50% of independent retailers have considered closing amid declining footfall and escalating costs, according to a recent survey

July 2025

50% of independent retailers have considered closing amid declining footfall and escalating costs, according to a recent survey: A survey of independent retailers in the UK has shown that many are struggling to stay on the high street, citing declining footfall, rising rates, rents, wages, employment costs, and a lack of government initiatives and interventions that could help ease their increasing financial hardships.

The survey, recently published by Spring & Autumn Fair in partnership with SaveTheHighStreet.org, polled over 250 UK independent retailers to identify the main pressures facing their sector, and the measures they believe local and national government should adopt to tackle these issues.

The survey revealed that when asked to identify the biggest challenges facing independent retailers in the UK, two-thirds (63%) cited reduced customer spending and footfall as major concerns. This was followed by competition from large online retailers (57%) and rising wage and employment costs (39%). Respondents also reported significant increases in rent and property costs, with just over a fifth (21%) expressing this concern. Similarly, just over a fifth of those surveyed (23%) believed there has been insufficient local and government funding for high street regeneration.

Furthermore, the survey highlighted several changes the sector believes would help alleviate some of their current problems. When asked about actions the government could take to support them, nearly two-fifths (39%) requested an increase in government grants or funding for small businesses, while over a quarter (27%) called for a freeze or reduction in business rates. Furthermore, nearly half (49%) believe that improving high street infrastructure, providing more affordable parking (47%), and offering more marketing support (76%) would help increase footfall.

Additionally, the survey highlights that two-thirds (64%) of independent retailers describe their business as the “social heart” of the area, where people come to “chat and connect”.

Soraya Gadelrab, Event Director at Spring & Autumn Fair, states: “If we want thriving towns, we must start by backing the businesses that hold them together.”