{$inpagemarkup}

Search News

Results: 1-10 of 596


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.
Read more…

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.
Read more…

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).
Read more…

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…

Back to news menu

Knutsford fashion show highlights town's 'amazing independent shops'

Posted on in Business News

Independent boutiques in Knutsford have teamed up once again to showcase their new designs at the third Flash Fashion.

Knutsford

 Crowds packed into Lost & Found for a free fashion show, organised by Knutsford Town Council. Knutsford mayor Cllr Colin Banks and wife and mayoress Christine opened the event.

 Cllr Banks said: “It was absolutely packed inside and out. It was amazing, all age groups as well as children. Great to see everyone supporting our independent businesses.”

 The free fashion show was presented by ITV presenter Katy Rickitt, from Good Morning Britain, who runs Dexter and Jones craft beer and gin bar with husband Adam, who played Nick Tilsley in Coronation Street.

 Redress, who offer people the chance to swap pre-loved clothes at the Princess Street bar, was thrilled to showcase their unique concept.

 Fiona Jackson-Gray, owner of Redress, said: “Flash Fashion has become an unmissable event of Knutsford and Redress is so honoured to be a part of it.

 “We had a fantastic day at the fashion show and later in Dexter and Jones for our swap shop event.”

 “To be invited to walk alongside the boutiques of Knutsford with our pre-loved brand and for people to not only accept but absolutely relish in its unique qualities is an exciting concept.

 “We hope to be a key part of the event for many years to come. Thank you to the whole team for putting together a true fashion extravaganza and to everyone that came along to support our local independents.”

 Guests were able to stroll round the town and enjoy a variety of complimentary services in stores including on-hand stylists and beauty treatments.

 Sally Feeke, from designer footwear boutique Zapatos, said “We’ve been involved in every Flash Fashion event since 2019. It is a great day and both the town, and our shop had a real buzz meeting customers old and new. We love the event and we've benefited hugely from it so thank you to everyone involved.”

Clare & Illingworth showcased their designer sunglasses.

Richard Clare, from the King Street opticians, said: “Participating in the Flash Fashion event was a fantastic experience for Clare & Illingworth opticians. The show brilliantly highlighted the amazing independent shops in Knutsford. We had the opportunity to meet many new people plus remind everyone that you can find luxury sunglasses right here locally, without the need to travel.”

Back to news menu

Useful links

If you have any other queries please contact us.