The Association of Convenience Stores (ACS), in partnership with the National Hair & Beauty Federation (NHBF), the British Beer and Pub Association (BBPA), and the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB), have jointly appealed to Angus MacNeil MP, Chair of the newly formed cross-party Energy Security and Net Zero Committee in the House of Commons, to initiate an urgent investigation into high energy costs and unethical supplier practices.
According to a representative of the collective organisations, business owners are feeling powerless at the hands of energy suppliers who have exponentially raised energy bills in the past year. Even as warm months approach, the pain is set to continue as many businesses had no choice but to enter into costly contracts during the energy crisis. Consequently, most companies will be paying too much for the next 12 months.
The statement emphasised that local businesses are central pillars in their neighbourhoods and are well-loved assets. Energy bills are wiping out their profits, thus threatening the existence of these businesses across the country. The group urged the Energy Security and Net Zero Committee to exercise its powers to recognise this crisis as a tangible threat to businesses and to begin an immediate inquiry into the conduct of energy suppliers.
In conclusion, businesses are under immense pressure due to continuously high energy bills. This has been mostly out of their control, and they need a voice representing their interests in the Energy Security and Net Zero Committee to take up their concerns. The appeal by the ACS, NHBF, BBPA, and FSB is a necessary step to ensure the survival of these local businesses.
