Independent cookshops are among those joining the countdown to Independents Day UK, which, for the first time, will run over a full weekend, with promotions and celebrations on Saturday July 3 and Sunday July 4. The initiative drives footfall to retailers every year on July 4.
“The British independent retail sector has shown real resilience in the face of the Covid crisis across the last year, operating through extreme uncertainty and putting on a brave face for their customers and wider communities,” says Independents Day UK’s Howard Robinson.
“We are asking the public to show their thanks by simply heading out across the weekend of July 3rd and 4th and spending a few pounds at an independent or locally-owned retailer.”
Representing cookshops and housewares retailers, Bira is among the trade associations supporting the campaign. Andrew Goodacre, ceo comments: “This year is probably the most important year for indie retail, as businesses look to rebuild following the pandemic. The money spent in local, independent shops makes a real difference to business owners and the local economy, so it would be great if the general public could support this campaign.”
Last year, it was estimated that over 8,500 small shops across the UK engaged with the campaign and is hoped that figure will reach at least 20,000 this July.
This year’s initiative is sponsored by Local Rewards, a high street guides service (www.localrewards.chat) launched by social media specialists Maybe Tech.
* For ways to get involved, see www.independentsdayuk.org/get-involved
Top: Indie cookshops can download publicity material to join in the Independents Day UK weekend.
