On Saturday, October 31 the Government announced a second lockdown in England. Whilst it may be necessary, those businesses forced to close for at least four-weeks will be hit hardest as November is traditionally seen as peak trading time in the run up to Christmas.
From November 5th pubs, restaurants, gyms and non-essential shops will close, but schools, colleges and universities can stay open.
Commenting on the news of a second lockdown, Jo Holland, BID Manager for Banbury said: “This is another devastating blow for those in the leisure, hospitality and retail sector. Not only did these businesses lose trade whilst shut, but they also had to invest more to become COVID-safe only to be forced to close again in the lead up to Christmas.
“We will continue to do all we can to help our businesses stay viable and visible and give shoppers and visitors a reason to be bright in Banbury this winter.”
Banbury Business Improvement District (Banbury BID), a not-for-profit organisation made up of 536 contributing members, has come up with a variety of ways to promote the town centre and the wide variety of businesses that make it a special place to be this winter.
To help support many of those that fall into the ‘non-essential’ retail category forced to close later this week, Banbury BID has teamed up with Fort Locks Self Storage to give away £500 in vouchers to keep that festive feeling moving.
Commenting on the giveaway, Nick Poole from Fort Locks Self Storage who is donating the prize, said: “We are proud to support this initiative – there has never been a more important time to stay local and support our town centre businesses. Whilst we are outside of the BID district, we became voluntary members as we believe strongly in working together.”
One lucky person will receive ten £50 gift vouchers to spend in each of the following town centre outlets – GAME Banbury, H&M, Nothing But Footprints, Paw Paw, Union on Parsons Street, Superdrug, Tk Maxx, Waterstones and White Stuff.
Commenting on the giveaway, Ms Holland said: “Christmas is a time for giving – we are grateful to Fort Locks Self Storage for getting into the spirit. This will give people the chance to spend money and time in Banbury whilst supporting a variety of town centre businesses.”
To enter, download the free app for Banbury town centre at www.loyalfree.co.uk and click the promotion. You can enter from November 1 until midnight 16th December 2020 in just one click. Enter every day for more chances to win. The winner will be chosen at random from all eligible entries. For full terms and conditions, visit www.banburybid.com/spendingtime
