27/09/2025
Love this post by one of our local businesses in Arbroath! It’s definitely not easy now to be self employed.
It’s true we do have so many lovely independent businesses who need to be supported more… let’s all make more effort!
We try to stay local as much as we can
Honest post time 💭
I always try to stay positive and optimistic, but lately I’ve been feeling quite deflated about the future of my business.
It’s tough seeing so much negativity online about our high street—especially in local forums where people ask what there is to do in Arbroath, and the response is often “nothing” or that “the high street is a dump.” As a small, independent business owner, that really stings.
I put a lot of effort into making my shop welcoming, well-presented, and a positive part of the town, and I know I’m not alone—there are so many of us doing our best to keep Arbroath’s High Street alive. But it can feel disheartening when those efforts go unnoticed or are overshadowed by negative comments.
Footfall has dropped significantly over the past 12–18 months, and like many others, I’ve had to adapt. Last year I focused on improving and promoting my website - with support from Angus Council and a brilliant local marketing consultant - which has helped boost online sales. But it does feel like a double-edged sword, as the move to online shopping is part of what’s challenging our high streets in the first place!
That said, I want to take a moment to say a huge thank you to our regular customers. Your support, friendly faces, and chats in the shop honestly keep us going. ❤️
Please continue to support all of Arbroath’s small businesses where you can—every purchase, recommendation, and positive word really does make a difference.
Because at the end of the day: if you don’t use it, you lose it.
