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Independent retailers to see rates bills soar by up to 15% despite government's "transformation" promises

2 Dec 2025

Independent retailers across the UK are facing business rates increases of up to 15% next year despite government promises of the "lowest tax rates since 1991", ACT parent company Bira has... Read more…

UK's E-Bike Positive campaign to be adopted by the BA & ACT

1 Dec 2025

As of Thursday 1st January 2026, the E-Bike Positive campaign will fall under the joint guardianship of the Bicycle Association (BA) and the Association of Cycle Traders (ACT).
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Cycle to work scheme escapes cap but ACT warns Budget fails cycle retailers on business rates and imports

26 Nov 2025

The ACT has welcomed the Government's decision not to impose a cap on the cycle to work scheme, calling it "common sense prevailing" after weeks of speculation threatened a vital sales tool for... Read more…

Independent retailers reject Black Friday as three-quarters refuse to participate

24 Nov 2025

More than three-quarters of independent retailers, including some of those in the cycling retail sector, are boycotting Black Friday this year, rejecting pressure... Read more…

Stop being a dumping ground for used e-bike batteries

11 Nov 2025

Used e-bike batteries are piling up because too many suppliers are failing to meet their legal obligations and it’s time to stop being polite about it, writes ACT Director Jonathan... Read more…

Independent retailers urge Chancellor - Boost business confidence or risk killing growth before it starts

7 Nov 2025

Britain's independent retailers, including those in the cycling retail sector, are calling on Chancellor Rachel Reeves to use the autumn budget to restore... Read more…

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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Brilliant baking shop and delicious deli shortlisted in Best Small Shops competition!

Posted on in Business News, Creative News

There is now less than 3 weeks to go until the Best Small Shop in the UK for 2019 is announced! The reception will be held in the House of Commons on the 5th of November! To celebrate the competition, we are introducing you to the fantastic shops that have been shortlisted and telling you about the wonderful ways in which they continuously help their communities and why they stood out to the judges.

In honour of National Baking Week we would love to celebrate our brilliant baking shop and dazzling deli! Home Bake and Papadeli bake the most wonderful goods in-store, one of the many reasons they are both in the running to be named the UK's Best Small Shop 2019!

Home Bake

Set in Southwell, Nottinghamshire, Home Bake is the ideal shop if you want to bake or decorate a cake! They sell a range of ingredients and decorations to help produce a real showstopper. Advice is always available, along with boards and boxes and personalised ribbon, as well as unique Home Bake kits with everything is weighed out for you - just add butter and eggs and bake in the tray provided - to get the younger generation interested in cooking.

The shop also introduced a #payit forward scheme - every 200th customer receives £5 to do whatever they want with - the only condition is they inform the shop what it was.

 

 

Papadeli

A Bristol-based deli with a reputation for incredible cakes and superb takeaway dishes, cooked on site using food that is ethically and sustainably sourced!

Aside from the array of bespoke cakes and puddings that can be taken away or ordered for events, Papadeli also stocks a selection of foods from local producers and further across Europe and claims one of the best cheese counters in the city. Also on offer is the legendary Papadeli plate of salads, cheeses, pickles, breads, charcuterie and delicious coffee or tea. Shelves are laden with olive oils, balsamics, store cupboard ingredients as well as handmade artisan chocolates, biscuits and treats.

Papadeli helps the community through giving cookery demonstrations at a local school and supporting various charities including a project to create work experience for ex offenders and a local youth mental health charity.

 

For more information about Home Bake or Papadeli you can visit their pages in the Indie Retail Shop directory. Keep up to date with the Best Small Shops competition by following our Twitter, Facebook and Instagram pages. 

 

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