The Elected Mayor Peter Taylor has launched a borough-wide ‘Shop Local’ campaign to highlight the wealth of excellent businesses in the town...
With an array of new businesses, exciting high street improvement schemes, vibrant Christmas decorations, and thriving retail and leisure destinations in Watford, the Elected Mayor Peter Taylor has launched a borough-wide ‘Shop Local’ campaign to highlight the wealth of excellent businesses in the town.
The ‘Shop Local’ message, supported by Watford Borough Council, is designed to assist the area’s diverse range of unique independent shops and hospitality outlets bounce back after the challenges of the pandemic, and support them against competition from online and out of town shopping.
Thanks to shoppers who have been spending their money in the town, footfall has been slowly returning to their pre-pandemic levels, with Watford having the tenth best recovery in the UK (*Ipsos Mori). Building on these promising figures, the campaign will keep residents up to date with what’s on offer on their doorstep, as well as details of events such as the Christmas Night Market (3 December), to entice people into their local high streets and get them in the festive mood.
To further support local businesses, the council has been investing in the town’s diverse shopping areas to improve the ‘look and feel’ of the destinations, which includes the town centre, Watford Market, Queens Road, Market Street and St Albans Road. Christmas decorations have also been installed in these areas, thanks to funding from the council, Watford BID and local businesses.
Elected Mayor of Watford Peter Taylor said: “From popping into a local bakery for a cake, or buying a quirky gift from an independent shop, by shopping locally people can help local business owners and local communities overcome the challenges of the last 20 months. Whether it’s your local grocer, florist or fabric shop, let’s help them have a thriving future.
“For many businesses, Christmas is their busiest time, so it’s really important we support them as much as we can. Shopping local means money is kept in the local economy – supporting jobs and local families. So this year, when you are thinking about Christmas presents for friends and family, explore some of the wonderful businesses in the town and their unique products. These businesses are the heart of our community and we need them to still be there for us in the future.”
Shoppers are asked to continue to follow government advice on shopping safely, including wearing a face covering in shops unless exempt, maintaining social distancing and regularly washing and sanitising hands. To find out more about the ‘Shop Local’ campaign, please visit Watford's website.
