Consumers across the High Peak are being urged to Shop Smart, Shop Local in a concerted campaign to support the local businesses, breathe new life into the High Peak economy - and do their bit to combat global warming. High Peak Borough Council is extending the enterprising initiative to include Buxton and Glossop in the social, economic and environmental benefits that shopping locally can bring - including creating and retaining jobs.
The Council is keen to counter common misconceptions that local shopping is more expensive or offers less choice. On the contrary, shopping locally can be the most eco-friendly option, while helping to keep your own communities vibrant and alive.
Following our initial introduction in the Central area of the borough - comprising Chapel-en-le-Frith, Chinley, Hayfield, New Mills and Whaley Bridge - Shop Smart, Shop Local was launched in Glossop on Friday 2 February and in Buxton on Thursday 8 February 2007.
Backing the campaign are John Hart, chairman of the Glossop Vision board, and Bill Preece, Chairman of Vision Buxton. As they point out, Buxton and Glossop still have an excellent range of small, many of them family-run, shops, but they need local people's support, if they are to continue to thrive in the future.
Shop Smart, Shop Local aims to raise awareness of the need to back local businesses, to preserve the unique character and economic viability of the town centre for generations to come.
John Hart said: "Many people mistakenly believe that shopping locally costs more, but if factors - such as travel, time and costs in transporting larger items home - are taken into account, the overall cost of buying locally is often much lower."
With warnings of global warming almost constantly in the headlines, this offers the ideal opportunity to reduce our carbon footprint.
Bill Preece added: "Local businesses often stock a high percentage of locally sourced goods and products, reduce the need for long car and bus journeys, and are convenient for all - especially elderly, vulnerable, disabled and young people."
Other plus points include a more personal shopping experience, more direct and responsive relationships with customers, high standards of customer care and service, generous support for local charities and community events, and help in maintaining private, voluntary and public sector services.
Mr Hart points out: "In towns like Glossop and Buxton, shops aren't just places to buy things, they encourage community spirit and a feeling of belonging, where residents meet to find out what's new.
Mr Preece adds: "So I hope as many people as possible will give their full backing to Shop Smart, Shop Local, by supporting our many and varied retail traders as much and as often as they can."
All businesses supporting Shop Smart, Shop Local will be asked to display a sticker bearing the campaign's distinctive green and black logo in their window.
Accompanying tool kits - brimming with marketing and promotional ideas and ways to encourage consumers to spend in local shops - are now available at the Reception areas, in the Municipal Buildings in Glossop, and at Buxton Town Hall.
Alternatively, please call Customer Services on 0845 129 77 77 or 01298 28400, or email customer-services@highpeak.gov.uk, who will be happy to send you a toolkit.