Hmmm where is this information from? I am from a small town/village in the north east and can assure you it is thriving with a quality butchers, 2 greengrocers, 2 bakers, a chemist and a pet clothing and accessories shop (not sure about that one). this is even despite there being the biggest Tesco I have ever seen (2 floors!) only a mile away.

I dont have any hard evidence for why these businesses continue to survive, but I would like to think in the small towns and villages in the north there is a stronger sense of community and loyalty to local businesses.