Dedicated support for high street businesses across Surrey to attract new customers, boost sales and create growth is now available as part of wider efforts to strengthen and futureproof centres of the community.
The Surrey High Street Growth and Innovation Programme is open to a wide range of businesses – from independent retailers to start-ups, market traders, charities and social enterprises.
Funded by Surrey County Council’s Economic Growth Fund and delivered by specialists Smarter Society and The Retail Group, the scheme includes free practical workshops, online resources and one-on-one tailored support.
There is also a focus on 22 high streets in all 11 of the county’s district and borough areas, with detailed workshops developed to help retailers attract more customers, boost footfall, improve visibility and increase customer spend.
Business can register for the support directly via the Surrey High Street Growth and Innovation Programme enrolment form.
Matt Furniss, the Council’s Cabinet Member for Highways, Transport and Economic Growth, said: “High streets are the lifeblood of our communities. They’re integral to the character and vitality of our towns and villages, which is why we’re committed to supporting them alongside our district and borough partners and Business Improvement Districts.
“This programme is a real investment in the people behind Surrey’s independent businesses, giving them the tools and knowledge to thrive – which is good for our economy, our residents and our communities.”
The scheme was developed in collaboration with economic development teams from district and councils, along with representatives from Business Improvement Districts (BIDs) across Surrey.
It launched last month with workshops running through February, March and April in key locations.
The Smarter Society outreach team is already pounding the pavements of Surrey’s high streets, meeting hundreds of business owners face-to-face and signing retailers up for workshops.
Four free workshops are being held in each district and borough, covering practical topics such as increasing footfall, improving online and in-store visibility, getting more from social media and promotions, and planning for growth.
Workshops are also being streamed live online, with recordings available on demand afterwards.
There’s also a range of free-to-access toolkits, guides, templates and short videos on the Business Surrey website which is open to any high street business in the county. Pus one-to-one support is available for those with more specific needs.
In the first few weeks, nearly 140 businesses have registered and 75 received support across five areas.
Geoff Baxter, Managing Director of Smarter Society, said: “The Surrey High Street Growth & Innovation Programme is gaining real momentum. Businesses across the county are engaging enthusiastically with our on‑street support and workshops, and we’re proud to see such strong early signs of growth and innovation on Surrey’s high streets.”
The programme is free and open to any business trading on a Surrey high street. To find out more, visit the Business Surrey High Streets page.
Or you can register direct via the Surrey High Street Growth and Innovation Programme enrolment form.
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