14 February 2025
They said the high street was dying. But when we asked 54,000 people (in partnership with Find Out Now) what they most wanted to see more of, 53% said independent businesses. That tells us something important - people don’t want less of the high street; they want more of what makes it unique.
Across the UK, high streets are buzzing with activity - new shops, independent success stories, and regeneration projects bringing places back to life.
Here are just a few recent highlights:
- Hotel Chocolat is celebrating record Christmas sales with plans to open 25 new stores, including its biggest ever in Manchester.
- Public Art Chippenham is transforming the town with vibrant murals, adding colour and character to local businesses.
- The Potions Cauldron is opening a wizard-themed hotel in Blackpool, bringing new footfall to the area.
- Oakberry is launching 18–20 new açaí cafes across Ireland, expanding independent food options.
- Urban Foundary’s PopUp Wales is turning empty spaces into affordable hubs for start-ups and community projects.
- Lytham St Annes is seeing a wave of investment, from new independents to a major spa and restaurant project.
What kind of HighStreetPositives insights would be most useful to you and other indie retailers?
Hotel Chocolat's record Christmas sales highlight the importance of leveraging seasonal events. Plan special promotions, themed products, and festive decorations to attract customers during holidays and special occasions.
Public Art Chippenham's vibrant murals have added character to local businesses. Collaborate with local artists to create murals or art installations that reflect the community's culture and enhance the visual appeal of your store.
The Potions Cauldron's wizard-themed hotel offers a magical experience. Consider designing themed sections or events in your store that provide a unique and memorable shopping experience for customers.
Oakberry's success with açaí cafes shows the growing demand for healthy dining options. Introduce organic, gluten-free, vegan, or locally sourced products to cater to health-conscious consumers.
Urban Foundary’s PopUp Wales initiative has turned empty spaces into hubs for start-ups. Explore opportunities to set up pop-up shops in vacant spaces or collaborate with other businesses to create shared retail environments.
Lytham St Annes' wave of investment demonstrates the benefits of local development. Partner with other local businesses for joint promotions, events, or loyalty programs to strengthen the community and attract more customers.
Engage with customers through social media, newsletters, and in-store events. Share behind-the-scenes stories, customer testimonials, and upcoming promotions to build a loyal customer base.
Provide personalised shopping experiences, such as custom product recommendations, exclusive previews, or tailored loyalty programs. This can help differentiate your store from larger competitors.
Organise workshops, classes, or events related to your products. This can attract new customers, create a sense of community, and provide additional revenue streams.
Continuously seek feedback from customers and stay updated on industry trends. Be willing to adapt and innovate to meet changing customer needs and preferences.
Utilise feedback platforms such as Star Feedback to manage and easily collect customer feedback and drive more business.
The high street isn’t dying—it’s evolving, and independents are at the heart of it. Let’s keep the conversation going and celebrate what’s working!
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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