{$inpagemarkup}

Search News

Results: 1-10 of 607


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.
Read more…

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.
Read more…

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.
Read more…

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.
Read more…

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.
Read more…

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…

Back to news menu

bira offers guidance on energy bill relief scheme

Posted on in Business News, Cycles News

bira has been offering guidance to retailers on how to take advantage of the Government’s energy bill relief scheme.

Energy bills for businesses across the country are to be reduced from this month as Government support begins. The Energy Bill Relief Scheme significantly reduces the amount businesses can be charged, covering energy use from 1st October 2022.

Support will run for six months to shield businesses from the recent energy price surge, which we hope to see prevent unnecessary insolvencies and protecting jobs and livelihoods.

The scheme applies to energy use from 1st October, but savings applied to October bills are typically received in November with bira advising that retailers should start to feel the benefits this month. They say that it is vitally important therefore for retailers to check their energy bills as soon as possible to ensure they are seeing savings kicking in. If retailers cannot see their automatic discount in place, retailers are advised to get in touch with their energy provider immediately.

The Government is currently carrying out a review to consider how to support businesses with energy bills after April 2023, with any support being targeted to those most affected by high energy prices.
The level of price reduction for each business will vary depending on their contract type and circumstances.

Worried couple
Photo by Mikhail Nilov

There is new guidance on the scheme, published 1st November, which provides further information on eligibility, operation and enforcement. This can be found here.

Back to news menu

Useful links

If you have any other queries please contact us.