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9 Jul 2025

A recent BBC Breakfast segment has sparked backlash from the cycling community over its portrayal of e-bikes, with critics accusing the broadcaster of conflating legal e-bikes with illegal,...

8 Jul 2025

More than 30 locations across Scotland have seen a major rise in the number of people cycling, according to newly released data.

7 Jul 2025

Sixteen illegally upgraded e-bikes capable of speeds up to 40mph have been seized and disposed of in a joint enforcement operation in Birmingham city centre.

7 Jul 2025

Bristol-based Cytech training provider and ACT member Life Cycle has launched its award-winning Bikes Beyond Bars programme at HMP Bullingdon, expanding a project that has already impacted lives...

4 Jul 2025

New data from Strava reveals a major surge in cycling across the UK, with Gen Z and Millennials leading the charge.

3 Jul 2025

Shimano has launched an urgent investigation into what it describes as a “critical” shortage of skilled bike mechanics across Europe, warning that the situation threatens to...

2 Jul 2025

MPs have called on Amazon and eBay to tighten controls after e-bikes and chargers flagged as serious fire risks were found for sale on their platforms.

25 Jun 2025

The E-Bike Positive campaign has seen major success in the first half of 2025, with its message reaching nearly 8 million people across the UK through high-profile media coverage and growing...

20 Jun 2025

The House of Commons Business and Trade Committee has asked the ACT, and its parent company Bira, to help them reach out to small business retailers across the country, for their quick input on...

20 Jun 2025

Activate Cycle Academy has reopened its Cytech training facility in Darlington, offering a full range of courses from Home Mechanic up to Cytech Technical Three.
 

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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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