We need local shops more than ever, but shopkeepers must do more to stop us returning to the High Street giants, says Wendy Jackson

If you are an independent retailer in Newham, you might like to know that many residents want to continue supporting local shops just like yours. Despite the internet, we want you to stay in the community that you helped to build, with all your smiles and conversations, so here are just a few handy tips to help you attract more customers:

Walk into your shop every day as if you don’t own it; and be completely honest about what you see.

Discard anything that looks tired or untidy and any clutter that hides all the great things that you sell.

No matter how you feel; make your shop as welcoming as possible.

Get to know us better and say hello to any new faces you might see.

Remember that despite parking restrictions, people still walk to the shops.

Make your shop an amazing experience that will make us come back again and again.

Thanks for many years of service. We are rooting for you.

Wendy Jackson is an independent business development consultant with a predominant focus on small shops

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