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SHAPING A BETTER FUTURE FOR INDEPENDENT BUSINESSES IN 2024
At Bira, we are committed to championing the causes that matter most to independent businesses. In 2024, we are proud to announce our involvement in several impactful campaigns aimed at fostering a thriving environment for our members. Here’s a glimpse into some of the key initiatives:
Cash and payments
Bira, the British Independent Retailers Association, which works with over 6,000 independent businesses of all sizes across the UK, recognises the importance of cash access for those who prefer or rely on it. Our focus includes the development of Banking Hubs, where businesses can collaboratively share the costs of a central banking facility. Through collaboration and advocacy, we engage with business organisations and community groups to improve access to cash. This involves active dialogue with banks, policymakers, and regulators to accelerate the implementation of banking hubs and other vital initiatives.
Retail crime
Retail crime poses a significant challenge to independent businesses. Bira advocates for a multi-faceted approach involving collaboration between retailers, law enforcement agencies, government bodies, and local communities. We encourage joint efforts to raise awareness, enhance security measures, and push for stronger laws to protect businesses against criminal activities.
Parking and accessibility for towns and cities Understanding concerns about local authorities’ attitudes towards parking, Bira strives to ensure affordability and availability of parking spaces. We advocate for reduced parking costs and ample availability, emphasising the need for various payment options accessible to all. Furthermore, we call for comprehensive planning by local authorities that takes into account the needs of local businesses, residents, and visitors.
Business rates and taxation
Bira actively supports the comprehensive reform of business rates in the UK, aiming to alleviate the burden on smaller enterprises. We champion the cause of smaller businesses by advocating for a fair and reasonable taxation system that enables them to thrive in a competitive market. These campaigns represent just a snapshot of the diverse and impactful initiatives Bira is undertaking for its members in 2024 and beyond.
#LoveYourHighStreet this Valentine’s Day! We have set our sights on championing the high street this Valentine’s Day for the second consecutive year.
The association, , aims to strengthen the love to the high street through the initiative.
Designed to coincide with the first seasonal event of the year, the campaign encourages both in-store and online shopping, emphasising the importance of supporting local businesses.
Open to all retailers, Bira offers a comprehensive bundle of resources and information, irrespective of membership status. The toolkit includes social media content for Facebook and Instagram plus downloadable posters in a range of sizes.
Andrew Goodacre, CEO of Bira said: “We know that the high streets and our shops need additional support in the face of anticipated challenges in 2024. Recognising the upcoming hurdles, we want to offer extra support to our indies.
“Valentine’s Day marks a pivotal moment in the new year’s calendar for retailers, and this campaign aims to empower them to market themselves more effectively than ever.”
The campaign will also be further supported by BIRA with the campaign tag #LoveYourHighStreet which will also help further boost social media reach and coverage in each retailer’s area.
Bira is at the forefront of championing the cause of independent traders and shopkeepers across Britain. With a dedicated focus on revitalising and preserving the high street, we relentlessly campaign on their behalf. Our advocacy takes our collective voice to the halls of Parliament and into discussions with key stakeholders, where we represent the interests of small and independent businesses.
Our campaigns cover a wide spectrum of issues crucial to the success of independent traders. From combatting the rising tide of retail crime to advocating for changes in legislation that promote fairness and flexibility, we aim to leave no stone unturned. Bira is a staunch advocate for fairer business rates and reducing the regulatory burden that can stifle small businesses’ growth potential. Through our efforts, we strive to ensure that the heartbeat of our communities, the high street, continues to thrive and serve as a vibrant hub for local businesses.
52 • FOOTWEAR TODAY • FEBRUARY 2024
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