Shop local initiative launched by town’s Business Improvement District
The Harrogate Gift Card has launched this week in time for Christmas.
The gift cards will be available from Harrogate Tourist Information Centre, Harrogate Theatre and Harrogate Bus Station.
The cards can be pre-loaded with any value up to £500 and used in participating town centre shops, restaurants, bars, cafes, businesses and attractions.
More than 75 shops and businesses in the town centre have signed up to accept the gift card, with more expected to join.
John Fox, chairman of the Harrogate Business Improvement District (BID), said: “The Harrogate Gift Card locks spend into the local economy as it can only be used in registered town centre businesses, not online or out of town. It means both the purchaser and recipient are supporting their local town.”
Venues taking part include Harrogate Theatre, big brands including Marks and Spencer and Primark, and independents such as Imagined Things bookstore, Sophie Likes and Ogden’s. The card can also be used in popular cafes, such as Bean and Bud and Baltzersens, as well as restaurants and bars such as Konak Meze, Las Iguanas, and Revolution de Cuba.
The Gift Card scheme has already been piloted and been a proven success by BIDs in other towns and city centres, such as Wolverhampton. The concept takes a leaf out of Bristol which has become renowned for its fierce independent spirit with the Bristol Pound, the UK’s largest local currency.
Such schemes are designed to make local economies more resilient and sustainable.
The Harrogate Gift Card gives shoppers the flexibility to enjoy a bespoke Harrogate experience, from hairdressers to theatre tickets, retail to restaurants.
Fox added: “Ultimately, the Gift Card encourages consumers to shop and spend locally, and is perfect for a treat or experience. It’s more thoughtful than a cash gift as it demonstrates loyalty to local businesses and we hope, bolsters pride in our local offer.
“It’s a way to create a community that understands the value of their town centre at a time when High Streets across the UK are struggling.”
Businesses that accept the card will display a sign in their window or at their till. A directory of participating businesses can be found at www.harrogategiftcard.co.uk where shoppers can also purchase a gift card.
