High streets could make billions of pounds in additional revenue and increase footfall by making more of the latest digital technology available to small shopkeepers, a new report by industry leaders has found.
The Digital High Street Report 2020 found that local businesses and independent traders are missing a trick by not keeping up with the digitally savvy modern shopper and using more free and low cost digital technologies.
The independent report, initiated by Government and the Future High Street Forum, proposes the creation of a new High Street ‘laboratory’ which would provide a one-stop-shop were small shopkeepers, businesses and communities can get advice on what they need to do to get digital.
A number of other recommendations have been made that could support town centres to be more thriving places people want to visit, work and shop in by the report’s author.
John Walden, chief executive of Home Retail Group, which owns Argos, and Future High Street Forum member has made proposals that include:
The first UK High Street Digital Health Index, an interactive benchmark to assess the digital health of towns and councils across key measures including infrastructure, basic digital skills, high street attraction and digital engagement.
Plans for town centre infrastructure and connectivity for 2020 and beyond, including broadband, mobile and WiFi and a High Street Digital Laboratory to provide ready to use digital tools, dedicated digital skills training, as well as a network of digital apprenticeships for every UK town centre
High Streets Minister Penny Mordaunt welcomed the report and said the laboratory could be invaluable in continuing the reinvigoration shopping streets and help small businesses make the most of their potential.
She says: “High streets contribute billions of pounds to the economy and we know digital is the way forward so it is vitally important traders and town centres keep up with the way people shop if they are to continue to thrive. The new digital laboratory is one idea that could ensure small businesses have the tools and skills they need to compete with the big players. We want to future proof our High streets so they can remain at the heart the community for decades to come.”
