High Streets in Trouble?
13-09-2011
High Streets in Trouble?
A recent survey of 100 towns and cities by the Local Data Company has uncovered some unstettling evidence for high streets around the country. Some towns and cities now have as many as one in three shops empty; with many of these being independent shops and businesses.Thanks to the economic climate, shoppers are spending less but rent continues to rise year on year and some businesses are struggling to afford it.
On average, across the UK, one in seven shops has remained empty but these new statistics show that it is still a worrying time for retailers even though we are meant to be out of the recession. Andrew Cave from the Federation of Small Businesses commented that the research shows that confidence has plummeted.
Fashion Capital knows only too well about how rent is affecting independent businesses. British Designers@Fashion Capital open in Bath last Spetember and has been really well received by everyone due to the unique nature of the store.
The boutique sells discounted pieces by designers at London Fashion Week and also gives graduates and new designers the opportunity to showcase and sell their designs. Without it, a lot of designer’s collections wouldn’t be seen and the brands would not have any income coming in.
As Fashion Capital is a not for profit organisation, they only take a small commission from each sale to cover staffing costs, with the rest going to the designer. Bath and North East Sommerset Council have been charging a reduced rent rate for the past 12 months because of this but have now concluded that full rates need to be paid. If not then the British Designers@ Fashion Capital will close and Bath will lose a bit of individuality. Fashion Capital are appealing against the decision and if you want to support them please sign the online petition at http://www.petitiononline.co.uk/petition/british-designersfashioncapital-bath-save-our-shop/2977 and make sure British Designers have the opportunity to follow their dreams, whilst supplying us with beautiful clothes!
By Adriana Panas-Webb
