Swansea traders are urging people to continue shopping local through and beyond lockdown.
They are working with Swansea Council to launch a #ShopLocalShopSwansea campaign this weekend (November 21) – within current government guidelines.
The initiative will embrace the whole area and will begin with a close focus on Morriston to build on existing regeneration work there.
Robert Francis-Davies, the council’s cabinet member for investment, regeneration and tourism, said: “Local retailers and hospitality businesses have continued to show their true worth during the pandemic.
“They’ve been here for Swansea – and local residents have supported them as they have done for generations.
“However, the business landscape is challenging and we want local shopping to thrive whilst being enjoyed safely and in line with restrictions.
“The council has supported local business with measures such as delivering millions of pounds worth of grants – and now we’re going a step further.
“Our community-driven #ShopLocalShopSwansea campaign will put the focus firmly on permanent independent traders and we hope that the public and businesses get right behind it whilst continuing to shop safely.”
Alex Heavens, of Morriston beauty centre Sun Lounge, said: “I’m fully behind this campaign. It’s good that the council has taken this initiative and I think there’ll be a lot of support from the local retail and hospitality sectors.
“It’s a good opportunity for traders across Swansea to remind residents that giving business to local people means that money, jobs and opportunities stay in their own communities – so please shop local, shop Swansea!”
Swansea BID is getting behind the campaign and plans to use #ShopLocalShopSwansea branding on banners they have installed on Fabian Way lampposts.
Morriston is a good example of a strong local shopping area, with dozens of local businesses serving local people day in day out.
With many more people working from home, local shopping locations have become increasingly important to residents. Many people have enjoyed rediscovering retail and socialising opportunities on their doorstep.
Masks must be worn at indoor locations – and social distancing observed – but shops, cafes and other services continue to offer local opportunities.
Swansea’s #ShopLocalShopSwansea campaign will be launched formally this Saturday (November 21) in Morriston.
To show your support for Swansea’s new shopping campaign simply post a video of yourself on social media with a brief message saying who you are and why you shop local – and don’t forget to include the hashtag #ShopLocalShopSwansea.
The launch of the campaign in Morriston is being supported with Welsh Government grant funding through the Transforming Towns Programme.
Wales’ Deputy Minister for Housing and Local Government, Hannah Blythyn said: “Whilst businesses across our towns and on our high streets have faced challenges during the coronavirus pandemic, we have also seen a positive shift towards shopping local.
“In the run up to festive period, it is the perfect time to support our local traders and to play our part in creating sustainable high streets where business can thrive.”
Russell Greenslade, Chief Executive of Swansea BID (Business Improvement District) said: “Traders, shoppers and households have all been dealing with very challenging circumstances these past few months and we have seen people really pull together to deal with this.
“We are pleased to be a part of the #ShopLocal campaign, to remind people that Swansea businesses – including those in the city centre – are on hand to support people throughout this ongoing situation.
“They very much appreciate the support of shoppers in return, so let’s continue to give them a cwtch by shopping locally.”
