John Jones, managing partner of Philip Morris & Son in Hereford, has stepped down as president of the British Independent Retailers Association (Bira) after completing his two-year term. Bira 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 role at Bira's annual general meeting this month. Jones will remain involved with the association as Forret assumes the presidency.
Forum named as key legacy
Jones described his time in the role as a huge honour and said the past two years had been challenging for independent retailers, underlining what he sees as Bira's value in helping them collectively achieve what they cannot do individually. He named the launch of the Bira Forum as his proudest achievement; the platform gives members a space to discuss issues, share challenges and access advice.
Despite the pressure 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 the high street provides, along with the knowledge and service an independent retailer offers, and called for genuine business rates reform and an overhaul of planning rules to help it thrive.
He also stressed the importance of adaptation, noting that Philip Morris & Son is 180 years old yet in no way resembles the business it originally was, and that evolving is the key to surviving and thriving.
Bira chief executive Andrew Goodacre thanked Jones for his contribution, praising his leadership during a difficult period for independent retail and describing the Forum as a lasting part of his legacy.