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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.
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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.
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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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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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