Scrapping levies ‘supports Northern Ireland’s independent retailers’
Independent Nisa retailers across Northern Ireland have welcomed the move by Co-op Wholesale to remove their case and low volume levy for their customers here.
In what has been described as a “proactive move to support independent retailers” across the region, the removal of the levies took effect from Monday 1st September.
The company said the action reflects Co-op Wholesale’s recognition of the economic pressures facing local businesses, while also underscoring its long-term commitment to delivering value, stability and partnership to its Northern Ireland customer base.
Acknowledging that their service levels have not met the expectations of NI retailers in recent months, MD of Co-op Wholesale, Katie Secretan said the decision to scrap the levies was a “clear signal” of their focus and enduring commitment to these retailers.
“We’re determined to rebuild trust and deliver the service our retailers deserve,” added Katie Secretan.
Nisa retailer, Kenny Bradley who owns seven stores across Northern Ireland, welcomed the recent announcement, adding it comes after the tobacco price realignment earlier in August.
“It represents another positive step in supporting independent retailers,” Kenny told NR.
“Co-op Wholesale are working hard to address product availability challenges caused by Brexit, and we will continue to work closely with them to improve supply, drive growth, and strengthen our stores through collaboration and engagement.
“Food retailers in Northern Ireland have faced exceptionally challenging years due to numerous complex UK/EU agreements, which have disadvantaged local consumers through inflated prices and product shortages,” added Kenny.
“At times, goods have been withdrawn from sale altogether, and unnecessary food waste has occurred as trucks are turned away at customs – often over minor paperwork errors.”
Kenny added that ongoing uncertainty was causing difficulties for retailers here.
“Considering that the UK left the EU in 2020, it is deeply concerning that a UK Government minister has now confirmed the Irish Sea border for food and agricultural products will remain in place until at least 2027 – seven years after Brexit.
“This ongoing uncertainty continues to damage the local retail industry and should be a source of serious reflection for all those involved in the Brexit negotiations.”
Meanwhile, Noel Hadden, General Manager at Milestone Rathfriland, which is owned by Tom McAvoy, said any reduction in cost was good news.
“I think the removal of the levies is a welcome move, however volumes with NISA/Co-op have dropped considerably, this mainly being due to higher cost pricing with NISA/Co-op than many of the other local wholesale suppliers,” said Noel.
“This again is compounded further by the Windsor Framework, where many goods across ambient, chilled, and frozen supplied from GB are being restricted unless they have ‘Not For EU’ on the individual packaging, forcing retailers to source goods through an alternative supply route.
“Yes, any reductions in costs are very welcome but there is a lot for NISA/Co-op to contend with to sustain and grow any further business in Northern Ireland,” added Noel.
Katie Secretan said the removal of the levies is part of a broader strategy to enhance support for independent retailers and ensure they remain competitive and financially resilient in a challenging market.
“Co-op Wholesale will continue to monitor the economic landscape and work at pace to resolve product availability issues,” she added.
The levy position will be reviewed ahead of the start of 2026, in line with ongoing economic developments.
