As we enter November, we enter our second lockdown of 2020. Times are tough for us all, but arguably small business owners are amongst those struggling the most, with Simply Business estimating that the economic impact inflicted upon such businesses is already exceeding £69 billion nationally. Brighton, as a town renowned for its beach, pier and unique selection of independent, local shops, needs your help! Here’s what you can do to keep Brighton’s spirit alive. Written By Annabel Gadd
Make your digital presence count: If you’ve had a good experience at a local café, restaurant or shop, let them know! Post a positive review on either TripAdvisor or Google Reviews to encourage others to make a purchase. Reviews make all the difference for small businesses, especially during economically challenging times. They’re also more likely to be seen by the business owner- you’ll make their day!
Social media is another underused but powerful way in which you can promote your favourite local businesses. Post a snap of your takeaway or newly acquired item with the details of where you sourced it and inspire your friends and family to support that same business!
Order online: Of course, we all know that we can order from large, well-known brands and have our items delivered within a couple of days. Many local businesses have taken to the internet to continue to offer their goods throughout lockdown. Below are some local, independent shops in Brighton that are offering this service:
Wolf and Gypsy Vintage (Womenswear) – The perfect website for a spot of online shopping during those locked-down days. Not only does Wolf and Gypsy offers womenswear that caters for all styles and sizes, you can also browse their blog, which is accessible through their website: https://wolfandgypsyvintage.co.uk/
Peggs and Son (Menswear) – Peggs and Son offers a vast variety of brands on their easy to navigate online store. Amongst items currently available is a selection of snug sweaters, perfect for the forthcoming winter: https://www.peggsandson.com/
England at Home (Home) – It’s easy to lose an hour or two browsing the England at Home online store. Currently up for grabs are reusable cups and tubs in the ‘eco to go’ range, decorative items for your home as well as a selection of gifts as we begin to gear up for the festive season: https://www.englandathome.com/
Dowse (Boutique) – If you’re looking to redecorate your home or have a ‘change of scene’, have a browse of the Dowse website! Catering more for those with minimalist taste, the store offers decorative prints, homeware, jewellery and even has a section dedicated to gifts: https://dowsedesign.co.uk/
Get your restaurant favourites delivered to your door: Treat yourself to a delicious, locally prepared meal from one of Brighton’s independent restaurants. Often, you can order directly from the restaurant’s website, although occasionally their menus can be accessed by
Deliveroo or Just Eats.
Semolina – An independent, Italian restaurant with an easy to navigate online ordering system. With rave reviews, Semolina is not to be missed: https://www.semolinabrighton.co.uk/
Moshimo – Sample the delights of this Japanese sushi restaurant from the comforts of your own home. You can place your order and track its progress on the Deliveroo app: https://www.moshimo.co.uk/
Adelfina – If you fancy a Greek feast, Adelfina has an already established takeaway system- simply view their menu online, phone them up to place your order and arrange a suitable time for collection: https://www.adelfiagreekrestaurant.co.uk/
As we enter into our second lockdown of 2020, it’s important that we look after those in our local communities. Forget ASOS, Dunelm and Nando’s- invest your time and money into the small, local independent businesses that make Brighton the unique town that it is.
