A happy man in a suit with a measuring tape over his shoulders standing outside a building which has 'Shilling & Fritz' written in gold text.

Independent Businesses

Perth city and the surrounding towns have long been shaped by independent business. Look around and you will find beautiful shops passed down through generations, new and interesting people following their passion, and a wide array of shops, restaurants and businesses bringing real-life character to every high street.

From award-winning retailers and restaurants, celebrated florists, jewellery designers and makers to specialist food producers and welcoming cafes where the owner is often the person greeting you at the door.

And while the internet may have replaced many of our high street brands, here in Perth and Kinross there are still hundreds of indies ready and waiting to help you find the perfect gift, outfit, ring, meal, inspiration or experience that makes this wee corner of Scotland so special.

Independent Retail

Shopping local means discovering something with a story behind it. Across Perth and Perthshire, independent retailers offer everything from fashion, homeware and books to handcrafted gifts, artwork and specialty food and drink.

These are businesses built on passion, expertise and personal service. Businesses such as Arabesque Dancewear and Marian's of Perth have seen their owners growing alongside their businesses, to share almost 100 years of trading experience between them.  Elsewhere, Chelsea Flower Show-winning florists, artisan food producers and creative entrepreneurs continue to put Perthshire on the map.

Independent Restaurants & Coffee Shops

Great food tastes even better when it’s served by people who genuinely care about what they do. Across Perth and the surrounding towns, independent restaurants, cafes, coffee shops, bakeries and bars create welcoming spaces that reflect the character of the communities they call home.

From artisan coffee and freshly baked treats to relaxed lunches, memorable dinners and locally sourced menus, you’ll find flavour, creativity and warm hospitality at every turn. These are the places locals return to again and again – and the places visitors remember long after they’ve gone home.

Perth Gift Card

Perth City and Towns Gift Card

Looking for a simple way to support local businesses while treating yourself or someone special? The Perth City and Towns Gift Card can be spent with a wide range of independent businesses across the city, making it a great way to discover new favourites while supporting the local economy.

From shops and cafes to restaurants and experiences, the card opens the door to some of Perth’s most loved independent businesses. Whether you’re visiting for a day, a weekend or searching for the perfect gift, it’s a great way to experience the city’s unique personality.

Frequently Asked Questions About Independent Businesses

Perth city centre boasts more than 120 independent businesses, offering everything from fashion and homewares to speciality food, books and gifts. Unlike many towns and cities, a large proportion of Perth's retail offering remains locally owned, creating a vibrant shopping experience where visitors can meet the owners, discover unique products and enjoy a more personal service.

Banks of Perth is widely recognised as Perth's longest-standing independent retailer and one of Scotland's oldest family-run retail businesses. Founded by James Banks in 1831, the company originally manufactured ropes, cords and fishing nets for local industries before evolving into the outdoor clothing and equipment specialist it is today.

Remarkably, the business has remained in the hands of the Banks family for nearly two centuries, with successive generations adapting to changing customer needs while maintaining the same commitment to service and expertise.

Yes, Aberfeldy made history in 2005 when it became Scotland's first Fairtrade Town. The achievement recognised the commitment of local businesses, community groups, schools and residents to supporting ethically sourced products and fair prices for producers around the world. More than two decades later, Fairtrade remains an important part of the town's identity, reflecting Aberfeldy's strong sense of community and global outlook.

The variety is remarkable. Visitors can browse everything from handmade jewellery and Scottish gifts to artisan food and drink, fashion, books, artwork, homewares and locally produced crafts. Many shops stock products that cannot be found elsewhere, making them ideal places to pick up a special souvenir or gift.

George Street is often regarded as the heart of Perth's independent shopping quarter. Lined with specialist retailers, cafes and long-established local businesses, the street has become synonymous with the city's reputation as one of Scotland's leading destinations for independent shopping.

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