It was great to see the (re)launch of Made In Ashford, the local craft and creative shop which supports many local artists. Another positive story for Ashford and high streets in general

#Ashford #MadeInAshford #HighStreet #Creatives #Artists #HighStreetPositives #ShopLocal #Retail #NewShop

Isn’t there a concern - as the #HighStreetPositives survey showed - that negativity has a real impact on footfall, dwell-time and so investment / letting decisions…?
Worse could you argue that the ‘death of…’ narrative landed us with policy changes that weren’t what was needed, in fact the opposite…

There are so many positives out there too and - like those you’ve highlighted - really good people working hard to make their places better.

There’s also the #HighStreetPositives survey that shows why positivity works by encouraging a real footfall / dwell-time impact.

Hope that all makes sense 🤞

Maybe go #HighStreetPositives as @grahamsoult.bsky.social suggests: “Retail is a major employer with determined, resilient, innovative people at every level. It’s doing great stuff in challenging times and could make an even bigger contribution to your growth target given supportive policy & regs…?”

Proud of the team for relaunching the #Ashford #TownCentre #Grants.
Some great outcomes so far and more good news to follow soon.

Find out more: www.ashford.gov.uk/news/latest-...

#business #HighStreet #EmptyShop #Retail #Leisure #shopping #HighStreetPositives #funding #BusinessNews #LoveAshford

List of shop openings in April anyone…? #HighStreetPositives

It’s January. But we’ve just sent a 100th positive #highstreet story this month to the #HighStreetPositives campaign incl brand #retail or #hospitality openings; online-only traders launching bricks & mortar; new indies; agent requirement lists; upbeat trading reports. It’s challenging still, but… 🤷🏼‍♂️