Welcome to the second edition of HighStreetPositives! We’re committed to countering the negative media narrative around UK and Irish high streets by highlighting the positive high street news such as; the vibrant stories of unique shops, community projects, and exciting local events that make these areas thriving hubs of activity. Our focus is on increasing footfall, sparking creativity, and inspiring investment to help high streets become more dynamic and welcoming spaces.

Whilst we focus on the positives, we’re not shying away from the challenges high streets face or the lobbying needed to address them. This newsletter is a labour of love, and to continue delivering these updates and growing our initiatives, we need financial support. We have plenty of ideas for expansion through sponsorships and collaborations, and if you’d like to get involved, we’d love to hear from you! If you want to get involved please email [email protected], or would like to contribute please buymeacoffee.

‘The high street is dying’ they said…however…

There are loads of positive news stories from high streets across the UK. Here's a selection of highlights , celebrating new store openings, regeneration projects, and other positive developments

• Mountain Warehouse is planning to open 50 new stores next year, expanding its 370-store global presence. With record revenue of £386 million and £26.2 million in pre-tax profit, the outdoor retailer is confident in the UK high street’s future and is taking over key spaces like the former Wilko site in Cornwall

• The Architectural Heritage Fund (AHF) supports the regeneration of UK high streets by helping communities restore and reuse historic buildings, breathing new life into town centres through grants, loans, and expertise. Their recent high streets work in England has supported over 239 projects, driving economic growth and fostering vibrant, community-led regeneration. The evaluation of this work demonstrates the need for ongoing investment. For more information see here

• Carlisle's city centre is undergoing a series of positive high street revitalisation projects, backed by over £80 million in public funding, including the UK Government’s Future High Street Fund and Town Deal Fund. Key projects include the £27 million Carlisle Station Gateway regeneration and improvements to Devonshire and English Streets, focusing on expanding pedestrian areas, cycle routes, and outdoor seating. Enhancements in Market Square and The Greenmarket aim to create vibrant, welcoming spaces that attract more visitors and support local businesses, helping to rejuvenate the heart of the city. These city centre initiatives amongst others, are being highlighted and promoted by the independently run 'Love Carlisle' initiative run by volunteer Colin May.

• Crew Clothing recently posted strong results for last year and the brand is expanding with new stores, including Hexham and Monmouth (both currently being fitted out by Future City), whilst continuing to invest in its online presence.

• Good2Great, a Bridgnorth-based consultancy, is delivering two new initiatives across several Midlands towns to revitalise the high street. Partnering with Stafford Borough and South Staffordshire Councils, their free High Street Boost program offers workshops, one-to-one training, and business support for town centre businesses, covering five key modules. The initiative, developed with Carmel Allen, former creative director for brands like Heal’s and the Conran Shop, aims to improve retail performance and foot traffic. Additionally, a Place Seminar in Telford highlighted successful partnerships, such as the Love Wellington initiative, and the creative repurposing of high street spaces like The Orbit in Wellington.

• Holland & Barrett has opened over 300 new stores and refits this year, showcasing their strong investment in the high street. With new locations in Brighton, Holloway Road, and a Tesco Borehamwood partnership, they continue to transform their brand and expand their wellness offerings through innovative store formats and technology.

• 1657 Chocolate House, in Kendal, Cumbria, has been recognised by Theo Paphitis as a #SBS winner! This accolade highlights the vibrant spirit of small businesses making waves on the high street.

• Laings has recently opened a new flagship store in Glasgow, on Buchanan Street, investing £5 million to transform the historic Rowan House into a 7,113 sqft luxury showroom. The two-floor space features a Rolex Authorised Service Centre, a wide range of luxury watch brands including Rolex, Patek Philippe, and TAG Heuer, as well as a dedicated pre-owned watch section. The second floor showcases the extensive jewellery collection, including the bespoke Laings Family Collection.

• Buchanan Street is also experiencing exciting updates with a newly renovated Mappin & Webb store and the Glasgow Watch & Jewellery Company's second store in the iconic Argyle Arcade. The street continues to enhance its status as a top luxury shopping destination, featuring brands like Rolex, OMEGA, Breitling, Tudor, and Longines. Thank you to Stephanie McIntosh for all Glasgow news.

• Knoops, the leading retailer of expertly crafted chocolate drinks, is raising £5m to expand its store estate in the UK and globally. The company aims to replicate the barista coffee experience for chocolate drinks and has opened a Crowdcube campaign to allow supporters to become shareholders, responding to strong customer interest in investing. The expanded allocation of the EIS fundraise reflects Knoops' commitment to involving its community in its global growth vision.

• Exciting developments have taken place on Hurstpierpoint High Street, with the opening of two new businesses: HurstWorks coworking space and Wellness34, a wellness centre and practitioner collective. In addition, an abandoned butcher's shop in Worksop, North Nottinghamshire, has been transformed into Treatyourself by Joyce, a bakery café. All three units were previously unoccupied and required significant repairs, and now plans for the next project are already in motion!

• The Rooftop Social Club in Chester is an exciting new social space opening in the heart of Chester in October 2024. Located on Pepper Street, this venue will offer independent street food, great drinks, and a variety of games and activities, making it perfect for fun outings or friendly competition. Designed to be welcoming to everyone and suitable for all weather conditions, it's set to become a vibrant destination in the city. Thank you Chester BID for sharing.

• Newcastle Building Society is enhancing high streets by investing in community-focused branch refurbishments and new openings. Their Hartlepool branch will undergo a full refit, including a new community room for local groups and charities, while continuing to serve customers through a temporary ‘pop-up’ branch. They are also opening a new branch in Pickering, North Yorkshire, in a vacant high street unit, which is warmly welcomed by the community due to the upcoming closure of the last remaining bank in town. Additionally, their new North Shields branch, co-located with YMCA North Tyneside, integrates with the community's vibrant spaces, reflecting a commitment to creatively maintaining and growing their presence in key high street locations.

• Threads for All opened a couple of months ago, transforming a previously vacant unit in Ipswich's The Walk into a bustling hub of affordable new and vintage fashion, homewares, and unique products from local artisans. This exciting addition is helping to breathe new life into the town centre and marks a positive step in its ongoing rejuvenation.

• Scamp & Dude has expanded its retail presence with a new store in St Ann’s Square, Manchester, marking its largest location yet at 2,000 sq ft. This new shop, the brand’s sixth in the UK, offers more than just fashion; it aims to be a vibrant community hub where customers can enjoy complimentary refreshments, attend events, and engage in charitable programs. The opening was celebrated with an exclusive preview of the AW24 collection. Founded by Jo Tutchener-Sharp, Scamp & Dude is committed to giving back, having donated over 50,000 Super Scarves to women starting chemotherapy.

• Lytham St Annes is buzzing with exciting retail developments. Vareys has opened a stunning store featuring high-end country clothing brands like Barbour and Dubarry. The Old Bank House Chocolate has launched a second location, offering delicious treats. Loungers Group is opening a new site, while Stringers department store is expanding into a neighboring building, with plans to move its homeware department by Christmas. Finally, Beurre St Annes, run by a Bake Off finalist, has opened a French patisserie, selling out daily with its exquisite cakes and beautiful presentation. Thank you to Vicki Day for sharing Lytham news.

• Henley's independent scene is thriving! Magoos Wine Bar celebrates 20 years, Hot Gossip coffee shop marks 17, Laurence Menswear hits 12, and Henley Pet Shop is going strong at 42 years. Bagatelle Toy Shop continues to shine after 46 years. A town-centric Halloween event is planned, the Planet Organic site has been let, and a Bell Street unit was snapped up before the previous tenant even left. Thank you to Philippa Ratcliffe from Experience Henley for sharing.

Indie Retail…The heartbeat of our high streets

Independent retailers are the lifeblood of the UK high street, offering a personal, unique experience that larger chains often can’t match. Whether long-established or new to the scene, these businesses are vital to the character and vibrancy of our town centres.

Heritage independents, like Blandford Fruit Stores in Marylebone, are a perfect example. Serving locals since 1922, this family-run greengrocer has been a cornerstone of the community for over a century. Arif (Eric), who has worked there since 1976, starts his day at 3am at Covent Garden Market, fostering the personal relationships that make this shop so cherished.

But the high street isn’t just about history. Newcomers like Avorium in York, run by siblings Tom, Georgia, and Olivia, are bringing fresh energy and creativity. Specialising in sustainable, personalised desk accessories designed to make workspaces more enjoyable, Avorium has resonated with shoppers, leading to the opening of a second shop in Leeds Corn Exchange and a presence at Christmas markets across the UK.

Another unique addition is the Poetry Pharmacy in Bishop's Castle, Shropshire—the world’s first ever poetry pharmacy. Offering walk-in “prescriptions” in the form of literary gifts and books to heal emotional ailments, the Poetry Pharmacy has become a destination in itself. With a beautiful Victorian shop and a cosy Dispensary Café, it’s a haven for book lovers. Its recent expansion to the 1st floor of London’s Oxford Street Lush Spa has further enhanced its reach, blending literary curation with local coffee.

Florists also make a vibrant contribution. Going Dutch Florist in Colne revitalised a vacant bank into the stunning "Flower Bank," bringing colour and charm to the local high street. After 30 years in business, their return has been warmly embraced by the community. Similarly, Michelle’s Flowers in Pontefract, which began as a family-run fruit and veg shop in 2004, has flourished as a beloved florist committed to supporting local causes like The Prince of Wales Hospice.

Even in the world of leisure, independents are making their mark. ArrowHeadz, a darts and social hub in Norwich’s Castle Quarter, recently opened its first physical store, blending retail with entertainment and adding to the area’s bustling atmosphere.

Whether it’s a family-run greengrocer with deep roots in the community, a shop prescribing poetry for emotional well-being, or a fresh new concept like a darts hub, independent retailers play an essential role in shaping the future of the UK high street. Their passion, creativity, and personal touch are vital to keeping our town centres dynamic and thriving.

“The Poetry Pharmacy was always an idea against the grain. When we set it up in 2019 there was nothing but talk of the death of the High Street and also a received wisdom that poetry doesn't sell. Coupled with that we were trying it out in the middle of nowhere, in the Welsh border tiny-town of Bishop's Castle. But from the first it's received lots of attention, some High Street business awards and it has seemed to work. Now our tiny business is on Oxford Street and we can't keep up with the demand for our own hand-made in Shropshire products! “ Deb Alma, Poetry Pharmacy Founder

“Avorium is a fun and friendly independent stationery shop run by three siblings in York. We offer matching pastel-coloured notebooks, diaries, and other stationery that can be personalised on the spot, making each item truly special. We wanted to create an experience in our stores, which is why we're so keen to provide on-the-spot personalisation—customers can watch us foil their names or initials on products live! We're also excited to announce that we've just opened a new store in the Leeds Corn Exchange. Sustainability is super important to us, so you can feel good knowing our products are eco-friendly. We're thrilled to see our sales up from last year and are passionate about supporting the high street's revival. Retail is bouncing back from the COVID pandemic, and things are definitely looking up. Come by and say hi—we'd love to help you find your perfect stationery!” Georgia Calvert, Co-Founder Avorium

‘We believe that physical retail is evolving and reinventing itself to address the changing needs of the consumer. Online shopping has its place and has enjoyed a long period of rapid growth but we think people have been missing the social interaction of going out into the community to shop. This is particularly true when combined with a passion as is the case with darts. We have designed our business to satisfy the darting community’s desire to physically browse and try out darts rather than buying products in isolation based largely on looks , only to discover that their selection doesn’t suit their throw. We are seeking to create a community where darts enthusiasts of all abilities can play their sport, chose their equipment, compete, practice , or just relax in our cafe - bar surrounded by like-minded people.’ Conrad Clarke, Co-Founder Arrowheadz

Why are we loo-sing out?

By Aceil Haddad - Founder MATT PR

While ushering my kids and family around the city this summer, it became abundantly obvious to me that we have a public toilet crisis. According to the British Toilet Association (BTA), we have lost 60% of our public toilets over the last decade and 800 toilets alone were closed during the pandemic with many not reopening.

Cost constraints are largely cited as the reason, which I understand, but what about the larger societal costs, public health, safety and additional cleaning required where people are forced to go outside. Moreover, for those working in the built environment, this has an impact on high streets and regeneration footfall as there are a huge number of people who won’t go out unless there is a toilet they can use – they are on what I have learned is referred to as ‘the toilet leash’.

Retail experts note that the opening of department stores was revolutionary for women, as the likes of Selfridges, Liberty and Fenwicks offered safe and clean toilets, allowing women to go out, socialise… and spend! Maybe here lies a gentle lesson for those thinking about how we get people out and onto our high streets.

Of course, running a public toilet is costly – Swindon Council claims it costs £619,000. With cuts to council budgets, inevitably, toilets were one of the first services to go. However, while I personally think the council and large landlords have a role in providing this service, there are creative ways to do this that are cost effective and beneficial for all.

The City of London has created the Community Toilet Scheme (CTS), under which participating shops, restaurants and bars supplement the City of London’s public toilets by giving the public free access to their toilets during their trading hours. This service could be easily and swiftly replicated across the country.

As a thank you, the City Corporation offers a financial contribution, it advertises the business and provides a window sticker to encourage potential customers to enter the premises. Already there are more than 75 more toilets as a consequence, dramatically bolstering up their 12 City of London-run loos.

Toilets are a basic need for us all, and if there isn’t one available – sometimes you cannot wait to do your business leading to public urination or worse the number two. Westminster Council publicised that it spends nearly a £950k a year cleaning urine stains alone, demonstrating the clear need for accessible public toilets.

One in five people stated that a lack of facilities deters them from leaving home as often as they want to and this figure rises among those with physical and mental health issues. Experts have also suggested there is a link between obesity and the lack of public toilets.

It is a basic human right to have access to adequate toilet facilities, but it’s about more than that – there are social and economic upsides. In short, businesses that want to create a more inclusive and commercially vibrant community should think about the WC – or we will all loo-se out.

This column features guest writers sharing their top advice and key insights on revitalizing the high street. Kicking off with Iain’s top tip on how to reduce the number of vacant units

Pop up Positives

 By Iain Nicholson MIPM - Founder The Vacant Shops Academy (Working on tackling vacancy with 31 locations since 2022)

 A pop up shop (or two) has been a part of every tackling #highstreet vacancy project we’ve run since our first in Wantage in 2013. It’s also been a ‘next steps’ suggestion for all of the locations we’re working in with #TheVacantShopsAcademy - a demonstration of how big a contribution we believe the concept can play.

To be fair it can be challenging to deliver as agents and landlords (and sometimes neighbour businesses) are not always keen for a variety of reasons we’ll happily explain, but for the place and the businesses that pop up, there’s much to gain.

The place gets an empty unit or more back into play, looking better, and gives a genuine test to potential future occupiers (as long as your focus is building a pipeline of tenants for your town or city centre, not simply rates mitigation). The pop ups get to try their product or service, their business model and what it’s like having a high street unit in the place, and build a track record they can demonstrate to landlords.

Often we’ve seen a business that popped up stay and take on a longer lease in the actual unit or at least one in the same location.

There are challenges, lessons to learn from experience, but it’s very much a positive tackling vacancy option to consider.

The Requirement List is a database of active retail & leisure property requirements, used by the majority of the retail property market.

Here are some of the requirements listed with them at the moment:

• Along with traditional department stores, TJ Hughes are looking to open smaller formats to allow for greater flexibility. Targeting High Street, Shopping Centre and Out of Town opportunities. View more...

• Bill's are back on the acquisition hunt! The restaurant brand is looking at high streets, local communities and shopping mall locations throughout the UK and London. Their property requirement flyer can be found here.

•  Jones Bootmaker are seeking 1,200+ sq ft opportunities in city centres and market towns across the UK More info here.

•  Tapi Carpets currently have a particular focus on London and High Street units. Target areas include Brixton, Camden, Chiswick and Wimbledon. View all requirements here

•  Iris Galerie are looking to acquire a number of new stores in prominent high tourist locations for their gallery concept. Target locations include Bath, Edinburgh, Cardiff. You can view their property requirements here

•  Forget Me Not Charity currently trades from 15 shops of varying sizes in the West Yorkshire area. They are looking to grow their property portfolio and have listed their target towns here 

Does your business need to know who's active in the market? You can view more active retail & leisure property requirements here