People across West Lothian are being urged to help secure the future of the region’s businesses by choosing local. As the nation cheers on Scotland in its opening World Cup match in the USA this weekend, everyone is being encouraged to celebrate pride at home too.
Scotland Loves Local Week
Scotland Loves Local Week starts on Saturday, June 13, reminding everyone of the amazing difference they can make to protecting jobs and boosting the region’s economy by spending locally whenever they can. With national pride hitting a high, the theme for activity this year is Flying The Flag For Local Businesses.
During seven days of campaigning, the importance of choosing local will be highlighted, with politicians and businesses all playing a part in championing the cause. It is part of the wider Scotland Loves Local campaign, which encourages everyone to think local first.
Support from Key Organisations
That drive is spearheaded by Scotland’s Towns Partnership (STP), with support from the Scottish Government. Kimberley Guthrie, STP’s Chief Officer, said: “We can all play our part in helping local businesses - and places - to thrive by simply choosing local. That’s something we can start this weekend, by supporting local shops when stocking up to watch World Cup matches at home or by getting behind local venues showing matches and organising events. The critical thing is making this a habit that we all stick with - supporting countless fantastic businesses across West Lothian, creating a future where they thrive and everyone wins through their success.”
The message to shop locally is supported by the Scottish Grocers’ Federation (SGF), the organisation which represents thousands of convenience stores across the country. SGF President Graham Watson said: “Local businesses are so important to our communities. In small communities, when assets like local shops go, schools often follow - and all sorts of local assets. It’s a two-way street and it’s vital that we support each other. We live in a really uncertain world. Community shops bring a lot of security to communities - heart and soul.”
Find out more about how you can get involved at www.lovelocal.scot.
