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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…

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…

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Cheltenham beer shop and bar wins top UK award.

Posted on in Business News

An independent bottle shop and bar in Cheltenham has been named as the UK's Independent Beer and Wine Retailer of the Year 2024 at the Drinks Retailing Awards.

Craft beers

Bath Road Beers has been recognised for the retailer's outstanding contribution to the beverage industry. The company has become synonymous with quality and diversity, offering an unrivalled selection of global beers, local craft ciders, wines, spirits and alcohol-free alternatives. The company also has a dedication to excellence, innovation, and to superior customer service. This embodying their ethos to of "great beer, great service, great experience."

The Drinks Retailing Awards, celebrated for honouring excellence across the off-trade sector, selected Bath Road Beers following an extensive evaluation process that also included a mystery shopper visit. This rigorous judging criteria underscores the significance of the award and Bath Road Beers' position as a leader in the independent retail sector with other winners including Waitrose, Harvey Nichols and Marks & Spencer.

Bath Road Beers Marketing Manager Lottie Raymond said: "We are truly honoured to be recognised as the Independent Beer and Wine Retailer of the Year 2024. This award reflects our team's hard work, dedication, and passion for delivering not only exceptional products but also outstanding service and experiences to our customers.

"We are profoundly thankful for the continuous support from our community, which has played a crucial role in our success. This accolade is as much theirs as it is ours."

Attending the awards ceremony, Bath Road Beers' co-owner Andrew Coates and Shop Manager Izaak Edge were overjoyed with the outcome. Izaak said: "This marks the third occasion we've been honoured at The Drinks Retailing Awards, yet it's the first triumph under my management.

"The competition was immense, with many larger and more established businesses gunning for the same award. Winning came as a complete surprise, and we certainly celebrated in style, partying the night away."

Bath Road Beers' achievement highlights the significant impact that dedication, quality, and community engagement can have within the independent retail sector. The shop and bar continue to set benchmarks for excellence, inspiring other independent retailers nationwide.

 

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