REVIEW


The Conference was chaired by Declan Curry, Business Journalist and Broadcaster


The challenge of change


The industry came together earlier this month at the Retra Conference 2022. ERT was there.


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Saycell encouraged brands to help protect their current routes to market and ensure as little conflict as possible… “The key to everyone having a sustainable future is


that we are all competing on a level playing field,” he said. And lastly regarding the possible introduction of an


online sales tax, Mr Saycell explained that Retra and the British Retail Consortium have been lobbying for change. Many Retra members are multi-channel, some are purely online and others only bricks and mortar, and there are strong views both for and against the tax, he added, saying “at this moment in time, we are remaining neutral”. The Government has said any money raised from


Howard Saycell presented via video link due to contracting COVID-19


Welcome, by Howard Saycell, Retra CEO Mr Saycell opened the Conference, reviewing how Retra supported its members through the past two years and speaking about the creativity of independent retailers… “Many have not only survived the pandemic but have also prospered because of their hard work.” He also referenced the shifts in consumer


behaviour, with a rise in local shopping; he applauded all retail staff for their dedication during this time, especially delivery and installation teams venturing into people’s homes. However, Mr Saycell noted: “Just as we thought we


were turning a corner… we have war in Europe presenting a whole raft of potential issues, including inflation and fuel price rises to name just a couple.” Elsewhere, sustainability is a growing priority; by


2040, the retail industry should aim for all products sold in the UK to be net zero. Mr Saycell went on: “It


is no use saying it’s a long way off; consumers increasingly expect brands and retailers to act, to hold strong ethical standards and to operate responsibly in everything they do.” Recent research shows that a company’s “green


credentials” are now a big factor in the decision-making process prior to purchase, and Mr Saycell urged retailers to start from the ground up to look at how their premises and vehicles could be more efficient. He then moved on to a very important topic and


simply stated: “It is entirely any brand or supplier’s choice whether they have a direct relationship with the consumer, but Retra believes that while independents can cope with competitors, a brand selling direct is just another competitor and not a partner.” He said manufacturing and retailing are very


different skill sets. The best experience for consumers is through quality retail – through education, recommendation and delivery and installation. Mr


an online sales tax will be used to reduce the burden of business rates, but Mr Saycell is sceptical: “Can we trust politicians to stick to their word? If this does go ahead, many questions will need to be addressed.”


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