Retail scheme encourages shoppers to ‘Love Local’

A NEW membership scheme is launching in an East Yorkshire town today offering residents exclusive deals in a bid to boost the local economy.

Members of Love Local, a community initiative founded by Chris Garrod, will receive a Love Local card, which offers savings across more than 30 local businesses, including restaurants, pubs, hairdressers, butchers, bakers and a Beverley-based microbrewery.

The idea, which costs members £10 a year, was inspired by similar campaigns running successfully across the country, says Mr Garrod.

“I am passionate about supporting independent businesses and Love Local schemes are all about giving people an incentive to spend their money with local traders, and encouraging them to move away from the huge chains that have dominated the retail landscape for such a long time. There are more than 20,000 people living in Cottingham, but only 25% of residents actually shop in the village, which we felt needed addressing.

“We received an extremely positive response from businesses in the area, with many signing up immediately. Initial feedback from the public has been very reassuring too, so we’re confident that the demand is there.”

Despite the opening of various chain stores, Cottingham has retained a majority of independent retailers, along with its popular weekly market.

And it is the quirks of Cottingham that Mr Garrod is hoping will help the scheme to become the first social enterprise of its kind in the area.

“Cottingham is in unique position in that it has continued to operate successfully as market town over the years, so it has an added charm about it that can really appeal to consumers,” he said.

“But as well as attracting more footfall to the village and benefitting the community financially, we wanted Love Local to be based on strong values and ethics.

“We’ll be donating at least 10% of the card cost to three very worthy local causes: the Teenage Cancer Trust unit at Castle Hill Hospital, the Cottingham Christmas Lights fund and Humber FC, an inclusive football team for players with intellectual disabilities and mental health issues. The more cards we sell, the more money we can give back to the local community.”