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Independent retailers warn Spring Statement missed opportunity as geopolitical tensions threaten high street recovery

5 Mar 2026

ACT parent company Bira has warned that the Chanellor's Spring Statement offered no new support for high street businesses, as rising tensions in the Middle East threaten to push up energy... Read more…

Scottish bike shop and cafe expands into bigger premises as council recognises 'positive impact on economy'

3 Mar 2026

A Scottish bike repair shop and cafe has recently moved premises into a bigger unit thanks to a growth in business, with the local council noting the positive impact it would have on the local... Read more…

Local Bike Shop Week returns this May, with independent retailers reporting strong benefits from past events

19 Feb 2026

Local Bike Shop Week is approaching, with this year’s celebrations taking place from Sunday 3 May to Saturday 9 May 2026 - and retailers have highlighted the positive experiences they've... Read more…

Independent bike shops unite for inaugural Local Bike Shop Week celebration

17 Feb 2026

A week to celebrate and highlight the expertise and passion of independent bike shops across the UK is set to be held this May.
Read more…

ACT part of coalition letter calling for consultation on online VAT reform

16 Feb 2026

A 18-strong coalition of business organisations and tax experts, including the ACT and led-by its parent company Bira, has today written to the Exchequer Secretary to the Treasury calling for a... Read more…

Government's pub-only business rates package is "poor decision based on politics", ACT parent company Bira says

29 Jan 2026

The government's decision to give pubs a 15% business rates discount while excluding independent retailers is a "poor decision based on politics rather than what is good for the local economy",... Read more…

Independent retailers demand equal treatment as Government prepares pub rates relief

9 Jan 2026

ACT parent company Bira has has demanded equal treatment for small shops after the government announced plans to water down business rate rises for pubs.
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Christmas and New Year message from ACT Director Jonathan Harrison

23 Dec 2025

An end of year message from Jonathan Harrison, Director of the ACT.
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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…

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New guides welcome on how to make shops more accessible for the elderly

Posted on in Business News, Creative News, Outdoor News

The International Longevity Centre has released new guides to show the steps retailers need to take to make their shops more accessible for the elderly.

Hints for shop accessibilityThe guides, which have been designed to promote a healthier and more inclusive retail environment, have been described by Bira as 'invaluable tools' for retailers striving to enhance the shopping experience for older customers and individuals with varying needs.

The comprehensive series of five guides has been designed to offer practical tips and knowledge to help retailers understand and address the potential challenges faced by older shoppers.

The guides offer recommendations and real-life examples and intend to help minimise the existing barriers that older people, individuals with limited mobility, or impaired vision, as well as those with caring responsibilities, might encounter while navigating local shopping environments.

It also provides useful signposts for further information and resources to aid retailers in improving their local shopping spaces.

Andrew Goodacre, CEO of Bira said: "People talk about the demise of high streets. There is no doubt they are changing and evolving, but they still play a major part in local communities. A healthy high street is good for the local economy, but it can also make a positive contribution to people’s lives. These guides offer valuable insight and tips for retailers to support healthy ageing and create business opportunities. Indie retailers care for their customers and the guide will only enhance the local shopping experience for everyone."

Click here to access the guides.

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