Local retailers benefit from shop improvement grant boost

Multiple independent businesses from Horsham District’s high streets have benefitted in recent months from some £80,000 of grant funding to improve the appearance of their premises, courtesy of Horsham District Council.

The Shop Improvement Grant Scheme has offered businesses up to £4,000 each to increase the kerb appeal of their outlets and improve the overall experience and service for their customers.

The grant scheme has been a huge success for businesses around the Horsham District, awarding grant funding to over 25 businesses for all kinds of projects, from installing a CCTV system and new carpets, to a full kitchen refurbishment, and paying for new displays, shelving and cabinets for one business as they moved premises.

Horsham District Council Cabinet Member for the Local Economy Cllr Chris Brown commented:

The Shop Improvement Grant opportunities made available for local businesses are helping them to do amazing work that will ultimately boost their income.

The successful applicants are making real improvements and advancements to customer experiences with restoration and refurbishment to either the interior or exterior of longstanding businesses.

Business owners have used this funding to finally move forward with projects they were unable to progress during the pandemic. There are still other grant schemes open, such as the LEAP grant funding, and businesses will be able to benefit from fresh opportunities in the New Year.

Deja!, a fashion retailer in Horsham, have recently received the successful outcome of their application. They said:

Deja Style is delighted to have received this improvement grant from the Council. The pandemic was particularly hard for small independent retailers - it was an achievement just to keep the business afloat - now with this grant I can look forward to the future. A refurbishment of my boutique will not only freshen the look but will help me utilise space for improved customer service.

A big thank you to Horsham District Council for their unstinting support of businesses like mine.

Christina’s who recently claimed their full grant funding said,

The grant funding has enabled us to really smarten up the exterior of the shop with new lighting, repairs and paintwork. It’s so important to the look of the business, if the appearance from the outside is appealing then people are more likely to come through the door. We are so pleased with the outcome.

The Shop Improvement Grant Scheme has now closed but will be reviewed in the New Year, however, the LEAP grant scheme remains open for applications.

Look out for more business growth opportunities which are set to be announced in January 2022.

For further information on any of the Council’s various schemes, please email business.development@horsham.gov.uk .