A conference held at Cardigan Castle, Ceredigion, has highlighted the transformative role of technology in supporting high street businesses and town centres. The SMART Busnes Cymru Conference, organised by Antur Cymru Enterprise, brought together local authorities, small businesses, and organisations from across Wales to explore how digital solutions, particularly in tracking footfall and consumer trends, can enhance high street sustainability.
The event focused on the increasing adoption of technology such as the Internet of Things (IoT) and LoRaWAN, both of which help businesses gather valuable data and improve customer experiences. The SMART Busnes Project, which has already supported over 150 start-ups and small businesses in the past year, is a key initiative in this ‘tech revolution’. Delivered in partnership with Ceredigion County Council and funded by the UK Government’s Shared Prosperity Fund, the project has been instrumental in integrating innovative tech solutions in rural and urban areas alike.
Antur Cymru’s Business Development Manager, Kevin Harrington, addressed attendees, emphasising the significant changes brought about by technology in data collection, business efficiency, and connectivity. “It’s been great to engage with businesses and organisations about their digital journeys,” he said. “This event has enabled important conversations about IoT and technology, and the response has been overwhelmingly positive.”
The conference also offered a platform for networking and collaboration, as Ceredigion’s Project Manager, Councillor Clive Davies, noted. “It’s been wonderful to see small businesses and councils coming together to share ideas and experiences,” he said. “This dialogue needs to continue, and we must work together to implement the lessons we’ve learned.”
Powys County Council’s Broadband Officer, Brad Wilshire, stressed the importance of data accessibility for local shops and communities. He said: “The technology presented today has the potential to make a significant impact by providing businesses with critical insights into customer behaviour and needs.”
A key highlight was a presentation by David Evans of Wrexham’s SMART City Initiatives, who shared real-world examples of IoT applications. Evans highlighted how moisture and temperature sensors used in flowerbeds had saved thousands of litres of water daily, and how traffic and parking technologies were helping improve public safety and urban planning. He concluded, “It’s not just about sensors; it’s about doing things smarter, cheaper, and better.”
Local business owners also shared their positive experiences with smart technologies. Jane Roche, who runs Fisherman’s Rest and Catch of The Day in Cardigan, explained how adopting IoT fridge sensors had improved food safety and efficiency in her venues. “I’m not a digital person, but this technology has been invaluable,” she said.
Meirion Davies, Director of Cardigan Castle, agreed, praising the support provided by Antur Cymru. “The digital support we’ve received has been crucial, and I believe other heritage sites should explore how this technology can help them,” he said.
The event concluded with Antur Cymru’s Managing Director, Bronwen Raine, thanking attendees for their contributions. She highlighted the strong desire for local authorities and town planners to use technology to support high street businesses, especially at a time when many are facing challenges. “These technologies provide essential data and feedback that can make businesses more efficient, sustainable, and better equipped to meet the needs of their customers,” she said.
The SMART Busnes Cymru Conference showcased the growing role of technology in revitalising high streets and provided valuable insights into how Welsh businesses can harness innovation to thrive in a digital age.
