We’re delighted to announce that our ‘Proudly Independent, Proudly Chichester’ campaign is back for its second year, and it’s all set to celebrate the unique charm and vibrant spirit of our beloved city’s locally owned businesses.
Running throughout July, this initiative is a shout out to the growing community of independent business owners in the Chichester city centre. We kicked things off with a bang on Thursday 4th July with a fun photocall at the Market Cross. Afterward, we had a fantastic networking event at Chichester Cathedral, where business owners and their teams connected, collaborated, and supported each other.
All month long, we’re inviting you to discover the wonderful array of independent businesses in our city centre. We’ve got a series of videos lined up, showcasing not just the businesses but also the personal stories behind them. Plus, we’ve launched a spotlight series highlighting places offering workshops, pampering, fashion, food & drink, and unique gifts. Check them out and download the guides from our website!
We’re also partnering with V2 Radio to reach new audiences. Tune in to catch some engaging content featuring breakfast presenter Tanya McCarthy and mid-morning presenter Neale Bateman. They’ll be diving into fun topics like micro-brewing and Pilates.
Helen Marshall, CEO and Chair of Chichester BID, shared her thoughts: “We love our independents here in Chichester, and they truly deserve a month dedicated to them! In the past year, we’ve welcomed so many new independent businesses within our city walls, from fashion and jewellery to homewares, beauty, arts, crafts, and food and drink. These businesses infuse our community with passion and a true sense of togetherness.”
Some of the exciting new additions to our city centre include fashion retailers Ruby London and Albaray, antiques and collectables outlet Denzil & Betty, beauty salons HD Hair and Hannah Prior Beauty, and the solicitor firm Bennett Griffin. Don’t forget to check out our online business directory, Chichester Buzz, where you can find every independent business in the city and search by category, dog-friendliness, and those accepting The Chichester Gift Card.
Helen continued: “Many newcomers like Jam Café and We Are Yarn are hosting wonderful workshops, inviting people to enjoy and learn new skills. It was delightful to see Albaray celebrate the Chichester Festival of Flowers with a stunning window display created by fellow independent Hedge Rose. The UK’s city centres are often described as ghost towns – yet here in Chichester, led by our independents, we have a thriving and vibrant community celebrating talent, creativity, and all things local.”
This year, several independently owned businesses have spruced up their premises, showing their commitment to the city and their customers. Congratulations to Open Design Studio, RL Austen, Timothy Roe, The Fat Fig, The Barn, and The Park Tavern for their refurbishments!
As part of the campaign, we’re encouraging independent businesses to display ‘Proudly Independent, Proudly Chichester’ flags and window stickers. They’re also creating social media content with their ‘Proudly Independent’ branding and using Independents Month to launch competitions or in-store events.
We hope you’ll join us in embracing and engaging with the campaign by discovering new independent businesses in the city and sharing the message with your friends and family.
Let’s make this July all about celebrating Chichester’s incredible independent businesses!