For 50 years, Associated Independent Stores has been shaped and strengthened by the determination and passion of independent retailers. In 2026, we celebrate our Golden Anniversary, honouring our Members and supplier partners who have built, supported and thrived with us since 1976. Our Golden Anniversary isn’t just about the past, but about how we continue to grow and succeed, side by side, for the next 50 years.

We are the UK and Ireland’s leading buying, services and event group for Fashion, Home and Leisure. We ensure our Members thrive with our combined strengths, creativity and expertise.
With a collective buying power of £1.5 billion, and Members across the UK and Ireland, we have a global network of suppliers and brands that create points of difference and improves margins for our Members.

We provide an unparalleled end-to-end Member experience with easy access to key support services, including a central payment facility, innovation-led buying and merchandising and we curate and deliver the busiest trade-buying calendar of events in the sector including furniture, flooring, fashion, sports and leisure and toys. 

We live and breathe retail, understand trends and forecasting, source exclusive products and create own brands including Simply Home, First Avenue and Dreamworld, always with an eye on sustainability. 

We support retailers from single high street shops to flagship department stores and specialist retailers including sports, garden centres and toys. We are a team of passionate retail professionals located in the heart of the UK.

Associated Independent Stores Ltd

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