High Street stores opening rates fall to lowest in seven years
UK High Street stores are opening at their lowest level in seven years, new research reveals. more»
High streets
Rising household costs drive down spending power of concerned shoppers
UK shoppers are feeling increasingly strained about splashing their cash because only a third feel better off than a year ago, new research has found. more»
Bricks to global clicks: How small retailers can become an online exporting powerhouse
Writing for Business Advice, Jeremy Cook, chief economist at payment platform WorldFirst, helps small high street retailers grasp online exporting opportunities and establish themselves internationally. more»
“Beast from the East” hands snowed-in Scottish retailers unexpected sales boost
Retail sales in Scotland warmed up last month as shoppers blasted by the “Beast from the East” snow storms stocked up on extra winter clothes. more»
Small music venues call for emergency business rates review in bid for survival
The growing business rates burden is threatening the survival of Britain’s small music venues, according to findings from the country’s first live music census. more»
Could cryptocurrency payments be a high street reality in two years?
Over a third of small UK business owners believe cryptocurrencies will be accepted on the high street within two years, according to new research suggesting a mainstream future for alternative payment methods. more»
ATM network funding cut condemned by small businesses and MPs
Britain’s largest ATM network has confirmed proposals to reduce funding for cash machine providers, leading to condemnation from politicians and small business groups. more»
Fairer taxation of digital economy crucial to high street survival, MPs warn
The government must help independent shopkeepers remain competitive by reforming the way online firms such as Amazon and ASOS are taxed, according to a committee of MPs. more»
Rural shopkeepers demand improved digital infrastructure to meet investment ambitions
Britain’s rural convenience store owners invested £315m into their business in 2017, new research has found, but poor digital infrastructure has undermined efforts to deliver crucial services to local communities. more»
Bath shopkeeper calls for support after £300 fine for putting rubbish out too early
Pankaj Raichura was issued with the fine after a Bath and North East Somerset council officer found cardboard boxes outside his newsagents before 5am. more»
