#OpenInLockown business directory helping Derbyshire shoppers support region's independent retailers

An East Midlands marketing agency has launched a new campaign to help highlight the region’s high street retailers and unique businesses which are continuing to operate in some form during the second national lockdown.
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The closure of retail and hospitality premises in the run-up to Christmas will hit small and medium sized enterprises especially hard.

Often the most profitable time of year for many businesses, some shops rely on income generated in the ‘golden quarter’ to keep them afloat.

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Hannah Wade, director of Nottingham marketing start-up HeyYou!, said “The second national lockdown couldn’t have come at a worse time for retailers.

HeyYou! director Hannah Wade, left, with Michaelangelo Franco from the Speciality Coffee Shop in Nottingham.HeyYou! director Hannah Wade, left, with Michaelangelo Franco from the Speciality Coffee Shop in Nottingham.
HeyYou! director Hannah Wade, left, with Michaelangelo Franco from the Speciality Coffee Shop in Nottingham.

"While the overriding concern is to keep everyone safe, there has been a sense of shock among local shop owners who were really relying on a solid festive shopping period to help their businesses survive COVID-19.”

However, there are still plenty of options for customers who wish to support their local economies.

HeyYou! has now launched an online #OpenInLockdown directory, featuring independent shops and cafés who are offering innovative and creative options to shop safely, with more being added every day.

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Hannah 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.

"But it’s still easy to safely shop with local independent retailers online or over the phone. Many local businesses have been working around the clock to update their websites and social media channels.”

She added: “#OpenInLockdown is a free service . We’re aiming to help people enjoy a safe Christmas shopping experience this year, while supporting the businesses which make our communities unique.”

“Whether you want to shop from the comfort of your sofa with delivery options, or Covid-friendly click and collect – there’s loads on offer from some amazing businesses nearby.”

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Shoppers can browse the directory, and businesses request their free listing, by going to heyyou.digital/openinlockdown .

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