Northampton Chronicle and Echo

We Mean Business

2026

We Mean Business is an ongoing campaign by the Northampton Chronicle & Echo designed to give independent businesses a stronger voice, showcasing the people behind local firms while exploring the day‑to‑day realities of running a small business in Northamptonshire.

Through in‑depth profiles and first‑person storytelling, the campaign examines issues such as rising costs, staffing pressures, rent and energy bills, and the difficult decisions facing small business owners – while also celebrating the resilience, creativity and commitment that keep local high streets alive. We Mean Business deliberately shines a light on what Northampton does have to offer, helping to build confidence, pride and understanding within the community.

Lindsey Scott‑Walker, local business owner in Northamptonshire, said the coverage helped customers better understand the pressures facing small shops, adding that it was “great for all the independent traders” and had “definitely raised awareness of our shop to customers”.

Tracey Onley, another local business owner in Northamptonshire, also praised the campaign for highlighting challenges that are often overlooked, saying there are “so many amazing, small businesses right here in Northamptonshire” but that many people do not realise “how hard it can be to survive”. She said the Chronicle & Echo was “doing a really great job highlighting the issues”, helping to give local businesses a stronger voice within their community.

By putting real experiences at the centre of its reporting, the Northampton Chronicle and Echo has helped foster greater support for independent traders – reinforcing the vital role local journalism plays in connecting communities with the businesses at their heart.