makar pens tribute to city’s independent sector

Stirling Makar Laura Fyfe has penned a poetic tribute to the city’s independent shops and retailers.

The poem and promotional video, commissioned by Go Forth Stirling BID and created by Focas Media, showcases Stirling’s flourishing independent scene and features more than 20 local businesses.

Stirling Makar Laura Fyfe has penned a tribute to the city’s independent sector.

Laura said: “As Stirling Makar, it’s my honour and privilege to celebrate the people of Stirling through poetry so I jumped at the chance to write about the vital importance of independent businesses in our community. 

“Every street in Stirling works as a kind of ecosystem in itself - all nurture the growth of one another, as well as the city as a whole.

“When I spoke to the owners and managers of each establishment, it quickly became apparent just how special each shop is. In supporting them, we support families and we support dreams of the future.

“It was my duty and pleasure to represent this fact, and so in the poem, I included a distinct line or idea for each business in the video to reflect their individuality and value.

“I hope others enjoy the video as much as I enjoyed being a part of the process of creating it.”

Unorthodox Roasters are one of 20 independent businesses that star in the Independent Stirling film.

The Independent Stirling video features a range of the city’s businesses including Stirling Optical, Monny’s Gelateria, Ginger Roots, Clever Clogs, Chester’s Coffee House, Made in Stirling and Tinkerbells Emporium.

More stories about the businesses and the owners behind them can be found on the Independent Stirling website.

Go Forth Stirling Project Director Danielle McRorie-Smith said:

“I’m so pleased with how the video has turned out and the insight it gives into some of our unique small businesses.

 “We are lucky to have a huge number of independent retailers in Stirling – shops, hairdressers, restaurants, hotels and attractions – and we wanted to make a promotional film which celebrates both them and Stirling as a fantastic place to visit.

“Laura’s poem really brings the film to life and the business owners who took part illustrate what a fantastic asset they are to the city and how unique and individual they and their businesses are.

 “The spirit of our local entrepreneurs really comes across and shows exactly what sets Stirling apart from other cities.

 “And it’s easy to find and support our independents by looking out for the ‘I’m In’ stickers next time you’re in the city centre.”

The film is the latest in a range of initiatives launched by the BID to support business owners, to highlight the city as a destination to visit and celebrate Stirling’s culture.

Recent projects have included delivering online training programmes; digital grants and shopfront improvement grants; installing attractive flower displays throughout the city centre; PR and poster campaigns and the popular Street Stories initiative which has seen eight empty shop windows transformed into animated works of art.

For further information see: www.independentstirling.co.uk