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Shop Local Week resources, including digital assets for businesses, consumers and associated organisations, are being distributed to small businesses to help them to engage local customers with the shopping experience in-store and online, including template digital content to share with their followers.
Business secretary, Alok Sharma, said: “From corner shops and florists, to newsagents, cafes and pubs, our high streets are at the heart of every community in every corner of the UK.
“Business owners have done an incredible job so far to welcome shoppers back safely, and I hope people across the country will do their bit this week to help our high streets bounce back to protect jobs and support local communities.”
Michelle Ovens, director of Small Business Saturday UK and founder of Small Business Britain, added: “Shop Local is an important campaign to encourage more people to return to shopping locally, in a way that is safe and gives them confidence. The British high street is confronting seismic changes, which have been accelerated by Covid-19. Small businesses are facing a really tough time, but they are also at the forefront of responding to this challenge and evolving these much-loved centres into places that enrich communities and add value to people’s lives. Now is the time to show your local area some love.”
Federation of Small Business national chair, Mike Cherry, said: “It’s vital now more than ever that we do what we can to support our local small businesses. The past few months have been among the most difficult that businesses have ever had and as we slowly reopen, the public can help by supporting their local businesses. Whether it’s your local grocer, decorators or florist, they all need the support of their communities in order to survive this crisis and thrive.”
“Even those businesses who haven’t been able to reopen their stores, or members of the public who are continuing to shield, then shopping online is a great way to still do your part. Small businesses are the backbone of our economy nationwide, but crucially are the cornerstones of our local communities.”
Shop Local Week is part of the government’s Enjoy Summer Safely campaign, encouraging people to get back to the way of life they have missed while following safety guidelines.
