Future is bright on the High Street for small businesses like Venner
The future is bright for small businesses on the High Street offering unique, ethically produced items, according to Tiff Howick and Lucie Beeston, directors of Venner Store in Leyton, East London, where small, local businesses thrive.
Venner Store is not only a purveyor of fine, unique gifts and homeware. It's a gallery and workshop space, where talented independent artists, designers and craftspeople find an appreciative market for their wares.
As large high street chains and department stores continue to struggle in 2018 due largely to the rise of online shopping, Venner is one of a growing number of small businesses changing the face of UK retail, as customers "buy less, but buy well."
Tiff explains: “Where we are in Leyton there are no big chains. It's a mixture of recently opened and well established independent businesses. We've noticed a growing interest in thoughtfully sourced products.
"Our customers like to shop local - and the fact we know where our products are made, who makes them and that they are ethical."
Venner prides itself on its carefully curated, beautifully made products being unavailable online or elsewhere.
Its modern store offers the perfect space to browse and appreciate its high-quality offering, most of which comes from UK suppliers - including more than 50% from London itself.
Venner's dedication to personal, friendly service and its location in an up-and-coming retail hub championing small, local businesses are also key strengths.
"It's a very warm, friendly community here, somewhere people can enjoy spending a few hours," Lucie says. "We cross-promote each other and are working together to plan events encouraging more potential customers to visit."
She adds that Venner benefits from the locals' enthusiasm for supporting their local economy.
"People understand supporting an environment that encourages small businesses will bring a more interesting high street offering," she says.
ENDS
For more information please contact Tiff Howick on 07855 310498 or email hello@venner-store.co.uk