Waverley Borough Council is encouraging Farnham residents to think twice before clicking ‘buy’ online and consider whether they could find what they are looking for on their local high street instead.
“When did you last visit your local high street?” is the question at the heart of the campaign, which aims to inspire residents to rethink their shopping habits and make a conscious effort to support local, independent businesses.
Following the successful launch of the campaign in Haslemere earlier this year, the spotlight has now turned to Farnham and the wealth of independent businesses which help give the town its distinctive character. The campaign is part of a series taking place across Waverley’s main settlements.
While phrases such as ‘shop local’ and ‘use it or lose it’ are widely used, the council is asking residents to go one step further by actively choosing to purchase something locally that they might otherwise add to an online basket.
Councillor Liz Townsend BEM, Waverley Borough Council Portfolio Holder for Planning and Economic Development, said:
"Farnham is home to a fantastic range of independent shops and businesses, each bringing something special to the character and vibrancy of our town.
“Whether it’s discovering something different, getting friendly advice or finding a product you won’t see everywhere else, shopping locally offers plenty of reasons to explore what’s on our doorstep.
“We’re encouraging residents to think about where they shop and, where possible, choose local. From a coffee or lunch to that special gift, every visit and every purchase helps support local businesses, sustain jobs and keep our town centre thriving.
“By making small changes to our shopping habits, we can all play a part in supporting the businesses that make Farnham such a great place to live, work and visit.”
To showcase some of the people and businesses that make Farnham’s high street special, the council has spoken to a selection of local independent retailers about their businesses, the products and services they offer and what being part of the Farnham community means to them.
Businesses include: Pullingers, Ranger’s Furnishing Stores, Elphicks, Farnham Furnishers, Andre Noir jewellery, TDO Therapy Footwear.
The campaign highlights that independent retailers can offer much more than the products on their shelves, from expert advice and carefully selected goods to friendly, personal service and welcoming spaces that bring communities together. This reflects the themes highlighted through the earlier Haslemere campaign.
Councillor Townsend added:
“Behind every independent business are people who bring passion, expertise and commitment to what they do. By choosing to shop locally when we can, we’re helping to protect the unique character of our high streets and ensuring that local businesses have the opportunity to flourish.”
Residents can discover more about the Farnham businesses featured in the campaign and find inspiration for their next local purchase on the Business Waverley website - "When did you last visit your high street" campaign showcases Farnham
You can also visit our Business Waverley website Free Business News, Advice & Support in Surrey, Waverley for more information, and register for our regular business eNewsletter there too.
Article image: Historic photographs and documents displayed