This July, celebrate local, independent retailers in the communities they serve
Independent Retailer Month is a global ‘Shop Local’ campaign that runs throughout the month of July to celebrate local, independent retailers in the communities they serve. To support this, Winchester Business Improvement District (BID) recognises the city’s unique selection of independent businesses by promoting Independent Business Month and #IndieWinch businesses across Winchester.
From Tuesday 1 July, the latest FREE #IndieWinch Pocket Map will be available to help raise awareness about ‘shopping local’ and 'supporting local' in Winchester. The maps are available from independent businesses, the Visitor Information Centre, The Arc, Winchester City Museum and the local hotels. Visitors, residents and businesses are invited to use the free pocket map which showcases 200 independent shops, services, restaurants and cafes across the city centre. The pocket map conveniently lists all these #IndieWinch businesses and can be used to help navigate around the city.
Look out for the #IndieWinch window stickers too which help to identify independent businesses from their window frontage and encourage residents and visitors to shop local.
To celebrate the month, Winchester BID has created a series of short films, a montage of reels for social media and radio interviews with Winchester Radio to showcase what it means to be an independent business and why so many businesses choose to call Winchester home. Keep a lookout on social media for the faces behind your local independent businesses.
Suzy Dierckx, Winchester BID Marketing Manager, said:
“July is always an exciting time as we celebrate Independent Business Month and shine a light on the amazing independent businesses that make Winchester so distinctive. With over 200 independents across the city, we’re lucky to enjoy such a diverse and dynamic community. These businesses bring character, creativity, and vibrancy to Winchester — for residents, visitors, students, and workers alike. Every purchase and show of support makes a difference, so thank you for continuing to back local and help support our independents.”
We are also proud to support the return of 'A Taste of Winchester' running from 23 June to 6 July. A Taste of Winchester offers an exciting opportunity to experience the very best of the city and district’s local talent. Restaurants, cafés, pubs, retailers, producers, and makers will come together to present a diverse array of events, tastings, special menus, and local and global flavours.
During this foodie fortnight, you can introduce your tastebuds to something new, learn about the provenance of what's on your plate, see behind the scenes in some of our well-loved bars and restaurants, or even forage for new local flavours for your own cooking.
Paul Spencer, Winchester BID Executive Director, said:
“A Taste of Winchester is a celebration of community, creativity, and collaboration,” said Dr Paul Spencer, Executive Director of Winchester BID. “We’re proud to support this initiative as it shines a spotlight on our vibrant hospitality sector, which has faced significant challenges in recent years. With July marking Independent Business Month, this event is also a timely reminder of the importance of supporting our local independents and producers and giving them a platform to thrive. It invites residents and visitors alike to rediscover the flavours and experiences that make Winchester a unique destination.”
