The British Independent Retailers Association (Bira) is marking 120 years of supporting independent retailers.
Since 1899, when Bira’s predecessors – the Ironmongers Federation, the British Hardware Federation and the Drapers Chamber of Trade (DCT) – were formed, and following a number of business acquisitions and partnerships, including the British Shops and Stores Association in 2009, Bira has championed independent business owners. Most recently, the National Association of Health Stores (NAHS) has joined.
Today, Bira represents thousands of independent businesses, from cookshops and hardware stores to pet, furniture and coffee shops, anywhere that has a business rated premises. Members benefit from exclusive service offers, better buying terms and business support. Bira also works behind the scenes to promote the interests of independent businesses with Government.
Bira CEO, Andrew Goodacre, commented: “We are incredibly proud of our 120-year heritage. In this tough economic climate and the incredible changes that retail is currently going through, to still have members today that joined in the early days of the association really is an achievement. It shows how well independent retailers can adapt to change in order to survive, by constantly adapting to their changing customers and environment.”
Visit bira.co.uk/membership-120 for more information. There will also be a programme of activity taking place throughout 2019 to celebrate Bira’s birthday.
