This week I was invited along to a meeting organised by a group of independents in Wilmslow whose businesses are all kid-related. They met to plan events and activities focussed on encouraging visitors and customers back to the town centre.
Jo Nicholson, Managing Director of Little Nut Tree Toys explained "There seems to be a common theme running through conversations between retailers in Wilmslow - pedestrian traffic and customers seem to be declining. So rather than sit in doom and gloom a group of independents have decided to inspire and encourage them back to the centre."
Jo continued, “There is a wonderful unity about the businesses in Wilmslow that have a great desire to see it succeed and not dwindle to a town centre filled with empty units and chain stores. We all agree that chains add a really important element, but maintaining a unique shopping experience in the suburbs is absolutely essential and we hear every day that our customers love being able to have a choice of both independents and chains.
"There is however a price for both the retailer and the customer. We as the retailers need to give our customers reasons to come to us, not just relying on great product and customer service. Customers expect more these days – entertainment, fun and exciting environments to shop in. If the customer gives up on us, that’s when we truly start to see the demise of the local high street.”
The Wilmslow Independent Traders (WIT) group is fighting against this tide. Although it has been started by retailers united by the common theme of children, this is something that can involve all independents and all types of local businesses from clothing to bars and hairdressers to estate agents.
When asked why only independents, Jo explained "We needed to start with a group of businesses with a similar focus, who are in control of their budgets and able to make decisions that can be implemented quickly. Keeping it to a small number of retailers in the first instance has meant that today we have already planned our first event and shared out the tasks related to it.
"It was fantastic to sit round a table watching with excitement as different businesses engaged with each other and agreed on a common goal – which is working to make Wilmslow more of a vibrant destination."
"WIT are also incredibly keen to get the local council involved and although George Osbourne and Diane Smith, Town Centre Manager, sent their apologies Councillor Gary Barton was able to attend and was incredibly supportive of the events we are planning to put on."
WIT are open to any independent retailers, be warned though, they have a pot on the table which means that anyone offering negative comments has to contribute £1, to be used for advertising forthcoming events. WIT have adopted the slogan 'simply no negativity allowed'.
Members of WIT expressed concern that the Council is not investing money in the right places. It was noted that vinyl wrappings have been placed over the windows of empty units on Grove Street advising residents to shop and think local, however Jo commented "that money could be invested in keeping the heart of Wilmslow beating.
"The residents in and around Wilmslow are also pivotal in keeping local trade and our centres thriving. So if you have any ideas of events you would like to see going on in Wilmslow then why not get in touch with one of the founder retailers: Little Big Heads, Wilmslow Football Academy, Ten Little Monkeys, Kiddy Creche, Kids Exchange, 0-16, Footsteps and Little Nut Tree Toys."
We will bring you news shortly regarding the first event WIT are planning for local children but in the meantime they really are keen to hear what you would like to see from Wilmslow's independent retailers. Your feedback, good, bad or indifferent is most welcome, but be aware that contributions to the £1 pot do apply if you're not positive.
