Discover The Best Independent Businesses in Dorchester
Explore shops, cafes, and services across Dorchester. Recommend your favourites and support local trade.
Think Local First is a community campaign helping you find and support the independent businesses serving Dorchester. From shops, cafés and trades to professional services, we’re here to make it easier to choose genuine local businesses and keep more money in the local economy.
When YOU choose a local
business, everyone benefits
Independent businesses are the lifeblood of places like Dorchester. When you spend with a local business, that money circulates within the community, supports jobs, funds local suppliers and keeps our high streets alive.
Research shows that around 70p of every £1 spent with an independent business stays within the local economy. Choosing local isn't just good for business, it's good for everyone.
Find local businesses in Dorchester →Backing Local Business
Well-known figures have spoken publicly about why local businesses matter. Add your voice to theirs and show your support for Dorchester's independent businesses.
“A big business starts small.”
“Small and growing businesses are the beating heart of our economy and the soul of our communities.”
“The high street is not a retail thing: it's a social thing, part of the British lifestyle.”
Are You a Local Business?
Join the independent businesses in Dorchester backing Think Local First. Get listed in the directory, reach local customers, and help keep more spending in the local economy.
Dorchester Business Directory
Find independent businesses serving Dorchester across a wide range of local categories – from cafés and shops to trades and professional services. Whether you’re looking for someone nearby or simply want to keep more of your spending local, the directory makes it easy to find genuine local businesses.
Find out more →Browse the Full Dorchester Directory
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Recently Added to Dorchester
Mintern Fencing and Sheds Ltd
With over 25 years of experience in the Dorset and Somerset area, Mintern Fencing & Sheds specializes in a wid…
View profile →Mintern Roofing Limited
Mintern Roofing Limited is based in Dorset and surrounding areas, and covers all your roofing needs. From a ne…
View profile →BPL Solicitors
bpl solicitors offers a high standard of conveyancing services nationally, maintaining that important personal…
View profile →Dorchester's Local Voices
Local Voices brings together messages of support from residents, business owners and local organisations who believe in the value of independent local businesses.
These are residents, community figures, and organisations who have publicly backed the Think Local First campaign in Dorchester — read what they have to say below.
Explore Local Voices →
Recommend a Business
Some of the best local businesses are found by word of mouth.
Recommend a business you rate highly, explain why you value them, and help other local people discover them too.
No payments, no promotions – just genuine local recommendation.
Recommend a business →Ready to make a difference in Dorchester?
I’m looking for a local business
Find trusted local businesses and help support Dorchester’s independent business community.
Explore the directory →I run a local business
Join the campaign and help local people discover your business. It is FREE to list and only takes a few minutes to set up.
Add your business →