Independent Retailer Month kicks off on Sunday and will
run for the month of July. Clare Rayner, the Retail
Champion, explains how the campaign highlights the important role
smaller, local, independent retailers play in the communities they
serve, the local economy they contribute to, and in the retail
sector as a whole.
Independent retailers, shops, cafés, salons and boutiques make
our towns unique. Without them they would be clones, with all
the same shop fronts - dull and bland. Independents add vibrancy,
diversity and often provide a route to market for smaller brands,
makers and designers who might otherwise never get their products
in front of shoppers. Often leading on service, offering a more
attentive, personal approach, it's no wonder smaller, independent
retailers are often described "friendly, local and
independent".
It's no secret that times are tough; shoppers have drifted away,
attracted by free parking, protection from the elements, discounts,
and the apparent convenience of out of town shopping centres. They
need reminding of what's on their doorstep and that's what
Independent retailer month is all about - encouraging the retailers
in local communities to work together to create engaging
activities, promotions and events that will engage and attract the
local shoppers throughout July. The purpose is to showcase the best
of what they've got to offer, reminding local shoppers about what
they're missing out on by not taking the time out to visit their
local retailers.
There are over 169,000 independent retail businesses in the UK,
equating to 92% of all retail businesses and on average 60% of all
town centre shops are occupied by independent businesses. These
retailers form a vital, valuable and treasured part of many
communities. They are also an integral part of local economies and
contribute greatly to local employment. It is quoted that for every
£1 spent with a local business 50-70p makes its way back into the
local economy; compared to just 5p of the £1 spent out of
town. So if shoppers really care about the community and don't want
to lose their independent retailers, they need to make the effort
to visit them a little more often and buy from them when they
can.
However, we're not seeking charity and the effort works both
ways. We know that most consumers are tightening their belts and
really thinking twice about spending their hard-earned cash.
Retailers have a duty to provide relevant, appropriate and
interesting products and services, aimed at their local consumers,
and aligned to their needs and wants. When they get it right
consumers will find things they want to buy and prices that they
consider to represent good value for money.
Through Independent Retailer Month shop owners have
the opportunity to prove themselves to consumers, re-engaging their
interest and earning their loyalty. Our plea to shoppers is to make
an effort to go and explore what their local communities retailers
have to offer - spend some time in their stores, understand more
about their products and their expertise. After all, if you are
spending your hard earned cash it's better to be spent with someone
you can get to know and trust than with a business where you're
just another sales stat.
If you are a retailer and want to get involved visit http://www.independentretailermonth.co.uk.
Smarta readers who want to attend the kick-start conference on
Sunday 1 July at Cranmore Park near Solihull can benefit from
a 20% discount on the ticket price - simply use this link to register.