Two industry leaders call for independent retailers across the UK to shape the future of the industry in latest campaign – ‘Voices of Retail’
For the third year running, two of the most influential bodies in UK retail – Faire and Spring Fair – are joining forces with a shared vision of growing and strengthening UK retail launching Voices of Retail: a landmark new initiative and rallying cry for independent retailers to come together, take part, and be heard.
Together, Faire and Spring and Autumn Fair reach more retailers than any trade association in the UK. Voices of Retail marks the moment they hand the platform back to the industry, placing retailers firmly at the centre of the conversation so they can reflect what they’re seeing on the ground today and help shape what comes next.
Voices of Retail is more than just research. It’s a movement to engage the retail community and equip it with shared knowledge. It spotlights how retailers across the UK are navigating change, collaborating, and finding new ways to drive growth in an increasingly complex retail landscape.
The first phase is a large-scale national survey, designed to capture insights from thousands of retailers across the UK. These findings will shape a first-of-its-kind report that sets the agenda for UK retail in 2026 and beyond.
The campaign moves beyond the tired narrative of the declining high street and instead shines a light on the businesses powering retail through innovation, collaboration, and community, revealing how retailers are adapting their strategies, responding to economic pressures, and unlocking new ways to drive sales.
Retailers of all sizes are invited to take part in the first phase by completing a 5-minute questionnaire either in person at Spring Fair (1-4 February held at the NEC, Birmingham) or online.
Take part now: [Link] The questionnaire closes on 2 March 2026.
Retailers who take part will be entered for the chance to win one of five Voices of Retail Golden Tickets which includes: an all-expenses-paid VIP experience at Autumn Fair 2026, including accommodation, travel, meals and personal onsite support, plus £300 in Faire credits to put straight back into their business. (T&Cs apply).
Following the survey, a number of retailers from across the country will be recruited for an in-depth discussion on the key topics shaping the future of retail, from local challenges and collaboration, to tech and product offering.
To complement retailer insight, over 2,000 British shoppers will also take part in consumer research, creating one of the most comprehensive reports of its kind.
Charlotte Broadbent, UK General Manager for Faire said: “After two years of partnership with Spring Fair, we wanted to do something different for 2026. Something that puts retailers in the driving seat and goes beyond issues to actions. Voices of Retail is a rally cry. We’re asking independents to tell us how they’re innovating, what’s changing, and what the rest of the industry can learn from them. Together with Spring Fair, we reach more retailers than any trade association in the country. That’s a huge platform, and we’re handing them the microphone so together we achieve more.”
Jackson Szabo, Portfolio Director at Hyve Group commented: “This research is about uniting the retail community and turning shared challenges into shared progress, which is why partnering with Faire felt so natural. At Spring Fair & Autumn Fair, we see first-hand the issues retailers are navigating every day, from innovation and transformation, to sustainability, collaboration and community-building. Our role is to create an experience that goes beyond buying and selling, offering a platform where retailers can learn, connect and find practical solutions. Voices of Retail will ensure those conversations are grounded in real insight, helping retailers stay resilient, one step ahead, and support the long-term strength and success of the UK retail sector.”
The detailed report findings of Voices of Retail will be revealed after the survey closes in late Spring.
