Independent Retailer Month
5th July 2022
5th July 2022
July is Independent Retailer Month. The aim is to help thousands of local businesses and increase footfall into town and village centres. Ultimately connecting consumers and communities with local retailers and the advantages of shopping with independent brands.
Since its UK launch in July 2011, Independent Retailer Month, which runs throughout July, has grown rapidly, engaging thousands of retailers and consumer-facing businesses UK-wide. It highlights the important role that smaller, independent retailers play in the communities they serve, the local economy they contribute to, and in the retail sector as a whole.
By encouraging independent retailers, groups of retailers, and even whole towns to create fun and engaging promotions, activities and events during the month of July, the campaign also tackles the very real issue of declining footfall in towns and village centres.
Independent Retailer Month UK is led by Clare Rayner, The Retail Champion, founder of the “Support for Independent Retail” campaign, which, alongside Independent Retailer Month, includes the “Enjoy an Independent Easter” and the “Celebrate an Independent Christmas” campaign events.
Clare says: “Independent Retailer Month is an unfunded campaign, and we don’t want retailers to damage their margins with one-day discount events. Instead, we want a month-long celebration of our independent retailers to reconnect communities with their local businesses and help create a change in consumer behaviour that will last well beyond the end of July.”
The Pantiles is well known for its independently owned, boutique stores and services. It is the perfect location to discover special, bespoke and handcrafted items, along with fantastic fine dining and handmade morsels!
If that wasn’t enough, The Pantiles also hosts regular markets, championing small independent businesses.
Here is a selection of the independent retailers you can expect to find at The Pantiles:
An international award-winning designer, Catherine Hills is a maker of jewellery for the Harry Potter films. Beautiful jewellery with a strong identity that is tactile, sensuous and undoubtedly feminine. This alluring Atelier and boutique nestled in the corner of The Pantiles is impeccably styled. Walk into a shop bursting with history and exquisite craftsmanship. Inside the cabinets are filled with diverse collections that exude individuality and while browsing you can observe Catherine craft flawless and distinctive pieces.
Collared is a dog accessory and gift shop in the heart of The Pantiles that sources top quality products from around the world for dogs and dog lovers. These include Puppia, West Paw, Wacky Walker, Rough Wear, Walters, Hunter and Flexi.
A family run company; Pantiles Cameras has been trading for more than 40 years. The owners and staff pride themselves on their extensive knowledge of the products and outstanding customer service. Their competitive prices will tempt even the most frugal! They sell only genuine UK sourced digital cameras and equipment, all of which come with full UK guarantees and back-up.
Peter Jenner at The Pantiles has a variety of unique, stylish and durable accessories, made from different metals, textures and beading to complement any style or outfit. The Jewellery store has over 40 years’ experience and specialises in commissioned pieces, producing one-of-a-kind gifts.
The Pantiles Bride aims its collection at the stylish, modern bride who recognises quality. The staff’s experience, customer service and the best selection of designer gowns in the South East guarantees that you should put this bridal store at the top of your list!
The Zero Waste Company is the first completely plastic free store in Tunbridge Wells! The aim of the store is to provide a zero-waste environment for customers, offering refill stations on bulk goods, household and personal toiletries, as well as ethical vegan make up, perfume and accessories.
The owners work with a local farm to offer fresh seasonal fruit and vegetables, as well as providing great coffee, snacks and meals. Whether you are looking for an eco-solution to your shopping or a place to chill with some like-minded individuals, The Zero Waste Company has it covered.
If you’re looking for quality kitchenware and cooking paraphernalia, head to Trevor Mottram at The Pantiles. Named “Independent Cookshop of the Year”, this fantastic store sells everything from whisks to plates and clocks to cutlery.
Discover more of the independent retailers and services at The Pantiles.
Come to The Pantiles this Independent Retailer Month and support your local small businesses!
#IndependentRetailerMonth