Coronavirus and Shopping in your local town

The pandemic has had a huge impact on shops, pubs and restaurants, but East Herts District Councils is hitting back with a new campaign encouraging residents to make a pledge to support local businesses by shopping online during lockdown.

Shop Safe, Shop Local 

Shop Safe, Shop Local is asking shoppers to switch from online shopping with industry giants to supporting local businesses wherever they can. 

Cllr Jan Goodeve, Executive Member for Planning and Growth, East Herts District Council, backs the campaign. She says: “Every year we make a New Year’s resolution to lose weight, get fit etc, but in  2021 it’s vital we also support our own communities. By buying your meat from a local butcher, or ordering a takeaway from your local café , pub or restaurant, you will provide much-needed support to your local community. 

“We all love our High Streets, but we all need to do our bit to support local businesses. It’s simple, we have to buy from local retailers and order takeaway services from cafes and restaurants otherwise we lose them! I would urge residents to support their local High Street during lockdown by purchasing local goods and services online or by ordering takeaways.”   

Towns across the district have worked tirelessly to offer shoppers an online experience. Many retailers have adapted due to the pandemic to offering online shopping services. Whilst many cafes and restaurants have also extended their offer to allow takeaways. 

During 2020 all High Streets across the UK took a huge financial hit. However, stats* show that for every £1 spent with a local, independent business, between 50p-70p circulates back into that local economy. That’s why this Shop Safe, Shop Local campaign is encouraging residents to buy local wherever they can.   

*Independent Retailer Month. 

How to shop safely

How to shop safely and support your local retailers and takeaways: 

  1. Make a pledge to support local businesses throughout 2021.
  2. Shop online from your local High Street retailer wherever possible during lockdown. 
  3. Give yourself a treat and order a takeaway. 
  4. When shopping for essential goods and services abide by the physical distancing signage – remember to keep two metres. 
  5. In-store wear a face covering at all times. 
  6. Wash your hands and use hand sanitisers if shopping for essential goods. 
  7. Handle as few things as possible, only pick-up what you want to buy. 
  8. When you’re making a purchase use a card and don’t forget to bring your own bag. 
  9. Avoid crowds and if there’s a queue, call back later. 
  10. Remember if you have any Covid-19 symptoms you must self-isolate. 

Towns in East Herts

Hertford

Hertford, the county town of Hertfordshire, has a plethora of independent and national retailers set within the historic market town centre. From boutiques and antiques to electrical and homeware, jewellers and florists, to high-end fashion and ethical businesses, Hertford caters to your every need alongside the essential businesses such as food outlets and pharmacies. More information is available on the Go Hertford website.

Ware

Ware has a vast range of quality independent stores, cafes and restaurants nestled on streets packed with history and heritage plus arts and culture. The River Lea runs through the heart of Ware, a perfect place for a leisurely stroll or to stop and enjoy some riverside dining or afternoon tea.  More information is available on the Ware Town Council website.

Buntingford

Buntingford has an eclectic mix of independent retailers, cafes, a wine bar and pub, which makes the historic High Street an enjoyable social experience for shoppers. Each Monday there’s a market on Market Hill, where you can snap up a bargain! Further details are available on the Buntingford Chamber of Commerce website.

Sawbridgeworth

Sawbridgeworth is a small town with a ‘village like’ feel thanks to its wide range of independents on the High Street. Sawbridgeworth literally has everything, the butcher, the baker, even a local candle maker! There’s also a plentiful supply of places to eat from pubs to cafés and an ice cream parlour. Find out more on the Sawbridgeworth Town Council website.

Bishop’s Stortford

Bishop Stortford’s High Street and under cover retail complex, offers a great choice of national chains, independent boutiques and specialist stores as well as a range of expert professional services and a fabulous leisure and hospitality offering. Learn more on the Bishop's Stortford BID website.

About the project

The RHSS EHDC project is receiving up to £132,170 of funding from the England European Regional Development Fund as part of the European Structural and Investment Funds Growth Programme 2014-2020. The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (and in London the intermediate body Greater London Authority) is the Managing Authority for European Regional Development Fund. Established by the European Union, the European Regional Development Fund helps local areas stimulate their economic development by investing in projects which will support innovation, businesses, create jobs and local community regenerations. For more information visit gov.uk website.

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