https://birminghamdaily.co.uk/tags/commerce/Recent content in commerce on Birmingham DailyHugo -- gohugo.ioen-usFri, 29 May 2026 04:30:00 +0000https://birminghamdaily.co.uk/birmingham-hospitality-leaders-face-challenges-amid-tough-trading-conditions/Fri, 29 May 2026 04:30:00 +0000https://birminghamdaily.co.uk/birmingham-hospitality-leaders-face-challenges-amid-tough-trading-conditions/Birmingham’s hospitality sector is grappling with a challenging trading environment as economic pressures continue to mount. The recently published West Midlands Night-Time Economy Commission report outlines 25 recommendations designed to enhance the vibrancy, accessibility, and safety of the region’s night-time economy. The sector has been hit hard by a combination of factors, including the lasting impacts of Covid-19, the cost of living crisis, high VAT, and rising business rates. Hospitality business owners Henry Poultney, of Grace & James in Kings Heath, and Jack Brabant, who runs Herbert’s Yard in Longbridge and co-founded Digbeth Dining Club, emphasize the importance of being actively involved in shaping solutions.https://birminghamdaily.co.uk/autograph-birminghams-beloved-independent-shop-closes-after-nearly-40-years-amid-concerns-for-citys-retail-future/Sun, 17 May 2026 04:58:00 +0000https://birminghamdaily.co.uk/autograph-birminghams-beloved-independent-shop-closes-after-nearly-40-years-amid-concerns-for-citys-retail-future/After nearly 40 years in business, Autograph has closed its doors, marking the end of an era for one of Birmingham city centre’s last independent shops. Located on Ethel Street, Autograph was one of only two remaining independent retailers on the street, a rare fixture in a city rapidly changing its retail landscape. The closure has raised concerns among locals and business owners alike, with warnings that even more shops could follow if current trends continue.