"Independent is not ‘dead’ – it is changing and indie retail continues to be an integral part of the UK retail sector."

Read Bira's Christmas message from Andrew Goodacre, CEO.

 

Hello,

As we approach the end of the year, now seems to be the right time to review 2025.

Things started better; winter was mild and Spring started early which seemed to increase footfall and expenditure on the high streets. It reminded me that when conditions are right, people will come out shopping – let’s not forget that 65% of all goods are still bought in shops!

Unfortunately, after May we saw a more difficult period. Consumer confidence started to fall back again, just as the costs of running the business increased once more. Many indies experienced a 140% increase in business rates and above inflation increase in wage costs. Retail crime continued to grow, with the new threat from the proliferation of illicit shops. Growth in the UK, having started quite positively, started to wane. All these factors made the second half of the year far more challenging, and we were really not helped buy the Budget.

Despite all the challenges faced by independents, we still continue to see determination, resilience and a lot of retail skill as you continue to trade on the high streets. Our ‘Love Your High Street’ campaign reminded everyone at Bira how great independents are throughout the UK, and how much the local communities appreciate what you do. Every day we hear great stories from members, telling us what they have done differently to support their local communities. These are great examples highlighting the importance of independent retail to our high streets, and we use all this positive activity to remind Government that we need more support. Independent is not ‘dead’ – it is changing and indie retail continues to be an integral part of the UK retail sector.

Thank you for your continued support of Bira – without you we would not exist. We only have one objective at Bira: to enable independent retail to succeed . We will be working as hard as ever on that mission in 2026.

Finally, Bira does not give out Xmas presents but we are here for you all year with fantastic services to help you run your business and save money. Help yourself to our ‘selection box’ of cheap business insurance, free legal helpline and fantastic rates on credit card processing. Joking aside – we believe they can all make a difference to you next year.

 

Thank you.

Andrew

Bira CEO Andrew Goodacre
 

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
Learn more about our advocacy efforts
 

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.

High Street Matters podcast
 

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