Running an independent business can be challenging, especially when competing with bigbox retailers and managing tight budgets.
This detailed guide will help you make the most of free marketing opportunities.
Find crucial information on:
- Leverging social media platforms
- Optimising your Google Business Profile
- Building partnerships in your community
- Creating valuable content
- ...and more
What can Bira do for your business?
Independent retail is at the heart of our high streets, but its facing more pressure that ever. At Bira, we stand with retailers, cutting through the noise to tackle the challenges that hold businesses back. From rising costs to complex regulations, we provide the insight, influence and practical support to make a lasting difference.
Our goal is simple: to give independents the strength, confidence and the voice they need to thrive on todays high street.
Since 1899 we've supported over thousands of independent retail businesses.
Resource Spotlight
Getting Started on Social Media - the basics for a small business
Social media can be daunting. But whether you’re just starting or looking to refresh your existing pages, a little effort in the right areas can go a long way...
"Overall I was disappointed by the limited focus for high street businesses and this was an excellent opportunity to highlight what more can be done to bring back people to our high streets"
Bira was represented at the recent Labour Party Conference, with discussions held on a number of issues that we advocate for. Andrew too the opportunity to discuss business rates, £135 duty free loop hole, retail crime, employment rights bill and the policy to tackle late payments.
Read an update on the Labour Party Conference 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
Bira Insurance
- Trusted service provided by Ascott Insurance
- Exclusive premium rates for all members
- Covers vehicles, householders, healthcare, travel, exhibitions...even livestock! Plus much more
Card Processing
- Three months of free terminal rental to all Bira members*
- Money is available the next day to improve cash flow and become more agile
- No authorisation fees
Bira Legal
- Unlimited Tax, VAT and HMRC advice
- Legal template documents
- Access to a team of Solicitors and Tax Consultants
- Protection against Tax and VAT investigations
Utilities
- Lowest-cost quotations
- Dedicated account manager
- Exclusive rates
- Ongoing support
- plus much more
"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."
- Surinder Josan | All Seasons DIY - Members since 1996
"Being a member of Bira has connected me to a range of fantastic, competitive and tailored, services as well as other like-minded retailers. A great comfort to an independent retailer!"
- Peter Motts | R E Thorns & Co - Members since 1981
Our members are our greatest advocates.
Hear more about what our hardware members have to say about us.
Join Bira today!
This membership is perfect for any hardware & DIY retail business in the UK. Our proactive and practical trade association is focused on your success, so with your membership, you will get the following:
- Business Support and Advice
- Training and Development
- Advocacy and Representation
- Marketing and Promotion
- Information and Resources
Unlock extra benefits
- Wholesale Marketplace: You'll receive 50% off your first order with Faire*.
- Financial Advice: Access to expert financial advice on topics such as taxation, accounting, and business planning.
- Card Payment Solutions: Benefit from reduced rates on card payment processing, saving on transaction fees.
- Insurance: Special rates on business insurance tailored to the needs of independent retailers.
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 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."