Founder of online community High Street Positives Laura Harris says rumours of retail decline have been grossly exaggerated and we need to  promote success stories

The high street is evolving – not dying. Yet, only 17% of people think the media portrays their town or city positively, and that perception directly affects how often they visit.

Negative media narratives create a cycle of decline, making it even more crucial to highlight the success stories, new openings, and positive changes happening right now.

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Big names are adapting. Dunelm is opening smaller-format stores, Screwfix is expanding into city centres, and Ikea is launching urban stores in places like Brighton and Oxford Street.

Meanwhile, independents are finding their own way, using showrooms, experiential retail, and community-focused service to stand out.

Hospitality, services, arts and culture, education and training, coworking spaces, and even public services like the NHS are all playing a growing in the role of a thriving high street.

But retail remains a vital part of our town centres.

Customer want independents
In our recent survey with Find Out Now, the majority of respondents (53%) said they wanted more independent businesses in their towns.

Local businesses make places more unique, and business owners who live in their communities often have a deeper understanding of what their customers need.

Successful places have a great blend – independent businesses adding character and local understanding, alongside national brands offering familiarity and scale.

It’s a mix that creates a truly dynamic high street. For retailers – whether independent or part of a larger brand – success in today’s high street means evolving how you connect with customers.

Share your space

The showroom effect is real: Having a physical presence still drives sales.

Creating an inviting space matters – whether it’s a welcoming drink, a comfortable place to browse, or an Instagrammable spot that encourages people to share their visit online.

Local marketing is essential.

Don’t just wait for people to walk in – use social media, encourage customers to leave reviews, and get involved in the wider conversation about your town.

Be a high street champion.

Word of mouth, positive social media presence, and collaborations with other businesses all help create a buzz.

Events, collaborations, and additional revenue streams can also add to the success of a store.

Whether it’s hosting a local makers’ market, running a workshop, or using your space for evening events, retailers who think creatively about their role in the community will stand out.

The high street isn’t disappearing – it’s adapting. And those who engage, collaborate, and champion their place are the ones leading the way.