates for retail, hospitality and leisure.

The letter also sought guarantees that no business would end up paying more as a result of reform.

The BRC has since reiterated the sector’s priorities in advance of the Budget, stressing the importance of cost relief and warning against further tax increases at a time when margins remain under pressure.

What to expect from the Autumn Budget

The Treasury has confirmed that the Autumn Budget will be delivered on Wednesday 26 November. Economists anticipate a tight fiscal balancing act as the government looks to meet spending commitments while addressing the needs of the high street.

With business taxes and the rates system under scrutiny, retailers will be watching closely to see whether their calls for reform are reflected in the Chancellor’s plans.

Helen Dickinson of the BRC said: “Retail is a vital driver of jobs and investment across the UK, but rising costs risk holding back growth. We urge the Chancellor to use the Autumn Budget to deliver real reform on business rates and provide retailers with the stability they need to support customers and communities.”