Retailers need to speak to all their local parliamentary candidates in the forthcoming General Election if they want to get a better deal from the next Government.

The NFRN and ACS have called on retailers to highlight the key issues facing independents ahead of the vote on June 8.

The organisations have set out their concerns and issues they believe the political parties and prospective candidates should be addressing ahead of polling day.

Key areas include retail crime, business rates, rising wage costs and environmental issues, such as plastic bag charges.

NFRN chief executive Paul Baxter said: “Over the coming weeks, we will be urging members to contact their local candidates and put the case forward for independent retailers.”

The ACS suggested retailers host store visits for candidates and chief executive James Lowman added: “We know convenience stores and post offices are the most valued local service in communities, but as the major parties consider their priorities for the next parliament, we need to tell our story better.

“I’m challenging our sector to make their voice heard and to get into the heads and hearts of politicians. I’m calling on everyone to use this opportunity to promote the convenience sector, the issues we face and the people that run stores across the UK.”