Shrewsbury’s star businesses fly the Independents’ Day flag

News
01/07/2016

Shrewsbury has thrown the spotlight on small businesses and their loyal customers as stars of the high street to celebrate Independents’ Day on Monday 4th July.

A representative group of local independent retailers and their loyal customers gathered in Shrewsbury town centre to flag up the important role they play in a diverse and successful town centre.

It was a show of support for a UK wide campaign to celebrate the economic and social contributions made by independent businesses to local communities.

Kirsten Henly, Executive Director of Shrewsbury BID, said: “We are very fortunate in Shrewsbury to have such a strong and diverse independent offer from retail, leisure and hospitality businesses. They offer specialist products and unique experiences for customers and drive a sense of enterprise which sets the town apart and provides something different.

“It’s fitting that we celebrate our independent stars on 4th July and remind people to keep supporting them so they continue to grow and prosper here.”

Shrewsbury is believed to have more than 400 independents operating in the town, from boutiques to artisan suppliers, restaurants, bars and family businesses.

Long established independents include Tanners Wines, independent family shippers of estate wines since 1842.

The variety of independents also includes newcomers CSons, Ginger and Co and Peaberry, who have been welcomed to keep the town’s appeal original and interesting.

David Whittaker from Acoustic Boutique in Shrewsbury’s town square said:

“Independents’ Day is a great opportunity to not only make stars out of our great independent business owners but also thank our star customers who have earned their stripes by supporting independent businesses over the years. Shrewsbury has a fantastic reputation for its independent retail and leisure offering as well as a great community spirit, and together this makes it an ideal place to do business.”

Independent businesses who joined the celebrating included Heavenly Brides, Vinterior, Cooking Kneads, Acoustic Boutique, County Sleep Shop, Peaberry, Write Here!, White Orchard, Bang and Olufsen, Shrewsbury Country Market Traders in the Market Hall, Bread and Loaf, Sorted in the Market Hall, e-Collectica Games in the Market Hall, County Goldsmiths and Woodings and Co.