The High Street Dilemma

In a recent article I mentioned that Mary Portas had been appointed by the UK Government to provide ideas on how the UK High Street could be revamped. When I walk down a UK High Street these days it can be depressing to see so many closed shops. The UK research company U Switch.com released a report this week that focuses on the dilemma. 74% of the population used to be proud of their local High Street, but in 2011 that is down to 49% Two in ten locals have turned their back on the High Street and only 6% of the population remain loyal to their local street. The reasons; 41% Poor choice of shops 29% High Prices 12% The High Street is shabby Why are shops closing according to local consumers? 66% Believe it is due to high rents 60% Said high rates 64% Believe High Street retailers cannot match large store prices The good news is 97% of local consumers care about their High Street. It will be interesting to see what Mary makes of the challenge