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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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Bira calls for level playing field as Amazon UK Services pays zero corporation tax again

Posted on in Business News

Bira, the British Independent Retailers Association, has expressed its concern and frustration after it was revealed that Amazon UK Services had, for the second consecutive year, paid zero corporation tax in the UK.

Amazon page

This news has once again raised questions about the fairness of the tax system and the advantage it provides to large international corporations compared to small independent retailers.

Andrew Goodacre, CEO of Bira, said:

“It is disheartening to see yet another large international company, making millions of pounds in revenue, avoiding paying tax in the UK. These companies have access to tax experts and can exploit significant tax credits, which places them in a distinct advantage over the small independent retail sector. This glaring example further strengthens Bira’s resolve to advocate for a fairer tax system, ensuring that the tax burden for UK PLC is distributed more equitably among these large corporations.”

The revelation that Amazon UK Services has avoided paying corporation tax for two consecutive years highlights a growing concern among small independent retailers who face the challenges of high taxes and increasing competition from online giants.

Bira believes that a level playing field is essential for the survival and growth of independent retailers, who contribute significantly to the local economy and provide unique products and services to communities across the UK.

Bira continues to lobby for reforms that address the disparity between the tax obligations of large corporations and those of small independent businesses. The association aims to ensure that the tax system fosters fairness and supports the growth of the UK retail sector as a whole.

“We call on the government to review and reform the tax regulations to create a more balanced playing field for all businesses. It is imperative that we address the issue of tax avoidance by large corporations and strive for a system that encourages fair competition and supports the growth of independent retailers,” added Mr Goodacre.

Bira remains committed to representing the interests of independent retailers across the country and will continue to advocate for changes that promote fairness, sustainability, and a thriving retail landscape.

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