"The Government's spending review contains no specific mention of high streets, retail or independents."
"There will be some new growth funds and investment from the Government in 350 struggling places. Let's hope high streets and indies benefit from these investments."
This month Bira's areas of focus include the newly announced Spending Review, a consultation on the National Living Wage, as well as the review on importing low value items. Read the latest update from Andrew Goodacre, CEO of Bira.
Bira is at the forefront of championing the cause of independent traders and shopkeepers across Britain.
With a dedicated focus on revitalising and preserving the high street, our advocacy takes our collective voice to the halls of Parliament and into discussions with key stakeholders. Our campaigns cover a wide spectrum of issues crucial to the success of independent traders including:
- Fighting for lower business rates
- Combating retail crime
- Pushing for greater protection for business owners who are leasing their property
- Demanding more support for high street development
- Ensuring smaller retailers are not disproportionately burdened by upcoming changes in employment regulations
Through our efforts, we strive to ensure that the heartbeat of our communities, the high street, continues to thrive and serve as a vibrant hub for local businesses.
Click on the topics below to find out our latest activity in each area.
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Our Latest News
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Independent retail crisis deepens as nearly half see sales plummet compared to last year
Britain's high street crisis has deepened dramatically with nearly half of independent retailers reporting sales have crashed compared to last year.
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Independent Retailers Slam £5.9bn "De Minimis" Import Loophole as Government Delays Action
Bira has condemned the Government's inaction over the "de minimis" import loophole following a Sky News investigation revealing £5.9 billion worth of cheap imports entered Britain last year without paying customs duties.
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Criminals undermining legitimate retailers as trading standards collapse
Bira has warned that criminals are undermining legitimate retailers as trading standards services collapse, following a new Which? investigation.
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Reduction in knife enabled crime a "positive step", says Bira
Knife-enabled robberies have fallen in some of the most affected areas of England, reports the Government.