Like many of their peers up and down the country, Colchester’s indie businesses are working harder than ever to be flexible in their approach, and to adapt to changes in consumer behaviour.
Kiersten at Victoria Yum talks about how they respond to inconsistent footfall.
“This time last year it was 32 degrees and our shop was super quiet. We introduced shorter days in a bid to save on running costs. Here we are one year later, and when the weather is poor, but our Saturdays are busier than ever. Uncertainty is the new norm. Despite recent joys, we never know when things are going to change for us”. - Kiersten, Victoria Yum
Sareta at Wax Spiritual has taken a similar approach to secure the future of her bricks and mortar business:
“We're extending our Wednesday opening hours to 6pm, catering to customers who work in town. We've also pushed the time of private Tarot and Reiki bookings to 6pm, allowing clients and practitioners to benefit from free parking on Crouch Street.” - Sareta, Wax Spiritual
Amending opening hours is just one way businesses are examining where they can make changes. Many are also considering how their spaces can be multifunctional, and where they can collaborate with other businesses.
The resilience and dynamism of Colchester’s indie businesses hasn’t gone unnoticed. Both Wax Spiritual, and Victoria Yum were nominated for this year’s Colchester Business Awards.
Since the 2024 awards season began, over 1100 nominations were submitted, and over 20,000 votes were cast in support of our local businesses big and small. These record-breaking numbers are a demonstration of a city centre with faithful supporters, and this event gave nominees a chance to feel that love.
Patch were triple-winners, receiving the Green Award, Indie Service Business of the Year and a Bronze Award for Creative, Cultural and Community Business of the Year.
Jenna at Patch describes some of the ways their restaurant transforms on a regular basis:
“We have to be creative in adapting to our challenges as an independent restaurant and events space in the city centre. While operating as a plant-led daytime restaurant, we also offer a Saturday night tasting menu with wine pairings; we host poetry evenings, put on music events, throw Drag and Desserts nights, and offer private hire and catering for external events”. - Jenna, Patch
Footfall is unpredictable, but one thing’s for certain, these businesses aren’t going to stand still. Future-proofing means being ready to explore new ideas and pivot at a moment’s notice.
