February 26, 2025

Tags

  • Sustainability
  • Insight

Our new report reflects on the power of space to add commercial, economic, social and environmental value, drawing on research into British Land's Really Local Stores by consultancy Quod. It also features a new Retail Ready: Space Guide, created collaboratively by British Land,  FSB and Curated Makers, for small and micro businesses looking to take on space for the first time.

Really Local Stores: The True Value of Space 5.4MB
Download Really Local Stores: The True Value of Space 5.4MB

OUR IMPACT IN NUMBERS

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OUR IMPACT ON SMALL BUSINESSES

"Getting a store at Fort Kinnaird Shopping Park, Edinburgh, has been a massive deal for us as a business and for the hundreds of local makers and creators who sell with us."

Sara Thomson CEO and Founder of The Leith Collective

"I have British Land to thank for ArtHouse Galleries coalescing from an idea into reality. I was surprised that such a big business was willing to entertain a small company like ours."

Kate Winskill , Artist and Co-founder of ArtHouse Galleries

"Our Really Local Stores model is a commercial win-win, supporting small businesses and entrepreneurs while enhancing our places."

Simon Carter Chief Executive

Simon Carter Chief Executive

THE TRUE VALUE OF SPACE

What are Really Local Stores?

British Land’s Really Local Stores programme provides affordable space and expert support to small businesses, social enterprises, community organisations and charities who source or manufacture hyper-locally and want to grow. This offer is further strengthened by flexible terms and a simplified leasing process.

Retail Ready: Space Guide

Get the lowdown on how to set up, operate and advance your own retail space in our Retail Ready: Space Guide, created collaboratively by British Land, FSB and Curated Makers. It provides a step-by-step summary of considerations for small and micro businesses looking to take on space for the first time.

Commercial win-win

Supporting the commercial success of local small businesses and startups is critical to a healthy, innovative retail ecosystem. Local independent retailers contribute a unique offer to the retail mix at our places, activating temporarily available space and supporting strong footfall performance and sales. This is not just the right thing to do, it makes commercial sense for us, for local businesses and for the wider economy.