IT GOES without saying that the past 18 months have been tough on everyone, especially independent and small business owners.
Many of these businesses rely on loyal customer support but have been restricted over the past year due to lockdowns imposed by coronavirus.
One key way to show your support for small brands is to forgo well-known and larger stores and put your money into local talent, particularly in the upcoming festive season.
We have complied a list of independent traders in Southampton you should support.
W. J. French & Son
This Bedford Place based business has been serving the Southampton community for over 200 years.
W. J. French & Son has been trading in Southampton since 1803 and is now in the hands of the eighth generation of the French family. The beloved shoe shop stocks a wide range of shoes for all ages and is widely considered a gem in the city centre.
It specialises in quality shoe-fitting and repair for adults and children and caters for those with narrow and wide feet.
W. J. French stocks brands including Amalfi, Birkenstock, Clarks, Hush Puppies and many more.
The shop is open from 8.45am to 5.15pm Monday to Friday and 8.45am to 5pm on Saturdays.
Itchen Fruit & Farm Shop
Scrub visiting a supermarket – purchase your groceries at Itchen Fruit & Farm Shop in Hamble Lane, close to Southampton.
This shop supplies wholesale and retail fruit and vegetables, meat and artisan bread which is delivered daily.
All of the eggs available in the shop are locally sourced and free range.
Season items are usually on offer too, with the shop currently boasting a variety of pumpkins, ready for Halloween.
Fredericks Chocolates
If you or someone you know has a sweet tooth, this city centre shop is for you.
The family-run business in The Marlands sells a plethora of chocolates but also offers chocolate workshops and has a café in-store.
Despite what the name suggests, Fredericks Chocolates doesn’t only offer chocolate, it also boasts award-winning vanilla fudge and lemon burst.
There is a dedicated American section, namely Fred’s American Fix, and sweet section, Fred’s Sweetie Fix.
Fredericks is open 10am to 5.30pm Monday to Saturday.
Uptons of Bassett
Uptons of Bassett is first and foremost a butcher shop, but also caters to coffee and breakfast lovers alike.
The butchers in Winchester Road has an emphasis on local, free range products that answer health and animal concerns.
Owner Simon Broadribb took over the shop in 1994 and the shop has since been recognised in national and regional competitions.
Customers can enjoy turkey (perfect for Christmas), pork, gammon, pies, beef joint and much more.
The Mercantile Flea
This large retail emporium is a new addition to Bitterne and is home to a wide variety of individual traders selling handmade products, vintage and retro items, antiques, collectables and more.
From home craft kits, handmade jewellery, to vintage clothing and antique décor, there is something for everyone.
There is also a café that serves delicious coffee, a wine bar and a multi-purpose event space, plus free parking.
The Mercantile Flea is open seven days a week.
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