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Chancellor's High Street Roundtable | Campaign Update from ACT parent company Bira

19 Mar 2026

The Chancellor held a roundtable discussion on a future high street strategy last week, with Bira the sole voice representing smaller retail businesses. Read an update on Bira's place at a... Read more…

Independent bike shop takes stand against selling or repairing e-scooters with police echoing plea

18 Mar 2026

An independent bike shop is refusing to sell or repair e-scooters over concerns about how they are being used, with the area’s police force backing the call and urging others to follow... Read more…

ACT parent company Bira backs calls for online marketplace accountability over dangerous product safety failures

13 Mar 2026

Findings from consumer rights publication Which? add to calls from the E-Bike Positive campaign to better scrutinise these sites and promote quality e-bikes from reputable manufacturers and... Read more…

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.
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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…

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Inverness-based retailer wins coveted Drapers Award for Best Independent Footwear Retailer

Posted on in Business News

A family-owner retailer in Inverness, Begg Shoes, has been named Best Independent Footwear Retailer at the 2024 Drapers Footwear Awards, held annually to celebrate the outstanding achievements of the footwear industry’s most innovative and successful businesses.

Established in 1866, Begg Shoes has nine standalone stores in Scotland plus an online business.

shoesManaging director Donald Begg said the accolade underscored the company’s commitment to exceptional customer service, innovative retail practices and high-quality footwear.

“We are incredibly honoured to receive the Best Independent Footwear Retailer award,” he said.

“This recognition is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our entire team, who strive every day to provide our customers with the best shopping experience and the highest quality footwear.”

The award highlights the company’s innovative approach to retail, including its seamless integration of in-store and online shopping experiences, knowledgeable staff and personalised customer service.

The company’s commitment to sustainability and ethical sourcing also played a significant role in securing the esteemed recognition.

Mr Begg added: “We believe that our success lies in our unwavering commitment to our customers and our ability to adapt to the ever-changing retail landscape.

“Winning this award is not only a milestone for us but also motivation to continue delivering excellence in every aspect of our business.”
As Begg Shoes celebrates its achievement, it is looking ahead and planning to expand its product offerings and enhance its customer experience further, ensuring it remains at the forefront of the footwear industry.

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