Strategy in the bag to raise profile
ORMSKIRK souvenirs could soon be on sale to tourists in Liverpool under plans being considered by West Lancashire Borough Council.
The council is to issue a line of official merchandise for tourists and residents.
Among the items being considered initially are greeting cards and branded bags, oven gloves and tea towels.
Under plans approved by the council’s cabinet, a small selection of items will go on sale during the Ormskirk Gingerbread Festival. More stock could then be issued for sale at local shops, in the Chapel Gallery and online.
In documents presented to the cabinet, council officers say that as Ormskirk has recently joined Visit Liverpool it might be given access to the cruise ship market.
Officers acknowledge that sales are unlikely to generate “significant” income in the short term, though a trial of an Ormskirk tote bag has already proved popular.
But sales may be successful as part of a wider strategy to invest in Ormskirk town centre and help its future become more sustainable, they say.
The plans are among a number of projects, including Ormskirk Town Centre Strategy, the launch of the “Discover Ormskirk” campaign, and the pursuit of an Ormskirk Business Improvement District.
The report says: “One of the key action areas highlighted in the OTC strategy was to address issues relating to brand, marketing and town centre management.
“Some of the key issues highlighted were that of fragmented town centre management, the lack of a clear recognisable brand for Ormskirk and the lack of one comprehensive website to promote Ormskirk and the wider area and act as a ‘one stop shop’ promoting events and activities taking place in and around the town centre.”