The number of independent stores in the UK has increased by 4.5% from 2017 to 2018, according to Government-run Great British High Street Awards.
This new study found that 34,511 new independent high street shops opened for business in 2018.
It suggests that independent stores are driving a new-found rejuvenation of the UK’s high street.
Christina Bruzzoli is the owner of Colibri Fashion Boutique, an independent fashion store in the heart of Islington.
She believes independent stores are important for developing a local community feeling.
“People love independents because they are personal. You know the owner is the one behind the counter. Our customers feel safe here.”
“Independent stores are essential for the community. We meet and greet evenings with local businesswomen and life coaching lessons. These are ways independents shape the community.”
However, Christina is not hopeful for the future of independent businesses.
“In London, rent prices are so high that it is difficult to keep up. Plus if this trend continues where the young generation is leaving London because it’s too expensive, we will also have to leave as we will have no customers.”
Chris Dunn doesn’t think that the future is that bleak. He is finishing building Islington Square in the heart of the area.
He told City News exclusively about the project, which helps to bring together chains and independents.
A draft sketch of shopping arcade, Islington Square.
“Independents are so important to the community and so popular recently. I think it will stay this way and with Islington Square opening in Autumn, I hope the Indie store market will continue to grow as it has been over the past year.”
Submitted Article
Headline
Short Headline
Standfirst
Published Article
HeadlineAre independent shops driving a rejuvenation of the high street?
Short HeadlineIndependent shops rejuvenating high streets
StandfirstA new study has found over 34,000 new independent high street shops opened for business last year.
The number of independent stores in the UK has increased by 4.5% from 2017 to 2018, according to Government-run Great British High Street Awards.
This new study found that 34,511 new independent high street shops opened for business in 2018.
It suggests that independent stores are driving a new-found rejuvenation of the UK’s high street.
Christina Bruzzoli is the owner of Colibri Fashion Boutique, an independent fashion store in the heart of Islington.
She believes independent stores are important for developing a local community feeling.
“People love independents because they are personal. You know the owner is the one behind the counter. Our customers feel safe here.”
“Independent stores are essential for the community. We meet and greet evenings with local businesswomen and life coaching lessons. These are ways independents shape the community.”
However, Christina is not hopeful for the future of independent businesses.
“In London, rent prices are so high that it is difficult to keep up. Plus if this trend continues where the young generation is leaving London because it’s too expensive, we will also have to leave as we will have no customers.”
Chris Dunn doesn’t think that the future is that bleak. He is finishing building Islington Square in the heart of the area.
He told City News exclusively about the project, which helps to bring together chains and independents.
A draft sketch of shopping arcade, Islington Square.
“Independents are so important to the community and so popular recently. I think it will stay this way and with Islington Square opening in Autumn, I hope the Indie store market will continue to grow as it has been over the past year.”
