Posted on 11th Feb
A new initiative aims to persuade more people to shop local is set to launch in March.
Newark and Sherwood Gift Card is designed to encourage people to spend their money in town centres and support local companies.
Both national and independent businesses of any size will be able to accept the card with no additional equipment or cost required.
The initiative, being launched by Newark and Sherwood District Council, means that local businesses will be able to redeem a gift card specifically for use in the town centres of Newark, Southwell, Ollerton, and Edwinstowe.
More than 25 businesses have already signed up for free to accept the card, including Secenty Beauty, Shirt Sleeves, Acorn Interiors, My & Mrs Fine Wine – The Wine Bank, Homebake, and Lace Boutique.
Coun Claire Penny, portfolio holder for Sustainable Economic Growth, said: “This is a fantastic opportunity for local businesses to increase football and spend in their premises. Giving the gift of being able to shop locally and support your town centres as opposed to online shopping is something we should all be actively supporting.
“I am proud that the council is funding this scheme to offer support to our local businesses and high streets. I encourage as many local businesses as possible to take up the offer and work with us to help drive footfall to our local towns and encourage more local spending.
“The gift card scheme works through existing Mastercard systems, so district businesses can accept the card with no additional equipment required. There is also no charge to businesses to be a part of the initiative, so it really is a win-win.”
Newark and Sherwood Gift Card will be available to buy as either a physical gift card, or an e-card that can be uploaded onto Google or Apple digital wallets.
Helen Netherwood, of Home Bake, Southwell, added: “This is a great idea, being able to give someone a gift to spend in local shops is fantastic. It helps to promote shopping locally, supporting our high streets, and encourages customers to visit shops and spend in person. I would encourage other local businesses to join.”
The Newark and Sherwood Gift Card is part of the Town & City Gift Card programme from fintech Miconex, which is active across the UK and Ireland.
Email economic.growth@newark-sherwooddc.gov.uk to find out more information or sign up by completing an online form at https://form.jotform.com/Miconex/universal-UK-mpl-merc
Colin Munro, managing director of Miconex, said: “There are multiple benefits for businesses in being a part of the forthcoming Newark and Sherwood Gift Card. The first thing people will do when they receive the card is look at the list of participating businesses, driving awareness.
“The card will bring customers through the door with money to spend, and being Mastercard backed is both easy for customers to spend and businesses to receive. We encourage all Newark and Sherwood businesses to sign up to accept the card.”
