Independent retailer network StreetHub has announced the completion of a $2.6m (£1.7m) investment round led by Octopus Investments that will help fund the launch of its new website Trouva.com.

Trouva will bring together a selection of the most inspired boutiques from within StreetHubs network of 350 independent retailers, aiming to provide consumers with an alternative to chain-dominated high streets and use eCommerce to fight back against larger brands and online-only retailers.

A team of curators will handpick unique fashion, homeware and gift items found only in independent stores for the website, which will ship worldwide as well as offering click-and-collect and 1 hour Shutl delivery to selected postcodes.

“Weve seen huge success with our iPhone app launch last year, with over 40,000 customers using the app to discover and purchase from independent shops in their local vicinity,” said Mandeep Singh, co-founder of StreetHub. “This is how we identified the compelling opportunity to also service people who are keen to discover shops which are a little further afield too.

“Trouva is the logical next step for us in our mission to help our amazing independent retailers to reach an even wider audience and help more customers to discover these inspiring, individual collections of products.”