2020 has been, erm, challenging shall we say? And now, just months after restrictions were lifted and businesses were starting to feel normal again, the rug has been pulled from underneath our feet. With the dreaded Lockdown 2.0 underway, hundreds of local businesses are rightly concerned about the effect this will have on their company.
Here at Shire, we truly understand and appreciate the importance of local businesses on the community. They are places where we meet other people; where we can source top quality local products; and where many of our friends and family make a living.
They really are the backbone of The Cotswolds.
We’ve put together a few brief points to show everyone how a few simple steps can go a long way to supporting local businesses through this tough month (and going forward!). By supporting these business in their darkest days, it means they will be here to provide for the community for many years to come.
Buy Local
This may seem an obvious one but where possible it is crucial we join together to spend our money with local businesses who really need it. Many businesses are offering click and collect or takeaway services so taking advantage of these really helps. Plus, we are surrounded by the best pubs – so it’s not too much of a hardship to grab the odd takeaway dinner!
Leave reviews
Google reviews, Facebook reviews, TripAdvisor reviews – they all help to build a positive online reputation for your favourite local businesses. This is key to help businesses get back on their feet once restrictions are lifted – people look for the best places to go, and nothing says “Pick Me” like a 5 star review.
Share Social Media Posts
It takes literally less than a second to do, and by sharing you are effectively standing on a platform shouting about this business to your facebook friends. It massively increases the reach of the post and can catch the eye of people who otherwise may be left in the dark.
Buy Gift Cards
A great way to get some early Christmas shopping ticked off your list and also putting some money into the local economy at the same time. By purchasing gift cards from independent businesses, you are helping to minimise the effect Lockdown will have on cashflow this month.
Be there after the Lockdown
There are many businesses who’ve had to close doors completely this month (hairdressers, beauticians, the whole hospitality industry, tattooists, gyms…the list goes on!!). These businesses are counting on you continuing to use their services once Lockdown 2.0 is lifted. So keep that gym membership running, keep your December hair appointment and stay loyal to the businesses who are there year in year out for you.
Thanks for reading. Stay safe, stay positive & stay strong.
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