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# New advisory group forms to unite Ipswich's independent business scene
- URL: https://www.ipswich.co.uk/new-advisory-group-forms-to-unite-ipswichs-independent-business-scene/
- Published: 2025-05-08T08:06:32.000Z
- Updated: 2026-03-16T15:12:46.000Z
- Description: The Ipswich Independents Group aims to strengthen collaboration and communication among town centre businesses in both day and evening economies.
- Author: Oliver Rouane-Williams
- Tags: News, Town Centre & Waterfront, Business, BID, Tourism & Place, #article, Ipswich Central, Mark Hubert, Ipswich Independents Group, #Import 2026-03-16 14:45

**Why it matters:** The initiative will provide a platform for independent businesses to shape town centre policies and tackle shared challenges, from footfall dips to retail competition.

**The details:** [Mark Hubert](https://www.ipswich.co.uk/tag/mark-hubert/), owner of [James St. Peter's](https://www.ipswich.co.uk/tag/james-st-peter-s/) on St Peter's Street and an [Ipswich Central](https://www.ipswich.co.uk/tag/ipswich-central/) board member, has launched the group to empower local independents who may feel isolated from key decisions and town centre activity.

![James St. Peter's on St. Peter's Street in Ipswich](https://storage.ghost.io/c/29/1e/291e4b7f-e551-4458-b546-61963954b22f/content/images/2026/03/1744634823-james-st-peters-in-ipswich-2.jpg)

James St. Peter's on St. Peter's Street in Ipswich Photo: Oliver Rouane-Williams (Ipswich.co.uk)

**The bigger picture:** The IIG will be coordinated by Ipswich Central and aims to:

- Amplify the voices of independent businesses
- Enhance communication between independents, Ipswich Central and key stakeholders
- Promote collaboration and knowledge-sharing across the business community
- Address challenges affecting day and evening economies
- Drive innovation for a more vibrant town centre
- Leverage collective buying power to secure better supplier terms

![The walk independent shops in Ipswich buildings](https://storage.ghost.io/c/29/1e/291e4b7f-e551-4458-b546-61963954b22f/content/images/2026/03/1743607680-the-walk-ipswich-3.jpg)

The Walk in Ipswich Photo: Sophie Debenham (Ipswich.co.uk)

**Who it's for:** The IIG welcomes B2C independent businesses operating in the town centre, including:

- Retail shops and boutiques
- Hospitality venues like cafés, pubs and restaurants
- Personal services such as hairdressers and beauty providers
- Cultural and entertainment establishments
- Community services including bookshops and social enterprises

**Next steps:** Hubert is currently collating names and shaping the group, with efforts underway to attract high-profile voices from across different sectors to ensure balanced representation across Ipswich's diverse independent business community.

**The bottom line:** This represents an opportunity for local business owners to help create a more connected, visible and supported independent business landscape in Ipswich. Business owners who are interested in getting involved should reach out to Mark at [markjameshubert@outlook.com](mailto:markjameshubert@outlook.com).

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