With the news today that Debenhams is set to close down for good if a buyer can’t be found immediately and that Arcadia, owner of Outfit, has entered administration, the message is clear this Christmas, support your local high street, or face losing it.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, the switch to online shopping has rapidly increased, which in itself isn’t a total disaster, because it gives many of our fantastic local businesses the opportunity to reach an even larger audience. However, the switch to online shopping does come at a cost, with many of our big name high street retailers and small independent outlets struggling to survive.
December is crucial for all retailers, both large and small. With England under lockdown at the end of November and non-essential retailers forced to close their doors, many of these retailers will need a bumper December to be able to ensure that they can survive as we head into 2021.
Herefordshire Council has stepped forward to offer FREE parking in Hereford and our market towns on selected days this Christmas (Details below) and we really do hope that many of you will head to your local high street to support these businesses.
We understand that some of you may wish to stay away from the high street, with the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, but please remember that you can continue to support local businesses by using their online services. Many local independents have set up an online side to their operations over recent months and whilst social media gets criticism from some, it is almost critical for local businesses to have social media pages to shout about the services they offer. If you need support setting these up, then the team at Your Herefordshire would be more than happy to help and support you.
Stefan Davies (Director of Your Herefordshire) said:
“Christmas is a key time for our local businesses. Even more so this year due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Our local high streets in Herefordshire are the heartbeat of our community and we need them to survive in order to preserve these places for future generations and to keep local people in jobs. Every pound you spend at a local retailer will see money reinvested into the local community. Please take your time to support them.”
If you run a local business and would like support this Christmas, please get in touch with us at enquiries@yourherefordshire.co.uk and we can talk you through the various options we offer.
Photo Credit: Phill Lister
