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This is exciting for us and me in particular as it is where I have called home for over 10 years. Being part of this community is massively important to us and I wanted to talk about a recent experience.

Before Christmas, I was lucky enough to be invited to a celebration of a new business in MK that after opening in 2023 has enjoyed several successful months reaping the rewards of a lot of hard work and wanted to celebrate. Amongst the free drinks and copious amounts of freshly cooked pizza was a clear demonstration of the power of community and what it means to the people who have worked to bring an idea to life.

What makes it especially poignant is that the location (which is amazing) was much sought after by the coffee shop's biggest brands, namely Costa and Starbucks. I may be simplifying things here but if the location had become another under the banner of a large chain it would very likely be just as busy and customers would still enjoy going there for a coffee. But I found myself wondering if it would mean as much to customers? Would there be as many pictures online gushing over the amazing bespoke cakes? The staff celebrating the arrival of every dog that are welcomed daily? Would the people working there be as passionate? Perhaps, perhaps not.

The fact that the team were able to create a vision of a local coffee house which would become part of the community and very quickly be considered one of the best places in the city is a testament to the power of the community. Added to this the wealth of social media posts that take advantage of the unique location, decor and vibe it does capture the essence of what local businesses are all about. This is a business built on the very community it serves, it’s about the people, staff and customers.

When you look at the city as a whole and the growth trajectory it is on, you can see both the huge potential and quickly understand why Colocals has chosen to start here.

Yes, there are lots of chains and big brands in the city but in my opinion, this is a product of our less than 60-year history meaning that big brands with big money were crucial to get things going. Of course, there have always been local businesses but the recent surge in number proves people crave uniqueness and more of a personal connection resulting in a growing and maturing community which in turn drives technical innovation and action.

Even with an abundance of big brands readily available, there appears to be a willingness to seek out independent businesses and the city is awash with festivals, shows, attractions and celebrations that provide a platform for a host of independent businesses - something that I hope continues for a long time.

The pressures on local, small and independent businesses are constant but we firmly believe the solution lies in the audience it can cultivate and engage and this sits at the heart of what Colocals stands for and aims to support. Asking a customer if they like a product or service is different to asking them for active support beyond just purchase but if you a business wanted to take this path there is no blueprint to follow.

This is where Colocals will add value.

Your Andy Leatherland (co-founder & head of sales)