The power of the pound in your pocket means that shoppers can make a huge difference to the country.
Making a conscious decision about where you shop and what you buy can help businesses across Britain in tough times.
That means supporting shops in your local area, as many people do already.
It means backing independents and chain stores, as a healthy mixture of both makes for a successful high street. And it means buying British-made products and services when you can.
When it comes to food and drink, look out for the Red Tractor logo – the UK’s largest food standards scheme, covering animal welfare, food safety, traceability and environmental protection. It covers more than 46,000 farmers.
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The British Lion symbol on eggs covers more than 90% of eggs in the UK, while the Made in Britain logo is on thousands of products.
It is accredited to businesses that sell goods which have been manufactured or undergone a final substantial change in Britain before sale – from clothing to DIY goods, and even Vauxhall’s Vivaro van, made in Luton.
Even without logos, you can check a product’s country of origin.
British producers are competing with a flood of imports and among those being hit hardest are those in the horticulture sector, so look out for flowers and plants grown here.
Another way to help local shops is by leaving positive reviews on their websites, which will encourage others to visit.
Many shops started doing online deliveries during lockdown, so please continue placing orders if you can’t get to their store in person.
By collectively backing our shops, producers and businesses, we can deliver a vital boost in these unprecedented times.
