As we move through 2026, I wanted to share a clear update on where we are as an organisation, the challenges we continue to face, and the progress being made across Bira and its wider group. While the landscape remains demanding, there are real positives worth recognising and reasons to stay focused and optimistic.
Read the latest update from Andrew Goodacre, CEO
Hello,
Our areas of focus this month have included the following:
- Championing independent retail at government level
Bira has secured a place on the High Streets Expert Panel, acting as the sole voice for small businesses and directly shaping the government’s upcoming High Streets strategy. - Driving action on retail crime and unsafe products
Actively participating in national retail crime groups and working with Which? to push for stronger accountability from online marketplaces selling unsafe goods. - Protecting fair competition for independents
Engaging policymakers on low-value imports and VAT fraud, ensuring independent retailers are not undercut by unfair online trading practices. - Monitoring policy changes that impact members
Keeping close watch on the Employment Rights Act and zero-hours contract reforms, while responding to political shifts across the UK to ensure independent retailers’ interests are represented at every level.
Thank you.
Andrew
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.
Latest Resources
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Campaign Focus | High street support ahead of the Budget
High streets have been big topics over the last week. With the Budget upcoming, Bira have been discussing in Westminster how the Government can best support high streets.
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Campaign Focus | Meeting with the Metropolitan Police
Bira was invited to meet with senior officers in the Met to discuss retail crime in the London boroughs, where police outlined ongoing plans to crack down on shop theft and dodgy shops.
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Preventing a cyber attack and fraud as an independent business | A simple yet important checklist for retailers
Practical cyber security advice for independent retailers to protect their business, customers and data from cyber attacks and fraud.
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The Employment Rights Act: Your handy one-page printout as an independent retail business
A one-sheet guide to key Employment Rights Act changes, practical actions for retailers and important dates employers need to know.