We’ve been supporting independent retail businesses for over 125 years.
We’re proud to represent thousands of members across the UK, from single retail outlets to small chains, to large department stores. Over this time we’ve been fighting for a level playing field, drawing on the strength of our membership mass. We influence the media, change Government legislation and provide support on areas of strain like business rates, parking and staffing.
The retail industry is undergoing a significant transformation but our Member Benefits provide independent retailers with genuine savings of crucial business services, as well as helping them to keep their business ahead of the curve.
Getting your voice heard
As experts in the business, Bira influences public debate, by monitoring and shaping new legislation through the Legal and Parliamentary Affairs Committee, keeping Bira members one step ahead.
By listening to our member's needs over the phone, through proactive surveying and analysis retail landscape reports we're able to fight for the issues that you tell us matter most to you.
Bira member Surinder Josan of independent DIY store All Seasons DIY in Smethwick discusses independent retail and how the British Independent Retailers Association has helped him along the way.
Rachna Patel, Product Director of Lords, explains the benefits of working closely with Bira.
Latest News from Bira
All News-
Bira calls for high street support in Spring Budget statement
Bira has warned that independent high street shops are facing a "perfect storm" of declining in-store sales and rising costs, despite modest overall growth in the retail sector.
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High street 'death knell' - indie retailers shutting doors ahead of April tax rises
Towns and cities across Britain are already witnessing a wave of closures as independent businesses shut their doors ahead of April's triple tax burden, Bira has warned.
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Bira urges councils to follow Barnsley's business support example
Bira has applauded Barnsley Council's support package for local businesses and calls on other councils across the UK to follow suit with similar measures.
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Petition calls for Government scrutiny of Royal Mail before any changes to its legal obligations
Bira is calling for urgent government intervention following disappointing December retail figures, which show sales volumes fell by 0.3% following a modest 0.1% rise in November 2024.