19 May 2025
There’s real energy on our high streets right now – and much of it is being driven by independent retailers. From Crumbs Family Bakery winning the “Win a Shop” contest in Longton to new openings like Triton Galleries in Taunton, indie businesses are adding flavour, personality, and purpose to our town centres.
A HighStreetPositives blog
Independents aren’t just shops - they’re community builders. As indies, you have the flexibility to get involved in town events like the recent VE Day and May Day celebrations, create unique customer experiences, collaborate with neighbouring businesses, and help make our high streets places people want to be, not just places they should support. With more agility and decision-making power at the local store, you’re shaping the future of your high street.
At HighStreetPositives, we’re shining a light on stories like yours – because our research shows positive stories make a difference. When people hear good news, 85% say the high street is worth visiting. But with bad news, only 35% feel the same. That’s the power of narrative.
We’re getting real momentum with 14,000 followers on LinkedIn and almost 4,000 engaged subscribers, including local authorities, landlords, retailers, BIDs, community champions, and hospitality – all invested in high streets. And we want to make sure indie retailers are well represented as we grow. Our mission is to change the high street narrative, driving footfall, investment, and innovation in these vital community hubs.
So please keep sharing your wins, however small. Post on socials, ask loyal customers for reviews, collaborate with others on your street, and share your stories with us. We’d absolutely love to feature them in our newsletter.
Big big thanks to BIRA for including us – and please do subscribe to HighStreetPositives to keep up the momentum.(Find out more at highstreetpositives.com)
Let’s keep championing indie retail – it’s never been more vital.
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
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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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