Bristol has fifth most independent retailers per 100,000 people
A new study carried out ahead of Independent Retailer’s Day (July 2&3) by South Western Railway (SWR) has found that Bristol has the joint-fifth most independent retailers per 100,000 people, with the second most independent retailers in total, behind only London.
SWR analysed the total number of independent shops in each town and city and compared this to the population figures to reveal where in the UK has the highest number of independent retailers per 100,000 people. They also commissioned a survey of 487 people in the UK aged over 16 with questions about shopping habits.
The study also placed Cheltenham in seventh, with 19 retailers equalling 16 per 100,000, while Bath, in eighth, has 26 retailers, giving the city 15 per 100,000.
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Meanwhile, the accompanying survey found that 44 per cent of Brits intentionally shop independently to support small businesses. 21-24-year-olds are the most likely to do so, with 63 per cent responding yes to this query.
When questioned on frequency, a fifth of respondents stated they shop at independent retailers two to three times per month. A total of 47 per cent believe they have a better experience at independent retailers.
In terms of sectors, cycling, literature, hospitality and catering retailers make up the top three, with reports of book sales enjoying a resurgence thanks to ‘BookTok’, literature themed TikToks.
The full results of the survey can be found here.
