Published: Monday 27th July 2020 | 3.14pm
Cannock Chase Council is supporting a new way for local retailers to sell their products and services online.
ShopAppy provides an online shop window where customers can browse, buy and collect or arrange home delivery and is now available in over 100 areas in the UK. It is offering 12 months free subscription for all independent retailers in Cannock Chase District. The scheme is being run in conjunction with VISA.
The cost of the subscriptions is being met by the Greater Birmingham and Solihull Local Enterprise Partnership (GBSLEP).
With £1 in every £3 being spent online in the UK since lockdown, ShopAppy believes it is important there are alternatives that encourage local spending and support local retailers.
Councillor Gordon Alcott, Portfolio Leader for Town Centre regeneration said: “Cannock Chase’s economy is expected to be the fourth worst affected District in the West Midlands following the coronavirus pandemic, so we need to do all we can to help businesses here.
“We are therefore asking local retailers to get involved in this particular initiative and help make this a success through its primary objective of encouraging residents to shop local. We hope by supporting ShopAppy it will help to boost sales for the independent retailers in our towns. We are grateful for GBSLEP’s backing.”
Dr Jackie Mulligan, Founder of ShopAppy.com said: “We are delighted to be working in Cannock Chase District and to be partnering with the Council, local businesses and the Greater Birmingham and Solihull Local Enterprise Partnership on this launch of the ShopAppy.com platform in the area.
“With our recently announced partnership with VISA helping us to provide support to more small businesses across the UK, we are certain that this will provide a real and tangible benefit to Cannock, Rugeley and Hednesford businesses and communities - helping them to support each other for a faster local economic and community recovery.”
Local retailers will benefit from:
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Their own online website profile with images, opening times, information and contact details
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The ability to list unlimited products or services for sale, to order or to book
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Ecommerce capability with click or collect or delivery options
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Full ShopAppy training videos and support
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Local marketing campaigns
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FREE service and support for 12 months
A leaflet will be handed out to retailers over the next couple of weeks which will show them how they can sign up and take advantage of the initiative.