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15 Apr 2025

Retail Crime Remains Alarming - Bira's Latest Survey Reveals Urgent Need for Action

11 Apr 2025

Bira has cautiously welcomed the Prime Minister's announcement this week on plans to put 'thousands of Bobbies back on the Beat' with a new neighbourhood policing guarantee.

11 Apr 2025

Cycling UK has called for greater, targeted investment in cycling infrastructure across the UK to help more women feel safe and confident to cycle, with the charity urging Government to commit...

10 Apr 2025

Graeme Stickells, Head Trainer at South Africa’s only Cytech training centre Torq Zone Academy, is recovering from a life-threatening hit-and-run incident — and a crowdfunder has...

9 Apr 2025

Seven in ten cyclists in the UK have had their bike stolen, with the average cost of a stolen bike at £612.80 bringing the total estimated cost of thefts to £2.4 billion, according...

8 Apr 2025

MPs from multiple parties are pushing for Cycle to Work scheme to be expanded to include more people, including pensioners and freelancers, with the aim of encouraging more people to cycle.

2 Apr 2025

New regulations around recycling, known as ‘Simpler Recycling’, will soon require non-household municipal premises, including businesses, schools, and hospitals, to separate food...

2 Apr 2025

WorkNest has provided ACT members with essential resources covering statutory employment rates and the upcoming Employment Rights Bill, with the updates aimed at helping independent...

1 Apr 2025

Bira has voiced serious concerns over the latest figures from the BRC-NIQ Shop Price Index for March 2025.

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Bira CEO meets with new Business Secretary to discuss support for small businesses

Posted on in Business News , Cycles News

Andrew Goodacre, CEO of ACT parent company Bira -the British Independent Retailers Association – has met with the new Secretary of State for Business and Trade Jonathan Reynolds and officials from the Department for Business and Trade to discuss vital support for small businesses.

Andrew Goodacre

The meeting, hastily convened, allowed industry leaders to directly present their concerns and suggestions to the government’s policy makers 

During the discussion, Reynolds highlighted four strategic priorities for the government:

“I am looking forward to further discussions to make this a reality for indie retailers by reducing the cost of running a shop through business rates reform, reducing retail crime and encouraging investment in our high streets.”

He also emphasised the importance of Bira’s involvement in these early discussions:

“It is great for Bira to have been invited to such an early meeting. We will be following up by reaching out to the business ministers once they have been announced.”

The meeting reflects the new government’s dedication to creating a supportive environment for small businesses.

Goodacre’s proactive engagement and the outlined government priorities suggest a promising direction for independent retailers in the country.

With proposed reforms on the horizon, there is hope for reduced operational burdens and a revitalised high-street economy.

This interaction marks the beginning of a collaborative effort between the government and the independent retail sector, aiming to address longstanding challenges and foster a more favourable business climate for small enterprises across the UK.

  • Industrial strategy with a mission: A plan focused on boosting productivity and promoting sustainable, green energy initiatives.
  • Small business support: Efforts to improve cash flow for small businesses and revamp the British Business Bank.
  • Enhancement of UK trade: Strategies aimed at increasing export capabilities and opportunities.
  • Fair work practices: Initiatives to enhance working conditions, job security, and employment terms.

Goodacre praised the government’s attention to these areas, particularly the emphasis on supporting small businesses.

“Great to hear about the four priorities and even better to know that supporting small business is one of those priorities,” Goodacre remarked.

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