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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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ACT and ActSmart to meet with business minister Paul Scully to discuss high street initiatives

Posted on in Business News, Cycles News

OParliamentn Wednesday 19th May the ACT and ActSmart, along with other key members of the Independent Retailers Confederation (IRC), will be partaking in a meeting with government officials in regard to the wellbeing of the high street.

The IRC is a well-established organisation, bringing together like-minded trade associations with interests in the small and independent retail sector. The IRC represents c.100,000 independent retailers throughout the UK, creating a growing retail network, committed to the development and sharing of best practice among associations and their members engaged in the independent retail sector. 

The meeting is the third one of its kind, following a conference with Small Business and Enterprise Minister Paul Scully at the end of last year and another one in February. Previous meetings evaluated any lessons that we have so far learned from national lockdowns and ways in which we can move forward from this using government support. Read more about that here.

The lockdown has heavily affected high street retailers, impacting both essential and non-essential retailers in different ways. The ACT has been collating feedback from IBDs in regard to ongoing issues that are being experienced and any queries that we have been unable to find solutions for. This information has then been combined with other IRC member feedback with following topics being agreed upon:

  • Feedback on the re-opening of the high street
  • Landlord Tenants
  • Brexit - Export/ VAT/ Ecommerce and barriers to SMEs
  • Permitted Development Rights

The IRC will be meeting with the minister once again early in the summer. If you would like to provide any feedback or suggestions that could potentially be discussed in the meeting please email info@indieretail.uk.

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