Members Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about your Bira membership. Please find below a list of questions commonly asked by Bira members. If you are struggling to find the answer to any of your queries, please get in touch with the Bira membership team by calling 0121 446 6688 or emailing membership@bira.co.uk

Where can I find my membership number?

Your membership number is your key to accessing many of our services, so make sure you keep it somewhere safe and where you can find it again. You can find your membership number printed on any piece of documentation we send you in the post.  You can also find your membership number in the member area of the site when you log in. And you can always call the membership team to get your membership number. 

I've just joined, how do I set up my password for the website?

If you joined via the website, you will already have a password set up. If you can't remember your password, go to the password reset page and follow the instructions on the screen.

Why won’t my membership number log me into the website?

Since we launched our new website, members must log in using an email address and password. If you have never set up a password, visit our password reset page and use the email address you have registered with Bira. If you experience any issues, please contact the membership team.

How do I reset my password?

If you have to reset your password, go to the password reset page and follow the instructions on the screen.

What are my payment options?

Membership subscription can be paid using a credit/debit card and Direct Debit.

How do I edit my account details?

Log into the website and visit the Members Area. Now click on My Profile to update your information.

How can I share my news, views and ideas with other members?

To share your news, views and ideas with like-minded retailers through the Bira member magazine, please contact Emily Bridgewater, Magazine Editor and Communications Manager on 0121 446 6688 or email emily.bridgewater@bira.co.uk. All contributions will be gratefully received. You can also attend our range of webinars, exhibitions and events including the Bira Conference and Awards to meet other retailers, Bira members and inspirational speakers from the industry. The Bira awards recognise and reward the very best in our industry, showcasing the talent, hard work, innovation and achievements of Bira members.

What are the specialist sectors?

The specialist sectors are specialist trade associations that are owned by Bira. There’s no extra cost to join them once you’re a member of Bira and they provide representation for you and your business on an industry-specific level.

Can I cancel my membership at any time?

The membership subscription runs for the year, if you’d like to cancel after the year, it’s simply a case of letting us know before your next payment is made. However, we always like to find out why before we say goodbye to see if there’s anything we could have done better.

How do I access my member benefits?

Log into the website and visit the Members Benefits to access all our exclusive offers for each of our services.

Bira Member Benefits Frequently Asked Questions

Please find below a list of questions commonly asked by Bira members. If you are struggling to find the answer to any of your queries, please get in touch with the Bira membership team by calling 0121 446 6688 or emailing membership@bira.co.uk

Can I start using the legal advice line straight away?

Yes, as soon as your application has been approved you can use the Bira legal advice line. We try and get all our applications approved as soon as possible and should only take two or three working days. We’ll send you a confirmation email to let you know once it’s been approved.

I’m a supplier - how do I edit my Bira Direct supplier directory?

Please login to the website (if you haven't already) and follow these simple instructions. Once you are on your supplier directory page, you will then be able to edit your supplier information and save your changes for approval. Once your changes have been submitted, they are usually approved and sent live within 48 hours. If you have any further questions, please contact virginie.bordenave@bira.co.uk

Where can I view the latest news and resources?

For the latest news, campaigns and guidance click on the buttons below:

  • News
  • Campaigns
  • Resources

I'm interested in investing in my own business with an equipment or vehicle loan, how do I get a quote?

Bira members have access to preferential rates through our preferred savings and loan provider Birmingham Bank. Alternatively, please speak to David or Frank by calling 03330 048 048.

Is it free to buy products through the buying group?

Yes, it’s free to use Bira Direct for Bira members.

How do the invoices for Bira Direct work?

Bira Direct simplifies the invoice process when buying from multiple suppliers to stock your shop. Order from as many Bira Direct suppliers as you need and we will send you one invoice for the total amount through our easy-to-use digital invoice management system. We’ll sort out the rest.

Where can I view the Bira Direct terms and conditions?

Click here to view the Bira Direct terms and conditions

I want to take advantage of pre-negotiated terms through Bira Direct, what do I do?
A quick call to our credit control team on 0800 028 0245 is all it takes to have your account set up in minutes.

What suppliers are included in the buying group?

You can find the full list of Bira direct suppliers available in our supplier directory they’re made up of suppliers from the following product sectors; Cookshop, Glass & Chinaware, Tabletop, Giftware, Housewares, Hardware, DIY, Hand & Power tools, Electrical, Home décor, Pet products, Gardening.

What are the Bira preferential credit card rates?

Members can enquire about the full rate matrix suited to their business from the Member Area of the website, by logging into the website (if you haven't already) and heading to the Card Processing rates page. If you are not yet a member, our membership team will be happy to chat you through the rates available for members, give them a call at 0800 028 0245.

What type of benefits does Bira offer members?

Bira offers members a variety of benefits. Click to view all of the benefits available to you as a Bira member. You can sort and filter to view a range of benefits to suit your business needs, from getting started a business, as well as digital, employment, finance, marketing, product buying, protecting your business, and sales and utilities.

Non-members FAQs

Everything you need to know about becoming a Bira member.

Am I eligible for membership?

To become a Bira retail member you need to provide evidence that you are currently paying business rates.

How can I join Bira?

There are a few ways you can apply for Bira membership; online, by phone, by email, by post or even in person.  Join easily online here.

How much does it cost to join Bira?

Membership starts from as little as £17.08 + VAT per month, so it's affordable no matter how small your business.

What payment methods do you accept?

You can choose to pay by cheque, debit or credit card, BACS or direct debit. If you choose to pay by direct debit, you’ll receive a 5% discount on your membership fee.

What time is the membership team available to contact?

If you need further information and would like to contact the membership team, please email membership@bira.co.uk. Alternatively, please call the membership team Monday-Friday between 9 am and 5 pm on 0800 028 0245.

If I join, when can I start using the member benefits?

As soon as your membership application has been approved, you will be able to gain instant access to your Bira member benefits.

I am not a member, but I need help with an issue with my business, is it too late to join?

It is not too late to join Bira, however, please contact the Bira membership team to discuss your current situation before completing your membership application. Depending on your business situation, we may not be able to cover something that pre-exists in your membership, but you may be able to obtain free legal advice for example. It is always best to get in touch with us so we can discuss this with you.