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I’m Katie Wilson — a local writer, advocate, and proud Hitchin resident. I’ve spent years exploring our town’s streets, talking to traders, and sharing stories that celebrate our community. As someone who values inclusivity and authenticity, I see independent businesses not just as shops, but as safe, welcoming spaces where everyone belongs. That’s why I’m writing this — not just as a journalist, but as a neighbour who cares deeply about Hitchin’s future.
Hitchin has always been more than a market town. Its cobbled streets, family‑run cafés, and one‑of‑a‑kind shops give it a warmth and character you can’t order online. But in recent months, more than a few of those independent shopfronts have gone dark — and the change is hard to ignore.
The pressures are familiar across the UK: rising rents, fewer people visiting in person, and the convenience of online shopping. When a local business closes, it’s not just a “To Let” sign that appears — it’s a gap in the fabric of the community.
Real‑World Changes in Hitchin
In the past year, Hitchin has seen the closure of a number of businesses, a sandwich shop, a beautician, a cake shop - just to name a few These are not just retail units; they are places where people have met, chatted, and built relationships over years.
These stories echo a national trend. According to the British Retail Consortium, footfall in UK town centres remains below pre‑pandemic levels, while online sales are still significantly higher than in 2019. For small independents, that shift can be the difference between survival and closure.
Why Shopping Local Matters
Some truths hold everywhere, not just here in Hitchin:
Money spent locally stays local. Independent businesses are more likely to use nearby suppliers, hire local staff, and reinvest in the area.
Local shops create variety and choice. They bring unique products and services you won’t find in national chains.
They build community. Owners know their customers by name, and their shops become places where neighbours meet and connections form.
They support resilience. A high street with a mix of independents is better able to adapt to change than one dominated by a few big brands.
They reduce environmental impact. Local sourcing and shorter supply chains mean fewer transport miles and lower emissions.
The Social Value of Independents
Independent businesses often act as informal community hubs. Whether it’s a café that hosts local art, a bookshop that runs reading groups, or a market stall that greets regulars by name, these spaces foster connection. For some residents, those conversations are a vital part of their week.
Hitchin’s market, for example, continues to draw visitors with its mix of fresh produce, crafts, and vintage goods. Traders there often source from within Hertfordshire, keeping supply chains short and supporting other local enterprises.
How You Can Help
Supporting local doesn’t have to mean spending big. It can be as simple as:
- Picking up a gift from a local boutique instead of ordering online.
- Choosing a family‑run café for lunch — like those tucked away on Bucklersbury or Market Place.
- Leaving a positive review to help others discover a hidden gem.
- Sharing a shop’s post on social media to boost its reach.
- Attending local events such as Hitchin Markets or seasonal fairs, which often feature independent traders.
Hitchin’s charm is no accident — it’s built, day by day, by the people who live and trade here. If we want to keep that heartbeat strong, the message is simple: shop local, use it, or lose it.
