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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…

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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Indies encouraged to put themselves forward for Retail Business of the Year award.

Posted on in Business News

BIRA, the British Independent Retailers Association, has announced its partnership with this year’s SME National Business Awards., joining the 2024 awards as a leading sponsor, backing this year’s guest category, the Retail Business of the Year award.

SME awards

The Retail Business of the Year category is open to any business operating in the retail sector, selling products or services directly to consumers. From brick-and-mortar stores to online retailers, businesses are encouraged to enter and showcase their determination, passion, and success.

The awards, now in their 8th year, champion the achievements of SMEs across the UK. Entries are open and finalists will gather later this year at the iconic Wembley Stadium, where outstanding achievements will be celebrated, and worthy winners crowned.

Andrew Goodacre, CEO, BIRA, expressed his support of the sponsorship and said: "BIRA has been supporting and representing thousands of independent retail businesses for over 125 years. We’re delighted to sponsor this award to further our commitment to advocating for retailers across the UK. 

“After a very trying few years for the retail industry, particularly with the rising costs of living, it has never been more important for businesses to showcase their business success and celebrate the hard work of their team.” said Damian Cummins, Awards Director.

“We’re delighted to be joining forces with BIRA to showcase the incredible resilience and talent from the UK’s retail industry. The support BIRA offers its members contributes to the long-standing success of retailers across the country, we are looking forward to working with BIRA to champion those businesses and celebrate their achievements,”

Damian continued.

As this category is available for this year only, businesses are being encouraged to enter now and get ahead of their competitors.

Businesses can enter online at www.smenationals.co.uk

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