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FSB launches blueprint to revitalise UK high streets and boost tourism

3 Oct 2024

The Federation of Small Businesses has launched a new initiative, which it says aims to transform high streets across the UK, by advancing economic, social, and cultural benefits, while also... Read more…

Award-winning gin distillery to open new shop in Morecambe

3 Oct 2024

A family-run gin company is set to open a new distillery and shop in Morecambe.
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‘Largest independent bookshop in the country’ to open in York

3 Oct 2024

Independent booksellers Topping & Company will open a new bookshop over multiple floors in central York in autumn 2025.
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Three quarters of British shoppers would ban paper receipts on eco grounds, new data shows

3 Oct 2024

3 in 4 Britons (77%) would ban paper receipts if they knew how many trees were cut down to generate them – and millennials are the most eco-conscious (rising to 87%).
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Bira Urges Chancellor to Safeguard Independent Retail in Upcoming Autumn Statement

24 Sep 2024

The British Independent Retailers Association (Bira) is set to address critical issues facing the UK's high streets at its upcoming Annual Conference, marking the event's return after a six-year... Read more…

Independent Retailers Association says steady inflation at 2.2% provides stability, but calls for interest rate reductio

19 Sep 2024

The British Independent Retailers Association (Bira) has said the inflation rate holding steady at 2.2% in August provides some stability for the high street - but stresses the Bank of England... Read more…

Reducing the Carbon Footprint of Cash Processing – A Guide for Businesses

17 Sep 2024

UK Finance and others who form the Cash Industry Environment Charter have been discussing best practices when it comes to cash deposits, and as a result have produced a short guide on reducing... Read more…

Local crafters band together to sell handmade goods in new shop

17 Sep 2024

A group of crafters have banded together to open a new store in Wickham, Hampshire selling their own handmade goods.
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New data - pharmacies, pubs and banks made up half of the closures on Britain's High Streets in the first six months of 2024.

17 Sep 2024

New data has revealed that a total of 6,945 stores have closed so far in 2024 - the equivalent of 38 shops per day, although if you balance this with new store openings, there's only a net... Read more…

Town becomes hotspot for Taylor Swift fans with themed cafe and shop.

17 Sep 2024

Nestled in the Anglesey community of Beaumaris, a shop and café have built their business around all things Taylor Swift, and fans seem to love it. The Mock Turtle in Beaumaris,... Read more…

FSB launches blueprint to revitalise UK high streets and boost tourism

Posted on in Business News, Cycles News

The Federation of Small Businesses has launched a new initiative, which it says aims to transform high streets across the UK, by advancing economic, social, and cultural benefits, while also fostering job creation.

Street Night

With nearly half of small tourism and hospitality businesses located on or near high streets, the future of these bustling hubs is crucial for the growth of the tourism industry.

According to a survey conducted by the FSB, over half (57%) of small hospitality businesses believe that the creation of new tourist attractions and cultural events presents one of the greatest opportunities for revitalising high streets.

In response, the FSB has launched a blueprint titled The Future of the High Street, outlining practical recommendations to make high streets more attractive and accessible, and to boost tourism by encouraging innovative small businesses.

FSB Policy Chair Tina McKenzie highlighted the essential role small businesses play, not only in generating revenue and creating jobs, but also in enhancing the market for other local businesses.

“High streets are more than just commercial spaces; they’re destinations in their own right and are inextricably linked to our tourism industry. To support the industry, we must do more, as a nation, to make radical policy change to breathe a new lease of life into our high streets,” McKenzie said.

The FSB's blueprint calls for key changes, including the provision of affordable commercial space. By filling vacant sites and offering opportunities for small businesses eager to establish themselves, high streets could become hubs of innovation and growth.

The FSB also urges local authorities to create specialised funds that support pop-ups, markets, and temporary use initiatives, allowing first-time businesses to transition onto the high street.

McKenzie also pointed to the importance of modern, well-planned infrastructure, such as improved transport links and parking, in attracting tourists to high streets. “Every high street has a unique heritage and feel, but they all have one thing in common – the need for policies to make them safer, more peaceful, cleaner, and more appealing and exciting,” she added.

Another key recommendation is for the Department of Culture, Media and Sport to collaborate with VisitBritain, VisitEngland, and local visitor economy partnerships to showcase Britain’s local high streets as must-see destinations in international tourism campaigns. This could attract more tourists to lesser-known areas, beyond the usual hotspots, unlocking potential in untapped regions.

In 2023, Britain welcomed 38 million international tourists, who spent £31.1 billion, with an average spend of £819 per visit. While visits remained 7% below pre-pandemic levels, the FSB believes that invigorating high streets can help drive a resurgence in tourism, benefiting local economies and businesses across the country.

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