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Posted: Tue 20th Jan 2026
5 min read
Independent businesses are still at the heart of the UK high street. That's clear from the number of founders rebuilding local spaces and from the public response.
New research from VistaPrint shows 85% of people want to see more small businesses open locally, and nearly half now visit their high street at least once a week.
Against that backdrop, we're pleased to announce the six winners of Realising the Remarkable, our grant competition run with VistaPrint.
The programme awarded £30,000 in funding to small businesses rooted in their communities, with six independent retailers each receiving a £5,000 grant and marketing support from VistaPrint.
This year, more than 1,100 businesses applied. We shortlisted 23 and invited them to submit a two-minute pitch explaining how funding would help them grow.
The final six stood out for their purpose and commitment to their local high streets.
This year's winners span retail, services and community spaces. All are playing an active role in bringing people back to their local centres.
Craig's Barbershop, Bolton: An inclusive barbershop designed to support neurodivergent and disabled clients.
Neighbourhood Store, Shoreham-by-Sea: A shared retail space showcasing products from independent sellers.
Snug Bookshop, Somerset: A community bookshop hosting inclusive literary events.
Y.O.U Underwear, Oxford: An ethical underwear shop focused on responsible production.
Hoyle's Oxford, Oxford: A family-run games shop built around connection and play.
Little Izzies Play Cafe, Randalstown: A cafe where children can play while their parents a well-earned coffee break.
Together, they reflect a strong shift toward purpose-led businesses that contribute far beyond their shopfronts.
One of this year's winners, Craig Henderson, founder of Craig's Barbershop, told us how he'll use the funding:
"I'm thrilled to be selected as one of this year's programme winners. The grant will help Craig's Barbershop reach more people in the local community and continue to make a real impact.
"We'll use the grant to expand inclusive resources at Craig's Barbershop, such as sensory-friendly tools, visual supports and community workshops for families and professionals.
"This investment will help more neurodivergent and disabled clients have positive experiences, reduce anxiety and build confidence.
"It'll also strengthen the high street by making our space a hub of inclusion, awareness, and support for the wider community".
Stories like this came through again and again during judging. Founders weren't just talking about growth, but about access, visibility and presence in the local community.
The data shared alongside the programme shows growing optimism around the high street.
In VistaPrint's research, over a third of people said their local high street is busier than a year ago, and younger adults in particular feel pride in local areas shaped by small businesses.
Sabine Levellier, VP of marketing at VistaPrint, says:
"At VistaPrint, we see every day the impact small businesses have on the communities they serve. Our research shows that demand for physical stores is growing again, underlining the importance of strong marketing and first impressions.
"Now in its third year, Realising the Remarkable continues to celebrate the entrepreneurs driving that revival. This year's winners reflect the purpose-led, diverse nature of UK small businesses and the vital role they play in bringing high streets and local communities to life."
Aaron Asadi, CEO of Enterprise Nation, says:
"As this research shows, small businesses are not just the heart of our high streets, but the heartbeat of their local communities.
"Behind every successful independent store is a founder whose deeply personal motivation and dedication drive them to not only be different, but make a real difference. And it's helping to turn the tide.
"We're delighted to partner with VistaPrint for the third year in supporting entrepreneurs who are stepping up to create vibrant, purposeful spaces we can all be proud of.
"These inspiring grant winners highlight the innovation, resilience and energy helping to drive a high-street revival."
To our six winners, congratulations. And to everyone who applied, thank you for sharing your work with us.
We'll continue to support small businesses building stronger local economies, one high street at a time.
Visit the Realising the Remarkable page for more information about this transformative competition. Find out more
