Shop Local Week is part of the government’s Enjoy Summer Safely campaign, which encourages people to get back to the way of life they have missed, while following coronavirus safety guidelines.

The government says that from popping into a local family-run bakery for bread, or buying a quirky gift from an independent shop, by shopping locally people can help local business owners and local communities get back up and running.

Alok Sharma, business secretary, said: “From corner shops and florists, to newsagents, cafes and pubs, our high streets are at the heart of every community in every corner of the UK.

“Business owners have done an incredible job so far to welcome shoppers back safely, and I hope people across the country will do their bit this week to help our high streets bounce back to protect jobs and support local communities.”

To kick off Shop Local Week, here are eight reasons why customers should visit their local high street this week:

Help the high street and support the local economy

Shopping at local businesses pumps money into the local economy, and by spending money in their local shop, restaurant, café or pub, shoppers can do their bit to aid our national recovery across the country.

Save jobs

Supporting our high streets creates jobs in local communities, supporting often young and disadvantaged people to find employment. Helping to grow the number of jobs in our local areas makes for a better place to live and work, which then creates a healthy economy for the community.

Great deals

Independent retailers often reward regular customers, while others often provide great deals that can’t be found in major outlets – meaning people save money as they spend.

Diners can save money using the Eat Out to Help Out discount scheme, which offers a 50% discount up to £10 a head on eat-in meals on Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays during August.

A safe way to shop

Businesses across the country have been following government guidance and implementing a range of measures to ensure people are safe while they shop, such as customer limits inside the store, plastic partitions at tills, and hand sanitizing stations.

Preserving the heart of the community

A thriving high street is key to boosting the potential of a village or town where people can socialise as well as shop. Local businesses also generate revenue to support council services such as libraries, parks and roads that benefit everyone.

Spoilt for choice

Small and local businesses often stock items which are made locally and aren’t available elsewhere else. This can provide a great range of choice and unique products that bring much-needed originality and variety into communities – including rare finds and items that aren’t mass produced.

A better shopping experience

Small businesses are often run by people who live nearby. As the UK continues to recover from the pandemic, the experience of buying locally from a friendly face offers a dose of normality that many people may have missed.

Help the environment

Local shops often source their goods locally, helping to reduce their carbon footprint. When shopping local, people are also more likely to walk or cycle to get there – doing their bit to reduce air pollution, reduce traffic and improve the quality of the nation’s high streets.