The Guardian covers news that retailers and unions have called for government action after new data shows the number of empty shops, pubs and restaurants is ‘rising at the fastest pace in nearly a decade’

Analysis by PwC and the Local Data Company demonstrates that roughly 16 stores closed every day in the first six months of 2019.

The decline, which does not include independent shops, saw 1,234 stores close - faster than the net 1,123 closures during the same period in 2018. This comes after just 222 shops closed in 2017.

The Save our Shop petition was launched by the Usdaw shopworkers union that represents retail giants including Tesco and Sainsburys. It demands a review of business rates and other taxes to ensure there is a level playing field with online rivals. 

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→ The Guardian - Retailers call for action as high street store closures soar