Exclusive: Representatives from British retailers have launched a new initiative taking on issues with the high streets, as well as unlocking opportunities for growth, Retail Week can reveal.
The launch of the scheme dubbed High Streets UK aims to develop programmes and policy recommendations that allow flagship UK high streets to drive “local and national growth”. This goes hand in hand with the government’s focus on creating a more productive and sustainable economy.
The group formed of representatives from UK high streets will meet every quarter to share learnings and discuss solutions to challenges faced by high streets, such as retail crime increasing, anti-social behaviour, business rates and planning laws.
The founding members of the initiative include Buisness Improvement Districts from cities such as Birmingham, Bristol, Cardiff, Edinburgh, Liverpool, Leeds and London.
The high streets involved represent over 5,000 businesses, contribute £34.7bn in GVA each year, and welcome over 473 million visitors annually.
New West End Company chief executive and chair of High Streets UK Dee Corsi said: “We know that thriving, flagship high streets can be powerful drivers of economic growth and employment, with the positive halo effects felt across the country.
“And, with the right policy environment, these destinations can contribute much more than just economic growth; they can be places where communities congregate, businesses flourish, and international investment flows.
“I look forward to working with colleagues across the country to develop new ideas and solutions that will secure the future success of our nation’s flagship high streets and the economic, social, and cultural impact they have.”
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