Small Businesses and Local Independents in Southampton

Trading in Southampton since 1803, W. J. French & Son is the oldest and largest independent shoe shop in Hampshire. This independent family business is now run by the eighth generation of the French family. Offering expert and personal service, customers are delighted to find shoes for all ages and sizes. They also offer a quick and professional shoe repair service.

Vinilo Records is a must visit in Southampton for music enthusiasts. Located just off the high street, this vinyl-only record shop stocks an eclectic mix of independent releases and limited editions spanning alt rock, dream pop, new wave, funk and more.

Whether it’s band merch or Funko pops, Cool-Merch has become a popular one-stop shop for all things pop culture in the Marlands Shopping Centre. This family-run business first began in 2014 in Salisbury where their founder, Colin, started with vinyl and music tees. Since then it has expanded to four locations including Southampton selling officially licensed goodies of classic films, tv shows, and even Anime. As a small business, Cool-Merch is always looking for ways to make your experience more special – if you can’t find what you’re looking for, their team will be happy to place a special order for you.

Photo by Cool-Merch.

Another family-run business in the heart of the city centre, Biltong and Bangers brings you the delicious traditional flavours of South Africa: this includes favourites such as biltong, droewors, beef snapsticks and hundreds of imported South African grocery products, they have it all! Their story first began in 2008 when Heath Dixon, the owner, butcher, and chef, first arrived to the city after living in South Africa for over 30 years. With him he brought a wealth of experience of authentic preparation methods from South Africa, having run a successful award-winning restaurant.

Now open for over 15 years of business, you can also find a great range of souvenirs if you are visiting the city on holiday as well as a handy left luggage service if you wish to explore hands free after a cruise.

Re:So, Solent University’s retail initiative, is where creativity meets entrepreneurship. Located in The Spark building on East Park Terrace, this vibrant hub lets young entrepreneurs bring their ideas to life in a safe, nurturing environment. From artwork to jewellery, fashion to accessories – students are mentored through every step of the production process to transform their visions into reality.

The store itself is run entirely by students, offering real-world experience through work placements and internships. Stock rotates frequently so make sure you return regularly to see the latest ranges made by students.

Handcrafted chocolates and fudge, old fashioned weighed sweets, and delicious ice cream – if you have a sweet tooth, Frederick’s is your local haven. This award-winning chocolate shop and café is proudly family owned and run in the Marlands with more than 500 types of traditional sweets for purchase: the largest confectioner in the city.

Freshly baked sourdough breads, savoury sausage rolls, and decadent cheeses - what more could you want from your local deli? Bedford Place is home to Made in: Here which is a lovely local deli and gift shop which offers the best of the British Isles. Stop by and see for yourself!