What conclusion follows regarding VAT and charity bookshops?

The conclusion that VAT increases the price customers pay for things is supported by the understanding of how VAT (Value Added Tax) functions in the context of retail pricing. When VAT is applied to goods and services, it effectively raises the final price that consumers have to pay at the point of sale. This tax is typically added to the base price of items, meaning that both regular shops and charity bookshops that sell taxable goods must incorporate this tax into their pricing structure.

The interaction between VAT and consumer pricing indicates that if VAT is levied on products sold by charity bookshops (assuming they are not exempt from it), the prices of those items for consumers would reflect this additional cost, ultimately leading to higher final prices. Thus, the presence of VAT directly contributes to an increase in what customers pay, reinforcing the conclusion that VAT impacts pricing in a significant way.