RESIDENTS in East Renfrewshire are being encouraged to continue to ‘Shop Local’ to help the community recover from the coronavirus crisis.

Due to the impact of the pandemic, local businesses have been under immense pressure and need local people to support them now more than ever.

And TV personality and former Woodfarm High pupil, Jennifer Reoch, is getting behind East Renfrewshire Council’s campaign.

It has been supporting more than 800 businesses in the area, by distributing almost £9.5 million in grants and supplying a Business Recovery Toolkit.

Jennifer told the Barrhead News: “You should really think about whether you could shop local more.

“There’s so much on offer from butchers, florists, cafes, restaurants - to gifting, flooring and bathrooms, car garages, clothing, shoes to hairdressers and beauty salons.

“If you could support some of these local businesses more often, please do and help our businesses, our streets and our communities to thrive.”

Brian MacMillan, of F&M Hairdressing on Barrhead’s Cross Arthurlie Street added that the Covid-19 pandemic was “really tough” on the business.

He said: “Shutting down was really tough for us. Half of our clients come from this area and it’s all about shopping local.

“We really enjoy clients coming in and it’s a great atmosphere in the place.”

Paul Martin, C&M Motors in the town, added: “It makes you proud that people in the local area want to use you. That’s what makes your job more worthwhile.”

A series of videos featuring Jennifer Reoch have also been created for social media to showcase the range of businesses on offer across the area.

Council Leader Tony Buchanan said: “We are fortunate to have a great selection of local businesses across East Renfrewshire and we need to shop local in order for the business to get back on their feet and remain open.

“The coronavirus pandemic meant many businesses were closed for months and without local support and spend, these businesses and their staff could be at risk.

“When you shop local you’re backing local business owners and their families, supporting local jobs and helping our communities recover from the pandemic.

“These videos are just one step the council is taking to help businesses and our local economy during this difficult time. 

“We’re also developing a wide range of other business support interventions and if any
business owners are struggling, we would encourage them to speak to our business support team.”

To contact the council’s business support team, email business@eastrenfrewshire.gov.uk.