Sadly, most town centres are on the decline.  Many shops are closing in every high street across the country.  It’s so sad to see there really is a high street crisis at the moment.  The places I used to visit quite regularly seem to have more empty shops now.  I know the Internet is convenient.  But nothing beats a browse round some proper shops.

Luckily our small town seems to be doing quite well.  It’s had a bit of a revival, which I think is the exception rather than the rule.  I think its down to the sense of community and the fact the shops really take pride in their appearance.  To get more foot traffic I think shops need to think about how they display products, through a combination of slat walling and an interesting mix of shop fittings.

Shops that look run down I tend to give a wide berth, which is a shame really as they probably need the foot traffic the most.  But I think investment in your shop is essential for continued success.

1,000 shops have ceased trading in two years according to this article in the Express.  Big recognisable brands are having to cut back the number of stores they keep open so what chance do the sole traders have?

Why is it happening?

A few different factors are attributed to the high street crisis.  Mainly the huge shift towards online shopping that’s great for certain companies but it has taken the heart out of many towns.  I hate the sight of empty boarded shops.  Although if you do have a business its worth keeping an online presence too.  Social media can make a BIG difference to the popularity of a business.  Take Finch Bakery for example I heard about it on Facebook and I was willing to travel 3 hours each way just to buy cake jars!

Apparently, people are spending less as wages haven’t been going up and they have less disposable income for shopping aside from the essentials.  I have made a few cutbacks myself, trying to spend less because of the uncertainty with Brexit.

What can you do?

If you have your own shop some of the following might help you get more foot traffic and hopefully weather the uncertainty of the high street crisis.

Window Display

But time and effort making this look appealing.  It will coax people off the pavement and into your shop!

Add Some Bunting

Bunting always looks so cheerful, I love seeing it outside shops.  It really draws the eye and gives the high street a bit of a lift!  I think when one shop puts in more effort others tend to copy.  So raise the bar and get others to follow your lead!

Have A Feature

If you have a character outside your shop that will get people to stop and take photos with them!  Or something exciting inside the shop that gets people through the door, hopefully those people will also go on to make purchases.

Reward Loyalty

You want to hang on to every customer you have.  Consider having a reward card that gives a saving after so many purchases.

Have you noticed changes to your high street?