Housewares Business-to-business magazine for housewares retailers and their suppliers
The British Independent Retailers Association (bira) relaunched its website this week.
The new design aims to make it easier for the trade association’s members to use the site. Membership of bira is open to independent retailers across the UK, from single retail outlets to small chains, department stores, dealers and merchants, while associate members comprise organisations servicing or allied to the independent retail sector.
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 have agreed to participate. This visual identity will carry through to our new print publications launching this month.
“The web project started nine months ago with our design and creative team at Certain, led by bira head of marketing Sarah Arnesen, and we’re really happy with the result. 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.”
She added that 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 has information about bira services, including exclusive terms and offers for members. Members will also, for the first time, be able to update their membership details online and make payments such as membership renewals and events.
The Knowledge Hub area includes case studies, blogs, how-to guides and fact sheets. Promotional areas throughout also highlight bira’s suppliers and service partners.
The previously separate sites for bira direct, bira bank and the various associations within the group have all been built into the framework, so members need only one new secure login to access it all.
Bira national president Vin Vara, who is md of London DIY mini-chain Toolshop Group, said: “The new website is a big step forward to moving the association into the next era and better servicing our modern membership.
“From a members’ perspective it looks good. Now the wealth of independent retail-specific knowledge, statistics, guidance, special offers, services, ideas and events is all available in one place.It’s 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!”
Visit bira.co.uk for more information.
