ANDREW STUNELL JOINS FIGHT FOR THE FUTURE OF BRITAIN’S HIGH STREETS

Andrew Stunell MP has backed the fight for the future of independent retailers in Stockport and across the UK. He's linking up with 'My High Street' to promote a new concept of 'digital highstreets', where independent shops can start to out-compete the on-line retail giants.

Commenting, Andrew said -

"Independent retailers in our local centres like Marple and Hazel Grove are what makes them special. They provide unique services and jobs to local people, as well as playing an active role in the community. But many are struggling to make ends meet as shopping habits change and more and more people go on line to buy. This new project aims to build a network of 200 'virtual high streets' where local specialist shops can link their products to a complete click and collect on line service."

Target200 - is an innovative e-commerce network that for the first time gives towns a platform to showcase their High Streets, and independent shopkeepers the chance to sell their products online whilst driving in-store footfall.

It will be looking to help the High Streets in Stockport become some of the first 200 digital High Streets to join the network, creating a new online marketplace for independent retailers and discerning shoppers.

The MyHigh.St website allows shoppers to visit their local High Street whatever the weather, any time of the day or night, via their PC, tablet, or mobile phone. The combination of e-commerce and High Street showcase, coupled with "click and collect" and an independent shops' loyalty programme, enables shoppers to buy online whilst encouraging visits in person.

A new report from MyHigh.St showed that a third (32%) of people do not believe that their High Street has a future, with half saying that they are not proud of their local High Street.

Loaye Agabani, Co-founder of MyHigh.St, said: "The High Street is facing its toughest ever battle. This year has seen our town centre chains shut more than thirty shops per month as the pressure from online competitors, out-of-town shopping centres and the economic climate took its toll. Independent retailers are currently holding their ground with their focus on service and product differentiation but we worry this is not sustainable as competition grows - we need to take these attributes and help this community thrive, not just survive.