The issue of independents vs. chain stores is not unique to the US, and this news clip from BBC entitles “Can independent shops save the High Street?’ indicates.  The High Street (Main Street to us Yanks) is facing serious challenges: according to the statistics quoted in this article from last year, more than one out of 10 retail spaces in the UK were vacant.

The number was lower, however, in areas that have managed to preserve a large number of independent businesses. Why? In part because shoppers enjoy the experience of shopping in smaller stores.  However in order to make the experience memorable, “High Streets will have to reinvent themselves,” according to Bill Grimsey of Wickes and Iceland.

Although he sees some of the movement to create a positive shopping experience through neighborhood cleanups and a calendar of special events as “gimmicks and public relations,” the statistics show that in areas with a crucial mass of shops, the public enjoys buying local.

The key is for communities not to let the number of independent stores dwindle so that Main Street becomes a center for offices, recreation and housing.  Towns and neighborhoods that value their unique personality will do well to support locally owned businesses so that a downward spiral doesn’t make it impossible for shops and restaurants to thrive there.

One of the issues is the cost of real estate, which becomes challenging for retailers when those wanting locations for other uses can pay higher rent.  Zoning and tax support — much like that used to keep farmland from becoming suburbs — could be used to keep the retail economy on Main Street thriving.  Like our English counterparts, we appreciate the uniqueness of independent businesses, and we don’t want our Main Streets to become obsolete because of chain stores and online shopping.

Happy Retailing,

Carol “Orange” Schroeder