Independents’ Day!

Yesterday, July 4th was the inaugural UK Independents’ Day for our local high streets independent retailers. Launched with great success and with the backing of a number of supporting retail and local government organisations it highlighted the many benefits brought to our communities by independent stores.

The initiative was primarily aimed to encourage the public to celebrate diversity on the high street and to support their local, independent retailers on July 4th, unfortunately for us we only heard of the event the day before and hadn’t time to plan a concurrent event. Next year we plan to offer something very special!

Support Your Local High Street

Recent research from the Local Data Company’s survey of 2,700 retail destinations have found that despite recent gains retail vacancy rates have started to rise again and currently stand at 14.6%. That’s more than 50,000 units, a staggering number which highlights the difficult trading conditions for many.

We at Dalzell’s of Markethill have been very lucky throughout this period with thanks to you our loyal and still growing number of patrons. Many though have not been so fortunate and we would ask you to consider them before making a transaction. Independent retailers boost competition, create diversity, offer superb personal service, have excellent product knowledge. What’s more they provide real jobs (not minimum wage part time positions) and help build and maintain the communities in which we all live. In short, it is in all our interests to ensure they survive this difficult period and thrive in the future.

Our Town – Markethill

In Northern Ireland in general and particularly in Markethill we are truly spoilt with our offering of independent retailers with the service, price and products they make available to us and the effect they have on our communities. J. D. Hunter and Co. must truly be one of the best independent supermarkets in the country with everything that a multiple can offer and more while Alexanders of Markethill (Furnishings and Homewares) would sit comfortably in any major UK city. While other newer, smaller independents such as Vintage Floral Boutique and Sara Dalzell Photography have been recognised in leading publications for their high standards.

In conclusion, we the independent traders are there for you both in the service we directly provide to you and that to the community at large (In our case, the sponsorship of local sports clubs, charities, schools and civic events). We thank you for your support and we ask you to continue to consider all independents before every purchase.

If you are a retailer or simply wish to learn more about the initiative visit them on Twitter or Facebook.