Weekend Markets in London: A Guide to Trading and Booking a Stall
Weekend markets are one of the most accessible ways for small businesses to test an idea, build brand awareness, and generate real-world sales in London. From street food traders and makers to fashion brands and early-stage retailers, markets offer footfall, visibility, and relatively low commitment compared to a permanent lease. London’s market scene is vast […]
Business Rates Changes 2026: End of 40% Relief & New Multipliers for UK Small Businesses
What are the new changes as of the November 2025 Budget? From 1 April 2026 all business properties will receive new rateable values following the government’s latest three-yearly revaluation, which updates values to reflect current rental market conditions as of April 2024. This means a property’s rateable value may rise or fall depending on how […]
What Is a Landlord Pack? A Complete Guide for Startups and Small Businesses
If you’re a startup, scale-up, or small business beginning your commercial property search, one of the first things you might Google is: “What is a landlord pack?” A landlord pack is one of the most effective tools for securing the right space, yet many early-stage businesses don’t realise they need one until an agent asks […]
Renting a Permanent Store vs a Pop-Up Store: Which Is Best for Your Business?
When launching or growing a retail brand, one of the biggest questions you will face is whether renting a permanent store vs a pop-up store makes more sense for your business. Both options offer advantages and challenges, and the right choice depends on your goals, budget, and stage of growth. This guide explains the differences […]
EPOS Systems vs Traditional Payment Setups: Which Is Best for Your Business?
A great space means little without a way to take payments, so choosing the right setup is key. Many small businesses debate EPOS systems vs traditional payment setups, wondering which works best for their model. Both approaches have their merits depending on your business model, but they offer very different experiences in efficiency, insight and […]
Hatch Newsletter – October 2025 Edition
The Hatch Business Newsletter October 2025 edition is packed with new tools, free support, funding insights, and early access to exclusive spaces — everything small business owners need to stay ahead this month. What’s Been Going on at Hatch? The Hatch Portal is Now Live We’re excited to share that the Hatch Portal is […]
Renting Council Owned Commercial Property in London: A Complete Guide
Renting council owned commercial property in London can be a smart move for small businesses seeking affordable and well-located shops, cafés, or offices. Across the city, councils manage thousands of commercial spaces that support independent traders and local entrepreneurs. However, the process can often feel opaque, and landlords expect tenants to be well prepared. In […]
Meanwhile On Westminster: How to Apply for Rent-Free Shop Space in Central London
The Meanwhile On Westminster programme is a council initiative designed to bring life back to empty spaces. This scheme offers rent-free or heavily discounted use of vacant shops in prime locations, paired with support and visibility. Below is everything you need to know: what Meanwhile On is, who it is for, how to apply, and […]
Tenant Checklist for Renting a Shop in London: How to Stand Out to Landlords
When it comes to renting a shop or restaurant space in London, competition can be fierce. Landlords and agents will receive several enquiries on the best spaces, so standing out from the crowd can make all the difference. Startups have the best chance when they can demonstrate that their concept is viable, their finances are […]
London Property Estates: The Major Landowners Small Businesses Should Know
Much of London’s most desirable real estate, especially in prime shopping, residential, and mixed-use districts, is not owned by individual investors but by large historic property estates. These estates are long-established landowning families, trusts or companies that control vast areas and influence the character of entire neighbourhoods. Knowing who they are and how they operate […]
Hatch Newsletter – September 2025 Edition
This month’s newsletter is packed with insights for small business owners planning to open or grow on London’s high streets. From free pop-up spaces to funding advice, neighbourhood recommendations to government initiatives, here is everything you need to know. What’s Been Going on at Hatch? New Community For London’s Retail and Restaurant Owners We’re […]
Asset Finance for Store Fit-Outs: What Small Business Owners Should Know
Launching a new shop, café, or salon often involves significant investment in premises, furniture, and equipment. To manage these costs, many small business owners turn to asset finance for store fit-outs, which allows payments to be spread over time. This guide explains how asset finance works, what it can cover, and whether it’s the right […]
High Street Rental Auctions: What Small Businesses Need to Know
Empty shops are a growing challenge on many high streets. The new High Street Rental Auctions (HSRA) scheme gives local authorities powers to force rent auctions for persistently vacant properties. For small businesses looking to open or expand onto the high street, understanding how this works could open up new opportunities or risks. What […]
The Hidden Timelines of Opening a Shop in London
Opening a shop in London is one of the most exciting steps a business owner can take, but it is also a process that takes much longer than many first time entrepreneurs expect. While it is tempting to imagine finding a shop, signing a lease and opening within a few weeks, the reality is that […]
How to Market Your Shop Before Opening: Proven Ways to Build Buzz
Opening a retail shop is about more than preparing the space. The success of launch day often depends on how well you market your store before the doors even open. By building anticipation, you create a community of customers who are ready to visit from day one. This guide explains how to market your shop […]
D2C vs Food Delivery Apps: Which Model Works Best?
For food entrepreneurs, one of the biggest decisions is how to reach customers. Choosing between D2C vs food delivery apps can shape your costs, brand, and long-term growth. Should you open your own café, restaurant, or retail unit? Or should you rely on delivery platforms like Deliveroo, Uber Eats, and Just Eat? The Cost […]
Fit Out a Retail Unit on a Budget: Smart Ways to Save
The fit-out process can quickly become one of the biggest expenses when opening a retail store. From shelving and counters to lighting and décor, the costs soon add up. The good news is that with some creativity and planning, you can design a professional and welcoming retail space without breaking the bank. In this guide, […]
The 6 Stages of Renting a Shop or Restaurant in London: A Step-by-Step Guide for First-Time Business Owners
Starting your first shop, café, or retail business is an exciting milestone, but the process can be lengthy and complex. For many small business owners, it may be the first time dealing with property agents, solicitors, lease agreements, funding and fit-out contractors. The good news? With the right preparation and expectations, you can avoid costly […]
How to Finance Your Fit-out
Launching a startup is exciting, but one of the biggest hurdles entrepreneurs face is funding. Whether you’re opening a café, restaurant, gym, salon, or launching a new retail brand, securing the right type of finance is critical. The good news? There are many options available in the UK, from grants and loans to investment and […]
Guide to Renting a shop in London for Small Business Owners – 2025
Finding the right shop to rent in London can be one of the biggest challenges a small business owner will face. The city’s commercial property market is fragmented, competitive, and often feels stacked in favour of established brands. Whether you’re opening your first store or expanding into a new location, securing the ideal retail space […]
