Think local when it comes to shopping

Association (BIRA) back our initiative. FSB National Chair Mike Cherry said: “Small businesses are well and truly at the heart of our communities. That’s why it’s never been more important to support your local firms and, by extension, the community in which you live. You can still do this, even where premises have had to close because of COVID restrictions.

“Many pubs and restaurants have adapted to offer takeaways or deliveries, cake shops and cafes sell their tempting treats via online delivery platforms, independent retailers trade online as well, some even using the likes of Zoom or Facetime to offer live demonstrations of their products.

“There are many small stores selling essential items that are very much still open. You don’t have to go to a big brand supermarket to buy your turkey and trimmings”.

BIRA Chief Executive Andrew Goodacre agrees, attesting “the future is in our hands ... our sanitised hands”.

He said: “The run-up to Christmas is an essential time for retail. Shopping is safe – all the evidence tells us that. In retail, we need to show leadership by making sure all the safety protocols are in place, clearly communicated and enforced.

“This year has been unique, different and, ultimately, very challenging for independent retail. COVID has changed many things in our lives, not least the way we shop. With more people working from home, there has been a greater interest in shopping locally. We have seen many retailers adjust their business models to meet the needs of the community.

“Money spent locally is recycled locally, often paying for local suppliers, local people for their work and preserving local livelihoods.

“Every thriving community needs this local economy to prosper. My message to shoppers is straightforward ... think local when it comes to shopping.”