Lewisham Council has introduced House of Lewisham to showcase the creativity and talent of artisans and local businesses.
The marketplace, with its variety of offerings from fashion and homeware to gifts, aims to assist these enterprises in their online business ventures.
It is part of an initiative to help independent high street businesses, only a third of whom currently sell online.
This figure is significantly lower than the 90 per cent of national brands in the Lewisham Shopping Centre.
The marketplace will also provide training and support to early-stage businesses, assisting with resource access, technology, and skills needed for online selling.
The programme will offer workshops, webinars, personalised advisory sessions, and group sessions to foster community among the featured creators.
The concept of the House of Lewisham started as an online store, celebrating the borough’s unique culture and community.
It was inspired by the success of House of Catford, a venture that initially sold Catford slogan sweatshirts.
The brand quickly expanded to cover the whole borough.
Now, under the council’s leadership, the House of Lewisham allows shoppers to buy directly from local creators, offering high-quality, unique products while contributing to the growth of local businesses.
Those exploring the marketplace can expect to find a variety of products and exclusive collaborations with local businesses.
More traders are set to join in the coming weeks.
Councillor Ese Erheriene, cabinet lead for business, jobs, and skills, said: “As an inclusive and ambitious borough, Lewisham is committed to tackling inequalities and driving transformative change.
“To further develop our vision of an inclusive local economy, we are creating conditions where skills, resources, and income can grow, stay and circulate throughout Lewisham.
“House of Lewisham is a key component of the Inclusive Economy Lewisham strategy and action plan, ensuring that local businesses thrive and contribute to our vibrant, equitable community.”
The site is designed with a seamless user experience, marketing integration tools, and secure transaction gateways.
Local businesses interested in joining the platform can find more information on becoming a creator on the House of Lewisham website.
Rebecca Thomson, director at Local Marketing Made Easy, said: “We’re proud to partner with Lewisham Council on this transformative initiative.
“The House of Lewisham is more than just an online store – it’s a lifeline for local businesses to expand their reach, grow sustainably, and build resilience.
“By combining our expertise in digital solutions, marketing, and business support, we aim to create a lasting impact for those businesses involved so they can confidently continue to trade and grow.”
