Last week, our Managing Director, Chloe Keith had the privilege of attending the first in-person meetup for High Street Positives, the inspiring community created and led by Laura Harris, that’s working to breathe positivity and life into our high streets across the country. Hosted in the atmospheric Lush Perfume Library in Soho, the evening was a powerful reminder that change is possible when we shift our perspective.

Reframing the Narrative

The most striking insight from the evening was Laura’s call to stop focusing on decline. When we constantly highlight what’s wrong, we create a self-fulfilling prophecy. Instead, we need to reframe our narrative around opportunities. Every empty unit isn’t just a vacancy – it’s a canvas for something new.  Something we are definitely in agreement with here at Toolbox Marketing.  Every struggling high street isn’t just a problem to solve – it’s a community waiting to be reimagined.

This shift in thinking is crucial for anyone involved in placemaking, whether you’re a council officer, a business owner or simply someone who cares about your local area. The stories we tell about our places shape how people perceive them, use them and ultimately, whether they thrive.

The Power of Authenticity

One of the strongest themes throughout the evening was the importance of authenticity. The days of copy-and-paste high streets are over – if they ever truly worked at all. For a place to succeed, it needs to be unique and individual to its community. This means understanding not just what shops might work, but what the local community actually needs and wants.

Retailers, too, have a crucial role to play. They have a duty to create memories, not just transactions. The most successful high street businesses are those that offer something you can’t get online – an experience, a connection, a story. As placemakers and place marketing experts, our job is to highlight and promote these memory-making moments.

Beyond Data: Measuring Social Value

Perhaps one of the most important points raised was how we measure success. Traditional metrics – footfall, rental yields, vacancy rates – tell only part of the story. True success should be measured by social value. Are people proud of their high street? Does it bring the community together? Does it reflect the character and needs of the local area?

The statistic that one in eight people say their high streets are unhealthy is sobering. But health isn’t just about the number of occupied units – it’s about the right tenant mix, meeting genuine consumer demand, providing education and opportunities, and creating spaces that enliven the community.

Opportunities in Disguise

While vacancy rates might be rising, so too are opportunities. Empty spaces can become community hubs, pop-up venues, or trial grounds for new businesses. The key is to see these spaces not as failures, but as potential. This requires imagination, flexibility and often a willingness to think beyond traditional retail models.

The most successful high street transformations happen when communities embrace this experimental mindset. They try new things, support local entrepreneurs, and create spaces that reflect their unique identity and needs.

People-Centred Placemaking

The evening reinforced a fundamental truth: you cannot talk about a place without talking about the people. Successful placemaking always starts with understanding who your place is for and what it means to them. This requires genuine engagement with the community, not just consultation exercises, but ongoing dialogue and collaboration.

Every high street serves a different community with different needs, histories, and aspirations. The solution that works in one place might fail completely in another. This is why authenticity and local understanding are so crucial.

A Movement for Change

High Street Positives represents more than just positive thinking – it’s a movement toward more thoughtful, community-centred approaches to place. It’s about recognising that our high streets are not just economic assets, but social and cultural ones too.

As we face ongoing challenges in our town centres, the insights from this evening offer a way forward. By focusing on opportunities rather than decline, embracing authenticity over uniformity, and measuring success through social value as well as economic metrics, we can create high streets that truly serve their communities.

The energy and optimism in that room in Soho was infectious. It reminded everyone that change is possible when passionate people come together with a shared vision. Our high streets may be evolving, but with the right approach, they can evolve into something even better than what came before.

The future of our high streets isn’t about returning to some imagined golden age – it’s about creating something new that honours the past while meeting the needs of today’s communities. And that future looks surprisingly bright.

London’s Canada Water is undergoing one of the most exciting transformations in the capital’s recent history. This ambitious regeneration project, still 10-15 years away from full completion, is already reshaping the landscape of Southeast London with a perfect blend of modern development and historical preservation.

A Vision Taking Shape

When complete, this remarkable development will feature an impressive 3,000 new homes, creating a vibrant residential community. But housing is just the beginning. The project will also deliver 2 million square feet of work and lab space, positioning Canada Water as a hub for innovation and enterprise. Add to this 1 million square feet of retail, leisure, and cultural space, and you have a comprehensive mixed-use development that promises to transform how people live, work, and play in this corner of London.

Bridging Past and Present

One of the most striking features of the development is the distinctive red bridge known as Rafter Walk. This isn’t just an architectural statement – it’s a tribute to the area’s maritime heritage. The bridge takes its name from the ‘Rafters,’ skilled workers who once laboured on the boats that frequented these waters. These workers would unload wood cargo and ingeniously use the timber as makeshift rafts to navigate from ship to dockside. It’s a beautiful reminder that even as we build for the future, we can honour the traditions of those who came before us.

The bridge’s design also reflects a commitment to local wildlife. During construction, regulations required that the bridge maintain a minimum height of a swan’s neck above the water, ensuring that the area’s bird population could continue to pass underneath unimpeded. In addition, there are a number of micro-wetland habitats worked into the development of the water. It’s these thoughtful details that make this development special.

Community Character and Unexpected Delights

Canada Water has embraced some wonderfully unexpected elements that have captured the community’s imagination. Perhaps the most famous is the area’s beloved “crocodile” – a remote control crocodile head that went viral on social media. What started as a quirky addition has become so cherished by locals that it’s been allowed to stay, becoming an unofficial mascot of the development. It’s a perfect example of how the best communities often develop organically, with character emerging from the most unexpected places.

The development has also proven innovative in its approach to activation and engagement.  The current Minecraft Experience has proven to boost footfall by an impressive 60%, demonstrating how creative programming can bring spaces to life and draw people in.

Preserving Icons, Creating Connections

The famous Printworks building, a cultural landmark in its own right, is undergoing careful redevelopment. Rather than demolishing this iconic structure, the project is refurbishing it while maintaining its core architectural integrity. This approach not only preserves the building’s character but also avoids unnecessary carbon generation – a win for both heritage and the environment.

Looking ahead, the completed development will feature a ‘green corridor’ running across the entire scheme. This ambitious landscaping project will connect various community spaces and parks, creating a network of green spaces that will make the area more livable and sustainable.

World-Class Facilities and Local Opportunities

The development is already delivering impressive community amenities. The new leisure centre will be a standout feature, boasting two pools, comprehensive indoor sports facilities, a modern gym, and dedicated studios for fitness classes. For those who prefer outdoor activities, there are several padel courts available, reflecting the growing popularity of this dynamic sport.

The Dockshed building offers something special for those seeking elevated experiences. With both front and rear terraces, and a top floor that provides unique views of the London skyline, it’s set to become a destination in its own right.

A Commitment to Local Employment

One of the most commendable aspects of this development is its approach to employment. A dedicated British Land team member oversees all vacancies connected to the project, with a clear vision to employ locally wherever possible and appropriate. This means creating jobs for residents in the immediate area who can reach the development on foot – a commitment that strengthens the local community and reduces environmental impact.

Transformation Stories

The evolution of individual buildings tells the story of the area’s transformation. Take the Corner Corner building, which previously housed The Range but has now been reimagined as the Corner Corner sports bar. This venue has gone a step further in embracing sustainability and local food culture by incorporating its own herb growing facility, adding a farm-to-table element that reflects growing environmental consciousness.

Looking Forward

As Canada Water continues to evolve over the next decade and beyond, it’s clear that this isn’t just another development project. It’s a thoughtful reimagining of urban space that honours history while embracing innovation, prioritises community while delivering world-class amenities, and creates economic opportunities while maintaining environmental responsibility.

The project represents what’s possible when developers, communities, and local authorities work together with a shared vision. As London continues to grow and change, Canada Water stands as an example of how large-scale regeneration can enhance rather than overwhelm existing communities, creating spaces where people genuinely want to live, work, and spend their leisure time.

With still a decade or more of development ahead, Canada Water is already proving that the future of urban living can be both exciting and sustainable. It’s a transformation worth watching and experiencing.

The event, organised by the Leisure Property Forum, provided valuable insights into the world of commercial leasing, tenant selection, and experiential marketing. Here are their top takeaways:

1. Tenant Selection: Quality Over Quantity

It’s not always about securing the highest-paying tenant; it’s about finding the right tenant that aligns with your overarching vision and goals. This approach not only creates a “buzz” but also attracts a larger audience. A prime example is The Devonshire pub. Formerly a restaurant, the unit was recently converted back to its pub roots. Since then, The Devonshire has become one of London’s hottest hangouts, frequented by celebrities like Ed Sheeran and Jon Bon Jovi. The pub was bustling with people and energy during the tour, underscoring the importance of strategic tenant selection in driving footfall and creating vibrant community spaces that can benefit the wider site. 

2. Emphasising Experiential Engagement

Amid the current cost-of-living crisis, people are more discerning about how they spend their hard-earned cash. They seek experiences that offer more than just a meal or a product – they want to immerse themselves in memorable activities and atmospheres that provide a brief escape from reality. James Bulmer, Founder and Chief Creative Officer at Wonderland Restaurants, spoke about the power of “experiential hospitality” during a sneak peek of his new Alice in Wonderland-themed restaurant, due to open this Autumn. This concept encourages looking beyond traditional industry boundaries for inspiration, ultimately creating unique and engaging places that resonate with customers and create those “Instagrammable moments”.

3. Showcasing Your Team

According to James, chefs and staff don’t want to be confined to dark, dingy kitchens or back rooms. Instead, he urged restaurants to bring them into the light and make them “part of the show”. This concept can be applied beyond kitchens to leisure and retail destinations. Shop floor workers shouldn’t be kept in the shadows; they should be the faces of our stores and sites. By showcasing these “hidden heroes” through social media, blogs, and media activities, we can add personality and appeal to our places, ultimately enriching the customer experience and fostering loyal and engaged customer bases. 

4. Innovative Thinking

In a world where everything is vying for your customers’ attention, thinking outside the (tool)box is essential! Next to the Piccadilly Lights, a unit that might typically house a retail or leisure offering has been transformed into a Williams Racing Formula 1 experience. Tied in with the 2024 British Grand Prix, this unique attraction featured meet and greets with racing academy driver Zak O’Sullivan and 2009 Formula 1 World Champion Jenson Button. The star power and novelty of this experience drew large crowds, demonstrating the impact of using spaces in innovative and non-traditional ways to attract and engage new audiences. 

5. Cutting-Edge Advertising Technology

The Piccadilly Lights generate between £20 to £30 million annually, highlighting the immense advertising potential of this famous location. Now with deep fake technology, the Lights can display astonishingly realistic adverts that literally jump out of the screen! This not only captivates viewers but also emphasises the importance of embracing cutting-edge technology to stay ahead in competitive landscapes, such as advertising and placemaking. 

Summary

The trip to London’s Piccadilly Lights provided Ben and Tom with valuable insights and perspectives on creating dynamic, engaging, and profitable commercial spaces. By focusing on the right tenant mix, developing experiential environments, showcasing staff, thinking innovatively, and leveraging advanced technology, businesses can create vibrant destinations that attract customers and keep them coming back for more.

If you’d like to discuss putting these tips into action to drive people to your places, drop us a line via marketing@toolbox-marketing.com 

Inclusive Urban Design

Cities must adopt gender-sensitive strategies to create environments that cater to all genders. This includes gender-sensitive budgeting, designing urban extensions with a female perspective, and transforming areas perceived as unsafe into welcoming spaces.
Did you know that from research undertaken by Make Space for Girls, just 22% of girls thought their local parks were safe. By integrating crime prevention into urban planning it addresses areas where they may feel vulnerable.

This park in Bredang, Stockholm, shows how they have considered the need for the park to feel safe, therefore integrating it into the heart of the community. This then encourages girls to use the space that has been provided for them.

Vital and Viable Urban Spaces

One of the key things to look at through the planning and design process is ensuring that we inject life, vitality and viability into urban spaces. It’s important to embrace the unique cultural, natural and spatial characteristics of each place, ensuring the urban design reflects and enhances local identities and fosters a sense of community and belonging.

(Yangon Myanmar)

Engaging Teenage Girls

Teenage girls often feel neglected and unsafe in public spaces. Engaging them directly in the design process ensures their specific needs and preferences are met. This includes talking to them individually and involving them in co-production of space designs.By creating inviting spaces, they become more welcoming, safer and inclusive.

Focus is needed on what is strong, not what is wrong!

In summary, by prioritising these principles, we can design cities that truly support and empower women and girls, fostering communities where everyone feels safe and included.

Recently, our Growth and Performance Manager Ben Hammond and Tom Tawell our Account Director, attended the ATCM Summer School in Glasgow. The event focussed on Innovation in Town and City Climate Action. Here are their top takeaways from the event:

1. Navigating the Climate Change and Politics Tension

The tension between climate change and politics continues to escalate as teams in towns and cities make desperate efforts to drive meaningful environmental change. Despite their determination, these teams are increasingly calling for more proactive and robust local governance, along with clear guidance and support, to ensure that their initiatives can be effectively implemented and sustained at a local level. This growing need for leadership underscores the critical role that local governments must play in addressing climate challenges.

2. Flood Risks and High Streets

With a correlation between climate change impact and increasing flood risks, some high streets are experiencing flooding which will push them beyond the point of recovery. As flooding increases in areas that have rarely, if ever, experienced it before, more high streets are at risk of turning into damp ghost towns as they become inviable as places for businesses to invest and open up shop.

3. Sustainable Urban Infrastructure

The future infrastructure of towns and cities must be developed with a strong emphasis on climate impact and sustainable initiatives. By integrating these considerations, cities can significantly reduce the amount of embodied carbon generated. This approach ensures that as urban areas continue to grow and evolve, their development remains green and sustainable well into the future, aligning with long-term environmental goals.

4. Community Engagement and Local Initiatives

At a local level, town centre teams need to engage their local communities with initiatives and activations that drive local change and raise awareness of that town centre, or BIDs, environmental initiatives. At Toolbox Marketing, we have worked with many clients to develop campaigns which support local communities and drive change. Little Longton Uniform Exchange provided vital support to over 500 families, providing over 1,800 items of school uniform to families who needed them. In addition to supporting local families during the cost of living crisis in an already deprived area, the exchange drove the sustainable practice of reusing and recycling, as opposed to buying and disposing.

5. Bridging Policy and Implementation

In the UK, we’re good at setting policy, but there is a deficit on the delivery and implementation side, at least at a national level. What we need is “high-resolution data” (e.g., detailed weather patterns, precise flood risk maps, localised temperature projections, high-definition satellite imagery) at a local scale to assess the risks of climate change and help plan our towns and cities, looking at tradeoffs versus opportunities.

6. The Retrofit-First Approach

Prioritising retrofitting over demolition preserves the greenest buildings – the ones already existing. Before demolishing buildings in our towns and cities, we must first explore retrofitting, refurbishing, or extending them. Owners, developers, and tenants are showing an appetite for a retrofit-first approach, leading to a rise in enquiries from retailers. The Nike store on Oxford Street, Arding & Hobbs in Clapham Junction, Flannels in Liverpool, and Bobby’s Department Store in Bournemouth are excellent examples of architecturally significant or listed buildings that have been given a new lease of life through creative refurbishment and repurposing. At Toolbox, we specialise in helping destinations like Castle Quarter in Norwich transition from one business model to another, such as a retail-only to mixed-use offering, maximising opportunities and commercial returns.

7. The 15-Minute City Concept

The 15-minute city concept focuses on designing urban areas where residents can access essential services and amenities – such as work, education, healthcare, shopping, and recreation – within a 15-minute walk or bike ride from their homes. This approach promotes sustainability, reduces reliance on cars, and enhances quality of life. By adopting this model, towns and cities can create more vibrant, connected, and resilient communities. Key benefits include lower carbon emissions, improved public health, stronger local economies, and increased social cohesion. Implementing the 15-minute city concept can transform urban spaces into sustainable, happy places where residents and businesses thrive.

8. Collective Approach to Success

A collective approach by towns and cities increases the chance of success for us all. Events like the ATCM Summer School, and organisations like C40, are crucial as they bring together leaders from different places and connected fields to identify challenges and opportunities, enabling positive change through shared knowledge and innovative ideas. By collaborating, towns and cities can learn from each other’s experiences, pool resources, and implement best practices, leading to more effective and sustainable urban development

During the conference, Ben and Tom presented an engaging session on “The Power of Community to Create Sustainable Places.” They covered several key topics:

Changing Shopping Habits in Our Communities
They explored how environmental perceptions of brands influence consumer behaviour, emphasising the growing demand for eco-friendly practices.

Drive Change Locally in Your Community
They provided actionable strategies for driving awareness and success in town centres, highlighting how local efforts can contribute to the broader environmental movement.

Key Environmental Days & Our 7 Tips to Capitalise and Engage Your Community
They discussed leveraging national and international environmental events to amplify local initiatives and shared seven practical tips to maximise community engagement and drive local impact.

Ready to make a difference in your community? Contact us today to learn how we can help you implement effective sustainability initiatives and drive meaningful change locally!

^{Photos Taken by Edwin Ladd – Mr Ladd Media The Official Photographer for ATCM 2024 – Summer School. This event took place 19th & 20th June 2022 In Glasgow}

1. Rising Consumer Confidence

One prominent trend noted at the briefing was the rising consumer confidence. As economies stabilise and uncertainties decrease, consumers are becoming more optimistic about their financial outlook. This uplift in confidence is expected to positively impact consumer spending habits, presenting opportunities for retailers to capitalise on.

2. Easing Inflation

Another encouraging trend highlighted was the easing of inflation. With inflationary pressures subsiding, consumers will hopefully experience less strain on their purchasing power. This could translate into increased spending, benefiting retailers across various sectors.

3. Continued Growth of Online Spending

The shift towards online shopping shows no signs of slowing down. As a proportion of total spend, online shopping is expected to continue to increase. Retailers must prioritise their online presence and omnichannel strategies to meet the evolving needs of consumers in the digital age.

4. Anticipated Governmental Changes

The impending change in government later this year is likely to have a significant impact on the retail landscape. Retailers should closely monitor policy developments and adapt their strategies accordingly to navigate potential changes in regulations and consumer sentiment.

5. Embracing AI and Technological Advancements

Artificial intelligence (AI) is on the rise, revolutionising various aspects of retail operations. Organisations must embrace AI-driven technologies to enhance customer experiences, optimise processes, and stay competitive in an increasingly digital marketplace.

Re-baselining for the Future
One crucial takeaway from the briefing is the need to re-baseline comparisons to 2023. Relying on outdated data from 2019 is no longer viable, given the drastic changes in the world since then. By updating benchmarks and metrics, retailers can gain a more accurate understanding of the current retail landscape and make informed decisions.

Industry Insights 

In addition to these overarching trends, Chloe and Ben gathered valuable insights from specific case studies and observations:

• In-Store Browsing Preferences: Despite the rise of online shopping, 53% of consumers still enjoy browsing in-store when gift shopping, emphasising the enduring appeal of physical retail experiences.
• The Online Halo Effect: Retailers with both bricks and mortar stores and online platforms benefit from a synergistic effect, with approximately 4% higher spend in-store and 10% more online. 
• The Role of Physical Presence: Brands like Zara have found that online sales are significantly higher in areas where they have a physical store, highlighting the complementary relationship between online and offline channels.
• Community Connection: Consumers crave a connection to their local high streets, and retailers risk alienating them by neglecting this aspect. Investing in community engagement and creating vibrant, balanced retail environments is essential for long-term success.
• Harnessing Digital Activations: Digital activations can drive footfall to stores, enhancing the overall shopping experience and fostering customer engagement. Retailers should leverage technology to create immersive and interactive experiences that resonate with modern consumers.
• Optimising Destination Properties: Successful retail destinations cater to diverse audiences, offering a range of experiences that appeal to different consumer preferences. Strategic property management and tenant mix optimisation are key to creating thriving retail hubs.
• Technological Innovations: Advancements in technology, such as interactive mall maps, enable retailers to offer personalised and seamless shopping experiences. Embracing innovative solutions can differentiate retailers and enhance customer satisfaction.
• Changing Social Patterns: With workers increasingly starting their social activities on Thursdays, retailers should adapt their marketing strategies and promotions to capitalise on this emerging trend, making Thursday the new Friday for retail experiences.

In conclusion, the insights gathered from the CACI Retail Briefing underscore the importance of agility, innovation, and consumer-centricity in navigating the future of retail. By staying ahead of emerging trends, embracing technology, and fostering meaningful connections with consumers, retailers can position themselves for success in an ever-changing marketplace.

1. Critical Mix for Survival

The report emphasised the importance of a diverse mix of amenities for the survival of town centres and shopping destinations. Critical components include hospitality, homes, art, culture, heritage, public realm, and notably, healthcare—an emerging necessity in urban planning.

2. Issues & Challenges

Several challenges loom over the retail landscape, including the rise of online sales, high shopping centre and retail park vacancies, economic pressures, escalating business rates, and soaring occupancy costs. Additionally, a staggering 60% of respondents believe there is an excess of retail space, underscoring the need for strategic realignment.

3. Shopkeepers Campaign

The Shopkeepers Campaign highlights the plight of local shops burdened by exorbitant business rates—a significant factor contributing to closures, job losses, and the erosion of community ties. This grassroots initiative advocates for long-term reforms to alleviate the financial strain on small businesses.

4. ESG Considerations

Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) factors are increasingly shaping urban planning and development strategies. Addressing the climate crisis, promoting social impact, and enhancing sustainability are integral to future-proofing our built environment. While progress varies, there is a growing emphasis on ESG integration and reporting.

5. Future Prospects

Despite prevailing challenges, there is cautious optimism about the future, with 42% of respondents expressing confidence in the prospects ahead. The focus is on powering up Britain through strategic placemaking initiatives that foster economic growth, community well-being, and environmental sustainability.

Case Studies in Future-Proofing

Two exemplary projects highlight innovative approaches to revitalizing urban spaces:

In summary, the lessons learnt from the Lambert Smith Hampton report emphasise the necessity of flexible approaches and teamwork to manoeuvre through the changing dynamics of towns and shopping centres. Through the adoption of innovation, sustainability, and community involvement, we can mold durable and flourishing urban spaces for future generations.