Member Testimonials

An interview with long-term member Philip Morris based in Hereford on how they utilise their Bira membership, featuring Managing Partner John Jones and Store Manager Jim Davies. 

Bira members since 1996, Surinder Josan of independent DIY store All Seasons DIY in Smethwick, discusses independent retail and how Bira has helped him along the way.

"The single biggest reason for an independent retailer to become a member is the services but Bira is also a lot more than that - it's like a mini head office for independent retailers."

Bira members since 2019, Lucy Matthews talks to Bira about her two bookshops, Bookends, based in Cumbria and the benefits of Bira membership.

"Bira save us a lot on bank charges but it's also good to know there's someone on the other end of the phone you can go to for support."

Bira members since 2004, Sam Hale shares her business journey and how membership has supported her in the prcoess. The ‘running store for everyone’, Advance Performance is based in both Peterborough and Cambridge.

"We first heard about the credit card fees which have made a real difference to our costs. Being a member of Bira has helped me in so many ways to save time and money."

Bira members since 2003, Lauren Siddle talks about Sands of Penrith and how Bira membership has supported her business. 

"Bira Direct helps us with our invoicing as we can order from many suppliers and it comes as one invoice which saves us a lot of time. Bira Legal also helps us with any staff or customer issues that we may have. I would definitely recommend other retailers join Bira."

Bira members since 1992, William Coe talks about his third-generation, family-owned clothing retail business, Coes and how membership has helped them. 

"Being a member of Bira has helped us enormously over the years. The reason you should join Bira is to prove that you are not alone. The ability to share ideas and concerns with other retailers is invaluable."