Ch1ChesterBID’s ‘Love Local’ scheme, which launched in July, is set to continue for the 12 months after proving popular with businesses and shoppers.
More than 1,500 shoppers and 70 businesses got involved in the initiative – with many of the city centre’s small and independent shops, bars and restaurants promoting the scheme to customers over the summer.
Shoppers are offered the chance to enter each time they make a purchase from a participating store.
Judy Tagell, marketing manager at CH1ChesterBID, explained: “Love Local is all about encouraging Cestrians to support their local businesses, try new retailers and ultimately, help provide a boost to the local economy and community.”
Judy continued: “Originally we intended to run this for a few weeks in conjunction with the national programme of events for Independent Retailer Month in July.
“However, we’ve received such a great response from the public and independent stores, restaurants and bars, that we’ve extended the scheme for the upcoming year, so more people and businesses can get involved.”
Emma Melling (pictured above) from Garstang in Lancashire was announced as the city’s first Love Local winner in July and has been gifted with a bonus introductory prize of £250 in vouchers to use in independent retailers across the city centre.
Commenting on her win, Emma said: “It was wonderful to be the first winner of the Love Local campaign in Chester.
“It’s such a beautiful destination, full of hidden gems – both for shopping and eating out.
“The independent scene seems to be really thriving at the moment, with new stores opening almost every time we visit.
‘It’s great to be able to support local stores and give back to the local town and working community.”
Emma added: “A lot of the time, my family and I prefer to shop with independents, as we think the quality can be better and the items are often more unique.
“The personal service you receive is also second to none, so now I have a voucher to spend, I’m sure we’ll be spending many more hours exploring the city’s streets.”
For more information about Love Local and a list of all the businesses involved, visit: www.experiencechester.co.uk/love-local/
