Bira - The British Independent Retailers Association
Mica is a Cooperative of Independent Stores, and since 2019 also a division of the Bira Group.
A little background...
Bira has been supporting independent retail businesses for over 120 years. Over this time they’ve been fighting for a level playing field, drawing on the strength of our membership mass.
They influence the media, change Government legislation and provide support on areas of strain like business rates, parking and staffing.
Like Mica in its specialties of marketing, group buying and retail support, Bira offers strength in numbers too.
Following an amendment to the Mica Co-operative Constitution, sanctioned by Co-operatives UK and approved by unanimous vote of attending and proxy members at an EGM in August 2019, Mica and Bira now work together for the benefit of the Independents across the UK.
This means Mica are able to offer it’s members exclusive rates and discounts on essential business services negotiated by Bira on behalf of its members.
Their key services include:
- Accountancy Service - access to preferential rates from TaxAssist Accountants, giving the best support, for less.
- Bira Bank – products built around independent retailers including loans and savings
- Bira Legal - Expert advice in Employment Law, HR and Health & Safety
- Card Processing – Approved service provider with competitive rates to save retailers money
- Coronavirus Guidance – a concise up to date guide to the latest government & employment law & advice
- Insurance – business insurance scheme designed and delivered by Towergate with tangible advantages in cover, service & cost.
- Magazine & Newsletter – free news and information on the independent sector
- Retail Training – Develop your team with Bira training courses
You can learn more about Bira by visiting their website www.bira.co.uk, but be assured with Mica membership, you can access all the benefits of Bira membership plus all the additional benefits of the Mica cooperative, with no ongoing additional costs.
News Archive...
- £100 Voucher to Spend on Decorating Supplies - Facebook Free Prize Draw (19/07/2021)
We’re giving you a chance to win a £100 voucher to spend on decorating supplies in your local Mica store as well as £50 vouchers for 4 runners up.
View » - Co-op Fortnight 2021 (21/06/2021)
Mica is the UK’s only co-operative of independent hardware & DIY stores, and the 21st June sees the start of Co-op Fortnight in association with Cooperatives UK. Co‑op’s operate in all sectors but are all owned and controlled by their members.
View » - Winners Announced for Mica Special Service Award 2020 (16/12/2020)
Mica held it’s AGM on Sunday 13th December, and as well as the usual business functions of the event included fundraising for the Rainy Day Trust and results from a membership awards poll.
View » - Now Closed - Einhell 18v Li-ion Brushless Combi/Impact Driver Twin Pack - Facebook Free Prize Draw (20/10/2020)
Now Closed - We’re giving away an Einhell 18v Li-ion Brushless Combi/Impact Driver Twin Pack in our November Prize Draw! To enter, like and share the competition post and tag the Independent Mica store you’d collect the prize from in the original post’s comments box. For full terms and conditions click this article...
View » - Halls Mica Carnival Windows (02/10/2020)
Co-operative members Halls Mica participated in their towns alternative carnival with award winning ’back to the 70s’ window displays, a tribute to their community spirit and the hard work & creativity of their staff.
View »
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