"Like many of you, I watched the Chancellor's speech hoping to finally see the transformation we've been promised. Let me be blunt. We have been misled."
"What we got was a masterclass in political spin that masks a harsh reality - most independent retailers will be paying significantly more in business rates next year, not less."
The Budget announcement has inexplicably hit smaller independent retailers with bigger tax bills, while certain large retail businesses have seen reductions. Read the latest update on the Autumn Statement 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.
Join to support Bira
You can support our continued efforts by joining our community for just £17/mo and in return you can benefit from a wider range of support and services aimed to help businesses to flourish.
Our Latest News
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A new licensing scheme is being proposed by the Government to block illegal knife sales and imports
The new licensing scheme being proposed by the Government is set to help save lives ad keep dangerous weapons out of young hands by blocking illegal knife sales and imports.
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Employers’ Duty to Inform Workers of Their Right to Join a Union
Bira has responded to the Government’s consultation on proposals to introduce a new duty for employers to inform workers of their right to join a trade union.
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Retailers warned not to sell baby sleep pillows by OPSS, citing 'significant concerns'
Retailers and online sellers have been warned not to sell or market baby sleep pillows for infants under 12 months after the Office for Product Safety and Standards.
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Independent retailers among many SMEs set to benefit from £2 million funding boost
Independent retailers, alongside other small and medium-sized businesses, are set to access Government support and funding of up to £2 million through the Made Smarter Adoption Programme.