The UKs only trade association bank, BIRA bank will celebrate 60 years of supporting independent retailers this September, coinciding with record levels of lending to independent retailers.
The association's members are continuing to experience growth, with a year-on-year sales increase of 2.35% revealed by BIRA's quarterly sales monitor - a survey of independent retailers from a number of different sectors. With confidence high and anxiety falling, independent retailers are keen to invest in their retail businesses.

BIRA bank's Frank Burton said: "Thanks to members, BIRA bank has continued to go from strength to strength, recording a turnover of over £1million in June on the back of unprecedented growth in equipment loans. This is the second time turnover has gone over the £1million barrier this year and I believe this is testament to the service provided to members, who are paramount in all we do. I am delighted that members are turning to us as their first port of call."

BIRA bank has announced that it is aiming for another record-breaking year on the back of introducing new member-only services, such as mortgages. The trade association bank has teamed up with The Mortgage Broker Ltd (TMBL) to offer members free tailored advice and access to exclusive mortgage deals which will help those looking to expand their premises.

BIRA bank managing director John Collins said: "This is a real first for BIRA bank and is something that our members have been asking about for some time, so we are thrilled we are now able to offer a mortgage service as an Introducer."

He added: "There have been some tough economic times in our 60-year history but we are proud to have weathered the storms and emerged stronger than ever. It is our privilege to serve independent retailers and offer support where other banks have failed to do so."