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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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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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