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. So says Bira on its website.
The findings are backed by consumer behaviour: a striking 73 per cent 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 centres.
Laura Harris of HighStreetPositives, comments: “HighStreetPositives is a community for anyone passionate about the high street – independent businesses, landlords, placemakers, local authorities, BIDs, retailers, hospitality operators and more. Our mission is to flip the “decline” narrative and showcase the energy, creativity and connections that make high streets vital to everyday life – inspiring investment, innovation and belief in the art of the possible.”
Founded by Laura Harris, a Fellow of the Institute of Place Management with 20+ years’ experience in location analytics, customer insight and strategy. Leveraging data and evidence, Laura has worked with M&S, Waitrose, Sky, and across retail, hospitality, BIDs and high street consultancies – launching HighStreetPositives to combine insight and storytelling to champion high streets and demonstrate their value to communities, investors and stakeholders
Discover more at highstreetpositives.com and sign up for the free newsletter for regular stories celebrating the good stuff happening on high streets across the UK and Ireland.
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