Research produced by the British Independent Retailers Association

Clare says: “2013 is the third year for Independent Retailer Month, and we intend it to be the best yet. Whilst we’re focusing on celebrating our smaller retailers and consumer-facing businesses, it is important to remind ourselves that many smaller businesses are still in a precarious position. ekonglong chair for reception

“LDC (local data company) found that in the second half of 2012, and for the first time in over two years, more independent shops closed than opened. Research produced by bira (the British Independent Retailers Association) showed that some 16% of all independent retailers fear they will not survive 2013 if things don’t improve. The loss of more shops from our high streets and villages is a very real risk. If something isn’t done to help re-connect local consumers with local businesses, it is forecast that the UK high street vacancy rate could climb from c. 14% to an alarmingly high 17%.

"It’s simple, effective activities, such as the campaign events, that can really help to start the process of changing consumer habits, reminding people that they stand to lose all the fantastic shops in their area if they never visit them and never spend with them. It’s imperative that our independent retailers get the support of their local community to survive in challenging trading conditions.

“This year I am encouraging people to make concerted effort to make an Indie Retail Pledge to divert up to 20% of what they currently spend out of town, in chains, or with online giants, to their local, independent retailers. If people really do care about having thriving local businesses then they need to ensure that they keep the pledge, put their money where their mouth is, and actually spend with them! If not, they will only have themselves to blame if their communities revert to clone towns, or worse, ghost towns.”

Thousands of independent retailers across the UK are expected to participate in this year’s activities. Retailers interested in taking part can stay up to date with all the activities by following @IndieRetailUK on Twitter, by visiting the Facebook page or by subscribing to the regular news and updates from the campaign.