The Fed was founded in 1919 and is one of Europe’s largest employers’ associations with about 10,000 independent retail businesses in membership throughout the UK and Ireland. We exist to help the independent retailer compete more effectively in today’s highly competitive market by providing practical help and assistance, commercial support, deals and buying opportunities, training, expertise and services. We also actively represent our members’ interests at governmental and parliamentary level, and we are the official government referral body for the sector and are a powerful voice for the independent retailer. Membership consists of a variety of independent retailers, including: newsagents, convenience stores, confectioners, florists, petrol forecourts, news deliverers, off-licences, post offices, coffee shops, card & stationary shops, and greengrocers.