A new fully funded business support programme is being delivered across Wealden to assist independent retailers and customer-facing businesses as part of a partnership between the East Sussex Growth Hub, Wealden District Council, and East Sussex County Council.
The initiative, delivered by The High Street Experts, brings together advisers with more than 35 years of experience in independent retail and small business operations. The team also continues to run their own businesses alongside providing advisory support.
The programme is intended to offer practical, tailored guidance to help businesses review their operations and plan for the future during 2026. According to organisers, the focus is on strengthening day-to-day performance and supporting longer-term sustainability in local high streets, villages, and market towns.
Support includes a range of operational topics such as customer attraction strategies, business planning, development of online presence, use of social media, basic branding and graphic design for marketing materials, shopfront presentation, and goal setting.
Councillor James Partridge, Alliance for Wealden (Liberal Democrat) lead councillor for Governance, Waste & Local Economy and leader of the council, said the programme is intended to provide access to advice and practical assistance for businesses adapting to changes in the retail environment.
He said the aim is to support local businesses in maintaining viability while adapting to changing trading conditions.
Independent retailers, cafés, hospitality venues, and other customer-facing businesses across the district are eligible to participate. Further details and booking information are available through the programme organisers.
One participating retailer described the support as useful in improving confidence in managing aspects of their online presence and customer engagement, and reported applying some of the guidance in day-to-day operations.