Retail insurance customers on the UK's high streets can have a successful post-recession future if given the correct support, it has been suggested.
According to the British Retail Consortium (BRC), the economic downturn is having a significant effect on the sector, with 12 per cent of town centre shops now standing vacant - a three-fold increase on last autumn.
However, the group claimed that the government can improve the prospects of the country's retail insurance holders by supporting their recovery in key areas.
The BRC recommended that a programme of economic health monitoring is implemented, in order to stop the decline of town centres from reaching the point of no return, while public spaces should be well designed.
In addition, crime and anti-social behaviour against retail insurance customers should be made one of the priorities of law enforcement and the government should work to reduce the financial burdens on shops.
Stephen Robertson, BRC director general, said: "High streets are the heart of local communities and economies - providing jobs and essential services."
Earlier this week, the Federation of Small Businesses called for police to demonstrate their commitment to fighting crimes against business insurance holders.
