Certified Independent: Keep It Local, Keep It Real.
The Certified Independent Movement is certifying independent businesses across Europe to ensure where you spend your money makes a difference. By supporting local, you keep more money in your community and have real, meaningful connections. Let’s build a future where time and money spent matter—because local businesses are the heart of our communities.
Building the movement
We have a vision to build a global community of certified independent businesses, empowering everyone to invest more of their time and money locally. Together, we're not just spending—we're making a stand to strengthen our communities, creating vibrant, thriving places where we all prosper.
What is a Certified Independent?
A Certified Independent is a mark of authenticity. For businesses, it means being recognised as a true independent, meeting high standards for verified ownership, financial independence, and having a real, visitable location or market stall. For people, it guarantees that you're supporting a genuine, locally-owned business.
To earn this certification, a company must prove that it:
is independently owned
Independently owned and operated by individuals, families, or a small group of owners.
is financially independent
Has not taken or is not reliant on private equity or venture capital.
has a physical presence
Has a physical presence within the local community it serves or is a market trader.
contributes to the local economy
Contributes to the local economy, supporting and engaging with the community through its operations.
Why independent businesses matter
Create vibrant communities
Independent businesses add unique character and charm to our communities, making them more inviting and places we're proud of.
Grow connections
Local businesses are owned by your neighbours, creating a sense of belonging that big chains and online can't replicate.
Boost the local economy
When you shop locally, the money stays within the community, supporting jobs and local suppliers.
Creating interdependence
At xplore, we believe in the power of interdependence. By connecting independent businesses and communities through one dedicated marketplace, we're building stronger, more resilient communities where everyone can thrive. This interconnectedness helps lift us all up, creating a world where we feel safer, more connected, and truly at home no matter where we are.
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Take action with xplore Certified
Spend more money locally
Make conscious choices about where you spend your money. Every pound spent at an independent business is a vote for a stronger more unique communities.
Spread the word
Share xplore Certified movement with your friends and family. Encourage them to think local first.
Get involved
Whether you're a business owner looking to get certified or a community member wanting to make a difference, there's a place for you in the xplore community.
