26 August 2025
Independent retail is not only surviving—it’s thriving, defying the gloomy headlines and proving itself as the heartbeat of Britain’s high streets.
A HighStreetPositives blog
Despite frequent headlines proclaiming the “death of the high street,” new data paints a far more optimistic picture for independent retail in the UK. According to the HighStreetPositives survey—conducted in partnership with Find Out Now and answered by over 54,000 participants—independent retail emerged as the top feature people want in their local high streets.
The findings are backed by consumer behaviour: a striking 73% of all retail spending still occurs in physical stores, underscoring the enduring importance of high streets in everyday life.
Independent retailers are credited with bringing character, personal service, and community investment to town centres. Their agility and collaborative spirit often lead to partnerships with other local businesses, helping to create vibrant and distinctive shopping environments. Across the country, new independent stores are opening, beloved favourites are expanding, and entrepreneurs are reimagining the potential of town centers.
Laura Harris is a Chartered Statistician with 20+ years in location and customer analytics, and has worked with M&S, Waitrose, Sky, and consulted for retail, hospitality, BIDs, and high street consultancies. Laura founded HighStreetPositives to highlight the high street’s vital role in community, footfall, investment, and creativity, growing it from LinkedIn posts into two newsletters and a wider mission to amplify positive high street stories.
Read more at highstreetpositives.beehiiv.com
Bira's advocacy takes your voice to the heart of Parliament
Bira is at the forefront of championing the cause of independent traders and shopkeepers across Britain.
Our campaigns cover a wide spectrum of issues crucial to the success of independent traders including:
- Combatting the rising tide of retail crime
- Advocating for changes in legislation that promote fairness and flexibility
- Fighting for fairer business rates
- Overall reducing the regulatory burden
- £1 billion damages claim against Amazon by UK retailers
Catch up on key industry insights with podcast episodes available now
High Street Matters will discuss crucial subjects such as consumer trends, relevant government legislation, business rates, parking and staffing, providing top tips to help to help businesses stay ahead of the retail curve.
We’re talking to a cross section of our members from across the UK, from single retail outlets to small chains, and from large department stores to leisure and hospitality.
Listen to the series, available now.
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