SHOPPERS across the UK are being urged their bit help local businesses rebuild from the coronavirus pandemic.
And The Advertiser is adding its voice to the calls for people to get out there and support the traders on their doorstep.
From popping into a local family-run bakery for a loaf of bread, to buying a quirky gift from an independent shop, by shopping locally people can help local business owners and local communities get back up and running.
Here are just eight reasons why you should visit your local high street and spend some cash:
1. You're supporting the local economy
Shopping at local businesses pumps money into the local economy, and by spending money in their local shop, restaurant, café or pub, shoppers can do their bit to aid our national recovery across the country.
2. You're saving jobs and helping create more
Supporting our high streets creates jobs in local communities, supporting often young and disadvantaged people to find employment. Helping to grow the number of jobs in our local areas makes for a better place to live and work, which then creates a healthy economy for the community.
3. You'll get great deals
People might be surprised to see just how competitive the prices are in your local shops. Independent retailers often reward regular customers, while others often provide great deals that can't be found in major outlets - meaning people save money as they spend.
4. It's a safe way to shop
Businesses across the country have been following government guidance and implementing a range of measures to ensure people are safe while they shop, such as customer limits inside the store, plastic partitions at tills and hand sanitising stations.
5. You're helping preserve the heart of your community
A thriving high street is key to boosting the potential of a village or town where people can socialise as well as shop. Local businesses also generate revenue to support council services such as libraries, parks and roads that benefit communities.
6. You'll be spoilt for choice
Small and local businesses often stock items which are made locally and aren't available elsewhere else, providing a great range of choice and unique products that bring much-needed originality and variety into communities - including rare finds and items that aren't mass produced.
7. You get a better shopping experience
Small businesses are often run by people who live nearby. As we continue to recover from the pandemic, the experience of buying locally from a friendly face offers a dose of normality that many people may have missed.
8. And you'll help the environment
Local shops often source their goods locally, helping to reduce their carbon footprint. When shopping local, people are also more likely to walk or cycle to get there - doing their bit to reduce air pollution, reduce traffic and improve the quality of the nation's high streets.