Where Independents Thrive.
Get certified Independent by Xplore Local and access a community of passionate xplorers who love independents, plus a suite of tools designed for independent business owners like you.
Certification
Be proudly independent!
Get certified as a genuine independent business with Xplore. Build trust with customers who love to experience and embrace locally owned businesses. Show off your badge and attract those who believe in keeping the community spirit alive!
Read more about our certificationXplore Discovery → over Google & TripAdvisor
Skip the chain-heavy platforms with toxic fake reviews — and get listed on the National Map of Independents.
Xplore Local is a discovery platform dedicated exclusively for independent businesses. No chains, no franchises, no paid-for rankings—just authentic, local businesses like yours in the spotlight. We don’t rely on algorithms to prioritise big brands. Instead, we make it easy for locals and visitors to find you, know exactly where you are, and connect with what makes your business unique.
News Feed → over Instagram
No algorithms, no ads, no fighting for reach. Every post hits your followers, every time.
Share your news, showcase your brand, products, and passion with xplore Newsfeed—a space designed for independent businesses to connect directly with customers. No algorithms, no ads—just your authentic story reaching people who care about what you offer. Inspire, engage, and grow your community without the noise.
Broadcasts → over Email
Reach your followers instantly — no crowded inbox, no spam filters.
Send updates straight to their Xplore app — faster, easier, and more effective than email.
Announce your new menu, promote a last-minute offer, or highlight an upcoming event and link directly to your ticket page.
See who’s opening, clicking, and engaging — and finally get the results email can’t deliver.
You can even message event attendees directly if details change — no stress, no inbox spam, just meaningful connection.
Offers → over Discount Sites
Offers that make sense for your business.
Xplore Offers give you a flexible way to promote timely, relevant value — without turning your business into a discount brand. Whether it’s moving same-day stock, rewarding regulars, or encouraging visits during quieter hours, Offers help you do it with intention.
Send any offer directly to your followers via a Broadcast, turning one good idea into instant visibility.
Set your own terms, update or pause at any time, and keep control of how you show up.
Offers appear only on your business profile via a dedicated button
Chats → over DMs
Real conversations, real connections
Instant, in-app conversations with your customers. No platform switching, no lost messages.
Lightweight, conversational tool for answering questions and taking bookings
More personal than email, less intrusive than phone calls
Complete control with on/off toggle in the Go app
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Events → over Eventbrite
Create, manage, and sell tickets to your event or experience, all in one easy-to-use place for free.
From local festivals to supper clubs, food tours, pub quizzes, and free community gatherings, Xplore makes marketing and ticket sales quick, easy and cheap.
Business on the Go
All the incredible features of Xplore Local, designed specifically for independent businesses, are right at your fingertips with our simple, easy-to-use app. Whether you run an artisan bakery, locl pub or a running shop, the xplore Go app streamlines business management and customer relationships. Xplore fits seamlessly into your daily operations, giving you more time to focus on what you do best.
Join the Movement — Get Certified for Free, Forever.
Be part of the new map of the UK – made up of 100% Certified Independents.
Join free, forever, or choose our Certified+ membership anytime to unlock tools like Broadcasts, Chat, Events, Offers, and more.
Join a growing community of Certified Independent businesses
Noya's Kitchen
The Orchard Coffee and Co
Edgie Eats
Palette
The Dark Horse
Little Victories
Independents and communities are better together
xplore is designed to keep money within local economies and benefit you and your customers.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is xplore?
xplore is a purpose-built app-based marketplace designed exclusively for independent businesses. It’s more than just a platform—it's a Customer Engagement Hub tailored to help you thrive.
What types of independent businesses can join?
We cover all types of brcks and Morta independent businesses.
Our main categories are:
- Eat & Drink
- Shop
- Visit
- Lifestyle
- Sleep
- Experiance
- Markets
If you're not sure please contact the xplore team who will be happy to talk to you.
How much does it cost to join xplore?
We offer a free, forever Certified membership to be listed on our map and in our app. You cn also close o join our Certified+ memberhsip hre ou have access to features that help you grow your business.
How do I grow my community on xplore?
Growing your community on xplore is key to maximizing your presence and impact. Encourage your customers to connect with you on xplore by sharing your profile, promoting your presence on the app, and showcasing your events or offers. The more people that connect with you, the greater the visibility and engagement your business will achieve, helping you attract new customers and build loyalty.
What if I have more than one independent business?
No problem along as you have 5 businesses or less as well as meeting our further critiera for what an independent business is which you can see here.
We are dedicated to showcasing and promoting only genuine independent family-run businesses that contribute to the vitality and uniqueness of local communities. To ensure the authenticity and integrity of the businesses featured on our platform, we have established specific criteria for eligibility. Please review our guidelines to understand the requirements for joining xplore.
Can I cancel my account at any time?
Yes. If you ever decide that xplore isn’t the best platform for your business, simply close your account. Sady we can't offer any refunds if you have paid for an annual membership.
Take back local
Discover certified independent businesses that make any place feel like home.
