As more businesses across Northumberland prepare to reopen next week residents are being encouraged to Shop Local.
The County Council is launching a Shop Local, Shop Northumberland campaign to help shine a light on the wide choice of independent businesses in the county.
The campaign will highlight the diversity and quality of retailers and will encourage to discover what is on their doorstep. It is part of the council’s Discover our Land campaign which promotes Northumberland as a fantastic place to live, work, invest and visit.
Now restrictions are relaxing the county council is urging people not to turn their backs on those businesses in favour of giant retailers but to continue to spend locally and support the local economy.
A recent study from YouGov showed almost two thirds of Brits claim they will try to support local businesses and buy locally going forward.
As a result of coronavirus, 64% of people want to support local businesses and buy local products.
The campaign will feature businesses from across the county, launching with several from the west, including Forum Books in Corbridge and eco-friendly clothing company Ivy & Rigg, based in Newbrough, near Hexham.
The integrated marketing campaign will also include a promotional video for each area of the county as well as a social media campaign encouraging people to share their favourite local businesses and experiences.
Juliemma McLoughlin, Executive Director of Regeneration, Commercial and Economy at the county council said: “Our local businesses need our support now more than ever. We know that spending even a small amount locally can have a hugely positive impact on the county’s economy.
“Northumberland has so many exciting, unique and special independent retailers who all go the extra mile to provide a quality service for customers. Many of these businesses have been a real lifeline for communities throughout the pandemic, so now we need to do our bit to ensure our high streets and independent businesses can recover from this challenging time.
“I would encourage everyone to find out what is available on their doorstep and Shop Local, Shop Northumberland.”
Helen Stanton, who runs Forum Books, said: “Coronavirus has shown people the importance and the connection between shopping local and helping to support the local area.
Independent businesses work really hard because they genuinely love what they do. The customer service that we can offer and the way we run our businesses is done with a lot of heart. “
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