Have yourself a Buckinghamshire Christmas!
Buckinghamshire Council is encouraging residents to shop local this Christmas to help support local businesses across the county. Plus taking your holiday shopping ‘offline’ can have positive benefits – from lowering your carbon footprint to saving you money.
Ranging from local independent businesses, to much-loved brands and stylish bars and restaurants, Buckinghamshire’s high streets have something for every shopper. The high streets and town centres are designed to provide shoppers with all the things they need in one convenient place – which means they are a sustainable option and a great way to be mindful of the environmental impact Christmas shopping can cause.
However, shopping locally doesn’t just help the environment; it also saves and creates jobs and helps to support Buckinghamshire’s economy. Independent small businesses have been hit hard by the pandemic, and many have struggled to keep afloat. Buying from a small business or dining in a local restaurant are excellent ways to show your support and allows local retailers to continue using nearby or smaller suppliers.
Research by local authorities shows that for every £1 spent with a small or medium-sized business, 63p stays within the local economy, compared to 40p for a larger business. Adding to this, a healthier, booming high street increases the value of local properties in the long run – benefitting residents and shoppers alike.
Gareth Williams, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Planning and Regeneration, said:
“I’d encourage people to shop offline this year and to support their nearby high streets and town centres. Where you shop matters and choosing local doesn’t only mean more unique options for gifting and celebrating, but also helps to support the amazing work the owners of Buckinghamshire’s businesses are doing. We can all support each other during this time of festivities and show our loyalty over mince pies and mulled wine.
“And of course, please continue to follow the latest government guidance on staying safe during the pandemic, including wearing a mask while shopping, unless you’re exempt.”
Jocelyn Towns, Deputy Cabinet Member for Town Centre Regeneration, commented:
“Buckinghamshire has a fantastic range of small independent businesses which provides great character and a diverse offer in our high streets across the county. Our ‘Shop Local this Christmas’ campaign is drawing on the governments ‘Welcome Back Fund’ which has been provided to help us encourage footfall into our towns and increase dwell time, in a safe and considerate way.”
If you are able to do so, hopping on a bus, cycling or scootering to the shops or walking to town can help to reduce congestion during peak Christmas shopping times, and helps to lower your carbon footprint.
Taking your shopping offline and shopping in person can also help you avoid the additional packaging and pollution caused by delivery companies, making your Christmas slightly greener. Small businesses can offer unique options for gifting and provide a shopping experience that is more convenient and personal.
To encourage local Christmas shopping, Buckinghamshire Council is offering FREE car parking on selected dates and times. Check the following page to see when where this offer is available: www.buckinghamshire.gov.uk/parking-roads-and-transport/parking/free-parking-at-christmas