UK shoppers and retailers were asked what they would like to see more and less of on the high street (Image: Getty)
A new report has revealed what makes up a dream British high street — including a bakery, free parking and an independent coffee shop. Researchers also found that Brits are keen for a bank, a cash point, independent restaurants and a butcher in their local area. A supermarket, chemist and cafes rounded out the top 10 most wanted list, alongside selected chains including Greggs, Marks & Spencer and Boots.
High streets may be going through a rough patch, with retailers including Claire’s, Poundland, WH Smith and New Look all closing branches last year, but there may be hope yet, with Keir Starmer pledging £319 million in rejuvenation funds through the ‘Pride in Place’ scheme. The Voices of Retail report, carried out by major retail voices Spring & Autumn Fair also identified the things Brits don’t want on their high streets, however, including vape shops, boarded up units, gambling arcades and bookmakers.
Independent restaurants were among the high street staples named by those surveyed (Image: Getty)
The Voices of Retail surveyed 2,040 UK shoppers alongside 650 UK retailers, the first time both sides have been measured together to offer a clearer picture of what’s happening on Britain’s high streets.
And despite constant reports of its decline, 50% of its Brits said their local high street remained an important part of their community, with an average monthly spend of £66, and 95% saying they would spend more if a better mix of shops were on offer.
More than two-thirds of respondents also said free short-stay parking was essential, with 38% of retailers similarly identifying parking as a key lever for unlocking growth.
Paul Grout, 65, owner of MEAT N16, an independent butchers based in Stoke Newington, said: “Free parking definitely is a big driver, and when Mr and Mrs Jones can’t just drive up the street and pick up their Sunday roast then it stops them from coming to small businesses.”
Tanner Kose, 32, whose family have run Sapid Coffee shop in the north London borough for five years, said independent businesses create a stronger sense of community, wherever they are in the country.
Tanner Kose helps run his family’s independent coffee shop in London (Image: Jeremy Selwyn)
“I know I can go and borrow lids or cups or milk from one of the other shops if I run out,” he said. “I couldn’t do that with Gails or Starbucks.”
Also in spite of the challenging retail climate, the report found that seven in 10 independent retailers are reporting stable or growing trade, with nearly two in five actively expanding, especially those investing in brand, storytelling and community.
Christiana Charalambous, 36, who works in PREP, cook, shop, attributed the positive trend to demand for “human connection” amid a rise in impersonal customer service such as self-checkouts.
Charlotte Broadbent, UK General Manager at Faire, said: “For most people, their local high street is still the centre of their community, and what surprised us most is just how strong that demand remains.
“Over the last 20 years, retailers have faced constant challenges, from the rise of online shopping to investment shifting towards out-of-town retail parks. But despite that, shoppers are still choosing to support their high street, particularly independent businesses.”
Christiana Charalambous attributed the popularity of independent shops to a desire for connection (Image: Jeremy Selwyn)
The top 20 things Brits would like to see on their dream high street
3. Independent coffee shops – 59%
6. Independent restaurants – 57%
11. Independent bars – 45%
13. Quirky Gift Shops – 43%
14. Takeaway Shop – 41%
16. Independent Book Shop – 41%
20. Longer Opening Hours – 36%
The top 10 things people want to see less of on their high streets
2. Empty / boarded-up shop units (66%)
3. Gambling arcades (52%)
5. Payday loan shops / cash converters (41%)
7. Phone repair and accessory shops (31%)
8. Fast food takeaways (26%)
10. Chain coffee shops (19%)