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.
Here are some of our key milestones:
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Radio & Television Retailers Association (RTRA) was founded in Southampton Row, London |
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J.H.S Smith became the first President of RTRA |
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Harold Curtis became the first Chief Executive of RTRA |
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RTRA formed a white goods division called ‘Electrical Appliance Association (RTRA) Ltd' |
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The two divisions RTRA and ‘Electrical Appliance Association (RTRA) Ltd' merged together |
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RTRA was renamed Radio, Electrical and Television Retailer’s Association (RETRA) |
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RETRA’s headquarters ‘Retra House’ was formed at Elephant & Castle, London |
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RETRA offices relocated to current Head Office in Bedford |
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Retra Insurance Services Ltd formed |
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Retra Insurance Services Ltd relocated to RETRA House in Bedford |
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Howard Saycell appointed CEO of Retra |
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Retracare launched, replacing Retra Insurance Services Ltd |
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Retra launches innovative e-learning platform for members |
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Robert Hughes becomes Retra’s first Chairman |
Retra e-learning wins ‘Best Industry Training’ at the annual Innovative Electrical Retailing Awards |
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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. |
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Retra celebrates 80th Anniversary |
