Autumn Fair 2025, the UK’s largest seasonal showcase for Home, Gift and Fashion, has joined forces with SaveTheHighStreet.org, to launch Retail Makeover Mission, a bold new initiative launching aimed at revitalising independent retail and act as a catalyst for high street regeneration across the UK.
The campaign launched on Tuesday 10th June with a competition for independent retailers to win a complete business transformation package worth over £10,000, and a survey to understand the pressures facing the industry to help drive positive change.
Autumn Fair and SaveTheHighStreet.org are searching for two ambitious independent retailers who are ready to take their business to the next level with expert help, investment and industry-wide exposure.
A dream team of top retail professionals will help to transform the winning businesses with real transformation and results. Backed by a Task Team of retail experts, the initiative directly addresses the most pressing issues facing independents today, from merchandising to drive engagement and sales, curating product ranges to maximise margins, enhancing displays to increase footfall, to improving operational efficiency, elevating customer experience, and developing agile business strategies to thrive in a constantly evolving retail landscape.
"This isn't just about helping a few shops; it's about showing what's possible when the industry comes together to support real businesses," says Soraya Gadelrab, Event Director at Autumn Fair.
"Spring & Autumn Fair have been a staple of independent retail buying for years and they are here to help the Great British High Street take its next step - this initiative brings that to life.
"As the UK's leading retail trade events, we've long been a platform for product discovery and industry connection. Retail Makeover Mission in partnership with SaveTheHighStreet.org is about going beyond the buying and actively investing in the future of local retail."
The nationwide competition will offer two independent shop owners a chance to transform their business ahead of retail's peak season. The campaign is looking for bricks-and-mortar businesses across gifting, home and lifestyle, fashion, and garden sectors with strong potential but facing specific operational challenges.
By applying, retailers will have the chance to receive expert-led support and a complete business makeover but also become part of a nationwide movement championing the future of the high street.
Winners of the Complete Business Transformation Package, worth over £10,000 will receive:
- Personal Retail Expert Task Team – Industry-leading specialists providing 20+ hours of intensive, hands-on mentoring directly in store
- Dedicated £1,000 Buying Budget to spend at Autumn fair – New investment to elevate product range with expert guidance on high-impact selections
- Store Makeover Budget – Professional transformation of the retail space with hands-on visual merchandising support - VIP Trade Show Experience – Premium access to Autumn Fair with travel and accommodation included as well as exclusive networking opportunities
- 6 weeks Access to Thriver – A business growth programme Powered by SaveTheHighStreet.org, with expert coaching and tailored support.
- Industry-Wide PR & Marketing Exposure – Professional coverage and branded assets to showcase your transformation journey
Together, these benefits aim to drive lasting change, visibility, and commercial growth for the selected retailers. Retailers can enter at www.autumnfair.com/retail-makeover
