retra and CIH Forge Closer Links

The move will see retra and CIH consulting on a broad range of issues to ensure the interests of independent electrical retailers are fully represented.

These issues will include Government legislation, problems with service and spares, and the involvement of independents in product launches and associated marketing opportunities.

Bryan Lovewell, Chief Executive for retra, said: “retra and CIH have a common aim but different areas of expertise. By combining our strengths we can help ensure a complete package of support is available to the independent channel.

“It is important that retra and CIH remain separate and distinct, but we will collaborate closely on key issues. By doing so, we can make sure our activities complement each other and achieve the maximum possible impact.”

For CIH the collaboration with retra represents an important step forward in their relationship with the independent sector.

Stuart Cook, Chief Executive for CIH, said: “We at CIH are delighted at the opportunity of bringing these two organisations closer together. In a highly competitive, service driven market, focussing our efforts will ensure we deliver the maximum benefits to our members and ultimately the consumer.”

• retra is the UK's leading trade association for independent electrical retailers. We represent more than 1,400 members, trading from over 2,300 outlets.

retra wants to see an electrical retail industry built on openness and integrity, which values, respects and actively supports independent retailers in the UK.

For more information, please contact Louise Lloyd-Jones, Communications Executive for retra, on 01234 269110 or email louise.lloyd-jones@retra.co.uk.

• CIH is part of Euronics Europe’s largest buying group, with 700 members and more than 1500 retail outlets UK wide.

For more information, please contact Gary Millar, Opportunities Development Manager, on 01264 320500 or email millarg@cihgroup.com.

< return to the Latest News page