16 May 2025
Bira has said that members are hopeful the warm weather, Easter weekend and upcoming bank holidays will provide a much-needed boost to high street sales.
Bira has said that recent data showing increased consumer spending in April offers encouragement, but warns that rising business costs continue to challenge independent shops.
Andrew Goodacre, CEO of Bira, said: "Independent retailers across the country are hopeful that this warm weather and the recent bank holiday spending boost will help our high streets. However, we must emphasise that any increase in sales will be swallowed up by the relentless rise in business costs that our members continue to face."
Recent figures from Barclays and the British Retail Consortium (BRC) showed consumer spending grew by 4.5% in April compared with the same period last year, with spending in physical shops increasing by 6.9% after a 1.9% decline in March.
Whilst the recent interest rate cut by the Bank of England to 4.25% and the newly announced trade agreement between the UK and US may provide additional economic momentum, Bira remains cautious about the ongoing challenges facing independent retailers.
Bira continues to champion the cause of independent traders and shopkeepers, focusing on revitalising high streets whilst campaigning on crucial issues such as retail crime, business rates, and legislation.
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
- £1 billion damages claim against Amazon by UK retailers
Catch up on key industry insights with podcast episodes available now
High Street Matters will discuss crucial subjects such as consumer trends, relevant government legislation, business rates, parking and staffing, providing top tips to help to help businesses stay ahead of the retail curve.
We’re talking to a cross section of our members from across the UK, from single retail outlets to small chains, and from large department stores to leisure and hospitality.
Listen to the series, available now.
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