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The latest Opening and Closures Report using data from the first half of 2019 provides good news for independent retailers across the UK. Losses of independent units have decreased whilst the net decline of multiples increased when compared to H1 2018. Read the full report here.   Andrew Goodacre, CEO at bira commented: “Andrew Goodacre, […]

Reports & Stats

Marcia Hallett, owner of Naked Grain Mirrors and Interiors, recently entered the Bira Insurance competition to win £1,000 and receive a comparison quote for her business insurance when she’s next due to renew. On Wednesday 4th December Marcia was selected at random from all Bira members that entered the competition between 5th September to 30th […]

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Renowned for their inspirational choice of high quality flatware, kitchen knives and accessories, international table experts Amefa have been chosen to contribute three of their most recent ranges to ITV’s new Sunday brunch cooking show: Nadia’s Family Feasts. The company’s Adagio, Trend Copper and Richardson Sheffield Scandi ranges all feature on the exciting new 10-part […]

Direct

Bira welcomes the Conservatives proposal to support our high streets if they are re-elected. After a three-year campaign, Bira is pleased to see a significant reduction in rates proposed and a fundamental review of rates. Bira has been working with the Government over that past three years to offer a solution to the outdated and […]

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SMILEY MOVEMENT CIC, the non-profit arm of the original Smiley® fashion brand is hosting its final Smiley TALK, Future of the High Street for 2019 on Thursday 21st November in London in partnership with the Charity Retail Association. Following a string of well-attended Smiley TALKS in Brighton, Cambridge and London throughout the year, these free […]

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The London Business School held their annual dinner and awards ceremony, The Real Innovation Awards, last week in the centre of London. The celebration highlights the real heroes and stories that make innovation happen. They know innovation can be haphazard, slow and serendipitous, and rarely follows a smooth straight path. Innovation calls for tenacious and […]

Direct

Sales were up for Cards, Stationery, Crafts and Hobbies, Department Store and Books & Toys, Music, Computer/Telecoms independent retailers between July and September 2019, but all other sectors have seen a drop. The overall picture from Bira’s exclusive Quarterly Sales Monitor (QSM) for the third quarter of 2019 is one of disappointment, with the vast […]

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Reports & Stats

A Bristol-based deli with a reputation for incredible cakes and superb takeaway dishes, cooked on site, has been named as Britain’s Best Small Shop of 2019. Papadeli stocks a selection of foods from local producers and further across Europe and claims one of the best cheese counters in the city. Also on offer is the […]

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Bira welcomes the results of the government’s inquiry into business rates, but is disappointed with the recommendations for reform. The report is clear about the current business rates system needing reform by removing complexities, incentivising investment and changing the Check Challenge Appeal process, which Bira agrees with. Andrew Goodacre, CEO of Bira, said: “It is […]

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The government is committed to all homes and small businesses being offered smart meters by the end of 2020. A national competition is being run to find new ideas to improve energy use. What is your experience of smart meters? Smart meters are being rolled out to small businesses across Great Britain and are a […]

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