As an organisation focused on supporting independent opticians SightCare was pleased to see UK economic growth edged slightly higher in the three months to September (+0.4%).
UK Independent opticians are part of the UK’s SME community which contributes to the employment of around 14 million people (65% of new jobs are created by small businesses) and make a significant contribution to the economy.
Independent opticians along with every other high street retailer play an important role in boosting growth and creating jobs. However, despite this welcomed growth independent practice owners continue to face business challenges.
Since June’s general election the UK’s 4,000 independent opticians are watching carefully to see whether the Conservative government’s economic policies will help them grow their businesses and halt the decline in the independent sector seen over the last 10 years.
SightCare feels there is an urgent need to ensure red tape does not continue to plague small business. Despite the government’s pledge to cut red tape the EU continues to implement numerous new laws.
UK small businesses also need financial support to ensure continued economic growth. Small businesses require support and they must question who will support them with increased funding.
They cannot continue to be squeezed by large businesses. From national optician chains dominating the high street to large businesses not paying their smaller counterparts on time, large businesses often obstruct small companies from reaching their true potential.
Certainly supporting the SME in these way can only help support further economic growth.