For the past several months, eBay UK and City of Wolverhampton Council have been partnering on our first UK Retail Revival initiative to help small local retailers grow both on the high street and online. We developed this project because we are acutely conscious that the retail landscape in the UK and elsewhere has changed beyond recognition, with many retailers facing declining footfall and increasing competition. Shoppers now have more choice than ever – from where they shop to how and from whom. This provides challenges for retailers, but it should offer opportunities too.

The aim of this programme is to help small retailers, many of whom have a physical presence in Wolverhampton, to get online and grow their business by developing new e-retail and digital skills. The 12-month project provides dedicated training and support, teaching participants the fundamentals of promoting and selling online, whether on eBay or elsewhere. We’ve been bowled over by the enthusiasm shown for the project not just by the businesses involved but also by the City of Wolverhampton and local Members of Parliament, Pat McFadden, Eleanor Smith, and Emma Reynolds.  Commenting on the project, Mr. McFadden said: “It is not always easy for a UK niche manufacturer to compete with multinationals making many thousands of each product, but eBay has helped. I want to thank you for showing faith in our city, for backing our businesses and enabling them to sell on a broader platform than before. I hope this partnership lasts for the future.”

The initiative is already delivering impressive results. Cumulatively the 64 businesses on the programme have reached £1 million of sales in just three months, reporting an average sales increase of 41% in the same period, and we are looking for more growth in 2019.  Onwards and upwards!

If you’d like to learn more about eBay’s Retail Revival project in Wolverhampton, click here.