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Independent retailers report worsening retail crime crisis as confidence in police response

17 Oct 2025

A shocking 83% of independent retailers say theft has worsened over the past year, whilst the vast majority of crimes now go unreported due to lack of police response, according to ACT parent... Read more…

ACT member gains coverage in local media thanks to focus on maintaining independent cycling retail presence

14 Oct 2025

ACT member Cyclo Monster has been recognised by local media for its commitment to keeping Derby’s cycling scene independent, community-focused and thriving.
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Experts share how to make your bike last longer – and why regular care pays off

10 Oct 2025

Cycling experts have shared their top tips in a new Guardian feature revealing how simple maintenance habits can extend the life of a bike and save riders from costly repairs.
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ACT parent company Bira welcomes £5bn Pride in Place programme

29 Sep 2025

Bira has welcomed the Government's announcement of a £5 billion Pride in Place programme, saying it will provide the kind of support high street businesses need to thrive.
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Scottish bike shop to celebrate 20-year anniversary with prize draw and instore event

24 Sep 2025

An independent Scottish cycling retailer is celebrating 20 years in business this month with a prize draw and ‘celebratory cupcakes’ during an event at the shop.
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Cycling Scotland emphasises difference between legal and illegal e-bikes and praises work of E-Bike Positive campaign

18 Sep 2025

Cycling Scotland has highlighted the crucial distinction between legal and illegal e-bikes, warning that confusion risks undermining public trust in a technology that is helping thousands switch... Read more…

Barber shop proves it's a cut above the rest picking up coveted British retailers award

2 Sep 2025

A barber's shop in Northern Ireland has proved that it's a cut above the rest by picking up the inaugural Love Your High Street Award 2025, following a public vote that attracted over 2,230... Read more…

Independent retailers face Fresh challenges as UK inflation climbs to 3.8%

20 Aug 2025

ACT parent company Bira has expressed serious concern following today's announcement that UK inflation rose to 3.8% in July, higher than the expected 3.7% and marking the tenth consecutive month... Read more…

Bike industry continues to face challenges as profits and forecasts falter at Giant, Canyon and Shim

14 Aug 2025

The global bike industry remains under pressure as Shimano, Giant and Canyon all report weaker profits and subdued outlooks for 2025.
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ACT to join industry leaders at brand new cycling trade event this September

13 Aug 2025

The ACT is set to be in attendance at the inaugural Cycling Industry News Live (CIN Live) trade show, which is set to bring together industry-wide education, market insight and product showcases... Read more…

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750 UK firms sued daily for failing to pay rocketing business rates

Posted on in Business News, Cycles News

 All councils within England were requested to provide details of how many businesses had been taken to court for non-payment of their business rates during the 2018/19 financial year. Figures show that a total of 171,018 businesses were summoned, which totals 9.83% of the 1,740,073 non-domestic properties liable for business rates.


According to real estate firm, Altus Group, the overall number works out at around 750 businesses being summoned across England every single day. The tax that medium and large businesses in England are required to pay rose by 2.4% on 1st April for 2019/20, making it the first time that the tax rates for businesses in England has gone above 50%.


The top five councils with the most summons, by volume, were Westminster (6,882); Birmingham (6,166); Manchester (5,228); Liverpool (4,254) and Leeds (3,497).

 

How to reduce your business rates


While business rates often account for a large portion of expenditure, it is generally unknown that many businesses could actually be paying less. ActSmart are partnered with RatesRecovery, a leading business rates appeal company whose specialist Chartered Surveyors have over 40 years of experience in saving businesses money.


RatesRecovery with ActSmart can offer you a free consultation, 20% off the standard fee and a no win no fee guarantee. RatesRecovery count Mothercare, Specsavers, English Rural and 4com among the many thousands of businesses they have represented but regardless of the size of your business RatesRecovery will take all the hassle out of appealing.


RatesRecovery guarantee their clients:

  • An honest and transparent service with help and advice available whenever it is required
  • High levels of savings with no upfront charges and a no win, no fee service
  • Support from highly experienced Chartered Surveyors
  • Only a Chartered Surveyor will visit you; never a sales person

Visit the ActSmart wesbite to find out more information on how you can reduce your business rates.

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