Support Nantwich launched to help independent businesses in COVID-19 crisis

A Nantwich entrepreneur has launched a new “Support Nantwich” initiative designed to help independent businesses during the COVID-19 lockdown.

Digital marketeer Will Dolby said the not-for-profit scheme is based on a system used in New Zealand.

It allows people to buy vouchers that can be redeemed once lockdown is lifted and outlets can open again.

It’s hoped this will help independent shops, cafes, restaurants and other businesses survive the ongoing closure.

The scheme is free for businesses to sign up to, and they receive the full value of the voucher, minus credit card fees charged by website provider Shopify.

Will said: “I’m not doing this to make money, I simply want to help local independents to survive these challenging times.

“I took inspiration from a similar initiative in New Zealand that has had huge success across the country.

“I thought it would be a great way to support the town I’ve grown up in.

“I’ve always appreciated the independent cafes, restaurants and shops that we have in the town and would hate to see them struggle or go out of business.”

Will runs his own online business on the side.

“I know if I ran a store with a physical presence, I’d be looking for all the support I could get.”

He has two independent restaurants signed up – St Martha and Churche’s Mansion – and is calling on more to register and take advantage.

“We’re not limited to restaurants though,” he added.

“Essentially we’re looking for any business that can benefit from extra cashflow in these times (and can work with
vouchers) to sign up – shops, cafes, bars, restaurants, salons, hairdressers.”

Local businesses can find out more by visiting https://supportnantwich.co.uk/