Resources

Crime Prevention advice for empty commercial premises

The Coronavirus has necessitated businesses close across the UK leaving many empty buildings. Read more on crime prevention for empty premises.

Why engaging on social media is more important than scheduling

Social media advice and examples for producing engaging social media content for your business during the uncertain times of the Coronavirus pandemic.

Coronavirus update from Bira Direct suppliers

The latest updates on trading from Bira Direct suppliers, including where to purchase PPE and cleaning products as well as temporary changes to payment terms.

Full guidance on staying at home and away from others

The single most important action we can all take, in fighting Coronavirus, is to stay at home where possible to protect the NHS and save lives. Read more.

Business Continuity Planning

Whatever your business it’s key to plan for the unexpected e.g. extreme weather, terrorist attacks, fire, disease with business continuity planning.

Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme

The Chancellor announced on 20 March 2020 a new Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme that will allow all UK employers to access support to continue paying part of their employees’ salary for those employees that would otherwise have been laid off during this crisis. Find out more

Managing your wellbeing while self-isolating during COVID-19

Human beings are social animals, isolation for extended periods of time can naturally cause us to feel anxious or low. Stay healthy during COVID outbreak.

Lay-offs, short-time working and guarantee payments during COVID-19

If an employer is experiencing a temporary shortage of work for employees to do (caused by the coronavirus outbreak), they may decide to lay employees off temporarily. So how do you make sure you’re doing it correctly? Find out more.

Covid-19 and your energy supplies

As an independent retailer, what will happen to your energy supply should you close down your premises during the Covid-19 outbreak? Find out more.

Social distancing: How to remain connected to your customers

Businesses may be serving customers less, they may be doing it less face to face, but that shouldn’t and doesn’t mean that you can no longer serve them. Follow our top tips to stay connected.

Bira members get creative in the face of coronavirus

Bira members are showing just how creative they can be in the face of a crisis. They are finding new ways to drive businesses forward after seeing footfall decline following the outbreak of coronavirus.

Are you on the best terms with your suppliers?

Ensure that you’re on the best terms with your suppliers. Complete a supplier review form and we’ll check your terms for you and beat them where we can.

Leak-proof and lightweight glass lunch range from Black + Blum

Bira Direct supplier Black +Blum have announced their new range of leak-proof and lightweight glass lunch products which not only are practical but also are an eco friendly alternative to traditional lunch boxes and tubs.

Draper Tools study finds more than ‭430 million DIY jobs needing attention in Britain’s homes‬‬‬‬‬‬

More than 430 million DIY jobs currently need attention in Britain’s homes, a new study by Bira Direct supplier, Draper Tools has found. Read more.

National Minimum Wage and National Living Wage 2020 | Updated rates explained

The rates of pay for the National Minumum and National Living wage are set to increase in April 2020. We’ve outlined what the new rates will be.

Coronavirus: Employment and Health and Safety advice

The implications of the coronavirus on businesses and employees are far-reaching and changing. We’re updating you on the relevant employment & h&s advice.

Business rates system – what can small businesses do now?

Although the business rating system may appear complex, there are still opportunities to reduce rates bills. Read our guide to see what you can do now.

On mystical Lindisfarne, Karen Mundy is passing her business over to her daughter

Bira catches us with business owner Karen Mundy, who is now passing the reins of her various enterprises to her daughter, Charlotte.

Coronavirus: Guidance for employers and businesses

In case coronavirus (COVID-19) spreads more widely in the UK, employers should consider some simple steps to help protect the health and safety of staff.

More owners feed dogs veg-based meals

More pet owners are moving their pets to veg-based food. Dog owners especially are making the switch, believing it to be a healthier alternative.

Is it time you looked at how sustainable your business is?

We all have a role to play in creating a more sustainable future, so what can you do now as an independent retail business owner on a budget?

The Great British Switch-Off

By the end of 2023 Openreach will stop supplying new analogue and digital phone lines and will only supply broadband and other data services by 2025.

The value of the Pet Pound

Mintel have highlighted how humanising pets is a key theme running through the pet care industry, with consumers making adjustments to their daily lives to accommodate pets as part of their families.

The unstoppable rise of the vegan alternatives

With this fast-moving trend gaining momentum, retailers have seen interest in vegan alternatives soar. Luckily, the industry is staying ahead on innovation.

What is the Smart Home Expo?

Register for the Smart Home Expo today to discover the future of home technology, meet key industry suppliers and network with other retailers.

Making your business safe in bad weather

Slips & trips are regarded by some as an ‘accident ATM’. These simple and effective tips will help keep your businesses safe during bad weather.

The best smart home trends

2019 saw an upsurge in smart tech, so here are some of the best smart home trends of 2019 and what to expect in 2020. Read more.

Six tips for visiting trade shows

If you’re looking to visit a trade show, you should do some planning in advance to make sure you’re making the most of your time.

Five big problems retail businesses face when selling

Despite the different products and services offered across the retail industry, businesses exhibit similarities in the selling process.

Good Work Plan 2020

We’ve provided a rundown of three significant changes that are set to come into force on 6 April, plus a other changes planned with now implementation date.

The new £20 is coming – will you be the first to see it?

The new polymer £20 note will be released on 20th February 2020. They’re the most secure Bank of England note yet and will last longer than paper notes.

Consultation: Processing data relating to criminal convictions

ICO call for views on the processing of personal data relating to criminal convictions. Do you deal with the personal data of people who might have current or previous criminal convictions? Do you understand your data protection responsibilities in this area? You can help shape future ICO work by filling in a short survey. Organisations […]

How to combat the New Year recruitment crisis and hold on to staff in 2020

There’s something about January that makes many of us feel like making drastic life changes. Whether it’s going meat-free, putting your house on the market or finally taking the plunge and handing in your notice at an unfulfilling job, the start of the year often emboldens us to take the leap and start afresh. For […]

Have a trend-led new year

Being aware of the current trends keeps your range fresh and interesting for your customer. If you have held back some budget for Spring 2020, here are some of the strongest directions for the new season.

Trends brewing in the indie cafe culture in 2020

From dog-friendly to eco-friendly; gluten-free to wifi that’s free there’s plenty you can shout about online. Read on for trends in the cafe scene in 2020.

Don’t dilute your flood defences

Diluting your flood defences plan could seriously harm your business. We’ve outlined actions to take to ensure severe weather doesn’t harm your business.

6 wellness trends for health food retailers

As a health food shop owner, it’s important to keep wellness trends in mind to stock products that will drive footfall and get ahead of the competition.

Shopping and spending sustainably

We’ve taken a look at the conversation on shopping sustainably to understand the trends independents can tap into to inform their business operations.

Prepare for HR changes in 2020

There is a large degree of uncertainty as to what will unfold with employment law this year. Bira Legal advises members on how to prepare for HR changes.

Weather-proof your pocket

Bira members can avoid costly repairs and reduce the risk of winter weather damage with these quick tips from Towergate, the provider of Bira Insurance.

How can independent retailers prepare for Valentine’s Day?

Discover the latest trends in gifting for Valentine’s Day, from self gifting, galentines and gifts for friends and pets with Bira Direct.

The winning formula for Mica member Walkers of Dunoon

For almost 30 years the Walker family has been running a destination DIY and garden store in Dunoon on Scotland’s picturesque Firth of Clyde. Staying relevant – and having an excellent coffee shop – are essential parts of the successful formula.

Overcoming the competition at White Rose Books Café

Competition from Amazon, electronic books, financial crises, rising overheads – Sue Lake has overcome all these challenges and more in building up White Rose Books Café in Thirsk to be the epitome of a thriving independent bookshop.

The new year brings new optimism for much better trading in 2020

Now, in 2020, let’s show how resourceful we independent retailers can be. Bira sat down with independent retailers to ask what their predictions are for trading in 2020.

Member Magazine – January/February 2020

Issue 29 of the Bira Magazine featuring the latest retail trade news, 2020 HR changes and an interview Brothers Ian and Paul Walker of Mica & much more.

Veganuary business support toolkit

The vegan UK market is worth over £572 million in 2019, finds Mintel and is no doubt set to grow. Here you can find a toolkit which outlines the many ways that your business can get involved and successfully fulfil consumer demand.

Veganuary business toolkit for cafés and eateries

Inspiration for cafés and eateries to get involved in Veganuary 2020. 28% of Veganuary survey respondents felt eating out was the biggest challenge as a new vegan. Here are a few things you can do instore to promote your vegan selection.

Bira Direct Product of the Month – December 2019

As the nights get colder and we get further into winter. Many people will choose to get cosy in front of the fire. Wood burning stoves have had a resurgence in popularity as an alternative to gas fireplaces. Chopping logs can be a physically tough job which makes stocking chainsaws over the winter period will […]

What should independent retailers be focusing on in early January 2020

Top buying expert Suzanne Chapman has provided her top tips on how to stock and merchandise in your shop in early 2020 in order to maximise your profits this year. 

8 top tips for retailers to make the most of the new year

A new year signals a fresh start.  January offers a chance to review the past year while looking ahead at the next 365 days. It’s an opportunity to set some goals, look back at what worked well and where improvements can be made. Here are our top 8 tips for making a cracking start to the new year.

Crime Prevention advice for empty commercial premises

The Coronavirus has necessitated businesses close across the UK leaving many empty buildings. Read more on crime prevention for empty premises.

Why engaging on social media is more important than scheduling

Social media advice and examples for producing engaging social media content for your business during the uncertain times of the Coronavirus pandemic.

Full guidance on staying at home and away from others

The single most important action we can all take, in fighting Coronavirus, is to stay at home where possible to protect the NHS and save lives. Read more.

Managing your wellbeing while self-isolating during COVID-19

Human beings are social animals, isolation for extended periods of time can naturally cause us to feel anxious or low. Stay healthy during COVID outbreak.

Business Continuity Planning

Whatever your business it’s key to plan for the unexpected e.g. extreme weather, terrorist attacks, fire, disease with business continuity planning.

Covid-19 and your energy supplies

As an independent retailer, what will happen to your energy supply should you close down your premises during the Covid-19 outbreak? Find out more.

Coronavirus update from Bira Direct suppliers

The latest updates on trading from Bira Direct suppliers, including where to purchase PPE and cleaning products as well as temporary changes to payment terms.

Social distancing: How to remain connected to your customers

Businesses may be serving customers less, they may be doing it less face to face, but that shouldn’t and doesn’t mean that you can no longer serve them. Follow our top tips to stay connected.

Bira members get creative in the face of coronavirus

Bira members are showing just how creative they can be in the face of a crisis. They are finding new ways to drive businesses forward after seeing footfall decline following the outbreak of coronavirus.

Leak-proof and lightweight glass lunch range from Black + Blum

Bira Direct supplier Black +Blum have announced their new range of leak-proof and lightweight glass lunch products which not only are practical but also are an eco friendly alternative to traditional lunch boxes and tubs.

Draper Tools study finds more than ‭430 million DIY jobs needing attention in Britain’s homes‬‬‬‬‬‬

More than 430 million DIY jobs currently need attention in Britain’s homes, a new study by Bira Direct supplier, Draper Tools has found. Read more.

Business rates system – what can small businesses do now?

Although the business rating system may appear complex, there are still opportunities to reduce rates bills. Read our guide to see what you can do now.

National Minimum Wage and National Living Wage 2020 | Updated rates explained

The rates of pay for the National Minumum and National Living wage are set to increase in April 2020. We’ve outlined what the new rates will be.

Coronavirus: Employment and Health and Safety advice

The implications of the coronavirus on businesses and employees are far-reaching and changing. We’re updating you on the relevant employment & h&s advice.

Coronavirus: Guidance for employers and businesses

In case coronavirus (COVID-19) spreads more widely in the UK, employers should consider some simple steps to help protect the health and safety of staff.

Is it time you looked at how sustainable your business is?

We all have a role to play in creating a more sustainable future, so what can you do now as an independent retail business owner on a budget?

More owners feed dogs veg-based meals

More pet owners are moving their pets to veg-based food. Dog owners especially are making the switch, believing it to be a healthier alternative.

The Great British Switch-Off

By the end of 2023 Openreach will stop supplying new analogue and digital phone lines and will only supply broadband and other data services by 2025.

The unstoppable rise of the vegan alternatives

With this fast-moving trend gaining momentum, retailers have seen interest in vegan alternatives soar. Luckily, the industry is staying ahead on innovation.

What is the Smart Home Expo?

Register for the Smart Home Expo today to discover the future of home technology, meet key industry suppliers and network with other retailers.

The value of the Pet Pound

Mintel have highlighted how humanising pets is a key theme running through the pet care industry, with consumers making adjustments to their daily lives to accommodate pets as part of their families.

Making your business safe in bad weather

Slips & trips are regarded by some as an ‘accident ATM’. These simple and effective tips will help keep your businesses safe during bad weather.

The best smart home trends

2019 saw an upsurge in smart tech, so here are some of the best smart home trends of 2019 and what to expect in 2020. Read more.

Six tips for visiting trade shows

If you’re looking to visit a trade show, you should do some planning in advance to make sure you’re making the most of your time.

Five big problems retail businesses face when selling

Despite the different products and services offered across the retail industry, businesses exhibit similarities in the selling process.

Good Work Plan 2020

We’ve provided a rundown of three significant changes that are set to come into force on 6 April, plus a other changes planned with now implementation date.

The new £20 is coming – will you be the first to see it?

The new polymer £20 note will be released on 20th February 2020. They’re the most secure Bank of England note yet and will last longer than paper notes.

How to combat the New Year recruitment crisis and hold on to staff in 2020

There’s something about January that makes many of us feel like making drastic life changes. Whether it’s going meat-free, putting your house on the market or finally taking the plunge and handing in your notice at an unfulfilling job, the start of the year often emboldens us to take the leap and start afresh. For […]

Trends brewing in the indie cafe culture in 2020

From dog-friendly to eco-friendly; gluten-free to wifi that’s free there’s plenty you can shout about online. Read on for trends in the cafe scene in 2020.

Don’t dilute your flood defences

Diluting your flood defences plan could seriously harm your business. We’ve outlined actions to take to ensure severe weather doesn’t harm your business.

6 wellness trends for health food retailers

As a health food shop owner, it’s important to keep wellness trends in mind to stock products that will drive footfall and get ahead of the competition.

How can independent retailers prepare for Valentine’s Day?

Discover the latest trends in gifting for Valentine’s Day, from self gifting, galentines and gifts for friends and pets with Bira Direct.

The new year brings new optimism for much better trading in 2020

Now, in 2020, let’s show how resourceful we independent retailers can be. Bira sat down with independent retailers to ask what their predictions are for trading in 2020.

Bira Direct Product of the Month – December 2019

As the nights get colder and we get further into winter. Many people will choose to get cosy in front of the fire. Wood burning stoves have had a resurgence in popularity as an alternative to gas fireplaces. Chopping logs can be a physically tough job which makes stocking chainsaws over the winter period will […]

Drop Shipping – Save Space and Cut the Carrier

Instead of filling your precious storeroom space with large items, suppliers are offering you the option to deliver the products when you make a sale either directly to you or to your customer.

What should independent retailers be focusing on in early January 2020

Top buying expert Suzanne Chapman has provided her top tips on how to stock and merchandise in your shop in early 2020 in order to maximise your profits this year. 

8 top tips for retailers to make the most of the new year

A new year signals a fresh start.  January offers a chance to review the past year while looking ahead at the next 365 days. It’s an opportunity to set some goals, look back at what worked well and where improvements can be made. Here are our top 8 tips for making a cracking start to the new year.

Shopping and spending sustainably

We’ve taken a look at the conversation on shopping sustainably to understand the trends independents can tap into to inform their business operations.

Your Retail Buying Calendar 2020

Your customers may have Christmas on the mind, but as 2020 approaches now’s the time to plan ahead for 2020 starting with the key retail dates for your calendar.

From the must-attend trade shows, holidays to local and international calendar dates, use the Bira Direct Retail Buying Calendar to plan in your product ranges, events and to increase your brand awareness.

Mindful Retail: Strike a balance for 2020

Perq Studio believes ‘truly mindful retail’ is the key to bricks and mortar brands achieving success in 2020. But what is mindful retail? Find out here.

Safeguarding retail businesses survival

Independent businesses are the life blood of our town centres. So as they snap up space vacated by the chains, we must safeguard their long-term survival.

How To Make Your Business Sustainable

Consumers are choosing to use businesses that have sustainable, eco-friendly credentials. Find out how to achieve sustainability in your business.

Independent health store advice for wellbeing in the festive season

If you are looking for advice on natural health and wellbeing then your local independent health stores are the place to start. Take a look at the latest snippets of advice from your local health store retailers.

Protecting employees from a potentially debilitating problem

Work-related contact dermatitis is a prevalent issue in the hospitality industry. Here are the steps employers can take to reduce this risk to employees’ health.

Independent and instagrammable coffee shops

We’ve compiled a handy guide so you can get more buzz for your caffinated buck from your own social media, improve your content and drive footfall.

Indie eatery trends for 2020

We’ve been supporting independents brew their social media strategies. This time it’s the turn of those cafes that keep us well fed and caffeinated. Read more.

How to put your best foot forward this Black Friday

Ahead of this year’s Black Friday, we’re sharing some of the lessons learned by a boutique shoe retailer so that Bira members can learn from her success.

Personality presents an opportunity for retailers on social media

By utilising personality on your social media channels, you’ll really be able to make your businesses standout from the crowd, strengthening your image.

Make the festive season safe and fun for your staff

Keep your staff and your business safe over the festive season by following these simple tips. Doing so will ensure you’re able to enjoy the holiday!

November Buyers Essentials

Get Christmas all wrapped up with seasonal products that keep your customers coming back time and time again. Suzanne Chapman has over 15 years experience as a gifting and lifestyle buyer, and has curated a list of products that will maximise sales in the “Golden Quarter”. This months buyers essentials are Christmas Wrapped Up, Winter […]

Transporting goods between the UK and EU in a no-deal Brexit

Download this handy guide if you need to transport your goods to the EU post-Brexit. Hauliers and commercial drivers will need the correct documentation to travel to, from or through the EU if the UK leaves without a deal.

Importing and exporting post-Brexit

Get all the information you need about EORI numbers for importing and exporting goods post-Brexit.  

Recruiting new staff

A well-thought-out recruitment process will help you to fill the position with the best possible candidate, support business objectives and avoid any legal pitfalls. Ellis Whittam, the providers of the Bira Legal service have provided a nine-step checklist to guide you through the recruitment process.

Accept payments on the go with Mobile Pay

In-store or on-the-go, get paid fast with the powerful mobile point of sale app and card reader, from Bira’s preferred Card Processing service provider, Global Payments.

Hints and tips for protecting your business against fraud

Fraudsters have many ways of targeting businesses, whether anonymously online, posing as a customer or in your employment. This guide aims to provide you with some popular hints and tips for identifying potential fraud to help you protect your business.

How to look after your mental health

Bira are proud supporters of Mental Health Foundation who help drive conversations on mental health and body image to create lasting change. Here’s some advice from the Mental Health Foundation on how to look after you and your colleagues’ mental health.

Your step-by-step guide to the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS) Process

Your step-by-step guide to the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS) Process provided by Bira’s chosen Card Processing provider, Global Payments.

Making Tax Digital – A bitesize guide for business

Making Tax Digital begins in April. This useful, bite-size guide for business will explain everything you need to know.

Your online retail guide

Not only has e-commerce completely shifted how consumers’ shop, the online world is now having a transformative impact on the in-store physical retail experience. Find out how you can start creating meaningful moments across your businesses digital journey.

Managing paternity leave in your business

You may think that every expectant father is entitled to time off, but in fact there are a number of eligibility conditions that need to be fulfilled.

bira’s Business Rates Manifesto

A simpler, standard rateable allowance to help independent retail businesses. Read bira’s Business Rates Manifesto, which has been presented to MP’s here.

Home Office Serious Violence Strategy

The Home Office will today (Monday 9 April) launch the Serious Violence Strategy, which will set out the Government’s response to the recent increase in knife crime, gun crime and homicide.

Cyber Aware’s new Perception Gap Report

This innovative new report evidences the misconceptions the public have towards cyber security, compared to the reality of the threat – a perceptions gap which is eroding our resilience to cyber criminals.

Withdrawing the paper £10 note – FAQ’s

The last day to use your paper £10 notes is 1 March 2018. The Bank of England answers your frequently asked questions regarding the withdrawal in this factsheet.

Navigating the financial landscape

Financial planning responds to seasonal changes. Wren Sterling offers insight on how to navigate the financial landscape.

SMEs and Cyber Attacks: What you need to know

Only 1 in 4 small businesses are prepared for a cyber attack. Prevent your business from being hindered by a cyber attack by managing business risks. Source: Towergate Insurance

The definitive guide to mobile marketing and alerts

We are increasingly becoming a mobile-first society. Here, Text Local brings to you the definitive guide to mobile marketing for your business.

Your guide to the General Data Protection Regulation

The way in which personal data is used and protected is set to change in May 2018.

Business Rates Manifesto

Your guide to selling and using chemical products

Your guide to carrying cash

Your guide to taking a lease

Your guide to partnerships and limited companies

Your guide to Business Names

Help make Christmas 2019 one to remember.

Help make Christmas 2019 one to remember. Join the campaign to get Britain shopping local. Last year Visa ran a successful marketing campaign, which turned the spotlight on over 100 independent retailers from Dundee to Southampton, from big cities to small towns, toy sellers and bakers to florists and butchers. These passionate shop-owners became stars […]

Justifying discrimination

Receiving a discrimination claim can be a real concern for employers but when it happens it’s essential that your actions are justifiable. Find out more.

Northumbria Pets

Northumbria Pets first came across bira in 2006 at a trade show event and has been a member ever since, taking advantage of bira direct’s pre-negotiated terms and discounts with suppliers.

Advance Performance

Sam Hale of Advance Performance discusses her business journey which started 18 years ago from a back bedroom at home. The ‘running store for everyone’ is now based in both Peterborough and Cambridge and prides itself on offering a high customer service which cannot be delivered by an online-only retail store.

A recipe for bags load of energy

Ever wondered how you could get bags load of energy? National Association of Health Stores (NAHS) explains how to make the most from items you can find at your local independent Health Store.

How to login to the Member Dashboard

A step-by-step guide on how to login to the Member Dashboard, available to bira members. Unlock member-only service information, resources, bira member magazines and exclusive content today.

How to use bira direct Invoice Manager

It’s now easier to keep all of your invoices in one place. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to us bira direct Invoice Manager, available to all bira members.

Your guide to updating your supplier page

A step-by-step video tutorial on how to edit your bira direct supplier page.

Toolshop

Meet Vin Vara – Bira’s formal National President and independent hardware business owner of the Tool Shop Group.

Glasswells

Member testimonial

Rachel Riley

Member testimonial

Lords

Member testimonial

Coes

Member testimonial