From what I’ve observed in both Tewkesbury and Bishop’s Cleeve, there seems to be a noticeable lack of diversity in the types of shops available. Outside of the supermarkets, the majority of businesses seem to fall into a handful of categories: barber shops, pubs, fast food outlets, cafés, and charity shops. While these businesses serve a purpose, they don’t offer much in terms of variety, nor do they provide the kind of unique retail experience that can attract more visitors and support local economic growth.
The Economic Impact of Limited Retail Diversity
A town thrives when there is a mix of businesses catering to different interests and needs. Independent shops, artisan retailers, specialty stores, and innovative service-based businesses all help to create a dynamic local economy. Without that diversity, towns can become stagnant, and residents may choose to shop elsewhere—often online or in larger cities—leading to further economic decline in the local area.
Attracting different types of businesses also helps to create jobs, encourage tourism, and improve the overall experience for both residents and visitors. However, Tewkesbury Borough Council doesn’t seem particularly interested in fostering a more varied retail landscape, nor does it appear to provide much support for small businesses looking to transition from online-only operations to brick-and-mortar shops.
The Barriers to New Businesses
One of the biggest challenges for independent retailers is affordability. Rent and business rates in the area seem disproportionately high, making it difficult for small businesses to take the leap into a physical retail space. Meanwhile, there appear to be few, if any, grants or funding opportunities available to help small businesses grow. Without financial support or incentives, many potential shop owners are unable to justify the risk of opening a store, which in turn leads to the same cycle of pubs, barbers, fast food outlets, and charity shops dominating the high street.
What Needs to Change?
For Tewkesbury to thrive as a local business hub, there needs to be a greater focus on:
- Encouraging diverse businesses – The council should actively attract a wider range of businesses to set up shop in the borough.
- Providing financial support – Grants, tax reliefs, or business rate reductions could make a significant difference for small businesses looking to transition to physical premises.
- Making retail spaces more accessible – Lower rents or shared retail spaces could help startups and independent retailers gain a foothold in the area.
- Listening to the local business community – Entrepreneurs and small business owners should have a voice in shaping the local retail landscape.
Without action, Tewkesbury risks missing out on the economic benefits that a thriving, diverse business scene can bring. It’s time for the council to rethink its approach and invest in real, meaningful support for small businesses looking to grow.
What do you think? Have you noticed the same lack of retail diversity in the area? Let me know in the comments!
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