Press Release

FSB launches Keep Trade Local tour

29 August 2008

The Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) is launching its UK wide Keep Trade Local photography tour next week to raise awareness about the need to safeguard the future of small independent shops and the communities they sustain.

The whole tour is being sponsored by the Arts Council England. An array of photographs, illustrating independent retailers from across the country, will be hung in disused shops and town centre market days to echo how the spaces could be better utilised but for small businesses being driven out of our high streets.

John Wright, FSB National Chairman, said: “Over 42% of our towns and villages no longer have a shop of any kind and by 2010 many local communities will have no small shops or services. Small businesses are coming under pressure from a combination of factors – not least because of this uncertain economic climate. The Government will only listen to a united voice from communities and businesses across the country.

 “Local shops are the heart of our communities. With over 2000 shops closing each year, the Keep Trade Local tour will ensure people in town centres are discussing ways to keep them alive.”

Maxine Beuret, Keep Trade Local photographer, said: “These small shops offer a personal service because they have an understanding about the product they are selling that big chains just don’t. The shopkeeper can give you the knowledge about the product they are selling, be it a cut of cheese or vintage dress, because such products are almost always locally sourced and hand-picked.

“These photos represent the richness and resources that independent shops bring to town centres and prove that local retailers are vital to our communities.”