Inverness based consultants EKOS have been commissioned by HIE Moray to carry out an economic regeneration study in East Moray towns.

The study is to investigate the feasibility of a pilot scheme, which could help specialist independent retailers in small towns in Moray towns to improve their competitiveness and attract new customers, helping to regenerate the centres of many of Moray's historic settlements. 

The consultants will carry out research into retail support strategies that have been successful in other towns of a comparable size in the UK.  Ideas will be suggested for a pilot scheme that would aim to help retailers develop their marketing, customer care, merchandising, and include the application of e-business practices and technology.  

International studies from tourism best practice and also from town centre regeneration projects point to the important contribution that specialist retail can make to the visitor experience and vibrancy of the centres of small towns. 

Keith and Strathisla have their main shopping area in Mid Street which is away from the main road and is not easily accessible to visitors.  This has resulted in a significant proportion of the properties being vacant with boarded up shops and buildings, creating a streetscape that is less inviting and harming the business of the traders who remain. 

Steven Hutcheon, senior development manager and leader of HIE Moray's East Moray team based in Buckie said:  "We are exploring how we can assist local businesses to adapt to their market and discover new opportunities.  This feasibility study will provide a benchmark to help HIE Moray develop its own strategy for assisting local businesses in East Moray and to grow, contributing to the regeneration of our beautiful and historic towns and ports and, sustaining their communities. 

We would like to see busy thriving high streets that are a delight and excitement to both residents and visitors alike.   A good example is Wigtown in Newton Stewart has a highly successful positioning as Scotland's book town and has done much to revive the community's fortunes."

This project is part of the programme that supports Moray's Vision and economic strategy, Moray 2020.