More than 20 businesses in a high street in south Liverpool form a new collective to boost footfall and trade. Tony McDonough reports

Independent businesses in and around Allerton Road in south Liverpool have formed a new collective to drive footfall and boost trade.

Allerton Road is one of the city busiest thoroughfares but its multiple independent businesses are facing the same challenges as many others across the UK – a cost of living crisis, soaring energy bills and rising overheads.

Hannah Todd, owner of food and drink outlet The Interesting Eating Company, decided to form the Allerton Road Business Community. She handed out flyers to more than 150 businesses. More than 20 attended the first meeting.

“Allerton Road is home to so many high-quality independents,” said Hannah who will chair the new organisation.

“When I talked to them it was obvious there was a real need for us all to come together and share ideas around ways to restore a sense of community spirit, drive footfall and improve the L18 offer for residents, shoppers, and visitors.

“In common with many other high street businesses across the UK we are all facing particular challenges right now. By working together we are in a much stronger position to overcome hurdles.

“Everyone agrees that if Allerton Road thrives, we all thrive. We are determined now to do everything possible to maximise the reputation and potential of one of Liverpool’s best- loved areas.”

Businesses represented at the meeting included the Carlisi restaurant, the homewares and general store Chandlers, Pierre Griffes Café Bar and Bistro, Medi Vets – Green Lane, Skaus, 52 Rose Lane, Move Networking, Chamber 36, the Liverpool Food Network and Pilgrim Restaurant.

Hannah added: “It was fantastic to see such a great turnout at the first meeting. So many exciting and positive ideas were shared.

“We are now focused on building on this momentum and putting together a great programme of activity to realise our ambitions and bring real benefits to the whole community.”

This first event was supported by the team at the BIPC Liverpool City Region which  is currently delivering a programme which provides support to high street businesses.

Geraldine Fuller of BIPC Liverpool said: “Hannah has brought together an impressive group of individuals who are all talented and resourceful Liverpool entrepreneurs.

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“It was great to see the Allerton Business Community officially launched and there is no doubt that there will be a fantastic raft of activity coming about as a result which will benefit everyone.”

Anyone interested in joining the Allerton Business Community can find out more by visiting the Interesting Eating Company at 117 Allerton Road and talking to Hannah. TIEC also has an Instagram and Facebook page – @interestingeat