Independents

Lifestyle independent Ed in East Dulwich, south east London, celebrates its 25th anniversary this year. Owners Dan Rigby and Katharine MacLaverty talk to Drapers about how it has navigated trading challenges over the years and why it puts local community at the heart of the business.

With the general election just over six weeks away, industry leaders have responded to Drapers’ call for what they want from the new parliament. Andrew Goodacre, CEO of the British Independent Retailers Association (Bira) tells us the initiatives that will help power the resilient independent sector.

Earlier this year, luxury independent LN-CC reopened its iconic East London store on Shacklewell Lane. Buying and creative director, as well as former Drapers 30 under 30 alumnus, Reece Crisp details the process, his strategy for success and what’s next for the retailer.

From Florence to Copenhagen, Milan and London – Drapers speaks to leading independent buyers about their must-attend spring/summer 25 trade shows.

Lisa Mitchell put the world of finance behind her 20 years ago and opened her womenswear shop, Escape Boutique, in the thriving independents’ enclave of Whitley Bay.

Anne Wright, the winner of our Community Champion Award 2023 and owner of Derbyshire-based independent Young Ideas, tells Drapers how she secured £15m in government funding to invest into her hometown of Ashbourne.

With an increase in unit numbers, independent department stores have shown incredible resilience over recent years while national chains are increasingly disappearing from the high street. Drapers explores how they are stepping up their offerings to attract the next generation of consumers.

Maison SL was named Womenswear Independent of the Year (<£1m turnover) at the Drapers Independents Awards 2023. Owner Susana Lorena tells us how she wins customer loyalty over her 16 years in the lingerie industry.

Jason West, Lusso Footwear founder and Drapers 30 Under 30 alumnus, speaks about launching its first physical store and why he thinks it is a great time to be a disruptor in the footwear market. 

A cyber-attack can be devastating for retailers and brands of all sizes. As the threat of this type of crime is on the rise, what can businesses do to protect themselves?