Our History
For 80 years Retra – or ‘the Radio & Television Retailers Association (RTRA)’ as we were originally known – has championed the interests of independent retailers and servicers throughout the UK.
From humble beginnings, where a group of influential, like-minded individuals came together to support the industry they cared about, Retra has grown to become the UK’s largest trade association representing the entire spectrum of businesses in the dynamic and innovative field of consumer electronics. And we still care deeply about the work we do and the real people whom we represent.
1942
Radio & Television Retailers Association (RTRA) was founded in Southampton Row, London
J.H.S Smith
J.H.S Smith became the first President of RTRA
1944
Harold Curtis became the first Chief Executive of RTRA
1950
RTRA formed a white goods division called ‘Electrical Appliance Association (RTRA) Ltd'
1974
The two divisions RTRA and ‘Electrical Appliance Association (RTRA) Ltd' merged together
1975
RTRA was renamed Radio, Electrical and Television Retailer’s Association (RETRA)
1976
RETRA’s headquarters ‘Retra House’ was formed at Elephant & Castle, London
1989
RETRA offices relocated to a new Head Office in Bedford
1991
Retra Insurance Services Ltd formed
2006
Retra Insurance Services Ltd relocated to RETRA House in Bedford
2013
Howard Saycell appointed CEO of Retra
Retracare launched, replacing Retra Insurance Services Ltd
2015
Retra launches innovative e-learning platform for members
2016
Robert Hughes becomes Retra’s first Chairman
Retra e-learning wins ‘Best Industry Training’ at the annual Innovative Electrical Retailing Awards
2019
Covid pandemic forces retailers to close their shops and trade online or by phone only. Retra provides invaluable support for members with dedicated 'Covid Hub' on its website.
2022
Retra celebrates 80th Anniversary
2024
Retra becomes part of the Bira family, thereby opening a wider range of benefits and services to Retra members.