The British Independent Retailers Association (Bira) says the decision to push back the Autumn Budget until 26 November risks damaging confidence in the most vital part of the retail calendar.

Chancellor Rachel Reeves confirmed the Budget date in a video statement on Wednesday (3 September).

“Britain’s economy isn’t broken. But I know it’s not working well enough for working people,” she said.

“Cost of living pressures are still real. And we must bring inflation and borrowing costs down by keeping a tight grip on day-to-day spending through our non-negotiable fiscal rules.”

However Andrew Goodacre, CEO of Bira, said independent retailers are already battling “unprecedented pressures” and cannot afford further uncertainty heading into the “golden quarter.”

“What makes this situation even more concerning is the Chancellor’s decision to delay the Autumn Budget until 26 November, the latest November budget since 1993,” Goodacre said.

“This late timing will inevitably dampen consumer confidence right in the middle of the most important trading period for retail.”

Subscribe to Grocery Gazette for free

Sign up here to get the latest grocery and food news each morning

The golden quarter (from late October to December) is a vital period for many street retailers.

And the association, which represents 6,000 members nationwide, said clarity on tax, business rates and consumer-facing policies is essential before Christmas.

“Independent retailers desperately need certainty, not uncertainty during their most vital trading period,” continued Goodacre.

“Our members would prefer any difficult decisions to come early, allowing them to focus on making the most of Christmas trading. That opportunity has been taken away from them.”

He added the Chancellor must use this budget to provide real support for the independent retail sector.

“Business rates reform, action on the £5.9 billion low-value import loophole, and measures to boost consumer confidence are desperately needed.”

The warning comes after Bira’s latest Heartbeat Survey revealed 46% of independent retailers reported worse trading than last year.