The run up to Christmas for many independent retailers is the life blood of their business.

As much as 30% of their annual sales are achieved in the 6 weeks before Christmas, which is a staggering amount.

Christmas is therefore the perfect opportunity to give independent businesses a real boost in sales, making sure that they remain on our high street and continue to serve the local community.

Increasing sales during what is already a peak period could make a significant difference to their bottom line and ensure they start 2013 with a real bang. They have the opportunity to introduce new customers to their product ranges, to give them a sample of their services, or just to increase consumer awareness of their existence.

The first step in re-engaging disenchanted consumers with the high street is to give them a good reason to visit; the next step is for the businesses trading there to showcase what they’ve been missing out on! 

The 'Celebrate an Independent Christmas' campaign is a new campaign, launching in 2012, a spin-off from the well-established Independent Retailer Month. 

The campaign aims to:

Encourage consumers to shop local, to celebrate their favourite independent retailers - in fact all those who serve consumers: bars, restaurants and salons as well as traditional shops - to remind themselves of the fantastic shops on their door-steps, and to vote with their feet if they really do want to save the high street!

Encourage independent retailers to create a buzz in the run up to Christmas - to increase consumer engagement, footfall and sales. To let everyone know that they are celebrating Independent Christmas and that they are proud of the contribution their small business makes.

Encourage suppliers and all those who serve the independent retail sector to spread the word. To support the retailers in delivering in-store events and promotions, to add to the excitement, remembering that Independent Retailers are often a critical route to market for a wide range of product designers and producers.

So this Christmas, keep it in the (local) family and use those independent retailers, services and businesses on the Bromley high street.