THE Rhyl Business Improvement District (BID) has ended following the conclusion of its five-year term.

Rhyl BID began in 2019 but has wrapped up today (March 31), following a decision made not to ballot for a second five-year term.

It launched its first programme of support with the introduction of town rangers, serving both businesses and the wider community, and has gone on to host the Rhyl BID Business Awards in each of the last three years.

Rhyl Journal: Winners at the 2024 Rhyl BID Business AwardsWinners at the 2024 Rhyl BID Business Awards (Image: Rhyl BID)

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Its regular free public events in Rhyl, such as at Christmas and Halloween, have also helped increase footfall in the town.

Abby Pilling, manager of Rhyl BID, said: “It has been a privilege to work with Rhyl’s many wonderful businesses and getting to know them as individuals. 

“Rhyl has so much to offer, and such dedicated business and residential communities with a strong sense of pride and a lot of heart. 

Rhyl Journal: Rhyl BID organised seasonal events to bring visitors into the town Rhyl BID organised seasonal events to bring visitors into the town (Image: Rhyl BID)

“We have been impressed by the business owners’ drive and perseverance, and are grateful for their participation at all our events, especially our community activities, where they helped us to showcase the town. 

“We wish all the businesses the best of luck as they continue to support residents and welcome tourists alike.”

Nicola Moore, of MarketMoore, has assisted businesses in the town to develop their marketing through Rhyl BID.

She also hosted the third Rhyl BID Business Awards, held at 1891 Bar and Restaurant on March 5.

Rhyl Journal: ITV Wales' coverage of Rhyl BID community eventsITV Wales' coverage of Rhyl BID community events (Image: Rhyl BID)

“It has been a delight to support the businesses of Rhyl to develop their marketing through training, resource materials, advertising and public relations,” Nicola aid.

“Over the last five years, I have got to know the businesses in Rhyl, and witnessed first-hand their determination to succeed.

“I would like to thank them personally for trusting me with their business brands, and wish them continued success for the future.” 

Rhyl Journal: Magic Light Productions' street entertainment at a Rhyl BID community eventMagic Light Productions' street entertainment at a Rhyl BID community event (Image: Rhyl BID)

Other forms of support that Rhyl BID has provided have included:

  • A collective marketing programme which has seen more than 150 businesses access wider opportunities such as the Alight Media board, iVans and iWalkers.
  • A dedicated savings and advice programme which, to date, has identified more than £65,000 worth of savings for Rhyl businesses.
  • Online training portal and in-house training sessions, which have benefitted upwards of 120 managers and staff.
  • One-on-one support during COVID-19, including PPE provision and on-site advice and guidance to more than 200 businesses during the first lockdown alone.
  • Continued one-on-one support with grants and other issues, throughout subsequent lockdowns, and beyond.

Nadeem Ahmad, chairman of Rhyl BID, said in December: “Like many wider organisations across the UK, local businesses need to reduce outgoings.

“Understandably, paying their BID levy and supporting a second five-year term is not at the top of their list of priorities.

Rhyl Journal: Rhyl BID launched the Your Rhyl voucher scheme to encourage footfall into the town's businessesRhyl BID launched the Your Rhyl voucher scheme to encourage footfall into the town's businesses (Image: Rhyl BID)

“This has been a difficult decision to make, but it has been done with the best interests of the businesses in Rhyl in mind.

“We appreciate the hard work, effort and support that businesses have shown the Rhyl BID, but I think you will agree it is the most sensible thing to do given our current economic pressures.”