Norwich’s hospitality, retail, and tourism sectors are thriving. In Norfolk, they support over 54,000 jobs and contribute £3 billion to the local economy.
In 2023, tourism alone generated £769.5M in Norwich and welcomed over 2.2 million visitors (Economic Impact of Tourism, 2023).
This surge in footfall has fueled growing demand for cafés, hotels, restaurants, and event spaces, strengthening hospitality’s role as a key driver of Norwich’s local economy.
With a perfect blend between high street shopping and independent spirit, Norwich has everything you need, all in one place.
The city center features prominent shopping destinations such as Chantry Place and Castle Quarter, and also houses major retailers like John Lewis, Marks & Spencer, TK Maxx, and Boots.
Additionally, Norwich is renowned for its independent shops, including the iconic Jarrolds department store, which has been a family-run business since 1823.
At the heart of Norwich’s indie retail landscape lies the Norwich Lanes, a historic network of cobbled streets teeming with over 300 independent businesses. This area is renowned for its eclectic mix of vintage boutiques, artisan shops, galleries, and eateries, reflecting the city’s creative spirit and community ethos.
Norfolk has outpaced the UK average (excluding London) in recent years and is emerging as one of the UK’s most promising destinations for both business and leisure.
Local Growth PlanWe will build on Norfolk’s rich heritage and culture, while enhancing tourism opportunities and bringing our local communities together
Norfolk Local Growth Plan
The hospitality sector remains a vital source of employment in Norwich.
Similarly to retail, there are plenty of options when it comes to food and drink in the city. From internationally renowned chains to quirky and independent cafes, bars and restaurants, there is something for everyone.
Norwich boasts a vibrant culinary and cultural scene, featuring several award-winning restaurants and venues that cater to a variety of tastes and occasions such as Benedicts, Benoli and also Gonzos which won Radio 1 Dance Awards’ best venue 2025.
In addition, there is the Norwich Market, the largest permanent covered market in all of Europe that includes stalls that serve international street food and drinks, and retail such as vintage clothes, jewellery and more.
Norwich is home to over 60 independent cafés, offering a vibrant mix of indie coffee spots and specialty brewers, each with its own unique atmosphere. Local cafés tend to focus heavily on quality and sustainability, with many using ethically sourced beans and taking real pride in how their coffee is made.
Originally from Northern Ireland, by way of Belgium and London, Sally moved to Norwich in 2014 with her family. She runs her own small business, designing and making knitted lambswool textiles. She’s also an art and textiles technician at Norwich High School.
Sally’s Relocation Story
Krisi Smith, Co-Founder & Owner of the award-winning independent tea company Bird & Blend Tea Co. shares their reasons for opening up a store in Norwich, praise for the business community and advice for new and expanding businesses coming to the fast-growing city.
Krisi's Relocation Story
Born and raised in Norwich, Jahangir is the owner of Dhaba at Fifteen – an exciting dining experience specialising in Indian street food. Based on Magdalen Street, the award-winning restaurant is supplied and supported by other local businesses. When he’s not looking for culinary inspiration, Jahangir enjoys strolling through the Norwich Lanes and taking quiet walks in the city’s green spaces.
Jahangir’s Success Story
Charlotte relocated her family to Norwich in 2016. Find out how she navigated the move, made a home, built a community all whilst balancing work and exploring the opportunities Norwich has to offer.
