Sir Ed Davey champions Hull’s independent traders ahead of pivotal festive period

The visit has led to calls for people to support bricks and mortar high street retailers ahead of the busy Christmas shopping time.

As part of the visit Sir Ed visited florists and other shops, learning about the challenges facing East Yorkshire’s retailers as they face rising costs and tough competition from online retailers. He urged shoppers to rally around the region’s indie businesses ahead of a pivotal period for retail.

Sir Ed took to social media during his visit to Hull city centre, and in a Facebook video he explained October’s budget delivered by Chancellor John Healey did not do enough to support small business.

“The chancellor hasn’t got a vision and he’s not supporting local businesses on the high street anywhere near enough. They are really struggling,” Sir Ed said on the streets of Hull.

This message is particularly important right now, because the trading period during November and December often dictates whether a small business can survive the quieter months in January and February, said Hull and East Yorkshire’s Lib Dem member of the House of Lords Dave McCobb.

He explained rising operating costs and aggressive online competition are becoming a threat to the character of British high streets. Unlike massive multinational corporations, independent retailers often reinvest the vast majority of their revenue directly back into the local economy, keeping jobs, supply chains, and artisan crafts rooted within the city.

“It was great that Ed was able to visit one of Hulls independent retailers whilst he was here and see first hand what a great offer we have here in Hull and East Yorkshire,” Lord McCobb said.

Hull’s independent shopkeepers provide the personalised craft, curation, and human warmth that no internet algorithm can deliver – more than shops they are often the social fabric that holds communities together, he added.

“As we head into the festive season I hope as many of us as possible can support our incredible local independent shops,” Lord McCobb said.

In October 2025 the historic Paragon Arcade reached full occupancy, and today offers a vibrant mix of independent retail, food, drink and more.

The Milchig cafe in the arcade is often one of Hull’s busiest and most popular destinations. Earlier this year the Paragon Travel Lounge opened up to bring an experienced travel agency to the arcade, and Artisan Flowers continues to attract shoppers there from around the region.

Paragon Arcade was built in 1891 by architect Sir Alfred Gelder, who later served as Mayor of Hull and as an MP. It was acquired by developers Allenby in late 2017 and has now been refurbished to offer highly functional retail spaces that attracts new and innovative independent retailers to Hull.

In 2025, National Geographic magazine named Hull as one of the world’s top 25 travel destinations, highlighting independent shopping in places such as Humber Street and the Paragon Arcade as a key reason to visit the city.

Sir Ed’s visit was a major thumbs up to one of the region’s best loved shopping destinations, according to Liberal Democrat Deputy Leader of Hull City Council Cllr Jackie Dad.

“It was so great to have Ed Davey in Hull, meeting local people and businesses and listening to what they have to say,” she said.

“Hull has so many local independents we can all be proud of, and we know they need all the support they can get. Ed and the Hull Lib Dem team are committed to delivering a fair deal for people and businesses right across the city.”