And just like that, the Independent Thinking Podcast are at the end of series 5
To round off then, today we’re speaking to Valentine from the Centre for Cities, a leading think tank dedicated to the prosperity of the UK’s towns and cities, who conduct a huge amount of research on everything from the impact of urban transport on the success of a local high street, to net zero and how cities can evolve to meet targets to policies like 'levelling up' and scrutinising what they mean...
Recently they’ve turned their attention to how the pandemic has impacted our local areas in different ways, and how we’re faring in our post-pandemic recovery.
Today is a super interesting discussion about the eternal north/south divide, how the pandemic pulled the issue of inequality into sharp focus and why our next steps on how we approach those issues matter, and how we can build more inclusive spaces and reimagine cities that better serve those that live there - enjoy!
Our resources
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Deposit Return Scheme: What is it, and what do retailers need to know?
The Deposit Return Scheme launches in 2027, bringing new requirements for retailers selling and accepting returns of drinks containers.
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Campaign Focus | Media Coverage & The Budget
Bira has continued to feature across trade, local and national press on key issues for independent retailers. Plus, Bira's initial Budget response to the Chancellor.
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New EU customs costs: what independent retailers have to know
New EU customs rules mean UK retailers face €3 duties per product category on low-value parcels sent to EU customers from July 2026.
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Is your lease still working for your business?
Changing costs, consumer habits and local markets mean independent retailers should regularly assess whether their lease still works for them.