The British Independent Retailers Association’s (bira) new website, which launched this week, is designed to make life easier for independent shop owners. 
 
Drawing on the associations' 117-year knowledge of independent retailing, the site is described as "an essential source of news and information including the latest legislation, hot topics like business rates, best practice, inspiration and thought leadership, all in one place." 
 
Bira marketing & membership director Sarah Golden said: “The site's fresh photographic style features the people who matter most to us - our members, so I must say a special thanks to those who've agreed to participate. This visual identity will carry through to our new print publications launching this month also.

"The web project started nine months ago working with our design and creative team at Certain, ably led by Head of Marketing, Sarah Arnesen and the marketing team, and we're really happy with the result, but of course the project will never really end! Our new content strategy means even more useful information will be published to members via the site frequently so it will pay to check in on a regular basis.”
 
With a mobile-first strategy, the site features enhanced content, easy navigation and improved functionality enabling members and visitors to better interact with bira online on their phone, tablet or desktop.
 
The new members’ area features important information about bira services, including the exclusive terms and offers for members. Members will also for the first time be able to update their membership details online and make payments for things such as membership renewals and events.
 
The previously separate sites for bira direct, bira bank and various associations within the group have all been built into the framework so all members now only need one new secure login to access it all.

The bira Knowledge Hub is the new home within bira.co.uk for all of the great content created and curated by bira - no more microsites or complicated pathways to find something useful. The Knowledge Hub will house bira's written word from long-form editorial to case studies, blogs and short how-to guides and fact sheets. Promotional areas throughout also highlight bira's suppliers and service partners.

Bira national president and Toolshop owner Vin Vara said: "The new website is a big step forward moving the association into the next era and better servicing our modern membership. From a members’ perspective it looks good and now the wealth of independent retail specific knowledge, stats, guidance, special offers, services, ideas and events is all available in one place, easy to find, easy to navigate and easy to share. I encourage you to take a look and if you're not already a member - join!"