The new growing 'Shop local' directory is already live. It is free to list your details, and the form only takes a few minutes to complete via the same link. The Council is also promoting the directory to residents to encourage them to shop locally as much as possible, to support the local economy and local jobs.
During December the Council is also inviting businesses to tag the Council on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram in their own posts about festive offers or seasonal specials, so that the posts can be shared to help publicise promotions to residents.
Facebook: @SouthCambridgeshireDistrictCouncil
Twitter: @SouthCambs
Instagram: @SouthCambs
A new Reopening the High Streets Safely team was established at the Council in the spring, thanks to European Regional Development Fund funding which was ring-fenced by the Government to support High Street businesses to safely reopen after the first lockdown.
The team has been visiting businesses this year, providing guidance and support, and sharing videos online of the businesses visited, to promote the many ways businesses have been adapting and bouncing back in response to national restrictions and to reassure residents about the Covid-secure measures put in place. The new directory is the next phase of support for these businesses, but also supports the Council’s long-term aim to support local businesses and grow the local economy.
Customer-facing businesses will this week be receiving festive posters and table talkers from the High Street team, which can be displayed to remind customers of the essential safety measures to prevent the spread of the disease – from ‘Hands, Face, Space’ to checking in using the NHS Test & Trace App. Any business which has not received these is invited to contact the team to request these, or for any other support around safely reopening: Reopening@scambs.gov.uk
Cllr Peter McDonald, Lead Cabinet Member for Business Recovery and Skills at South Cambridgeshire District Council, said: “South Cambridgeshire businesses have worked incredibly hard to respond and adapt to changing restrictions this year, and as we emerge from the national lockdown into the festive season, we want to really help residents discover new local businesses that they may wish to support as they do their Christmas shopping, or stock up on festive food, or venture into local eateries for the first time this winter, and to do so as safely as possible.
“We know it’s been such a tough year for businesses and residents alike, but we know that people will still want to spend on gifts and treats during December, and we’d like to help promote as many local businesses as possible to our residents. Please take a few minutes to list your business on our directory, particularly including information about how you are making it easier for people to support your business in a safer way – such as with any options to click and collect or shop online.”