New campaign urges Bassetlaw people to support independent shops in lockdown

But a new campaign called #OpenInLockdown campaign is promoting how customers in towns like Worksop can still shop local and support a wonderful array of high-street retailers and unique businesses.

Launched by local marketing start-up HeyYou! Digital, the campaign highlights independent businesses in places such as Worksop and Retford that are offering delivery, takeaway and click & collect options to shoppers.

The final few weeks before Christmas are the most profitable time of year in retail, with many local shops relying on the income generated in the ‘golden quarter’ to keep them afloat.

Given the challenges the retail sector has already faced this year - with non-essential shops closed during national lockdowns and shoppers more reluctant to venture out – this year’s Christmas shopping period is even more important for many local businesses in the area.

The #OpenInLockdown directory features a range of independent shops and cafes who are offering innovative and creative options to shop safely during the current national lockdown, with more being added every day.

Hannah Wade, HeyYou! director, said: “We all already know how easy it is to shop online with the big retailers – most of them have a huge online infrastructure in place.

"What’s not as well known is that it’s still easy to safely shop during lockdown with local independent retailers, whether that’s via a website, social media or over the phone.

"Many local businesses have been working around the clock to upload photos and update their websites and social media channels, so that customers can continue to safely shop with them during lockdown.”

“Our #OpenInLockdown is a free service which pulls together information about shops and cafes who are still open for business and how you can shop at each one.”

Shoppers can visit the #OpenInLockdown directory at https://heyyou.digital/openinlockdown and businesses can get a free listing at the same link and get involved by following and sharing the #OpenInLockdown hashtag on social media.