Bira can help your fashion and accessories shop grow.
Bira is dedicated to independent fashion retail businesses, offering essential business services, networking opportunities and support to an eclectic mix of businesses from ground-breaking start-ups to knowledgeable family-owned businesses.
Members also gain access to preferential card processing and utilities rates, free legal advice and discounts on services such as customer review management.
We’ve been supporting the industry since 1899 and are proud to be able to offer you with member benefits to save you time and money.
Running an independent fashion business can be challenging, especially when competing with bigbox retailers and managing tight budgets.
This detailed guide will help you make the most of free marketing opportunities.
Find crucial information on:
- Leverging social media platforms
- Optimising your Google Business Profile
- Building partnerships in your community
- Creating valuable content
- ...and more
Resource Spotlight
How to choose the right music to play in your independent fashion shop
Music can play a huge role in attracting people to your retail business. Knowing what helps drive sales, fits your brand and keeps customers shopping for longer can really help your shop be successful.
"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
- Exclusive premium rates for all members
- Covers vehicles, householders, healthcare, travel, exhibitions...even livestock! Plus much more
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
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
- Lowest-cost quotations
- Dedicated account manager
- Exclusive rates
- Ongoing support
- 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.
Join Bira today!
This membership is perfect for any fashion & accessories 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.
Latest Fashion News
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Sellers of castor beans and rosary peas could face licence-only sales under new proposals
Sellers of castor beans and rosary peas would only be allowed to sell them to individuals with a valid licence.
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New banknotes to bring updated security features for retailers
The Bank of England has confirmed that the next series of banknotes will feature an Atlantic puffin, barn owl, buff-tailed bumblebee and European hedgehog.
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SIA launches survey ahead of Martyn’s Law
The Security Industry Authority (SIA) is asking businesses and organisations that could be affected by Martyn’s Law to complete a short survey on how prepared they feel for the incoming legislation.
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£2,000 grant available to retailers taking on young apprentices
Small and medium-sized retailers taking on young apprentices can receive a £2,000 government payment for each eligible apprentice.
Fashion Resources
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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.
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Martyn’s Law – what you need to know as an independent retailer (and actions to take)
Martyn’s Law will require some retailers to strengthen emergency procedures and staff preparedness ahead of 2027 implementation.
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.
"In the 80 years we've been Bira members we've enjoyed some incredible benefits, including insurance, legal and HR advice and the buying group Bira Direct."
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."