An Introduction by Cathy Parker MBE SFIPM, Chair of IPM and Professor of Retail at Manchester
Metropolitan University

I am writing just a few days after the High Street Task Force Celebration Event, where we gathered at
Manchester Metropolitan University with place leaders and practitioners to share successes and
lessons learned in supporting towns and cities across England. The commitment from everyone
involved in the Task Force over the past five years has been truly inspiring. On behalf of everyone at
IPM and Manchester Met, thank you. You can read more about the event and our insights on the
High Streets Task Force.