"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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Half a million shoplifting offences still too high, says retailers' body
Shoplifting offences in England and Wales have fallen for the first time in years, new ONS figures show, but Bira is warning that half a million offences a year is still far too high.
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BBC investigation exposes drug dealing in High Street mini-marts as Bira calls for urgent action
An awards scheme celebrating independent bike shops that go above and beyond for their communities has launched in April, spearheaded by the Association of Cycle Traders (ACT), part of the Bira Group.
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First ever Local Bike Shop Week Awards launches to celebrate independent cycle retailers
An awards scheme celebrating independent bike shops that go above and beyond for their communities has launched in April, spearheaded by the Association of Cycle Traders (ACT), part of the Bira Group.
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National Living Wage and Minimum Wage increasing from April with new employment legislation also introduced
The National Living Wage and National Minimum Wage increased from the start of April, with a number of measures under the Employment Rights Act also introduced from this month.