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Local Bike Shop Week returns this May, with independent retailers reporting strong benefits from past events

19 Feb 2026

Local Bike Shop Week is approaching, with this year’s celebrations taking place from Sunday 3 May to Saturday 9 May 2026 - and retailers have highlighted the positive experiences they've... Read more…

Independent bike shops unite for inaugural Local Bike Shop Week celebration

17 Feb 2026

A week to celebrate and highlight the expertise and passion of independent bike shops across the UK is set to be held this May.
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ACT part of coalition letter calling for consultation on online VAT reform

16 Feb 2026

A 18-strong coalition of business organisations and tax experts, including the ACT and led-by its parent company Bira, has today written to the Exchequer Secretary to the Treasury calling for a... Read more…

Government's pub-only business rates package is "poor decision based on politics", ACT parent company Bira says

29 Jan 2026

The government's decision to give pubs a 15% business rates discount while excluding independent retailers is a "poor decision based on politics rather than what is good for the local economy",... Read more…

Independent retailers demand equal treatment as Government prepares pub rates relief

9 Jan 2026

ACT parent company Bira has has demanded equal treatment for small shops after the government announced plans to water down business rate rises for pubs.
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Christmas and New Year message from ACT Director Jonathan Harrison

23 Dec 2025

An end of year message from Jonathan Harrison, Director of the ACT.
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Scottish Government urged to cut business rates for indie retailers

11 Dec 2025

ACT parent company Bira has called on the Scottish Government to follow Wales's example and introduce genuine business rates reductions for retail premises ahead of the Scottish Budget on 13... Read more…

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…

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Two childrenswear shops in the running to be Britain's Best Small Shop 2019!

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There is now just 6 days 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 two children's shops have been shortlisted in the top 25 shops that are in the running to be named Britain's Best Small Shop 2019! Both of these shops stood out to the judges for a variety of reasons including their excellent customer service and innovation.

Small Stuff UK

Small Stuff UK is a children's shop in Sheffield that specialises in ethical and eco-conscious lifestyle products and clothing for small children.

This small shop is full of design-led gorgeous children's clothing, toys, gifts and homeware all ethically made, made to last and with the planet in mind. As you walk in to the store, you're met with a beautifully designed, open, spacious and clean setting, which allows easy browsing with prams, wheelchairs and young children. At the back of the store there is an area to grab refreshments and a seating area, there's even a cosy corner and reading area for our younger customers whilst parents browse. The shop also collaborates with other local businesses by hosting story time, workshops and events all led by other small businesses in the community.

 

Moo Like A Monkey

A children's shop in Folkestone, which celebrates individualism, diversity and design, has been named on the shortlist of retailers in the running to be named Britain's Best Small Shop of 2019.

Moo Like A Monkey also makes its shop space is also available for local events, from a sock-Caterpillar workshop to a social event for new mums who maybe feeling isolated. The shop offers a curated selection of products, which offer an alternative to the mainstream children's market. Everything is sustainably sourced and the shopping environment has been carefully thought out so everyone feels welcome and comfortable in the space. Young children are encouraged to play with the toys or watch a DVD in the snug.

For more information about Small Stuff UK or Moo like a Monkey 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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