Through the collective strength of thousands of retail businesses, our members save hundreds of pounds every year. Our trusted buying group provides exclusive access to leading hardware suppliers, including Stax, L.G. Harris, Draper Tools and hundreds more.
Members also access preferential card processing rates, free legal advice and preferential business banking rates.
Since 1899 we've supported over three thousand independent hardware and DIY retail businesses.
Resource Spotlight
Understanding the updated EU General Product Safety Regulations (GPSR) for Hardware & DIY
Guidelines on what can be sold in the EU and Northern Ireland have modernised existing rules in response to the rise of digital commerce. This impacts a wide range of products such as power tools, electrical fittings, hand tools, adhesives, paints, and construction materials. Here’s what you need to know…
Related DIY & Hardware News
"Bira's product buying division, Bira Direct, is incredibly easy to use and one of the most useful aspects for me and our business is the up to date stock availability and the up to date pricing.
"Bira Direct also has an app which we've used regularly to help with our ordering, as well as a desktop version which is ideal for bigger orders."
- Jim Davis | Store Manager, Philip Morris & Son - Members since 2006
Get access to our trusted Buying Group
Bira Direct buying group removes the headache of dealing with multiple suppliers and enables you to buy with the power of thousands of other independent retailers.
Bira Insurance
- Trusted service provided by Ascott Insurance
- Covers vehicles, householders, healthcare, travel, exhibitions...even livestock! Plus much more
- Inhouse claims management and legal support team
- Exclusive premium rates for all members
Card Processing
- Three months of free terminal rental to all Bira members*
- Money is available the next day to improve cash flow and become more agile
- No authorisation fees
- No monthly PCI Compliance Fees (Non-Compliance Fees still apply)
Bira Legal
- Unlimited Tax, VAT and HMRC advice
- Legal template documents
- Access to a team of Solicitors and Tax Consultants
- Protection against Tax and VAT investigations
Utilities
- Employment contracts
- Employee handbooks
- H&S templates
- Training webcasts
- plus much more
"The single biggest reason for an independent retailer to become a member is the services but Bira is also a lot more than that - it's like a mini head office for independent retailers."
- Surinder Josan | All Seasons DIY - Members since 1996
"Being a member of Bira has connected me to a range of fantastic, competitive and tailored, services as well as other like-minded retailers. A great comfort to an independent retailer!"
- Peter Motts | R E Thorns & Co - Members since 1981
Our members are our greatest advocates.
Hear more about what our hardware members have to say about us.
Running an independent hardware business can be challenging, especially when competing with bigbox retailers and managing tight budgets.
One way to stand out is by leveraging free marketing opportunities to build your brand, attract customers, and drive sales. This detailed guide will help you make the most of these opportunities.
Find crucial information on:
- Leverging social media platforms
- Optimising your Google Business Profile
- Building partnerships in your community
- Creating valuable content
- Utilising email marketing
- Maximising local media opportunities
- Networking through online communities
- Implementing loyalty and referral programs
- Optimise Your Website
- Monitoring and adapting strategies
Join Bira today!
This membership is perfect for any hardware & DIY retail business in the UK. Our proactive and practical trade association is focused on your success, so with your membership, you will get the following:
- Business Support and Advice
- Training and Development
- Advocacy and Representation
- Marketing and Promotion
- Information and Resources
Unlock extra benefits
- Supplier Discounts: Access to exclusive discounts from Bira Direct suppliers.
- Financial Advice: Access to expert financial advice on topics such as taxation, accounting, and business planning.
- Card Payment Solutions: Members can benefit from reduced rates on card payment processing, saving on transaction fees.
- Insurance: Special rates on business insurance tailored to the needs of independent retailers.
An interview with long-term member Philip Morris based in Hereford on how they utilise their Bira membership, featuring Managing Partner John Jones and Store Manager Jim Davies.
Bira members since 1996, Surinder Josan of independent DIY store All Seasons DIY in Smethwick, discusses independent retail and how Bira has helped him along the way.
"The single biggest reason for an independent retailer to become a member is the services but Bira is also a lot more than that - it's like a mini head office for independent retailers."