Businesses offered rent-free shops on Oxford Street to stop sweet shop blight

Small businesses are being offered rent-free shops on London’s famous Oxford Street to boost the area and prevent more American candy shops from opening.

It is being run by Westminster City Council as well as the New West End Company and is called Meanwhile On: Oxford Street.

The £10 million scheme offers a 70% reduction in business rates, a fit-out of stores, marketing and business support.

Around 35 brands are expected to be supported over a period of three years, with the first small business expected to open this autumn.

Each brand will be offered support for a period of six months.

Applications are welcomed from ‘innovative, cutting-edge and up-and-coming brands who will offer something exciting and new’.

Stores can be used for single occupancy or as a themed-concept store shared between multiple brands.

Geoff Barraclough, cabinet member for planning and economic development, said: ‘The West End has recovered quickly from the pandemic but there are still too many vacant units and poor-quality occupants.

‘That’s why we’ve set up Meanwhile On: Oxford Street to help fill the gaps with upcoming brands showcasing their innovative new ideas.

‘I am excited to welcome new brands to one of the most famous streets in Europe, and support them with free rent, reduced business rates and help with promoting their businesses.’

This scheme builds upon a pilot scheme which saw Kitty McEntee, founder of Lab Tonica, having a short-term pop up by the council on Regent Street in 2021.

Lab Tonica now has a permanent concession in Selfridges.

‘As a new start up, this was an incredible experience and helped to fast-track the launch of my brand, providing a multitude of marketing and collaboration opportunities, and delivering much-needed revenue for an independent start-up,’ she said.

‘The initiative breathed new life into the post-Covid high street and I’m proud to have been a part of it.’

The council also opened a public consultation on a £90 million plan to improve safety for people on foot, as well as enhanced lighting, more green areas and seating on Oxford Street.

Premises that the small businesses will move into will be ones previously occupied by American candy stores.

Westminster City Council says the candy stores are a ‘threat to the status’ of Oxford Street.

It is amid allegations the stores have evaded business rates totalling £8 million, according to the Trading Standards.

Dee Corsi, CEO of New West End Company, added: ‘The West End is internationally recognised as one of the world’s most iconic retail and leisure destinations.

‘As a result, it has always been at the forefront for brands looking to engage with consumers in new and innovative ways – businesses that come here, do so to put their best foot forward.

‘The addition of pioneering brands, through the Meanwhile On programme, is just one of many indicators of the district’s wider growth, and we look forward to welcoming the successful applicants to the area.’

Small business owners who are interested can apply here.

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