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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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BIRA launches ‘High Street Matters’ podcast for independent retailers

Posted on in Business News

BIRA is giving independent businesses across the UK a powerful new resource with the launch of its “High Street Matters” podcast.

Bira podcast

Hosted by journalist Steve Dyson, the podcast series will explore the crucial issues, consumer trends, legislation and operational strategies impacting independent retailers today.

Andrew Goodacre, CEO of BIRA, said: “Our goal with ‘High Street Matters’ is to equip business owners with trusted insights and practical tips to help them stay ahead of the curve in a rapidly evolving retail landscape. We’ll discuss everything from consumer behaviours to rates and staffing challenges – shining a spotlight on what truly matters for high street success.”

The podcast will feature conversations with Bira’s cross-section of retailer members, from single shops to small chains and large department stores across sectors like hospitality and leisure. Listeners will also hear directly from Bira’s independent retail experts including Mr Goodacre and Commercial Director Jeff Moody.

The premiere episode dropped on Monday, April 22 and tackled the escalating issue of retail crime. It dived into one trader’s first-hand experience being targeted by brazen thieves, as well as potential solutions like facial recognition security systems with insights from guests like Liam Ardern of FaceWatch.

Host Mr Dyson added: “High Street Matters gives retailers an easily accessible forum to share perspectives and learn from one another’s successes as well as challenges. We’re looking forward to creating some insightful discussions that uncover tactics for thriving in today’s competitive environment.”

Independent retailers across the UK can subscribe to the “High Street Matters” podcast through major streaming platforms. New episodes will be released throughout the year and feature issues including the sale of hazardous substances, the cycle to work scheme and many other themes relevant to retailers today.

For more information, click here.

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