Ryde Retailer is National President

"To help independent shops survive we must focus on those things that make them prosper" declared Terry Reeks, the newly elected national president of retail trade association, BHF Group.

Describing the association as "a just banner" beneath which independent businesses could rally, he warned in his inaugural speech that "The High Street is under attack. One day we will wake up and find that there are only four shops left." His themes for the year will, accordingly, include making sure that all members benefit equally from their trade association and that the BHF Group should build bridges with other industry bodies.
Managing director of the group of trade associations, Alan Hawkins, welcomed Terry's priorities as they chime with the six pillars of the new Group strategic plan, which stresses the importance of member involvement, good representation in all divisions, an involved Board of Management, a strong lobbying role, modernisation and commercial success.

Terry's background gives him many years experience in retail, manufacturing and business consultancy. He recently "retired" to the Isle of Wight, only to buy a high street home accessories business, Just Home, and start up with wife Pauline as a retailer all over again.

Terry has been a member of the BHF for 28 years and has been very active in local, branch, membership. He has also been a tireless fundraiser for industry charity the Rainy Day Trust. Outgoing president Bob Chapman complimented Terry on being very "Generous hearted" and told members to expect that "This President will raise record ammounts of money for the Rainy Day Trust."

BHF Finance reduces lending rates

Despite the quarter point interest rate cut by the Bank of England last Thursday, the rates at which banks lend to each other, the three month LIBOR (London Interbank Offer Rate) went up on Friday, which suggests that the move has done little to encourage interbank lending. If this is the case then the move will do little to benefit borrowers either.

As the BHF Finance company is not dependent upon interbank funds, as it benefits from funds deposited by members, it is able to pass on the full impact of the rate cut to its members. Consequently, all BHF Finance APR lending rates have been reduced by 0.25% with immediate effect, whether for new or used vehicles, computers or equipment, working capital or personal loans. 

BHF Group members should call 0121 446 6688 or email enquiry@bhf-finance.co.uk

You may confer...

The BHF Group national conference, led by incoming President Terry Reeks takes place 16th-20th May at theTivoli Marinotel, Vilamoura, Algarve. It's all about people: be one of the people... click the image for more

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Wage survey
Ever wondered how your pay rates match up against those of other retailers? Are you paying more, or less. To find out you should take part in the annual BHF Group wages survey. The simple, quick to complete form is here. Participating members get a full copy of the results. We look forward to hearing from you.

Services

Insurance is necessary to all businesses. Prove to yourself that necessary need not mean "necessary evil."

Vin Vara of The Tool Shop, London, says: "We have been covered by the BHF Group Sure Insurance Scheme since we commenced retailing and we have been well protected as our business has grown. It is re-assuring to know that we have wide cover that is tailored to our trade."

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