ACT welcomes Government's new product safety laws
Posted on in Business News , Cycles News
The ACT has backed the government's move to protect consumers from dangerous products sold through online marketplaces, following Royal Assent of the Product Regulation and Metrology Act.
The ACT, part of the Bira Group and representing cycle retailers across the UK, supported the PRAM Act, which will create new powers to target emerging dangers and hold online marketplaces accountable for dangerous products sold through their platforms, creating a level playing field with traditional bike shops.
Andrew Goodacre, CEO of Bira, said: "For far too long, online shopping for bikes and cycling equipment has been a dangerous lottery in terms of product safety, putting customers unnecessarily at risk. Our cycle retailers have always been held to rigorous safety standards, whilst online marketplaces have operated with little accountability for the dangerous products sold through their platforms. This new Act levels the playing field and ensures consumer safety is paramount, whether shopping online or at your local bike shop."
Jonathan Harrison, ACT Director, added: "The statistics speak for themselves. When it comes to e-bikes and products containing lithium batteries, consumers face significant risks when purchasing from unregulated online sellers. Our message to consumers is clear: for genuine peace of mind about product safety and quality, there's no substitute for purchasing from established, accountable cycle retailers who stand behind their products."
The new Act will require online marketplaces to prevent unsafe products reaching consumers, ensure sellers comply with safety obligations, and cooperate closely with regulators. ACT's members, who operate under strict codes of practice and regulatory oversight, provide consumers with the assurance that comes from dealing with established, accountable cycle businesses.
The legislation comes at a critical time, with the Office for Product Safety and Standards reporting 211 fires involving e-bikes or e-scooters in 2024 alone - equivalent to a fire every 1.7 days, many caused by unsafe lithium-ion batteries purchased through online marketplaces.
The Product Regulation and Metrology Act was announced on 21st July and will provide clarity for cycle retailers operating in regulated product markets, supporting both consumer protection and economic growth across Britain's cycling sector.
The ACT is part of the Bira Group and represents cycle traders and retailers across the UK, championing the cause of independent bike shops and promoting safe, quality cycling products and services.