Pandemic Provdes Boost To Local Economy

It seems that the local economy has benefited from the pandemic. Butchers, bakers, fishmongers and grocers recorded record sales in 2020, with shoppers staying closer to home and making use of local retail.

Data from Barclaycard showed sales in independent food and drink shops rose by 28.6 per cent compared to 2019, while spending on non-essential products fell by 11.3 per cent, suggesting money usually spent on clothing, holidays and recreation instead went back into the community. 

Lee Frost, a fourth generation butcher from Chorlton in Manchester, said sales doubled overnight as the pandemic hit. Ad per i:

“In the first lockdown, average Saturday sales went from £6,000 to £12,000. 

At first we thought it was panic buying, but the demand kept coming and we couldn’t keep up. 

In our busiest week, we took £35,000. Customers who would normally be going out to eat came to us”.

There have been suggestions the surge in popularity would dip dramatically after lockdown, but Mr Frost and other smaller retailers said they have forged close relationships with shoppers who have grown accustomed to “better quality” produce and a more personal experience. 

It would seem that even the darkest cloud really does have a silver lining!

Tax Investigation Insurance

Having a Solar Protect Tax Investigation Insurance policy at your disposal means that should you be one of the many 1000's of businesses or individuals that are selected by HMRC each year to look into your tax affairs your own accountant (your tax return agent) can get on and defend you robustly.

You have the peace of mind knowing that your accountant's (your tax return agent) fees will be paid by the insurance without any Excess for you to find.

Tax Investigation Insurance is an insurance policy that will fully reimburse your accountants (your tax return agent) fees up to £100,000 if you are subject to enquiry by or dispute with HMRC.

A Solar Protect policy will enable your Accountant (your tax return agent) to:

• Deal with any correspondence from HMRC
• Attend any meeting with HMRC
• Appeal to the First-tier Tribunal or Upper Tribunal
• Having the security of knowing that fees will be met in full will enable your Accountant (your tax return agent) to defend your position robustly

Please click here for details.