Making Local Connections

In a world of digital noise, the local high street offers something an algorithm can’t … a sense of belonging.

FROM YOU TO ME is proud to launch Making Local Connections, an initiative celebrating real face to face human connection.

As our founder, Neil Coxon, puts it: “Our brand is rooted in stories, memories and relationships. Presence is powerful. We want to champion the idea that time spent together is never wasted.”

To help every shop take part, FROM YOU TO ME will be sharing success stories from the high street community, practical insights to help retailers learn from each other. A collective conversation about connection, community and thriving stores. We will also be providing free resources, inspiration and guidance to support you joining this initiative.

How your store can lead the way:

Share Your Story: The history behind your store, explaining why you started, the lessons you’ve learned, what drives you and what is currently working for your business

The Toolkit: Get stimulated with ideas, free event templates, window stickers and PR & design assets to engage your local customers

Conversation: Join our Substack & LinkedIn communities to learn what’s working for other independent retailers across the UK

“We are more digitally connected than ever, yet we’re losing the human moments that actually matter”, says Neil. Local shops offer something truly special, spaces where everyone can meet, feel seen and find a sense of belonging. Making Local Connections is all about championing this vital role by inviting retailers to create more meaningful moments, helping to get to know their customers better and build loyalty that lasts.

We are working towards Making Local Connections Week (22nd September 2026), as an annual rallying call to retailers across the UK to come together and bring more energy into our high streets during the crucial lead up to Christmas trading. 

Sharing stories is a great way to shine light on how important our high streets and independent retailers are and what a wonderful experience shopping and engaging with others can be. For nearly 20 years, FROM YOU TO ME has worked alongside retailers across the UK and beyond learning that retailers who succeed, truly connect. 

Our bestselling guided memory Journals of a Lifetime, were created to help people capture and share stories, strengthen relationships and create moments that matter. The same principles are at work on the high street and FROM YOU TO ME will help showcase these shops and their stories, celebrating where meaningful connection and loyal customers go hand in hand. Through our own community, national press and social media, we will be inviting customers and communities to get involved, to visit their local high street. 

Thanks for reading and please subscribe on Substack to watch, support or to get involved or send us your email address and we will keep you up to date, especially if you would like to access the ToolKit and/or complete our short interview to share your own story.