This dedicated space has been created to unite the passionate voices of independent retail.
Bira Connect is your new place to collaborate, connect, and grow alongside fellow Bira members and the Bira team. Inside the forum, you’ll find:
- Networking opportunities – Engage with other members and form valuable connections
- Expert insights – Access exclusive advice and content from industry leaders
- Collaborative environment – Share your ideas and get feedback from peers
- Resource sharing – Discover tools and resources to help your business thrive
Access the forum by clicking the button below and logging in using your existing Bira website log in details.
Let’s continue to support each other, spark innovation, and elevate the independent retail community together.

Together, we can encourage innovation, support one another, and elevate the independent retail community to new heights.
Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity!
#BiraConnect #IndependentRetailers #RetailSupport

One of our longest-standing members, Barnitts:
"Having been a part of Bira for many years, I’ve seen firsthand how much both the retail landscape and our community have evolved. Bira has always been a steady source of support and inspiration and the launch of Bira Connect marks another exciting new chapter — one that truly brings our members together like never before. This forum will be a game-changer, allowing us to share experiences, tackle industry challenges head-on, and celebrate our collective wins. I can’t wait to connect with fellow members and be part of the conversations that shape the future of independent retail."
— Paul Thompson, Managing Director, Barnitts
Join Bira today!
This membership is perfect for any 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
- Supplier Discounts: Access to exclusive discounts from Bira Direct suppliers.
- Financial Advice: Access to expert financial advice on topics such as taxation, accounting, and business planning.
- Card Payment Solutions: Members can 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.

Latest News
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High street and retail footfall drops sharply in June, shows new data from BRC
Bira warns falling footfall and rising costs are a “recipe for disaster” for indie retailers, calling for urgent high street support.
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Government plan to outlaw 'upward only' rent reviews welcomed by Bira
Bira welcomes a government plan to ban upward-only rent reviews, aiming to create fairer leases for tenants including on high streets.
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Bira supports ShopKind campaign to tackle abuse of shopworkers
The Association of Cycle Traders (ACT) has welcomed the All-Party Parliamentary Group for Cycling and Walking's report "Unregulated and Unsafe: The Threat of Illegal E-Bikes".
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Retailers welcome digital parking platform but warn against leaving cash users behind
Independent retailers have welcomed the Government's new digital parking platform, but warned it must not exclude older customers and cash users.