FWD Column: Wholesale is ready

As wholesalers, we are essential partners to deliver economical growth, says Tom Gittins, chair of FWD, as he urges the new government to work with the sector

Every new Prime Minister arrives at Downing Street with a long list of priorities, and Andy Burnham MP has regional growth, devolution and household affordability as his. Building on the work we are already doing with Government as the voice of the wholesale sector, we will help to deliver these ambitions.

Burnham has pledged to deliver growth in every postcode across the UK. As wholesale already delivers to every UK postcode, this makes us essential partners in delivering that growth. As employers in every region and supporting thousands of local businesses, our sector is a vital partner. We support local economies, SMEs, independent retailers, foodservice outlets and suppliers bringing products to market. If the sector is thriving and resilient, then thousands of businesses across the UK succeed alongside us.

Business rates reform

Business rates reform remains one of FWD’s key lobbying priorities. Burnham was in post less than 24 hours when a letter, signed by our members, urged the PM to not group wholesalers in the same category as the warehouses of online retailers as higher business rates would have a knock-on effect down the supply chain.

We welcomed the government’s renewed focus on apprenticeships and technical education. Wholesale offers careers across logistics, sales, finance, technology and leadership, yet remains a hidden career choice. Through initiatives such as the Wholesale Stars and our work to engage young people who are not in education, employment or training , FWD is helping showcase the breadth of opportunities available. If Government wants to tackle skills shortages and create sustainable employment, then wholesale is a sector ready to play its part.

Government must also recognise those businesses that are investing for the future. The Wholesale Group recently achieved B Corp Certification, proving that commercial success and responsible business go hand in hand. As wholesalers continue to invest in greener fleets, reducing emissions, supporting communities and creating quality jobs, government should be creating policies that encourage this type of long-term investment.

Reward investment

The business rates reform should reward productivity so businesses investing in greener fleets, automation and modern warehousing are supported, not penalised.

Rising fuel costs remain a major concern for members, and those who have invested in green fleets now face electric vehicle excise duty coming into effect in April 2028.

As costs continue to mount, FWD will continue to make the case for policies that support investment, encourage innovation and give wholesalers the confidence to plan for the long term.

As well as business rates, corporation tax, National Living Wage and National Insurance Contributions all sit high on FWD’s agenda.

These are among the biggest threats to growth and resilience, but none of these policies exist in isolation. Together they create a significant cost burden for businesses already operating on tight margins.

Policy making

When new legislation is proposed, FWD has the conversation with government to ensure we are heard and that they work with us before making policy. As Daniel Zeichner MP, Chair of the Food Resilience Commission, shared on the WholeStory podcast, good policy is rarely created in isolation. The strongest outcomes come when government and industry design solutions together. After all, the sector is the one with the practical experience.

Wholesale has never asked government to solve every challenge we face. What we ask for is a genuine partnership that recognises the role we play in delivering economic growth, supporting local communities and strengthening food resilience.

If the new government is serious about building a stronger, more resilient economy, wholesale is ready to help deliver it.

business rates education Environment Food Resilience Commission FWD column Government National Living Wage Tom Gittins