BIG pressure on chains

An independent retailers’ pressure group in Bath is up in arms over the number of chain stores entering the city – and has set out a list of demands to allow small stores to flourish.

 

The Bath Independent Group (BIG), under the leadership of local toyshop owner and former mayor of Bath Eric Snooks, presented findings to local authority officials which showed shoppers want cheaper parking, a greater range of shops and more public conveniences.

 

BIG has the support of John Dean, chief executive of the British Shops and Stores Association (bssa), who said the campaign highlighted a nationwide issue.

 

BIG represents more than 120 shops around the city.