This ad will be closed automatically in X seconds.

UK indies return to growth for the first time in four years

New figures have shown that the independent retail market has returned to growth in the first half of 2021.

The Local Data Company (LDC) has this week released figures for the first half of 2021, which show a net addition of 804 independent retail stores for the period, showing more openings than closures.

The growth has been attributed to an increase in consumers wanting to shop locally, as well as concerns around sustainability and a desire to support local businesses. The LDC also attributed the growth to the Government’s furlough scheme and business rates relief.

By contrast, chain stores saw a net loss of 5,251 in the first half of the year, which although signifying a reduced rate of loss on the previous six months, was still reported to be higher than pre-pandemic closures.

Lucy Stainton, commercial director at LDC, commented: “Independent operators are also benefiting from the volume of available units, many of which come with attractive deals from a new market of shopping centre landlords who are now looking to the independent sector to fill the significant number of stores being vacated by chains.”

MORE NEWS
Copy of Progressive Preschool featured image (19)
 
Progressive Party looks at the importance of licensing in the sector and what the latest trends are....
Copy of Progressive Preschool featured image (18)
 
Spring Fair 2025 is on track to sell out at its 75th anniversary edition. ...
Copy of Progressive Preschool featured image (17)
 
Rubies has been recognised at Walmart's Sustainability Milestone Meeting as one of 10 vendors working towards more sustainable practices....
Copy of Progressive Preschool featured image (16)
 
Essex-based balloon shop, Heartfelt Balloons, has relocated to a new premises in Hadleigh....
Copy of Progressive Preschool featured image (15)
 
Customers can now shop from over 700 Party City stores across the US on Instacart for same-day delivery in as fast as an hour....
Copy of Progressive Preschool featured image (3)
 
Research by Vypr has shown that the cost-of-living crisis is affecting how UK consumers plan to celebrate Halloween this year. ...
Get the latest news sent to your inbox
Subscribe to our daily newsletter