Local high streets are becoming home to an amazing collection of diverse and thoughtfully curated shops. They often stock the ‘where did you get that’ jewellery, beautifully crafted clothes, textiles and ceramics, and the one off artworks, that you just can’t find anywhere else.

In order for these independent businesses to be able to compete with each other, they must find their own style and identity in order to stand out, and as such they tend to choose products based on their own personal taste, rather than a national sales plan.

Luckily for UK makers, many champion handmade, and look as close to home as possible for suppliers.

A wonderful community has evolved over time, where one simply can’t do without the other. It is outside of the corporate shopping world, and is one that involves a mutual respect. The maker, completely aware of the independent store owners ability to present and promote their well considered product. And the store owner as much aware of the thought and care that has gone into making their carefully considered pieces.

To work with independent galleries and retailers has always been a privilege. I think I would speak for most makers in saying that it is a big part of why we do what we do. High streets need these wonderfully vibrant shop fronts that invite you to go inside and meet the often equally vibrant personalities of the owners that run them. So if it’s been a while since you took a stroll down your local high street, show your support for these wonderful independent businesses and take another look...