With an array of new businesses, exciting high street improvement schemes, vibrant Christmas decorations coming soon, and thriving retail and leisure destinations in Watford, a borough-wide ‘Shop and Eat Local’ campaign has been launched to highlight the wealth of excellent businesses in the town during the festive period.
The ‘Shop Local’ message, supported by Watford Borough Council, is designed to assist the area’s diverse range of unique independent shops and hospitality outlets following the challenges of the last few years, and support them against competition from online and out of town shopping.
Thanks to shoppers who have been spending their money in the town, the high street is doing well and the campaign will further support this by keeping residents up to date with what’s on offer on their doorstep, as well as details of events such as Winterfest (18 November) and Christmas Sunday Market (3 December), to entice people into their local high streets and get them in the festive mood.
To further support local businesses, the council continues to invest in the town’s diverse shopping areas to improve the ‘look and feel’ of the destinations, which includes the town centre, Queens Road, Market Street, St Albans Road, and Watford Market. Christmas decorations will also be installed in some of these areas, thanks to funding from the council, Watford BID and local businesses. There is also a programme of improvements for smaller parades across Watford.
Elected Mayor of Watford Peter Taylor said: “From popping into a local bakery for a cake, or buying a quirky gift from a local shop, by shopping locally people can help local business owners and local communities overcome the challenges of the last few years. Whether it’s your local grocer, florist or fabric shop, let’s help them have a thriving future.
“For many businesses, Christmas is their busiest time, so it’s really important we support them as much as we can. Shopping locally means money is kept in the local economy – supporting jobs and local families. So this year, when you are thinking about Christmas presents for friends and family, explore some of the wonderful businesses in the town and their unique products. These businesses are the heart of our community and we need them to still be there for us in the future.”
You can follow the #SpendLocal social media campaign on the Mayor’s social media pages, including facebook.com/petertaylorwatford.