WIREDGOV

Record numbers benefitting from bonus scheme.

Record numbers of small business properties are benefitting from the Scottish Government’s Small Business Bonus Scheme (SBBS), according to new figures.

The statistics indicate that business rates for 99,559 properties have been reduced or completely removed by SBBS this year, representing an increase of over 3,000 since last year.

The figures also show the amount of money saved by small business properties through the scheme has more than doubled over the last eight years, increasing from 68m in 2008/09 to £174m in 2015/16.

Minister for Business, Energy & Tourism Fergus Ewing said;

“Scotland’s small businesses are fundamental drivers in securing sustainable economic growth, which is why we are doing everything we can to support them by continuing to deliver the most competitive business tax environment in the UK.

“Since we introduced the Small Business Bonus Scheme in 2008, the amount of money being saved by businesses across Scotland has more than doubled. Because of this competitive advantage, businesses in Scotland can save up to £3,200 more under the Scheme this year than equivalent businesses in England under arrangements there.

“As a government we are committed to continuing to support our small and medium sized businesses that are so integral to the success of the economy. That is why the First Minister has pledged to retain the Small Business Bonus Scheme for the duration of the next parliament if re-elected, and why we recently legislated to enable local authorities to further reduce business rate bills, on top of schemes such as this, to ensure that we maintain Scotland’s reputation as the best place to do business in the UK.”

“These actions will ensure that we maintain Scotland’s reputation as the best place to do business in the UK.”

Notes To Editors

The full SBBS statistical publication can be accessed at: http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Topics/Statistics/Browse/Local-Government-Finance/NDR-Rates-Relief

The SBBS is an application-based scheme; business owners must apply to their local authority in order to confirm their eligibility.

For more information on SBBS see: https://www.mygov.scot/business-rates-relief/