Following a harsh winter, the president of Perthshire Chamber of Commerce is prediciting a big “chill factor” for many businesses across the area in the new year.
Paul Shields told The Courier this week that the January VAT rise will be the first thing to hit consumers as firms across the country battle to stay on top of the ongoing economic difficulties.
He said, “Suppliers and service providers cannot sustain the VAT rise along with what seems to be never-ending spiralling costs of product and fuel for goods delivery.
“February brings about the confirmation of the Scottish budget and in that lies a fuller idea of the impact of the financial restraints on the public services not that I am saying some sectors are not already feeling that.”
The Chamber of Commerce team have spent the last few weeks trying to support frustrated business operators as the weather has seen a massive rise in cancelled appointments or reservations, crippling the cash flow of those affected.
Mr Shields also revealed that businesses have had to stand by helplessly and watch strong order books vanish.
In a direct messagee, he said, “Key influences in the world of politics, banking and the media, the decision-makers of these groups, between you, each has the means to make a positive difference for so many.
“You know what businesses need funding and an environment to grow in so banks really do need to lend again, lower the credit control bar and genuinely support businesses with needs and demonstrate you’re with them for the long haul.
“This, coupled with creating movement in the housing market and for our media to get behind and promote an upbeat, buoyant, successful and supported business effort, all would go some way to putting everyone in a better place.”