Natasha-Rachel Smith, from TopCashback, comments on the current state of the UK high street

PRLog (Press Release) - Jan. 16, 2013 - “With Blockbuster now joining Jessops and HMV as very early business casualties of 2013, it’s a further indication that a sea-change in consumer spending is happening. Consumers are finding time and again that they can get the most competitive prices online. In order to compete, the high street needs to modernise and embrace new technology available to consumers; using it to provide better value and convenience when shopping. This could mean incentivising customers to spend by using technology to drive footfall back into shopping centres and high streets, by way of printable discount vouchers found online or codes that can be shown in-store via mobile phones.

“There was a time when huge UK retailers were accused of hindering sales of smaller businesses; leading to the closure of many of our favourite local shops. Now some of these big businesses are struggling as consumers seek out a more convenient and cost-effective way to spend. There is still time for businesses to evolve to suit the modern consumer, which is a necessity if the high street is to be saved.”