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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…

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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National Occupational Standards for Welsh Apprenticeship pathway ready for industry feedback

Posted on in Cycles News

ACT Logo The Welsh Government are currently working with the Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI) and the Association of Cycle Traders (ACT), along with the ACT’s training provider partner Activate Cycle Academy, to develop an apprenticeship pathway for Bicycle Mechanics which will also include e-bike maintenance, off the back of increased interest in the sector.

There isn’t currently a funded training route in Wales so this would be a great addition to the cycles trade in Wales, offering more opportunities for cycle businesses to hire and train quality bike technicians.

To support this apprenticeship pathway, the IMI have been working with industry stakeholders to develop National Occupational Standards (NOS) for Cycle Maintenance and Repair, to include e-bikes.

The NOS describe what an individual in a certain role should be able to do and the knowledge and understanding they need. Companies can use them to help design their in-house training, on-the-job coaching or performance management systems.

These Cycle Maintenance and Repair NOS, for which the draft version can be seen here , is now ready for experts like you to give feedback. You do not have to be based in Wales to do this.

The wider consultation phase closes on 13th March 2022 - please follow the link here to give feedback.

VIEW DRAFT NOS GIVE FEEDBACK

To discuss anything about the project please contact Caroline Harris at the IMI - carolineh@theimi.org.uk

To also help with securing the funding provision for the apprenticeship, the ACT as the UK's largest cycling trade organisation are assisting in gauging the level of demand for this apprenticeship within Wales from Welsh-based retailers, workshops and other businesses involved in the industry. If your business is based in Wales please express your interest in this apprenticeship by completing the survey here.



Both the IMI and ACT thank the industry for their interest and support.

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