Shop owners and hospitality venues to benefit from Council-backed expert high streets support
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Independent retailers and hospitality businesses in Suffolk’s market towns are set to receive expert support, tailored training and access to grant funding as the High Streets Matter programme expands into the county.
Backed by Suffolk County Council, the initiative will offer 75 businesses a package of one-to-one advice, practical workshops, funding opportunities and peer networking designed to help high streets thrive.
Small independent businesses are at the heart of Suffolk’s market towns, creating jobs, attracting visitors and giving each place its own distinct identity. The programme has been developed to help those businesses become more resilient, adapt to changing customer expectations and build long-term growth.
Suffolk’s High Streets Matter was formally launched on 28 July at The Mix in Stowmarket. Attendees heard from Martin McTague, National Chair of the FSB, and had the opportunity to network with other local organisations and businesses. The first cohort will focus on businesses based in Beccles, Brandon and Mildenhall before expanding to Sudbury and Stowmarket later in the year.
Local businesses are already feeling the impact of the pilot, and Suffolk’s programme will build on this success. Claire Howard, from Claire Howard Jewellery, praised the support received from High Streets Matter adviser Alex. She said: “Alex ran a session about visual merchandising, and as a result I completely changed the layout of my shop. It has been well worth it. The grant was spent on some expert marketing. As a result of that I’ve been able to reduce my reliance on social media and have a plan for when to post and what to post.”
Cllr Vicky Armstrong, Cabinet Member for Finance, Economic Development and Efficiency, said: “The small businesses that fill our market towns are a crucial part of Suffolk’s identity, and their success is felt by all of us. They create jobs, bring people into our town centres and give each high street its own unique character.
“High Streets Matter is about giving independent businesses the practical support they need to grow with confidence. Whether that’s developing new skills, accessing funding or receiving tailored advice, this programme will help businesses adapt, become more resilient and make the most of new opportunities.
“By investing in our independent retailers and hospitality businesses, we’re investing in the long-term future of our market towns and helping ensure they continue to thrive for residents, visitors and future generations.”
Candy Richards, FSB’s Regional Business and Stakeholder Manager for East Anglia, said: “It’s great to see local authorities like Suffolk County Council taking action to improve the look and feel of high streets across the county, attract more visitors and support local small firms that give so much back to their communities. Many of these businesses are facing challenges, with increasing employment and business rates bills piling on the pressure.
“Proactive support to help small business owners make practical changes, promote and build their business and learn new skills will be invaluable.”
Interested businesses can find out more about the programme and register here.
