Lockdown in Grampian: Public show support for shop local campaign
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Most shoppers in the North East put supporting their local high street first, a new study has found.
And there is growing recognition that people need to get behind their town centres if local businesses are to survive and thrive beyond Covid-19.
The poll commissioned by Scotland’s Towns Partnership for its Scotland Loves Local campaign found:
- 56% of people will always shop on their local high street rather than going further afield, whenever they can do so.
- 94% believe there is a strong chance that many high street businesses will go bust if people don’t support them.
- 85% say it’s vital that people in their community support businesses on their local high streets.
Phil Prentice, Chief Officer of Scotland’s Towns Partnership, stated the pandemic has seen a strengthening of "the spirit of localism".
And this, in turn, had strengthened support for town centres.
He added: "The positive power of people across the region supporting their high street should not be underestimated.
"Every pound spent locally flips six times in the area’s economy, so the knock-on effect is significant.
"Thinking local first protects jobs, helps the environment and helps make our communities better places to live.
"As we all live more of our lives locally we must embrace this to ensure that stronger, more sustainable town centres are the beating heart of the future across North East Scotland."
The Federation of Small Businesses in Scotland (FSB) also welcomed the results of the poll.
Andrew McRae, the organisation's policy chairman, said: "Successful independent shops have long been synonymous with successful local places.
"That’s why nine in 10 people in Scotland believe that their community should support retailers and other businesses in their town or on the high street.
"They know that, if they want to live in a strong, successful community, they need their local firms to thrive.
"But everyone understands that times are tough for many local operators.
"That’s why we need decision-makers and the general public to provide custom and support for these vital enterprises.
"So, it doesn’t matter if you’re nipping out for the rolls and papers, looking for that special present, or just getting something in for the family tea, we’d urge people in Scotland to buy local wherever possible."
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