Brussels, 05/11/2013 (Agence Europe) - A clear sign in favour of small independent traders has been sent out by the Parliamentary committee on the internal market. On Tuesday 5 November, its members adopted, by 24 votes to none, with11 abstentions, the non-legislative resolution of Dennis de Jong (GUE/NGL, Netherlands) in response to the action plan for retail trade proposed by the European Commission earlier this year, together with a consultation on unfair commercial practices. Retail trade accounts for 11% of EU GDP and provides 15% of jobs in Europe.
Small shops. In his report, the rapporteur stressed the social and cultural importance of the sector, the need for diversity as well as the impact of the crisis on the smallest independent retailers, “who suffer the most from the current economic crisis and are not always using the opportunities of e-commerce”, he said. The MEPs are therefore calling on the European Commission to pay attention to small traders by developing initiatives focusing on this sector most of all. For example, they suggest initiatives to set up groups of independent traders or to cut local taxes, energy bills or rent for them. They warn against the construction of out-of-town shopping centres and reiterate that local authorities are entitled to oppose these on the grounds of negative social or environmental consequences. The MEPs take the view that the member states should guarantee the diversity of shops in order to allow town centres to remain attractive.
Unfair practices. On unfair trading practices, the MEPs lament abuses of dominant positions. Although it is not easy for traders to bring complaints, the MEPs note that business associations should be in a position to submit complaints to an ombudsman on their behalf to guarantee confidentiality. (MD/transl.fl)