18 June 2024
Tributes are being paid to a Jonathan Swift, a former Director General of the British Hardware Federation who sadly passed away this weekend.
Jonathan was Director General of BAGMA from 1973 to 1986, and became Director General of the BHF in 1986 until his retirement in 2006.
He brought BAGMA into the BHF Association in 1984 and continued in his role of Secretary General of the International Hardware Association until 2011.
Jonathan was instrumental in building the BHF into today’s BIRA, representing independent hardware and agricultural business, lobbying Government during the difficult period in the 70s and 80s when interest rates hit over 17% and inflation rose to 24% - thus making the BHF an essential campaigner for retailers during these hard times.
Jonathan will be remembered for his powerful personality and towering speeches, he had an ability to make everyone he worked with feel special and important, and always ensured that members’ needs were at the heart of all decisions.
He will be greatly missed by all his former colleagues and the members.
Latest News
-
Independent pet shops warn flea treatment reclassification will hit communities and push up costs for pet owners
Bira is calling on the government to halt plans that could remove common flea treatments from pet shop shelves, warning the move would damage high street businesses and leave pet owners facing higher costs.
-
Independent retailers welcome government crackdown on organised crime targeting Britain’s high streets
Bira has welcomed a major new government offensive targeting organised crime on Britain’s high streets, describing illicit traders as an emerging and serious threat to legitimate local shops.
-
Beloved Tottenham retailer who dedicated 53 years to his community passes away
WorkNest, partner of Bira Legal, is expanding its services by bringing cyber security specialists Bulletproof and Pentest People fully into one brand from next month.
-
Bira CEO Andrew Goodacre joins judging panel as Boutique Star Awards 2026 open for entries
WorkNest, partner of Bira Legal, is expanding its services by bringing cyber security specialists Bulletproof and Pentest People fully into one brand from next month.