Businesses are reaping the benefits of targeted support and collaboration.
They’re seeing real value from services delivered by GO! Southampton, the city’s Business Improvement District (BID).
The BID has identified cost savings of more than £136,000 for businesses, delivered more than 880 hours of employee training and provided a range of other services, from marketing support to waste management.
Stephen Manion, executive director of GO! Southampton, said: "At a time when businesses continue to face rising costs and ongoing economic pressures, we're committed to providing practical support that delivers real value.
"Whether it's helping businesses reduce overheads, access high-quality training opportunities or improve their marketing activities, our services are designed to make a noticeable difference.
"Every pound saved can be reinvested, and every new skill developed helps strengthen the local economy.
"By working together, we're able to offer support that may otherwise be out of reach."
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The BID also offers a dedicated recycling scheme to lower waste costs and a professional photography service, which more than 40 businesses have used to boost their promotional efforts.
Steph Terry, venue manager at Locked in a Room in Southampton, said: "The BID has connected us with valuable marketing tools such as the photography service, which we have found particularly useful.
"It has also organised events like City Networking that help businesses build relationships, and the team consistently show genuine care and interest in us and the growth of Southampton."
Beyond its day-to-day services, GO! Southampton represents business interests at local, regional and national levels.
This includes backing national campaigns such as VATs The Problem, which calls for fairer VAT policies for hospitality businesses.
Mr Manion said: "One of the BID's most important roles is ensuring that businesses have a strong and collective voice.
"We regularly engage with decision-makers and stakeholders on behalf of our members, championing the policies and initiatives that will help businesses thrive.
"By bringing businesses together, we can highlight their concerns, influence important conversations and help shape a successful future for Southampton."
GO! Southampton is seeking a renewed five-year term and has set out plans to launch its Playful City project if the ballot succeeds.
The project aims to support employee wellbeing and strengthen links between workers and the city’s hospitality and leisure sectors.
BID levy payers now have the opportunity to vote on whether GO! Southampton should continue its work for another five years, with the ballot closing on November 26, 2026.
More information is available at www.gosouthampton.co.uk/ballot.
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