Independent retailers are calling for immediate action from the Government on business rates, targeted high street funding and investment in infrastructure to curb store closures and “lost communities”.
That’s according to a new survey of 250 independent retailers across the UK – many in the fashion sector – carried out by Spring & Autumn Fair in partnership with SaveTheHighStreet.org.
The survey reveals that over 50% of respondents have considered closing their business, while 84% say they lack confidence that the government is doing enough to support them.
Most are small operations, with 89.4% running a single store and 86.3% employing fewer than five people. Despite their resilience, with 62.8% trading for more than three years and 36.7% for over a decade, many now find themselves at a crossroads.
The biggest challenges facing independent retailers include reduced customer spending and footfall (63.4%), competition from online giants (57.4%), and rising wage and employment costs (39%).
Other major concerns include rising rent and property costs (21.1%), high business rates (14.7%), and a lack of sufficient funding for high street regeneration (22.7%).
The most common request to Government was increased grants or funding for small businesses (39%), followed by a freeze or reduction in business rates (26.7%).
Retailers also highlighted local improvements that would have a tangible impact on day-to-day trade, including better high street infrastructure (49.4%), more community-focused events to drive footfall (49.8%), affordable parking (46.6%) and stronger marketing support (76.9%).
Soraya Gadelrab, Event Director at Spring & Autumn Fair, said: |”This data shows how much independent retailers are struggling – but also how much they matter.
“The high street is more than a place to shop. It’s a space for connection, culture, and community. If we want thriving towns, we must start by backing the businesses that hold them together.”
Alex Schlagman, Founding Partner of SaveTheHighStreet.org, added: “These findings reveal just how critical it is to remove the barriers holding small retailers back.
“Through smarter support, local partnerships, and focused innovation, we can level the playing field and ensure independent businesses thrive in a changing world.”
The survey findings highlight the vital role independent retailers play in their communities beyond commerce, with 64.1% describing their shop as the “social heart” of the area, and 57.4% offering services that national chains often can’t, including personalised advice, special orders and local expertise.
Many independents also support vulnerable residents, preserve the unique character of their high streets, and “provide the foundation for future regeneration”.
While the feedback acknowledges that some government initiatives, such as pedestrianising high streets and localised regeneration pilots, show there is awareness of the problem, they “simply don’t go far enough to address the scale and urgency of the crisis”.
The message from the retailers is that they are ready to adapt, innovate, and lead the rejuvenation of their high streets, but they can’t do it alone.
Autumn Fair, also home to Moda x Pure, is taking place at NEC Birmingham from 7–10 September 2025.