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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…

Independent retailers reject Black Friday as three-quarters refuse to participate

24 Nov 2025

More than three-quarters of independent retailers, including some of those in the cycling retail sector, are boycotting Black Friday this year, rejecting pressure... Read more…

Stop being a dumping ground for used e-bike batteries

11 Nov 2025

Used e-bike batteries are piling up because too many suppliers are failing to meet their legal obligations and it’s time to stop being polite about it, writes ACT Director Jonathan... Read more…

Independent retailers urge Chancellor - Boost business confidence or risk killing growth before it starts

7 Nov 2025

Britain's independent retailers, including those in the cycling retail sector, are calling on Chancellor Rachel Reeves to use the autumn budget to restore... Read more…

Independent retailers report worsening retail crime crisis as confidence in police response

17 Oct 2025

A shocking 83% of independent retailers say theft has worsened over the past year, whilst the vast majority of crimes now go unreported due to lack of police response, according to ACT parent... Read more…

ACT member gains coverage in local media thanks to focus on maintaining independent cycling retail presence

14 Oct 2025

ACT member Cyclo Monster has been recognised by local media for its commitment to keeping Derby’s cycling scene independent, community-focused and thriving.
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Experts share how to make your bike last longer – and why regular care pays off

10 Oct 2025

Cycling experts have shared their top tips in a new Guardian feature revealing how simple maintenance habits can extend the life of a bike and save riders from costly repairs.
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ACT parent company Bira welcomes £5bn Pride in Place programme

29 Sep 2025

Bira has welcomed the Government's announcement of a £5 billion Pride in Place programme, saying it will provide the kind of support high street businesses need to thrive.
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Scottish bike shop to celebrate 20-year anniversary with prize draw and instore event

24 Sep 2025

An independent Scottish cycling retailer is celebrating 20 years in business this month with a prize draw and ‘celebratory cupcakes’ during an event at the shop.
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New awards launch to champion Britain's independent high street heroes

Posted on in Business News, Cycles News

Retailers on Britain's high streets are being encouraged to put themselves forward for the first-ever Love Your High Street Awards, designed to celebrate the small businesses that bring communities together across the UK.

LYHS Awards

The nationwide competition, launched by Bira, aims to recognise independent retailers who go above and beyond to support their local communities, from family-run bakeries to specialist cycling shops.

Communities across Britain can nominate their favourite independent shops via a simple online form, with nominations closing on 20 July. A panel from Bira will then review all entries to select standout finalists, before public voting opens on 4 August across social media platforms.

"Independent shops are the beating heart of our communities, and it's time we celebrated the incredible work they do every single day," said Andrew Goodacre, CEO of Bira. "These awards will shine a spotlight on the retailers who go the extra mile for their customers and communities, often in the face of significant challenges."

The awards come at a crucial time for Britain's high streets, which have faced unprecedented challenges in recent years. Independent shops, often family-run businesses that have served their communities for generations, have shown remarkable resilience whilst maintaining the personal touch that makes each high street unique.

Bira, which champions the cause of independent traders and shopkeepers across Britain, focuses on revitalising and preserving the high street through campaigns on retail crime, business rates, and legislation. 

The winner will be determined by public vote, with the shop receiving the most votes crowned as the inaugural Love Your High Street Awards champion. Whether it's the hardware shop that always has the perfect DIY fix, the boutique running events for locals, or the tech shop keeping people on trend, any independent retailer can be nominated.

Those wishing to nominate their favourite shop can submit entries via the official website or via this link before the 20 July deadline. Public voting will then take place on social media platforms from 4 August, with supporters encouraged to use #LoveYourHighStreet #ShopLocal #HighStreetHeroes.

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