Leverage without losing control
IBG membership gives independent businesses of all sizes collective buying power, supplier rebates, practical support and advisory services, without compromising independence.
Traditional buying groups put the group first. IBG puts the businesses inside it first.
IBG was created to fix a problem many independent businesses face: buying groups that chase volume targets, keep supplier rebates for themselves or wrap members in rigid structures.
Membership exists to give independent operators real leverage, clearer decision-making and better support, without forced branding, rigid rules or loss of autonomy.
What membership delivers
Commercial leverage
Group-negotiated pricing, supplier rebates and improved trading terms typically reserved for much larger organisations, while purchasing decisions stay firmly in your hands. Rebates vary by supplier and are offered on a case-by-case basis; where a supplier program includes one, it is paid on what you buy through the network.
Practical support
Hands-on support across marketing, operations, systems and strategy, grounded in real-world experience and focused on what works in independent businesses.
Confidence to grow
Experienced guidance to help business owners make better decisions, navigate challenges and plan for sustainable growth with clarity rather than guesswork.
How membership works
Four steps, and no obligation to change how you run your store.
Apply for membership
We take the time to understand your business, your goals and whether IBG is the right fit. No generic onboarding, no pressure.
Gain access and support
Once approved, you gain access to buying group pricing, supplier rebates, the member B2B portal and the IBG support team.
Engage on your terms
There are no mandates, quotas or forced programs. Members engage with IBG in the way that best suits their business.
Ongoing support
Membership is about using the network, not just joining it. The IBG team helps you put group pricing, marketing, IT and advisory to work in your business over time.
Who membership is for
And who it is not. We would rather be upfront.
Membership is right for you if
- You operate an independent business and want to stay independent
- You value strong relationships over transactional deals
- You value increased margin, rebates and exclusive brands
- You want support that improves performance, not adds complexity
- You are focused on building a stronger business over time
Membership is not right for you if
- You are looking for a franchise-style rulebook
- You want someone else to run your business for you
- You are chasing short-term gains over long-term improvement
The businesses we support
From single stores to multi-site groups, support is tailored to the business, not the category.
Core retail & technology
- Computer and technology retailers
- Appliance retailers
- Home and workplace furniture retailers
- Hardware and home improvement
- Phone repair and mobile service
General retail
- Toy retailers
- Gift and general merchandise
- Homeware retailers
- Electrical retailers
- Newsagents and post offices
Office & mixed format
- Office supply and stationery retailers
- Multi-category independent retailers
- Mixed-format regional stores
Training, insights and supplier spotlights
Membership is also a way to keep getting better: at product, at retail, and at reading your own numbers.
Supplier spotlights
Regular group-wide sessions where suppliers walk members through new ranges, features and selling points: practical product training your team can use on the floor.
Store training & development
Hands-on training and development for owners and staff, from selling and merchandising to systems and process, built around how independent stores actually run.
Network insights
Category and buying intelligence drawn from across the membership network, so ranging, pricing and stock decisions are informed by more than a single store's view.
Built on experience, not theory
IBG is led by people who have operated, advised and grown independent businesses themselves. Membership is shaped by what works in practice, not what looks good on paper.