Bira - British Independent Retailers Association

The British Independent Retailers Association (bira) 'the voice of independent retailers' bira is the leading trade association for independent retailers in the UK. We represent retail businesses of all types and are the umbrella organisation for six specialist associations; the bira family. Our aim is to provide first class support, business services and specialist representation for our members.There are more than 220,000 independent retailers in the UK, employing between five and ten people each, accounting for over £50 billion in sales every year. In this highly competitive market, we champion the independent retailers and help them stay one step ahead.We connect independent retail businesses with others in the industry, creating a network of like-minded businesses whilst providing expert knowledge, support and access to a wide range of specialist business services, that save time and money. We represent approximately 6,500 members across the UK from single retail outlets to small chains, dealers, suppliers, manufacturers and distributors. The bira family has six divisional trade associations across a range of industry sectors, with dedicated committees, sharing specialist trade and product knowledge. The bira family includes: British Hardware Federation (BHF) www.bira.co.uk/bhf Cookshop and Housewares Association (CHA) www.bira.co.uk/cha Fashion Association of Britain (FAB) www.fashionassociationofbritain.co.uk National Association of Health Stores www.bira.co.uk/nahs Pet Product Retail Association (PPRA) www.bira.co.uk/ppraFor dealerships: British Agricultural and Garden Machinery Association (BAGMA) www.bagma.comOur members can benefit from preferential terms through our in-house buying group, bira direct. Member owned bira bank provides special rates on savings and borrowing and the in-house bira publishing team create and distribute a range of trade magazines.