People urged to use Coventry's independent businesses as five close this year

Coventry independent businesses have issued a 'use it or lose it' plea in an attempt to get city residents to champion the array of indies in the city. Coventry city centre is home to more than 80 independent businesses and a new campaign has been launched to give the retail, hospitality and leisure businesses a boost.

The campaign to support independents is being led by Coventry Business Improvement District (BID). It's asking local people to show their support by shopping locally, sharing on social media, telling friends and family and sharing positive experiences through reviews.

Five independent businesses have closed their doors in the city centre since the start of the year, including Cafe Morso, The Cat Lounge, Chameleon, Metropolis and Bean & Brunch. However, three new indies have opened in the city centre 2024 with CV1 Ltd Menswear, Quick Feast and Phone Matters all opening to customers in the last seven months.

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They join long-standing family-run independents such as Charles Agers, which was established in 1840 and is still operating in the city to this day, with many other businesses operating across the city centre for more than 20 years. Visitors to the city can find family-run and independent businesses to support in every area, whether that is in West Orchards and Lower Precinct, Broadgate and the Burges or the more than 40 based at Fargo Village.

Coventry BID’s campaign launched on Independents Day on Thursday, July 4, which is a national action day to encourage support of independent businesses across the UK. A new artwork is set to be installed in the shop window of independent schoolwear specialist Cat Ballou which includes a QR code to make it easier for visitors to the city centre to discover all of its independent businesses.

Coventry independent businesses Fantasy and Reality, Olivers Jewellers and Phone Zone launched the campaign in the city centre. Coventry BID Manager Joanne Glover says trading conditions are increasingly challenging for independent businesses and that it’s more important than ever to support them.

“It’s no secret that the last few years have been really difficult for businesses and small, family-run, independent business have been some of the hardest hit,” said Jo.

“We have an incredible selection of independents in Coventry, each adds unique value to our offer and it is a massive blow every time one has to close its doors. They keep our local economy vibrant and diverse and it's essential that we support them.

"Whether that is the retailer with specialist knowledge and stellar customer service, the cosy café or restaurant which offers a personal touch, or the live music and entertainment venue that provides an unforgettable experience. We’re simply looking for Coventrians and visitors to the city centre to spread the word by social media and word of mouth about the amazing independent businesses we have.”

Coventry BID has been operating in the city centre for more than 20 years and was voted in by levy-paying businesses for its fifth five-year term last year. The BID works with its levy payers to make the city centre a great place to visit and work.

To find out more about supporting independent businesses in Coventry, and to see a list of the businesses, visit https://www.coventrycitycentre.co.uk/independent-businesses-in-coventry/