Business Improvement Districts (BIDs) have become a powerful tool for towns and cities across the UK, enabling local businesses to pool resources and invest collectively in projects that enhance their trading environment. By paying into the BID, businesses not only gain a stronger voice in shaping the future of their high street and surrounding areas, but they also benefit from initiatives designed to boost footfall, improve visitor experience, and strengthen the town’s profile.

Felixstowe BID is a shining example of this model in action. Its aim is simple yet ambitious: to support businesses while improving the town of Felixstowe as a whole. Over the past 8 months, the BID has not only had a new look team, but delivered an impressive programme of projects spanning art, culture, tourism, and retail, creating a ripple effect of growth and positivity throughout the community.

Supporting creativity is a central part of the Felixstowe BID mission. Initiatives have included backing Hamilton MAS’s submission for the nationally recognised Beach of Dreams project, supporting Art on the Prom, and helping fund the colourful Felixstowe in Flower. These cultural investments don’t just beautify the town, they give both locals and visitors a reason to explore, linger, and spend.

The results are clear to see. Visitor numbers are climbing, with footfall up 7% from July, and an average of 6,793 visitors per day, a 10% rise on last year. In total, 210,594 people visited Felixstowe this summer, of which 27% (56,794) were first-time visitors discovering the town.

High-profile events have played a vital role. Two flagship summer festivals, Felixstowe Loves Music and Felixstowe Loves Art, brought nationwide attention and welcomed chart-topping names Jazzie B and Aswad, underlining Felixstowe’s growing status as a cultural destination. Meanwhile, BID-backed collaborations with Felixstowe Fairtrade and local retailers produced the hugely popular Love Felixstowe chocolate bars, showing how creativity can tie together commerce and community spirit.

Investment in infrastructure has also been a priority. New and improved wayfinding includes a bespoke Felixstowe map commissioned from local artist Tristan Bolton, with further plans underway for themed food and retail trails to help visitors discover hidden gems across the town.

Perhaps most encouraging of all, the summer has seen a surge in new businesses opening, a reflection of Felixstowe’s growing confidence and attractiveness as a place to trade.

By uniting businesses, funding bold ideas, and nurturing both culture and commerce, Felixstowe BID continues to deliver on its mission: to make Felixstowe not just a great place to visit, but an even better place to do business.