Seven in ten independent retailers plan to reopen this month
New research has found that while 72% of independent retailers plan to reopen this month, just over a third think they will be trading at pre-coronavirus lockdown levels by the end of the year.
The study by American Express also found that 56 % think the recovery will take time and that trading will be back to normal by the end of 2021.
American Express has launched a £16 million Shop Small campaign to encourage UK shoppers to support high street businesses that have struggled due the lockdown. This will include offering its card members a £5 statement credit when they spend £10 or more in any participating small business from 22 June to 13 September.
Charlotte Duerden, managing director of American Express UK, said: “The vast majority of small high street businesses we asked feel they are ready to reopen and eager to see customers return. However, they also told us that their biggest concern is that they won’t see those customers back in the numbers they need.
“We all want to see a return to our vibrant high streets, which is why we’ve launched our Shop Small campaign now, giving shoppers another reason to visit local businesses and support them as they begin to reopen their doors.”
To celebrate the reopening of high street shops, American Express has asked a range of young independent artists to create a range of “We’re Open” signs for retailers.
Photo by Georgia Hawkins
