The past year has brought challenge and heartache to most of us, in many different ways.
But for those individuals and families operating businesses in our communities and whose income and livelihood rely on our trade, the last 12 months have been extremely tough.
That’s why we launched our ‘Keep it Local’ campaign to help them recover from the economic fallout of Covid-19.
And with restrictions set to ease over the coming weeks, we’re encouraging residents and staff to once again rally round the businesses on our high streets and in our towns and villages and give them our full support.
By keeping it local, you are helping to pay the wages of your neighbours, keeping a building in use, giving confidence to the individual or family operating the business and ensuring your money stays in the area.
It’s not just about spending money, you can support a local business in a number of ways:
- Buy what you can for your weekly shop from the local butcher, market, bakery
- Get your loved ones a gift that has a story from our craft shops, local artists and creators, local food and drinks producers, gift vouchers
- Look after your wellbeing and visit local garden centres, have your hair freshed up at a local salon, visit our museums, buy a new book, take some time out and grab a coffee or ice-cream on you daily walk
- Spread the word and tell others about your favourite place to visit
- Follow them on social media and interact with their posts
Caitriona McAuley, Head of Economic Development and Regeneration, said: “The past 12 months have been hard on all of us but I think we recognise just how difficult it has been on our local businesses.
“They have had to keep up with changing guidance and legislation, adapt their business models and even close their business for weeks and months at a time.
“We have been there to support them as best as we can by ensuring grants and other financial support have been administered and distributed quickly.
“But they will need all of our help to survive.
“The easing of restrictions allows us an opportunity to really be there for them – they are the lifeblood of our communities and they need our support now more than ever.
“I would therefore encourage you all to note the Scottish Government’s proposed timetable for lockdown easing and, once safely re-open, visit the businesses on your doorsteps and give them your loyalty.”
The ‘Keep it Local’ campaign is part of the Council’s wider Community Wealth Building approach. We are encouraging local spend and use of local supply chains to enable the area to build back a better economy.
The strategy can be found on our website.