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8 May 2024

Hundreds of independent bike shops around the country got involved with this year’s Local Bike Shop Day, according to organisers, the Association of Cycle Traders

8 May 2024

UK consumer confidence improved by two points in April, new data has shown, as optimism about personal finances for the coming year remained stable.

8 May 2024

More than 400 children and adults have cycled through Brighton and Hove to ask for the streets to be made safe for cycling with a network of separated cycle lanes.

7 May 2024

The Institute for Public Policy Research (IPPR) has criticised the UK government for a “shocking lack of progress in making streets more attractive for walking, wheeling and...

7 May 2024

Cycling enthusiasts in Warrington are to be treated to a new cycle shop opening in the town centre.

7 May 2024

A record number of daily trips were taken on shared bikes in the UK last year, with more people using e-bikes instead of conventional pedal cycles for the first time.

30 Apr 2024

The UK’s estimated 7.6 million cyclists are being urged to get on their bikes on Saturday May 4th and head down to their local independent bike shop, as many prepare special activities to...

23 Apr 2024

This May, join the movement to create safer, more bike-friendly streets with the Bike Month Challenge and #MakeEveryRideCount!

23 Apr 2024

The number of reported e-bike thefts doubled in the space of a year in the UK, with a 103% increase in 2023 compared to 2022, according to a study by Evolve E-bikes. While the...

22 Apr 2024

Small shops have been more "agile" at fighting COVID sale slumps than chain stores, according to a new report.

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How Independent Retailers Can Stand Out in A Crowded Market

Posted on in Business News , Cycles News

An interesting article has appeared in Forbes reflecting many of the issues that ACT members will be experiencing – the challenges and opportunities that are currently facing independent retailers.

Store owner

The article says that, with the rise of e-commerce giants and global chains, it's more important than ever for small businesses to carve out a distinct brand identity that resonates with their target audience.

The piece argues that the cornerstone of a unique brand identity is understanding what sets your business apart and that this should include some aspect of community-building to encourage business from your local area.

It also sets out how, in today’s digital age, having a strong online presence is non-negotiable, even for brick-and-mortar retailers. However, while online presence is crucial, it argues that it is also important not to neglect the physical store experience, providing immersive and memorable in-store experiences that big chains often cannot replicate.

The third element the article addresses is the importance of delivering outstanding customer service, and leveraging agility as one of the key advantages of being an independent retailer.

You can read the whole Forbes piece here.

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