Member Article

Shoppers want more independents on the high street

British shoppers want to see more independent traders on their high streets, and not all prefer the convenience of online buying, a new report suggests.

Thousands of shoppers were asked their opinions for Kantar Retail’s The Future of the Great British High Street: Voice of the Consumer report.

Over 70% of respondents said they would like to see more independents - particularly clothes and food and drink sellers.

31% like the idea of virtually seeing products and items on themselves or in the home environment via holograms before buying.

While some are open to having more self-service facilities in-store (37%), almost half say that having more of this type of technology is a negative thing.

Richard Jones, VP of National Accounts, Groupon UK and IE says: “Despite the rise in online shopping and self-service technology that businesses should support, it seems that the back to basics approach of having physical stores and specialist staff on hand is critical, as consumers want to emotionally connect with the brand, talk to experts and physically see and touch products.

“Consumers also want more bang for their buck. As such, independent businesses must consider how to make their offer stand out both on and offline to deliver better value, quality and customer service. By acting on what customers want, they can boost footfall and local commerce – we are helping small businesses do just this, so that they thrive on the High Street.”

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Tom Keighley .