The allure of the British seaside isn’t just for holidaymakers anymore. New research reveals that coastal towns are experiencing a boom in micro-businesses, outpacing the national average and offering a unique opportunity for freelancers and entrepreneurs seeking a change of scenery and a thriving business community
A study by GoDaddy, analysing 500,000 UK digital micro-businesses, found that seaside locations are leading the charge. Felixstowe in Suffolk stands out with an impressive 54% growth in micro-business density, ten times the national average of 5%. Other coastal towns like Bournemouth West (+29%), East Devon (+23%), and Bexhill and Battle (+23%) also significantly outperformed the national average.
This surge in seaside entrepreneurship is not just about the beautiful scenery. According to the report, Catherine Hickman, for example, founder of Felixstowe-based organic skincare brand Fanatical Botanical, attributes her success to the strong community spirit and support for local businesses. She launched her business after a redundancy, leveraging local craft fairs and markets to gain traction before expanding online.
Andrew Gradon, Head of GoDaddy UK & Ireland, notes that while the trend is particularly strong in the south of England, fuelled by post-Covid migration from London, there is room for growth in northern coastal towns as well.
Tips for Freelancers and Micro-Businesses
If you’re a freelancer or micro-business owner considering a move to the seaside, here are a few tips to take advantage of this growing trend:
Embrace the local culture: Freelancers and micro-businesses can differentiate themselves by tailoring their services or products to cater specifically to the needs and interests of the local community in the coastal town. Gather local intel through local newspapers and free community magazines often distributed in cafes. This could involve incorporating local themes, ingredients, or traditions into your offerings, or partnering with other local businesses to create unique experiences that appeal to both residents and tourists.
Become a community champion: By actively participating in local events, sponsoring community initiatives, or volunteering your skills and expertise to support local causes, freelancers and microbusinesses can build strong relationships with residents and establish themselves as valuable contributors to the town’s social fabric. This can foster goodwill and loyalty among customers, leading to increased visibility and word-of-mouth referrals.
Cater to Tourists and Residents: Offer products or services that appeal to both tourists and locals. Consider seasonal offerings and collaborations with other businesses.
Use Online Platforms: Establish a strong online presence with a professional website and active social media channels. This can help you reach a wider audience and attract customers beyond the local area.
Leverage Local Resources: Many coastal towns offer support and resources for small businesses. Take advantage of these opportunities for funding, training, and mentorship.
The rise of micro-businesses in UK coastal towns presents a unique opportunity for freelancers and entrepreneurs seeking a fresh start and a thriving business environment. Not only could you be a micro-business thriving in a seaside town, but you could also be serving the freelance economy by offering your services or collaboration.