Traders in Stoke Newington got together to celebrate a year of action to support the community and increase footfall.
Members of Stoke Newington Business Association (The SNBA) gathered for their Annual General Meeting at Stokey PopUp.
In the past year the organisation, made up of more than 70 local businesses, has run a series of events; from the Halloween Trail to the Winter Toy Story Trail. They’ve worked with 10 local schools on wand-making workshops in partnership with Output Arts and have worked hard to market local businesses and events via their Instagram page and the See You In Stokey website.
Heidi Early, Chair of the Business Association and co-founder of Earlybird Cards, said: “It’s remarkable what our team has achieved in a year. Independent businesses are so embedded in Stokey’s community life – we work hard to run events that connect us with the community, support charitable initiatives and bring people to the area.
“The businesses signed up to the SNBA tell us it feels like family – that it feels good to support one another. Being a small business owner can be quite lonely; this brings us together.”
The meeting was told that in the past year, the Association has improved connections with the police, council and Radio Watch scheme, helping traders with their everyday business lives. When the partial building collapse happened on Stoke Newington High Street last year, traders rallied with a GoFundMe page to support businesses during their enforced closure.
Their website See You in Stokey has published more than 40 news articles in a year, sharing the stories of traders to help build familiarity and customer loyalty.
Vicky Bibiris, a partner at Location Location and Treasurer of the SNBA added: “Stokey would be a very different place without its independent businesses – they’re the character and charm of the area and they constantly create opportunities for the community to come together. Businesses such as shops and restaurants here are never complacent – they know that in order to thrive, they need to be proactive; creating opportunities for people to come. A small team of people on the SNBA dedicate their time and expertise to market this wonderful place.”
In 2024, the SNBA plans to hold a big fundraiser to support more community events and they hope new businesses will join.
To keep track of local news and events in Stoke Newington, visit www.seeyouinstokey.com and follow the group on Instagram here.
Getting Involved:
For businesses eager to contribute to Stoke Newington’s thriving community and reap the benefits of collective support, joining the SNBA presents a prime opportunity. By becoming a member, businesses gain access to a network of like-minded peers, invaluable resources, and collaborative ventures aimed at enhancing visibility and engagement. Whether through sponsoring community events, participating in joint marketing efforts, or leveraging shared expertise, involvement in the SNBA offers a platform for businesses to actively shape the local landscape while fostering meaningful connections and driving sustainable growth.
To learn more about joining the SNBA and making a difference in Stoke Newington, email hello@seeyouinstokey.com.
