St James St

The support also included free workshops on other aspects of running a business such as visual merchandising, writing a business strategy and planning for the future. In addition, dedicated support was provided to the St James Street Business Forum.

The council is committed to ensuring everyone benefits from the regeneration St James Street is undergoing. 45 businesses have so far taken part and benefitted from the free workshops.

Waltham Forest Council is committed to providing small businesses with the tools and expertise to prosper and grow in the borough. Business owners can visit our website for information about starting and growing a business.

The council, in conjunction with the Waltham Forest Business Board, supports business forums across 6 key business locations – Leyton, Bakers Arms, Walthamstow, Wood Street, Blackhorse Lane and Chingford and Highams Park. If you are interested in joining a forum and networking with other businesses then please contact the business team for further information at business.support@walthamforest.gov.uk.

“We learned a lot from the programme. Shop merchandising, customer service and social media marketing. It will bring more success of our business. Thank you to Vision On for all your help.” 

“Very motivated team that has been very good at pointing us in the right direction – but lots of work still to be done.” 

“This course has had a positive effect on my business especially the windows – being able to see in and showcase stock, changing the layout. It’s made me think differently about my business.” 

“Inspiring in general – ideas to bring custom and changing displays has given me awareness and confidence in how to do this.”

“Has helped with new ways of presenting stock using props to showcase cabinets.”

“Advice on opening up the window, menu changes and promotions has made our business better.”

“The most helpful has been on customer service.”