High Street Transformation and Adaptation
- More than half of independent retailers are optimistic about the future of local high streets
- 4 out of 5 shoppers would miss their local high street if it was gone
- Retailers in East of England are most positive about high street’s future
- Being part of a community and building relationships with customers are key benefits for retailers
- 63% visit high streets at least once a week, 9.2% daily
- 81% would miss their local high street if it no longer existed
- 51.9% want more shops, 36% better parking/transport, 27.8% extended hours to encourage visits
A recent study by the government-run Great British High Street Awards, sponsored by Visa, reveals that over half of independent retailers are optimistic about their local high street’s future. Four out of five shoppers would miss it if it disappeared. Retailers in the East of England are most positive, followed by South West and South East. Being part of a community and customer relationships are key benefits for retailers. Despite some challenges, 81% would miss their high street, and 63% visit at least weekly. To attract more visitors, they want more shops, better parking/transport, and extended hours.
Factuality Level: 8
Factuality Justification: The article provides accurate information from the government-run Great British High Street Awards 2018 sponsored by Visa, with statistics on retailers’ optimism, customer preferences, and the importance of local high streets. It also includes quotes from Suzan Kereere, head of merchant services at Visa. However, it may be slightly biased as it does not mention any negative aspects or alternative perspectives.
Noise Level: 3
Noise Justification: The article provides some relevant information about the opinions of independent retailers and shoppers on their local high streets, but it is mostly focused on promoting the Great British High Street Awards and Visa’s involvement in the event. It lacks in-depth analysis or exploration of long-term trends or consequences of decisions. The claims are supported by data, but the article could benefit from more context and discussion about the factors contributing to these opinions.
Financial Relevance: Yes
Financial Markets Impacted: The article discusses the optimism of independent retailers about the future of their local high street and the preferences of shoppers, which could potentially impact local businesses and the economy.
Financial Rating Justification: The article talks about the opinions of retailers and shoppers on the future of their local high streets and what would encourage them to visit, which can have an effect on local businesses and the economy.
Presence Of Extreme Event: No
Nature Of Extreme Event: Other
Impact Rating Of The Extreme Event: No
Extreme Rating Justification: There is no mention of an extreme event in the last 48 hours.
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