Letter: Empty shops
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Sir: As a solicitor involved for many years in acting for retailers in their property acquisitions, disposals and management, I was very interested to read Hamish McRae's article "Vital lessons for survival in the high street" (15 December).
There is, however, one fundamental point that he has overlooked: the fixed costs facing retailers, and in particular their leases. I agree that adapting to the modern, fast-moving world is essential but regrettably leases are still very inflexible.
If, as appears likely, the demand for bricks and mortar decreases many operators will be left, by the quirk of the date of a rent review, with over-rented premises which no one will want. There must surely be a limit to the number of coffee shops the high street can take.
A lease is not just for Christmas.
GEOFFREY N SILMAN
London W1
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments