British Independent Retailers Association (Bira)

I wanted to write to you directly as the CEO of Bira (including ACT, Retra and MICA) to give you the full picture on what last week's Budget really means for your business rates bill. Like many of you, I watched the Chancellor's speech hoping to finally see the transformation we've been promised. Instead, what we got was a masterclass in political spin that masks a harsh reality - most independent retailers will be paying significantly more in business rates next year, not less. In this weeks newsletter: - Bira CEO, Andrew Goodacre gives full update on Autumn Budget - Indies rate bills to soar by up to 15% despite "transformation" promises - Get your voice heard on the impacts of BPR reforms | Research - Independent retailers invited to enter festive window display competition - Leading garden retail showcase Glee to be part of Spring Fair in 2026 - Plus more Stay informed every Monday on the latest updates on independent retail by subscribing to our newsletter - https://lnkd.in/eRSdgRyv

More than three-quarters of independent retailers are boycotting #BlackFriday this year, rejecting pressure to slash prices at one of the busiest trading periods of the year. In this weeks newsletter: - Retailers reject Black Friday as three-quarters refuse to participate - Bira supports Which? calls for action on dangerous online products - Independent retailers condemn bank closures in rural areas - Consultations currently open for retailers to have their say - Get ready to win this Christmas with our upcoming competition - Plus more Stay informed every Monday on the latest updates on independent retail by subscribing to our newsletter - https://lnkd.in/eRSdgRyv

Andrew Goodacre, CEO of Bira, said: "The original proposals talked about reducing multipliers by up to 20p for smaller properties and 10p for larger ones. What we've actually got is a 5p reduction - and even that is largely down to the rates revaluation rather than genuine reform. The government has missed a real opportunity to tackle an unfair tax that's crippling high street businesses." Read the full article - https://lnkd.in/emA2zzY8 Bira members are sharing their concerns over the new business rates multiplier for 2026, get involved with the conversation on the Bira forum - https://lnkd.in/ee26qSfC #RetailSupport #Budget #UKBudget #BusinessRates

Bira has expressed its deep concern following news that Trago Mills has entered into consultation with staff over the future of its Falmouth store, which has served the community since the mid-1970s. In this weeks newsletter: - High street crisis as historic retailer enters consultation over closure - Budget announcement and illegal shops are areas of focus for Bira - AI essentials and easy social media wins | Bira Direct Conference - 5 ‘Black Friday’ ideas that don’t mean lowering your prices - Plus more! Stay informed every Monday on the latest updates on independent retail by subscribing to our newsletter - https://lnkd.in/eRSdgRyv

Shop workers across Britain are facing an escalating crisis of violence and abuse, with violent attacks doubling since 2022, prompting Bira to back a nationwide campaign launching today. In this weeks newsletter: - Boost business confidence or risk killing growth before it starts - 2025 Safer Business Action (SaBA) Week #LoveYourHighStreet week - A comprehensive checklist to make the most of the Christmas Rush - Plus more Stay informed every Monday on the latest updates on independent retail by subscribing to our newsletter - https://lnkd.in/eRSdgRyv

Join host Jeff Moody and guests Andrew Goodacre and Melissa Minkow as they discuss the alarming reality of cyber threats facing independent retailers. Hear from Andrew Maben about his firsthand experience with a DDoS attack. Get practical advice on protecting your business without breaking the bank. Watch and listen to the No Business Too Small episode - https://lnkd.in/esW6F-fB #RetailSupport #CyberSecurity #RetailThreats