RETAILERS across Bicester are being invited to a free conference aimed at tackling the issues affecting them.

Among the topics up for discussion on Thursday, June 18, will be the recession, and competition from the internet.

Organised by Bicester Vision, shops and businesses will also be given an update on the town centre redevelopment, a shoppers’ guide, and the green bag it is producing. There will also be a chance to talk about crime, green initiatives and a joint marketing campaign.

The event, which takes place at Wyevale, Bicester Avenue, just off the Oxford Road, from 5pm, will also mark the launch of the Bicester Crime Partnership.

Shops and business are being urged to sign up to the initiative which includes intelligence about known offenders and a radio system to keep stores in touch with each other and the police.

Partnership manager at Bicester Vision, Rachel Faulkner, said: “The conference will be relevant to retailers, publicans, restauranteurs, owners and managers of hairdressers and salons, solicitors and insurance companies – any company who is interested in the future of Bicester and how we can work together to make things better.”

She said people were finding the current economic climate tough and many businesses were struggling to stay afloat.

Mrs Faulkner added: “The event will include an opportunity to talk to other local businesses and share experiences as well as a number of presentations about subjects as diverse as retail theft, the town centre development, green issues, joint marketing and free training opportunities.

“We really hope that local companies will make the most of this opportunity and come along on the 18th — we hope this will be the start of something exciting for Bicester.”

To register for the event view bicestervision.co.uk