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Independent retailers face Fresh challenges as UK inflation climbs to 3.8%

20 Aug 2025

ACT parent company Bira has expressed serious concern following today's announcement that UK inflation rose to 3.8% in July, higher than the expected 3.7% and marking the tenth consecutive month... Read more…

Bike industry continues to face challenges as profits and forecasts falter at Giant, Canyon and Shim

14 Aug 2025

The global bike industry remains under pressure as Shimano, Giant and Canyon all report weaker profits and subdued outlooks for 2025.
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ACT to join industry leaders at brand new cycling trade event this September

13 Aug 2025

The ACT is set to be in attendance at the inaugural Cycling Industry News Live (CIN Live) trade show, which is set to bring together industry-wide education, market insight and product showcases... Read more…

Independent retail crisis deepens as nearly half see sales plummet compared to last year

12 Aug 2025

Britain's high street crisis has deepened dramatically with nearly half of independent retailers, including many in the independent cycling retail sector, reporting sales have crashed compared... Read more…

Independent retailers slam £5.9bn "de minimis" import loophole as Government delays action

11 Aug 2025

ACT parent company Bira has condemned the Government's inaction over the "de minimis" import loophole following a Sky News investigation revealing £5.9 billion worth of cheap imports... Read more…

Criminals undermining legitimate retailers as trading standards collapse

7 Aug 2025

Bira has warned that criminals are undermining legitimate retailers as trading standards services collapse, following a new Which? investigation.
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ACT welcomes Government's new product safety laws

23 Jul 2025

A leading cycle traders association has backed the government's move to protect consumers from dangerous products sold through online marketplaces, following Royal Assent of the Product... Read more…

Small Business Strategy Inquiry 2025 - ACT and Bira call for members to share their voice

20 Jun 2025

The House of Commons Business and Trade Committee has asked the ACT, and its parent company Bira, to help them reach out to small business retailers across the country, for their quick input on... Read more…

Beyond the discount: Restoring integrity to the cycle supply chain

18 Jun 2025

The Association of Cycle Traders believes the time has come for greater accountability throughout our supply chain, writes ACT Director Jonathan Harrison in an article published for BikeBiz.
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Bira welcomes Wales' business rates proposals but calls for key improvements

11 Jun 2025

Bira has welcomed the Welsh Government's consultation on business rate reforms for retail shops, whilst calling for significant improvements to ensure the proposals truly support high street... Read more…

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Pudsey shop gets into festive spirit early to support people on their ow

Posted on in Business News

It may only be July – but a shop in Pudsey is getting into the Christmas spirit by announcing festive plans to support people who will be by themselves. 

Haberdashery

Topstitch, a haberdashery shop, was opened by owner Jacqui Holden four years ago – and is offering to make Christmas dinner for those on their own over the festive period.

Posting on social media, Jacqui said the Christmas dinner was aimed at both couples and people on their own: “We know it’s early, but we are putting on a free Christmas Dinner on Christmas Day for anyone who would otherwise be on their own.

“Come and join us for Xmas dinner. We will do all the work, you just sit, relax and enjoy. Pop in the shop for details. Let’s make Xmas 2024 a good one for all!”

The offer has already been well received. One person posted: “Wonderful, how kind of you to do this.” “How kind and thoughtful,” added another.

Topstitch also runs a craft and chatter session on the second and third Wednesday of every month at Pudsey House from 6pm. Entry is £4 per person – bring along a project and enjoy a natter with like-minded people. 

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