Chichester BID invites residents to discover why the City's Independents are "More than..."
New month-long campaign champions the positive impact Chichesters independent businesses have within the community and beyond.
Chichester BID has launched its 2026 Proudly Chichester, Proudly Independent campaign in celebration of National Independent Retailers Month, inviting residents and visitors to discover why the citys independent businesses are More Than…
The campaign was launched at the historic Market Cross, where independent business owners gathered to celebrate the sector's contribution to the city and the vital role it plays in shaping Chichester's character, community and visitor experience. Following last years successful What If…? campaign, which encouraged people to rediscover their local high street, this years initiative delves deeper into the stories behind the businesses themselves.
From cafés that have become social hubs and cycling shops that have built thriving communities, to salons supporting confidence and wellbeing and retailers inspiring creativity and learning, the campaign explores what exists beyond the products sold or services provided. Throughout July, Chichester BID will be sharing a series of blogs, videos and social media features exploring the people and stories behind the citys independent businesses. The content will give residents and visitors the opportunity to learn more about the business owners, their passions and experiences that shape Chichester's high street, while also shining a spotlight on the positive impact many independents have within the community. From specialist expertise and creative workshops to social clubs and fundraising initiatives, the campaign aims to reveal the many ways independent businesses contribute to city life beyond the products they sell or services they provide.
As part of the campaign, a series of short films will feature on Chichester BIDs social media channel @thisischichester with local business owners sharing what makes their business More Than… a retailer or service provider, while additional storytelling content will highlight businesses that have gone above and beyond to support customers, create opportunities, bring people together and make a meaningful difference.
The campaign forms part of Chichester BIDs ongoing Proudly Chichester, Proudly Independent initiative, launched in 2023 to champion the city's independent business community.
Independent businesses play a significant role in shaping Chichester's identity as a destination, contributing to the citys distinctive character and vibrant high street. From talented jewellers, milliners, makers and artists to specialist retailers, coffee shops and restaurants, they all help to create the varied and memorable experience enjoyed by residents and visitors alike.
Natasha McLeod, CEO of Chichester BID, said. Independent businesses help give Chichester its character. They create experiences, build relationships and contribute to the sense of community that makes our city centre such a special place to spend time.They also play an important role in making Chichester a destination. The variety, expertise and individuality they bring to our high street is something that residents value and visitors remember. Last years What If…? campaign encouraged people to rediscover the breadth of our independent sector. This year, we're taking that conversation a step further by exploring the stories behind those businesses and the positive impact they have on peoples lives. Through our blogs, videos and other social media content, we're giving people the opportunity to get to know the business owners behind the shopfronts and discover some of the remarkable stories that exist on our high street. As a BID, were proud to champion our independent businesses through initiatives like this, helping them reach new audiences, share their stories and showcase everything that makes Chichester proudly independent.
Kateryna Kryvokhatko-Furlong, owner of Chichester Independent The Guilty Cyclist, on Crane Street, said:
When I opened The Guilty Cyclist, I wasn't just opening a shop. I wanted to create a place where people could share their love of cycling, meet like-minded riders and feel part of a community. Two years on, we've seen friendships formed, confidence grow and riders of all abilities come together through our social rides and events. Watching that community develop has been one of the most rewarding parts of the journey.
Brad Ainsworth, Founding Director of Cathedral Wealth Management, said: "Wealth Management isn't about how much money you have, it's about helping you make the most of what you've got. We've always believed that financial advice should be available to everyone; anyone can come in and have a 30 minute no obligation, no cost consultation, no matter what the query. That's one of the reasons weve chosen to have a visible presence on Chichesters high street. We want people to feel comfortable walking through the door, asking questions and starting conversations about their future. Being part of the city is important to us. Alongside supporting our clients, we're proud to support local organisations, charities and community initiatives. For us, it's about contributing to the long-term success and wellbeing of the place where we live and work.
Visitors can identify independent businesses across the city centre by looking out for the distinctive yellow Proudly Independent, Proudly Chichester window stickers and can explore a directory of independent businesses on the Chichester BID website.
For updates, stories and inspiration throughout the month, follow Chichester BID on Facebook and Instagram @thisischichester or visit www.chichesterbid.co.uk.