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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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House of Commons thanks greeting card company Bexy Boo for community support

Posted on in Business News

AGCA member of the The Greeting Card Association (GCA), Bexy Boo, has received a letter of thanks from the House of Commons for all the work she has done to support her home town of Knutsford.

The GCA are a member of the Independent Retailers Confederation (IRC), a well-established organisation representing c.100,000 independent retailers throughout the UK. 

As the founder and creative maestro of card company Bexy Boo, Bex Hassett's focus is usually on creating lovely greeting cards that are posted to bring joy and support.

However recently, she was pleasantly surprised to receive a special piece of post, from a top address.
When Bex opened an envelope and spotted the House of Commons letterhead, she "honestly thought" that she "had done something wrong", but it was quite the opposite.

The letter was from Tatton MP Esther McVey thanking Bex for all the work she has done to support her home town of Knutsford.

In the first lockdown, Bex drew an illustration of people wrapping their arms around Knutsford High Street.

 

Esther McVey, MP from Tatton

Above: Esther McVey, MP from Tatton.

 

"The reaction was amazing with residents saying that they would like to purchase the artwork. So, in this last lockdown, I did the same and received the same incredible reaction," explains Bex.

Seeing it as an opportunity to support her local community, Bex collaborated with the town council and the local charity We are Knutsford to print and sell two drawings in a postcard format as well as A3 and A4 prints.

Bex’s illustrations champion supporting Knutsford retailers
Above: Bex's illustrations champion supporting Knutsford retailers.

All profits are being used to fund future town initiatives following the devastating effects of Covid to the High Street.

In the letter, Esther McVey congratulated Bex for her ‘brilliant illustrations'. She continued with her praise: ‘They are really great, and it's a good, practical way to support Knutsford. I know they will sell really well and they will help fund initiatives to drive people back to our town to ensure it stays vibrant and a good place to visit.'

 

Some of the local press coverage about the postcards and prints


Above: Some of the local press coverage about the postcards and prints.

The local press also picked up on the story, hailing the talents of their local community-spirited artist.

 

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