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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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Creative and crafty independent shops shortlisted in competition!

Posted on in Business News, Creative News

There is not long to wait now with just over 2 weeks to go until the Best Small Shop in the UK for 2019 is announced at the reception in the House of Commons!

Over the last couple of weeks we have been 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.

This year we have two independent arts and crafts stores shortlisted into our final 25, with enough creativity between them to inspire the whole of the UK to get crafty!

The Orry Mill

The Orry Mill is an independent yarn shop that runs regular classes and workshops for crafters and showcases a modern take on the old crafts of knitting and crocheting.

The Orry Mill is set in Glasgow and owned by Thilde Folke Olsen and her husband Stephen McBride. Thilde came to Scotland to study at the Glasgow School of Art. As a child Thilde was brought up in Denmark immersed in knitting, crochet and crafting. When she finally settled in the village of Eaglesham she became fascinated by the history of the village. The name ‘The Orry Mill' refers to the open space in Eaglesham known as ‘The Orry' (Old Scots for 'area') in which there are the remains of a cotton mill.

 

Gemz By Emz

Based in Romford, Gemz By Emz does the arts and crafts for you, by specialising in home made personalised gifts, engraved with the photo, handwriting, text and even pregnancy scan of the customer's choice. It also creates stunning diamond dust glitter canvasses and personalised cushions. Not only have the shop's items been purchased and promoted by famous faces but they have also been featured on television and in magazines.

Gemz By Emz also features an online blog which allows you to not only learn about the buisness and it's array of offerings, but also gives you an insight into the designer and founder of Gemz by Emz, Emma.

 

For more information about The Orry Mill and Gemz By Emz 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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