Background
Walker & Ling is a family-run department store located on Weston-super-Mare High Street. Established in 1904, the store has been a staple in the community for over a century. The business was originally founded in Bath 133 years ago and has since been passed down through five generations of the Walker family.
The current owner, Sam Walker, continues the tradition of providing high-quality products and exceptional customer service.
“Our customers love the high-quality products we offer, but they also love the personal service, the history, and the friendly, family atmosphere”, says Sam.
Support
In 2024, Walker & Ling received valuable support from the Town Occupancy Grant programme, funded by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund and delivered by North Somerset Council, Business West, and the hive. This programme was designed to help small businesses and social enterprises increase their viability in town centre locations.
Walker & Ling benefited from retail marketing guidance, net zero training, and assistance with grant applications.
Remarked Sam, “The support we received was invaluable in helping us modernise our store and attract more footfall”.
The grant enabled the installation of a high-quality, vivid LCD screen in the store front window and at the base of the store stairwell, showcasing high-quality images and videos about the store’s offerings and history.
The experience
The implementation of the LCD screens has significantly enhanced the customer experience at Walker & Ling. The screens display a carousel of high-quality images and videos, including a store map, drone flythroughs, and information about the store’s history and accessibility features.
“The new screens have made a huge difference in how we engage with our customers,” says Sam. “They provide a modern touch to our traditional store and help us communicate more effectively with our visitors”.
The project not only improved the store’s aesthetic appeal but also contributed to its long-term growth and sustainability. The legacy of this project lies in its ability to blend modern technology with the store’s rich history, ensuring that Walker & Ling remains a beloved fixture in the community for years to come.
