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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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The UK's best small gift shops!

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The Best Small Shop in the UK 2019 will be announced tomorrow! The reception is being held in the House of Commons where a winner, 2 runners-up and 2-highly commended shops will be announced!

Over the last 4 weeks Indie Retail have been introducing the shortlisted 25 shops and telling you about the fantastic ways in which they continue to help their communities and why they stood out to the judges. This year we have 3 fantastic gifts shops that will provide you with everything you could possibly need for Christmas, birthdays and even a few treats for yourself!

Joco Interiors 

A gift shop in the heart of Nuneaton that sells a broad range of home accessories and gifts for all occasions has been named on the shortlist of retailers in the running to be named Britain's Best Small Shop of 2019.

Joco Interiors also offers a large licensed product range including Harry Potter and Disney gifts, and a wellbeing station with aromatherapy ranges, incense and crystals. The shop, which has grown over the four years it has been in business to employing five members of staff, also offers greetings card and a free gift wrapping service. It also regularly raises funds for local charities with sponsored events, raffles and fancy dress days.

 

Mooch Gifts And Home

Mooch Gifts And Home is an independent gift retailer with stores in Stourport on Severn and Bewdley in Worcestershire, which celebrates individualism, diversity and design.

This small shop collects for the West Midlands Air Ambulance from both stores and also runs several Shop Trails to encourage footfall around the local traders. From beautiful window displays to clean and inviting shop frontages, customers entering the shops receive a warm friendly welcome from a team who are passionate about providing excellent customer service and presenting unique gifts, cards and home accessories not found in other stores locally. The shops are also active on social media as a way of encouraging footfall into the shops where it champions distinctive items from talented British designers.

Oliver's Brighton 

Oliver's Brighton describes itself as a one-of-a-kind experience for fans of Harry Potter and the Wizarding World.

This unique shop sells over 500 officially licensed items ranging in price from £1 to £600, from sweets to collectables. The uniquely styled, Victorian design of the shop sets it apart together with an exceptional customer service that has led to more than 2200 for five-star reviews. The shop also supports various charitable activities to raise money for Brighton's Homeless and has partnered with Stonewall to raise money from the sales of Pride badges in store.

For more information about Joco Interiors, Mooch Gifts And Home and Oliver's Brighton 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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