About Us

What is the RSA?

The RSA is the only national trade association that operates exclusively for and on behalf of the owners of independent village shops.The RSA was formed in April 2001, and now represents over 7,200 village shops across England.

The RSA’s aim is to support and inform owners of village shops and to encourage rural retailers to become more proactive and professional in operating their businesses. If the owner of a village shop can optimise his/her business’s potential then this significantly improves the chances of long-term viability, for the benefit of the whole community.

The RSA is also a lobbying organisation, working with and on behalf of rural retailers on a whole range of issues, largely to combat the ever-increasing burden of red tape upon village shops.

The RSA is a trade association ‘with a difference’ because it does more than simply talk about issues of concern. Through its close relationship with its Sponsors, Associate Members (county representative organisations – e.g. Rural Community Councils, County Councils, etc.) and many of its retail members, the RSA is able to provide real solutions ‘out in the field’ to owners of village shops.