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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…

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…

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Download and display QR codes for the NHS Covid-19 contact tracing app launched today

Posted on in Business News, Cycles News, Political News

NHS Test and TraceThe NHS Covid-19 contact tracing app has been launched today, 24 September, in England and Wales as part of national efforts to help prevent the spread of coronavirus.

The app will work alongside traditional methods of contact tracing to notify users when they encounter someone who later tests positive and it will provide advice on what they should do. Those who use the app will be provided with local risk information and allow them to book testing quickly. The app also has the facility to use a built-in QR scanner to check in at venues required to record attendance.

 

Download and display QR codes

To use the contact tracing app businesses will need to download and display QR codes. The codes will be an important way for NHS Test and Trace in England and NHS Test, Trace, Protect in Wales to contact people if coronavirus outbreaks are identified. The app works in exactly the same way in both nations.

QR posters are unique to each venue - businesses can download posters for their premises here and the FAQs for businesses on QR codes can be found here.

In England, using QR codes will help businesses meet the new legal requirement to record the contact details of customers, visitors and staff on their premises. Businesses who are already using their own QR system are encouraged to switch to the NHS Test and Trace QR code. An alternative check-in method, such as a handwritten register, must be maintained to collect the contact details of those who don't have the app.

In Wales it is compulsory for businesses in certain high risk sectors to collect and keep records of staff, customers and visitors. Checking in with the app does not replace this requirement. High risk premises in Wales must continue to keep a full record of staff, customers and visitors, including people who check in using the QR code poster for the location.

The app will be a critical enhancement of NHS Test and Trace in England, and the Test, Trace and Protect service in Wales. It will provide users with local risk information, and allow them to quickly and easily book a free test, and use a built-in QR scanner to check-in at venues. The app will allow people to know more quickly if they are at risk of the virus, so they can take action fast to protect their communities and families.

More information about the benefits and functions of the app, as well as further assets for businesses can be found on the NHS website here.

 

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