When asked how she intends to go about improving communication, Sharon explained that she will look at increasing the number of meetings held during the year to facilitate a swifter exchange of ideas and information. Info packs are currently being put together for the benefit of new traders, and the use of window stickers is being revived to advise potential tenants how rents can be kept at a reasonable level, using the traders’ own up-to-date Rent Register. However, the most exciting focus will be on an enhanced website which will feature a virtual tour of the North Laine, and members of the Association will be offered links to their own website to help promote themselves and the area as a whole.

Sharon said “I am very positive about the future of the North Laine and its image as an exciting and bohemian mix of largely independent traders. We don’t face tough competition from multiples as the retail units in our area are too small to be attractive to them, however e-commerce is presenting a challenge, and I believe that online shopping will be an important development for us this year. We are also talking with the Brighton & Hove Business Forum about a Business Improvement District (BID) as a way to make the North Laine safer and more attractive as a shopping destination.”

For more information about the Business Improvement District (BID) click on the BID icon at the top of this page

Minutes of the AGM can be obtained by clicking on the download below.

Traders who wish to make contact with Sharon can call or leave a message on telephone: 01273 604206 or e-mail: offbeatcoffee@hotmail.com

Click here to download