John Jones, managing partner of Hereford retailer Philip Morris & Son, has stepped down as president of the British Independent Retailers Association (Bira) after completing two years in the role. The association works with more than 6,000 independent retailers across the UK.
Karen Forret, managing director and owner of the Scottish independent multiple retailer Wilkies, took over the presidency at Bira's AGM this month. Jones will remain involved with Bira as Forret takes on the role.
Forum highlighted as legacy
Reflecting on his term, Jones said serving as president had been a great honour, and that the past two years had been challenging for independent retailers. He stressed the importance of Bira in helping independents achieve collectively what they cannot manage individually.
He named the launch of the Bira Forum as his proudest achievement. The forum gives members a space to discuss issues, share challenges and access advice.
Despite the pressures facing the independent retail sector, Jones said he remains optimistic about the future of the high street. He argued that people value the sense of place and community the high street provides, as well as the knowledge and service an independent retailer offers, and added that genuine business rates reform and an overhaul of planning rules were needed for the high street to thrive.
He also emphasised adaptation, noting that Philip Morris & Son is 180 years old yet bears no resemblance to the business it originally was. Evolving, he said, is the key to surviving and thriving.
Bira chief executive Andrew Goodacre thanked Jones for his contribution, praising his leadership during a tough period for independent retail and describing the Forum as a lasting part of his legacy.