Watford’s popular ‘Shop and Eat Local’ campaign has returned for another year, celebrating the town’s fantastic range of independent shops, cafés, and restaurants throughout the festive season...
Now a well-established and well-received initiative, the campaign – supported by Watford Borough Council, Watford Town Centre BID, and the Watford Observer – encourages residents to explore and support local businesses, helping to keep spending in the community and the town’s high streets thriving.
With exciting new businesses opening and a packed calendar of seasonal events – including Winterfest and Christmas Market Lates (15 November) – the campaign will shine a spotlight on everything Watford has to offer. Features in the Watford Observer and on social media will showcase local success stories and hidden gems to inspire shoppers.
Adding to the festive atmosphere, Christmas decorations supported by Watford Town Centre BID, local businesses and the council, will once again bring colour and sparkle to the shopping areas around the town centre.
Watford’s theatres are also getting into the festive spirit, with Jack and the Beanstalk at the Palace Theatre, an array of festive-themed performances at the Watford Colosseum, and a lively programme of shows at the Pump House Theatre, adding even more reasons to enjoy a visit into town this Christmas.
Steven Bockling, owner of Art in Herts
Elected Mayor of Watford, Peter Taylor, said: “This campaign continues to be a great way to highlight the incredible range of fantastic local businesses we have in Watford. Every time people choose to shop or eat locally, they’re helping to keep money in our town and supporting the jobs and livelihoods that make Watford such a vibrant place.”
Steven Bockling, owner of Art in Herts, said: “Watford has such a talented creative community, and it’s wonderful to see local art and independent businesses celebrated together. Campaigns like Shop and Eat Local help people discover just how much creativity and passion there is right here in our town.”
Denise Cox, Owner at Tapestry Cakes, said: “Campaigns like Shop and Eat Local make a real difference. With support from the council, BID and Watford Observer, it helps remind people of the great local businesses we have in Watford. After a challenging few years, it’s fantastic to see more customers choosing to shop locally, every order helps keep jobs in the town and supports our community.”
Tim Reynolds and John Verlander, co-owners of Johnny’s Bar, said: “We’re really proud to be part of Watford’s independent scene. There’s a real sense of community among local businesses, and campaigns like this help remind people how much there is to enjoy right here in the town. Every customer who chooses local helps keep places like ours thriving.”
Lorna Betts, Cafe Manager at Café in the Library (Watford Mencap), said: “Café in the Library is all about people, giving our members the chance to gain confidence and new skills, while serving great food and drinks to the local community. Campaigns like Shop and Eat Local really help raise awareness of what we do and encourage more people to pop in and support us.”
