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At the heart of our communities, high streets are important economic, social and cultural hubs, bringing together local businesses, residents and visitors. With the rise of online shopping, changing consumer behaviours and the lasting impacts of COVID-19, our high streets have faced increasing challenges. Reduced footfall, rising vacancy rates and financial pressures have made it increasingly difficult for many small and independent businesses to adapt, grow and remain resilient.

The KMGH High Street Programme is dedicated to helping our high streets respond to these challenges and create stronger, more sustainable local economies. Through targeted business support, mentoring, workshops and practical guidance, we help businesses build resilience, embrace new opportunities and respond to the changing needs of their customers.

By supporting small and independent businesses and encouraging investment in digital infrastructure, the programme aims to help high streets become more flexible, greener and community-focused. Our goal is to create thriving high streets that continue to play an important role in their local communities, while giving businesses the tools and confidence they need to succeed both now and in the future.

Challenges

  • Changes in consumer behaviour leading to the rise of online shopping reducing in-person visits.

  • The reduction of footfall on highstreets means there is an increase in  vacancy rates as Businesses can’t afford to continue.

  • Financial pressure on small and independent businesses

Issues

  • High streets struggling to maintain their role as economic, social, and cultural hubs

  • Limited adaptability to changing customer expectations

  • Need for greener, more flexible, and community-focused spaces

How we can support you

  • The KMGH Highstreet Programme supports high streets to adapt and thrive, supporting small and independent businesses

  • Investment in digital infrastructure to meet evolving customer needs

  • Initiatives to make high streets more flexible, sustainable, and community-focused

*Specific Programme applications are currently closed, get in contact with our Business Support Team, allowing you to take the next step to reach your business goals.*

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