SHOP local – that’s the call to Solihull residents as part of a campaign to keep the borough’s small and independent businesses thriving.
The ‘Support Local’ drive is a collaboration between the Council and key stakeholders such as the Solihull Chamber of Commerce, Federation of Small Businesses, Shirley Marketing Group, Solihull Bid, Visit Knowle, Touchwood, Chelmsley Wood Shopping Centre and has a focus on small and independent retail businesses on Solihull’s high streets.
Many of these businesses have also played their part in in helping the borough through lockdown.
One example is Yakinori, in Touchwood, which only opened earlier this year but which once lockdown was announced, decided to help by making meals for the NHS.
Jac’s Cafe in Chelmsley Wood also responded to the crisis, making more than 200 meals for the elderly and vulnerable which were then delivered by volunteers from the community.
Shirley business Bei Capelli Hair Design meanwhile put in first class safety measures during lockdown ready for reopening.
These case studies also demonstrate the range of independent retailers in Solihull, such as Knowle’s 1683 Chocolate Place whose owner Joe Vaughan set up the shop five years ago when he was aged just 16.
Small independent businesses in the borough wanting to join the Support Local campaign should Solihull Council media accounts (Instagram, Facebook and Twitter) use the #SupportLocal hashtag when posting something on their business or email [email protected].
Send in a picture which highlights the staff, the business and/or the products and services.
The council is offering a year’s free membership of the Solihull Chamber of Commerce for the most creative and funny picture.
Coun Grinsell, deputy leader of Solihull Council, said: “It is important we use our high streets and town centres now more than ever – without local support it may not be there in the future.
“We are aware that some residents may feel unsure about venturing into their local town centres that is why we are continuing to work closely with businesses to ensure they are Covid-19 secure.
“Ultimately we want to make sure we maintain thriving high streets for residents to use in years to come, keeping Solihull a place that people want to live, work and visit.”
