The recently restored shop fronts such as those pictured above and on the right top, are excellent examples of successful, varied, independent businesses. Sadly, not all independent shops are thriving, as demonstrated by an abundance of ‘To Let’ and ‘For Sale’ signs which dominate some areas in Glasgow, such as the former Murray’s butcher’s, pictured right third.
The close proximity of large supermarkets mean that many smaller shops can no longer afford to compete for customers. The all-too common sight of an abandoned shopping trolley in front of a disused premises on the Gallowgate, pictured right bottom, is a sad reminder of this fact.
Grassroots Image © Josephine Roscoe 2013.
All other images © Lilija Oblecova 2012.