Salisbury Business Improvement District (BID) has launched this year’s Indies Week as part of an ongoing campaign to promote Salisbury as Your City of Independents.

This citywide initiative runs from today until Sunday, 7th July and will be dedicated to celebrating and supporting the vibrant community of independent retailers in Salisbury.

Throughout this week and the wider month of July, residents and visitors are encouraged to show their support for local independent businesses by prioritising them in their shopping and engaging in the City of Independents Campaign and its offers, marketing, and content. 

Indies Week is a rallying call for everyone to recognise independent retailers’ significance and positive impact on the local economy. With their unrivalled community spirit and dedication to delivering exceptional products and services, independent businesses play a vital role in shaping the unique character of Salisbury. 

At the heart of Indies Week is the Salisbury: Your City of Independents Campaign, a platform to showcase Salisbury’s diverse range of independent businesses.

The campaign aims to create awareness about the exceptional offerings available from our independent retailers, including boutique shopping, award-winning hospitality, cutting-edge art galleries, and more. The campaign will run annually with celebrations around Indies Month each year and the Christmas shopping period and aims to underscore the imperative role of the high street while positioning Salisbury as a premier independent destination in the region. 

Throughout July, residents and visitors are urged to actively participate in Indies Week and beyond by engaging with the following initiatives: 

1. Benefit from an offer or two: Salisbury BID has produced a dedicated Indies Week Offers leaflet featuring exclusive deals from local independent businesses* only available from 1-7 July. These amazing leaflets will be available for pick-up at participating shops and the Information Centre from 1 July. * 
2. Get your FREE Indies Tote Bag: Throughout Indies Week (1-7 July) , customers will have the opportunity to receive a complimentary Salisbury City of Independents tote bag with any purchase over £20 at participating stores**.
3. Explore hand–painted Indie windows: In collaboration with Michele Millidge, Salisbury BID has worked to decorate a variety of indie businesses to celebrate Indies week – wander through Salisbury following the trail to discover the stunning designs each with a unique message, and pop in to support our amazing independent businesses.
4. Share Your Support & Spread the Word: Show your appreciation for independent businesses by sharing your experiences on social media and engaging with all the content surrounding our Indies on social media @experiencesalisbury. Tag @experiencesalisbury and use the hashtag #yourcityofindependents to showcase your favourite independent businesses and inspire others to support them. Together, we can ensure the long-term success of these unique establishments. 
5. Explore our amazing Independent Business Scene: Discover the hidden gems and local treasures that Salisbury has to offer by heading to www.experiencesalisbury.co.uk/explore/city-of-independents. Take the time this month to explore independent retailers, restaurants, and establishments, and experience the personalised service and unique products they provide.  

Remember that where you choose to spend your money is a powerful tool that dictates and shapes the future of your city! 

Robin McGowan, Chief Executive of Salisbury BID, emphasised the importance of supporting independent businesses, stating, “Salisbury’s independent retailers are the lifeblood of our community. They offer a unique and diverse range of products and services, and by choosing to shop local, we contribute to the sustainability and growth of our high street. Indies Week provides a wonderful opportunity to celebrate these businesses and our continuing City of Independents campaign will strive to showcase Salisbury as a thriving home of so many successful independents.” 

Rachel Tribbeck, owner of H R Tribbeck & Son who have been in business in Salisbury since 1905, shares her perspective, “As an indie business owner in Salisbury, I am proud to be part of the City of Independents campaign. This initiative showcases the tremendous talent, creativity, and hard work that goes into running an independent business. By supporting our local independents, we not only invest in our community but also ensure the longevity and success of unique enterprises that make Salisbury truly special.” 

Salisbury BID invites everyone to participate in Indies Week and make a difference by supporting the city’s exceptional independent retailers.

By making small changes to where we all spend our pounds and pennies, we can collectively nurture a vibrant local economy and preserve and cherish Salisbury’s distinctive independent flair.