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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...

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%).

25 Sep 2024

Major media outlets, including the BBC and Sky News, as well as regional and cycling-focused media to the growing  have been giving significant coverage to E-Bike Positive, the largest-ever...

25 Sep 2024

The Association of Cycle Traders (ACT) is excited to announce its new partnership with Renticy, the dynamic platform transforming retail through rental solutions. This collaboration brings a...

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...

23 Sep 2024

Madison is teaming up with Cytech and the Rediscovery Centre in Ireland, to offer a first-class bicycle mechanic training facility by providing a full Park Tool workshop.

23 Sep 2024

A report from active travel charity Sustrans has found that a total of 1.9 million, or 38 per cent of people on a low income or not in employment want to cycle, or cycle more, but are...

23 Sep 2024

Independent shops are not concerned about Halfords' decision to double its offering of premium bikes, according to interviews with Cycling Weekly.

23 Sep 2024

Cycling Electric has published  an investigation into how misinformation on ‘electric bike’ fires imay be increasing the danger to consumers and affecting sales of...

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...

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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