Digital ‘lifeline’ for hard-hit firms

THE area’s councils have joined forces to promote a new online platform for small businesses, which is said to represent a “digital lifeline” for hard-hit companies during the second lockdown.

Derbyshire County Council and Derbyshire Dales District Council have got together under the banner of the Derbyshire Economic Partnership to throw £64,000 into the ShopAppy.com website, which enables small businesses to sell their products online across one national network.

Shops and services are displayed together on the site, in a single town page, which means customers can shop from all their favourite local shops, in a single transaction.

So far, Hope Valley is the only part of the county that has set up a network on the website, but the councils hope their 12-month subscription, offering groups and businesses unlimited use, will lead to more signing up. Garry Purdy, Leader of Derbyshire Dales District Council, said: “I’m delighted the district council has partnered with the county council to provide the opportunity for businesses to benefit from the Shopappy scheme at an extremely difficult time.”

Tony King, Derbyshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Clean Growth and Regeneration, said: “It’s a critical time for small, independent retailers, many of whom do not have the money or knowhow to sell their products on the internet.

“That’s why the county is supporting this project – to throw a digital lifeline to our high streets by offering local businesses free online subscription to Shopappy.com for 12 months.

“Our own Derbyshire High Street Task Force draws on the skills and experience of experts to make sure we are doing all we can to strengthen Derbyshire’s 27 market towns, at this difficult time.”

Shopappy.com, which has already launched in 150 towns in the UK, was created four years ago to provide an alternative way for places and small businesses to compete with online retail giants, allowing customers to book events and experiences as well as browse and buy local products online.

It is open for retailers, market traders, pop-up shops, homebased businesses, event organisers and artists, as well as restaurants and cafes when coronavirus restrictions allow.

Richard Horsley, chairman of Derbyshire Economic Partnership, said: “When £1 in every £3 spent in retail is being spent online, it’s crucial our towns go digital too.

“With Shopappy.com people can continue to support their favourite local shops from the comfort of their home.”

To get involved or find out more, go to shopappy.com/ vendor or email info@shopappy.com