Mastercard, Worldpay, and Mary Portas Call on innovative small businesses for National Retail Festival in Manchester and London
Small businesses across the UK are being given a unique opportunity to shine, as Mastercard and Worldpay, in partnership with renowned retail expert Mary Portas, launch Thrive Street 2025, a new festival dedicated to celebrating the best and brightest of Britain’s independent retail sector.
London’s independent retail scene is set to take centre stage this October, as Mastercard and Worldpay, in collaboration with retail guru Mary Portas, bring the new Thrive Street 2025 festival to the heart of Shoreditch. The event, which celebrates the ingenuity and creativity of small UK businesses, will transform the iconic Truman Brewery into a showcase of the capital’s most exciting and innovative brands from 24th to 26th October.
Thrive Street 2025 is inviting applications from London’s small and growing businesses that are pushing boundaries and making a positive impact in their communities. Up to 30 outstanding independent retailers will be selected by Mary Portas and her team to receive premium pop-up space at the festival, expert mentoring, and the chance to gain national recognition.
By day, visitors to the Truman Brewery can browse a curated marketplace of products with real purpose and character, all created by up-and-coming London entrepreneurs and their peers from across the UK. By night, the festival will offer business masterclasses, networking sessions, and panel discussions, providing invaluable support and inspiration to local retailers and budding business owners.
Mary Portas OBE, curator of Thrive Street, said: “London’s independent businesses are the beating heart of our city. They bring creativity and culture to our streets, and now they’ll have a platform to shine, learn, and grow. Thrive Street 2025 is about giving them the support they truly deserve—so if you’re a London business with big ideas, I want to hear from you.”
Simon Forbes, Division President, UK & Ireland, Mastercard, added: “There’s no better place than London to celebrate the future of British retail. At Mastercard, we’re committed to helping small businesses thrive, and we can’t wait to discover the talent coming out of the capital.”
Chris Wood, General Manager, SMB International, Worldpay, said: “London has always been a hub for innovation and entrepreneurship. Thrive Street 2025 is an unmissable opportunity for local businesses to showcase their creativity and connect with new customers and industry leaders.”
To apply, London businesses must have an annual turnover of more than £150,000, a track record of innovation and ambition, and a commitment to community wellbeing or sustainability. Creative submissions are encouraged, and outstanding applicants will be recognised throughout the campaign.
For more information or to request an application pack, visit the Thrive Street website.