The Scottish Retail Consortium (SRC) has warned the government it is one bad budget away from the end of the traditional high street as we know it.
The group issued the stark warning as it called for permanent business rates relief for retailers, as well as a promise not to impose any new taxes.
STV reports the SRC also asked the government to end income tax divergence between Scotland and the UK in the top three bands.
Speaking ahead of Finance Secretary Shona Robison’s announcement to Holyrood on Tuesday, SRC director David Lonsdale said: “Retailers are the heartbeat of many of our communities.
“Yet this last year saw retailers face the twin threats of middling sales performance and ever-increasing costs as both businesses and households struggled.
“That has left many shopkeepers walking a tightrope to remain viable. With the Scottish Government controlling many of the key economic levers, one bad budget could see us lose our high streets as we know them and lead to despair for the retail industry and other high street businesses.”
He went on: “The retail industry has outlined clear realistic policies we hope to see delivered by the Finance Secretary.
“Unless business rates are reduced we could see Scottish retailers carrying a heavier business rates burden than their counterparts down south with investment-sapping consequences for the health of our high streets and the jobs and opportunities they offer.
“That’s why we hope to see a permanent business rate discount for all shops which is at least as competitive as England.
“We’re also seeking increased funding to tackle retail crime and action to protect consumers from further tax rises.
“Times are tough on Scotland’s high streets.
“This Scottish Budget must be part of the solution not the problem.”