Mica does not charge a membership fee. There is a one-off investment in Mica shares which forms the basis of your co-operative voting stake and dividend payment which members can utilize annually. These are redeemable, and no member can hold more than a fixed number of these shares. The investment can be paid upfront or by direct debit on a payment plan.
After that there are no ongoing fees to be part of Mica other than your Bira membership.
The benefits of the investment are rewarded with the personal service Mica’s smaller number of retailers benefit from.
The shared sense of purpose has down the years led many to become friends, as they work together to market their businesses, beating back whoever the latest entrant is into the DIY marketplace, knowing that together it’s easier and cheaper than they’d be able to individually.
Mica is open to any business that sells hardware / DIY / garden products to the general public.
You must have at least one bricks and mortar business (or plans to open one) to apply, we are not open to internet-only traders, although many of our retailer members have e-commerce stores.
You don’t have to be an existing Bira member to join Mica, we welcome all stores, you’ll become a Bira member when you join Mica if you are not already a member.
All applications are subject to our approval process, including right of refusal by another Mica member if the store falls within their catchment area.
Mica builds into its co-operative constitution a strong respect for its existing members, whether they have joined six months or sixteen years ago. No existing members' rights shall be placed at a disadvantage by a new member so long as they follow Mica’s membership terms.
We hope this gives you the confidence that should you join the group, you could trust Mica to look after your interests too.
If you’d like to learn more, please complete the contact form. If you’re unsure if your business would qualify for membership, why not call us today for an informal chat on 01785 825 910.