A renewed sense of confidence in Bournemouth town centre took centre stage this week, as Bournemouth Town Centre BID officially launched its Believing in Bournemouth report at The Ivy Bournemouth.
The launch event, hosted by Paul Kinvig, Chief Operating Officer of the BID, brought together a cross-section of local businesses, media, education leaders and key stakeholders, all united by a shared belief in the town’s resurgence and future potential.
The report explores a clear shift in sentiment around Bournemouth, highlighting growing optimism after a prolonged period of challenge for UK high streets. It captures real stories from businesses and organisations that are choosing to invest, expand, and base themselves in the town centre, providing tangible evidence of a location on the rise.
Recent high-profile investments from brands including The Ivy, Patch, The Botanist, Sport It First and the transformation of Bobby’s demonstrate increasing confidence in Bournemouth as a destination for retail, hospitality, and leisure.
This momentum reflects wider trends identified by property experts Savills, who point to improving retail demand, a strong food and beverage offer, and a diverse visitor economy as key strengths positioning Bournemouth for growth. This is seen in their companion piece Retail Market Fundamentals
Speaking at the event, Martin Davies, Chair of Bournemouth Town Centre BID, alongside Paul, and Frank Prior of Paris Smith, reinforced the positive narrative surrounding the town. They shared why Bournemouth continues to attract businesses and talent and emphasised the importance of collectively championing its strengths to sustain this momentum.
The report and launch event were supported by a wide range of partners, including BCP Council, Savills, Goadsby, That Group, Bournemouth Writing Festival alongside media partner Bournemouth Echo.
Education also plays a vital role in Bournemouth’s future, with both Bournemouth University and Bournemouth & Poole College supporting the initiative and attending the launch. The town benefits from a strong student and graduate population, which contributes to its workforce, innovation, and long-term economic growth.
Bournemouth Town Centre BID, which represents over 700 businesses and plays a key role in promoting and shaping the town centre, says the timing of the report is critical, providing an opportunity not only to celebrate progress but also to identify what more can be achieved through collaboration.
Believing in Bournemouth ultimately serves as both a reflection of the town’s resurgence and a call to action – encouraging businesses, stakeholders, and the wider community to harness the growing positivity and continue building a vibrant, thriving town centre.
