Shoppers urged to support independent stores

Peter Smith from Fantasy and Reality, Marie Ward from Olivers and Billy Nazran from Phone Zone are backing the campaign

A campaign has been launched in Coventry urging people to support independent businesses or "risk losing their contribution to the city".

Five have closed since the start of the year, Coventry Business Improvement District (BID) said, although three new stores have opened in the city in the past seven months.

Coventry BID manager Joanne Glover said trading conditions were increasingly challenging for independent retailers and it was more important than ever to support them.

Residents are being urged to show their support by shopping locally and share positive experiences through reviews.

A 2023 report showed footfall on the High Street remains 10-20% below pre-Covid levels.

“It’s no secret that the last few years have been really difficult for businesses and small, family-run, independent businesses have been some of the hardest hit,” Ms Glover said.

“We have an incredible selection of independents in Coventry, each adds unique value to our offer and it is a massive blow every time one has to close its doors.

“They keep our local economy vibrant and diverse and its essential that we support them."

There are currently more than 80 independent firms in the city.

CV1 Ltd Menswear, Quick Feast and Phone Matters have started operating this year, the group said.