The Press and Journal (Inverness, Highlands, and Islands)

SUPPORT LOCAL WITH THE ABERDEEN GIFT CARD

THE ABERDEEN GIFT CARD HAS ALREADY PROVIDED A £3 MILLION BOOST FOR THE LOCAL ECONOMY.

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Over 300 shops, businesses and attraction­s in the city have benefitted from the Aberdeen Gift Card, which was first launched by Aberdeen Inspired in 2020. It’s now been named as the top-selling Town & City Gift Card in the UK and Ireland following sales of £590,000 in 2023, and £3 million in sales since its launch.

But people actually spend on average 65% more than the face value of their gift card, which means its closer to £4 million that’s been spent in local businesses.

And, in a further boost to the area, charities have also been using the gift card to help local people.

Aberdeensh­ire couple Hollie and Kris Dear set up Hamish Dear’s Warm Hugs in memory of their son Hamish, who died when he was three in 2015 after bravely battling neuroblast­oma. Today, the charity provides short breaks or treats for children with cancer and their families. As part of this, the charity purchased 25 £50 Aberdeen Gift Cards. Holly said: “When welookedin­totheAberd­eenGiftCar­dwesaw it could be used so widely at various places and attraction­s locally, such as the science centre, or a meal out or at local shops. We really liked the idea of giving families that kind of flexibilit­y to decide how to spend their days.

“We also liked the idea it supports local businesses, something we always choose to do where possible. As a charity, it’s nice to be able to give back because we’ve received a lot of really positive support from the local community.”

Adrian Watson, chief executive of Aberdeen Inspired, is delighted at the success of the Aberdeen Gift Card.

He said: “The card really is the perfect gift for those who receive it, giving them more than 300 places to choose to spend – be it in shops, restaurant­s, salons, spas, our fantastic arts venues and even at Pittodrie.

“But it is also a gift for all the businesses and traders who sign up to the scheme, bringing much-needed revenue through their doors.”

If you’re looking for the perfect gift, support local and check out the Aberdeen Gift Card. You can buy one at the Bon Accord Centre and Trinity Centre, or online at aberdeengi­ftcard.com.

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