Boutique barometer

INDUSTRY SALES FIGURES

APRIL 2023 (VERSUS APRIL 2022)

Applications now open for Small Business Saturday’s SmallBiz100

A nationwide search for the UK’s 100 most inspiring independent firms has begun as part of this year’s Small Business Saturday celebrations.

Organisers are calling on brilliant small businesses from around the country to apply to be included in this year’s SmallBiz100 line up. The initiative highlights the best of Britain’s small business community as part of the official countdown to Small Business Saturday on 2 December.

Since launching in the UK in 2013, over 1,000 small businesses have been featured in the SmallBiz100 including fashion indies DJV Boutique in Ipswich and Chloe James Lifestyle in St Albans. Folkestone children’s clothing store Moo Like a Monkey was also included in the list in 2020.

“Small Business Saturday highlights the UK’s incredible small businesses and celebrates the extraordinary contributions they make to the UK and our local communities,” says director Michelle Ovens CBE. “It continues to be a vital campaign, particularly given the ongoing challenges faced by small firms.

“We are delighted to be kicking off the next decade of the campaign with this year’s search to find the most fabulous small businesses from across the UK. So, if you run an exciting small firm that brings something special to the world around you, we invite you to share your story with us!”

Indies are invited to submit a video application throughout this month via smallbusinesssaturdayuk. com/small-biz-100 for the chance to feature in this year’s line-up.

Leicester footwear brand Heavenly Feet takes first steps in US market

Leicester-based footwear brand Heavenly Feet is dipping its toe into the US market after appointing several new agents across the country.

The vegan-friendly brand is well known for its timeless footwear that marries style with comfort while utilising the latest technology to create the perfect fit. Since its launch in 2002, it has built a network of over 350 UK-based retailers and suppliers.

Its move into the US comes as the business celebrates year-on-year sales growth and adds to its stronghold of independent retailers in the UK.

“This is really exciting news for Heavenly Feet, and we are so thrilled to be able to offer our wonderful range to customers in the US,” says director Ken Gray. “We hope this is the start of more growth for the brand following on from a really strong period in recent years and we hope to expand into more markets in the future!”

Average sales quantity

+ 3.51%

-13.83% -1.41%

Average selling price Profit margin

These figures represent findings from a cross section of independent online and bricks-and-mortar retailers around the UK. Total stock management and EPoS provider Top to Toe has compiled this industry index to offer Boutique readers an insight into what’s happening on the high street and online. Tel: 0203 376 5888 E: info@toptotoe.com Toptotoe.com