John Jones, managing partner of Hereford-based independent retailer Philip Morris & Son, has stepped down as president of the British Independent Retailers Association (Bira) after completing a two-year term. Karen Forret, managing director and owner of Scottish independent multiple retailer Wilkies, took over the role at Bira’s annual general meeting.
Bira works with more than 6,000 independent retailers across the UK. The leadership change comes as independent retailers continue to face challenging conditions, a point Jones reflected on in comments following the handover.
Two years of pressure and collective action
Jones described serving as Bira president as “a huge honour.” He said the past two years had been challenging for independent retailers and underlined the association’s role in helping them “to collectively achieve what we can’t do individually.”
He identified the launch of the Bira Forum as his proudest achievement. The forum gives Bira members a space to discuss issues, share challenges and access advice. Bira chief executive Andrew Goodacre thanked Jones for his contribution and praised his leadership during a difficult period for independent retail. Goodacre described the Forum as a lasting part of Jones’s legacy.
High street optimism and policy calls
Despite the pressures on the sector, Jones said he remains optimistic about the future of the high street. He argued that people value the sense of place and community that the high street provides, as well as the knowledge and service offered by an independent retailer.
Jones also set out the conditions he believes are needed for the high street to thrive. He called for genuine business rates reform and an overhaul of planning rules.
Adapting a 180-year-old business
Jones stressed the importance of adaptation, using Philip Morris & Son as an example. He noted that the business is 180 years old, but that it in no way resembles the business it was originally. In his view, the key to surviving and thriving is evolving.
Jones will remain involved with Bira as Forret takes on the presidency. Forret is managing director and owner of Wilkies, a Scottish independent multiple retailer. Her move into the Bira role places a serving independent retail operator at the head of an association that works with thousands of independent businesses across the UK.
The change at the top of Bira therefore combines continuity and renewal: Goodacre remains chief executive, Jones stays involved, and Forret takes on the presidency. Bira’s work continues to cover more than 6,000 independent retailers across the UK. The handover keeps Jones involved while placing Forret at the head of an association working with more than 6,000 independent retailers across the UK.