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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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Businesses offering retail finance can now save hundreds of pounds per year with ActSmart's new initiative

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ActshoppingSmart subscribers will be able to save time and money when offering retail finance with the new Retail Finance Appointed Representative initiative, meaning they get all the benefits of offering regulated finance with no Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) involvement.

Over the past year retail finance has played a key role in sales throughout the pandemic; when comparing Jan 2020 to Jan 2021 applications to purchase items through retail finance have increased by nearly 50%.

With more businesses realising the value that retail finance can bring to their business, ActSmart has now transformed the process to make it easier and cheaper than ever before. The brand new Retail Finance Appointed Representative service will save ActSmart subscribers both time and money on a yearly basis by removing the FCA acceptance and renewal processes.

Key benefits of the new service include:

  • Offer regulated finance to your customers
  • No initial FCA application fee - save £100
  • No FCA yearly renewal fees (except any incurred prior to being appointed) - save a minimum of £150 per year
  • No FCA paperwork - save time and effort
  • Liaise directly with ActSmart not the FCA
  • Offer finance with no subsidies

For more information and to apply for the Retail Finance Appointed Representative service please visit the ActSmart website here or get in touch at info@actsmart.biz.

Please note: Owing to the FCA fee structure and process for changing from a directly authorised business to an Appointed Representative ActSmart will currently be prioritising non-authorised businesses. Businesses that are already directly authorised by the FCA can still take advantage of the cost and time savings by becoming an Appointed Representative but the process will be completed nearer the next FCA reporting period.

All interested businesses should register using the form on this page and we will contact you in due course.

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