Retail trade associations rubber stamp merger; 8,000 strong retail group created

1st October 2009 | retail | The lead trade body for independent furniture stores, the British Shops and Stores Association, has completed its merger with the British Hardware Federation.

The combined BHF-BSSA Group agreement was signed in London yesterday, 30th September, with Alan Hawkins installed as new chief executive officer.

8,000 retailers across the UK now form the membership of the merged group, which has vowed to be more vocal than ever on issues potentially negatively impacting the independent retail sector.

A number of respective association benefits have been combined, although it is as yet unclear if the buying operation run by BHF will be rolled out across other categories. 2,000 existing BHF members currently buy products from some 200 suppliers, taking advantage of longer credit, discounts and special promotions.