The Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) is expanding across all London boroughs from 29 August 2023. The impact this is likely to have on Kingston Town Centre has been on everyone's minds, but the evidence we have gathered suggests that it is likely to be limited for most. In July... read more →
Aug
01
Jul
25
This week we hear from the UK’s largest Asian retailer Oseyo. They tell us all about their exciting product ranges, as well as their vision for the store. Recently, you might have heard or seen from your friends, socials, TV or cinema about BTS, Blackpink, Squid Game, Kimchi, Bulgogi, Korean... read more →
Jul
25
Did you know that from 1 October 2023 businesses will no longer be allowed to supply, sell or offer most single-use plastics in England? Businesses have until that date to use up any current stock, and the ban includes selling them online and over the counter (this includes when given... read more →
Jul
11
This week we catch up with the lovely folk at Jo Malone who have been a mainstay on the Kingston High Street for a whopping fifty years, offering up their unique fragrances and luxury products to the masses. This week we hear about their long history, some of their unique... read more →
Jul
07
The national picture A good mix of national chains vs independent retailers is vital to the health of our town centres. While national chain stores can drive footfall to the town, too many at the expense of independents can result in a town losing its identity, a lack of... read more →
Jul
03
We will be holding our Annual Meeting on 6th September. The meeting is open to all members. If you wish to register, please email hannah.blackwell@kingstonfirst.co.uk. Please see the below accompanying documents for the meeting: Agenda – Download Annual Audited Accounts 2022/23 - Download Minutes from last years meeting – Download Date:... read more →
Jun
28
Kingston upon Thames has been ranked as the top borough to live and work in Greater London by Lambert Smith Hampton’s Vitality Index 2023. The index looks at 3 pillars; Economy & Business, Living and Health, and Environment (see below), and uses 18 datasets to assess the vitality of boroughs.... read more →
Jun
19
As we round off another year, we take a look at what we've achieved and delivered for Kingston businesses and the town in the last 12 months. Through engaging with Kingston businesses and working with local partners and stakeholders, we have achieved a lot in an often difficult and uncertain... read more →
Jun
09
This week we catch up with Hotel Chocolat in Church Street. We hear about the owners connection to Kingston, and their mantra of 'More Cocoa, Less Sugar'. Our fabulous store has been at the heart of Kingston since 2010, serving our residents the best chocolate and ice cream ever since.... read more →
May
30
Kingston First enhances river safety and rescue readiness of businesses along Kingston upon Thames’ riverside. More than 15 businesses have received special training from the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) as part of a collaboration with Kingston First. Training, combined with previous courses in first aid, fire safety, and... read more →