13 March 2026
Bira has thrown its support behind new Which? research revealing widespread dangerous product safety failures on major online marketplaces.
The investigation by the consumer champion found 100 ladders sharing similar or identical designs to a product that ended an electrician's career after he fell 4.5 metres from a faulty telescopic ladder bought on Amazon Marketplace. The research identified these products for sale across 21 online platforms including AliExpress, eBay, Shein and Temu.
Andrew Goodacre, CEO of Bira, said: "This deeply troubling research exposes what independent retailers have long known - that online marketplaces are operating without the accountability that physical retailers are held to every single day.
"Our members must comply with strict product safety standards, yet dangerous goods continue to reach consumers through online platforms unchecked. The Government must use the forthcoming consultation on the Product Regulation and Metrology Act to impose a clear legal duty on online marketplaces, and enforce it robustly.""This is another example of how online marketplaces have become the wild west of retailing. We have unsafe products, fake products and widescale VAT fraud. The Government must take action as part of its own high street strategy - independent retailers cannot continue to compete on an uneven playing field while consumers are put at risk."
Bira is urging its members to engage with the consultation on secondary legislation under the Product Regulation and Metrology Act when it is published in the coming weeks.
With the deadline only a month away, here's how to challenge and appeal your shop's business rate valuation
Independent retailers can easily check their shop’s business rates valuation through the Government's portal and ensure the details are correct.
With a simple online account, you can review, plan ahead, and even challenge your valuation before the deadline.
Bira's advocacy takes your voice to the heart of Parliament
Bira is at the forefront of championing the cause of independent traders and shopkeepers across Britain.
Our campaigns cover a wide spectrum of issues crucial to the success of independent traders including:
- Combatting the rising tide of retail crime
- Advocating for changes in legislation that promote fairness and flexibility
- Fighting for fairer business rates
- Overall reducing the regulatory burden
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