Around 60,000 small shops and 150,000 jobs are at risk if changes to the business rates reform do not take place, according to the latest figures from research by Co-op.

The research found 69% of UK adults are not confident the Government will deliver on its commitment to provide relief for small businesses, despite the plans being shared in prior budgets.

Additionally, job positions are at risk, with 10% of business owners stating they would need to cut off staff and 1 in 8 claiming they would be at risk of closure.

Shirine Khoury-Haq, Co-op Group CEO, said: “As we approach a critical Autumn Budget, there’s a real danger that the voices of small shops – and the communities they serve – are not being heard. Local shops aren’t just businesses; they’re part of the social fabric of Britain. For some, a visit to a local store is one of the few chances they have to chat to someone and feel connected.

Subscribe to Grocery Gazette for free

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

“This research shows a clear public mandate for action. Regardless of how they vote, the majority of people want the Government to do more to protect their high streets. This is an opportunity for the government to really prove to people that they will do what it takes to make a difference to people’s communities and to their wellbeing.”

The research also found that 67% of respondents believe their high street is dying, while 78% believe it is worse than five years ago.

Association of Convenience Stores chief executive James Lowman added: “In the last year alone, business rates bills for convenience stores have increased by over £100m. These essential local shops are now facing significant further increases with the expected reduction of the 40% Retail and Hospitality Relief, coupled with next April’s revaluation, unless the Government commits to the full use of new powers to introduce a permanently lower multiplier for local shops.”