"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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Bira backs National Pet Shop Day 2026 to drive footfall to independent retailers
Bira has confirmed it will continue its support for National Pet Shop Day in 2026, partnering once again with Johnson’s Veterinary Products to champion independent pet retailers across the UK.
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35 years on the high street, a reminder of what independent retail can achieve
Trotter and Deane is celebrating 35 years of trading, highlighting how consistency, community and customer relationships remain key to long-term success on the UK high street.
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Independent pet shops warn flea treatment reclassification will hit communities and push up costs for pet owners
Bira is calling on the government to halt plans that could remove common flea treatments from pet shop shelves, warning the move would damage high street businesses and leave pet owners facing higher costs.
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Independent retailers welcome government crackdown on organised crime targeting Britain’s high streets
Bira has welcomed a major new government offensive targeting organised crime on Britain’s high streets, describing illicit traders as an emerging and serious threat to legitimate local shops.