Virtual portal launches to help Horsham shoppers support local traders

Horsham District Council has teamed up with Visit Horsham to launch its new online shopping portal at www.virtualhorsham.co.uk.

The council has arranged for the first 200 independent businesses in Horsham District to receive a free six month membership of the portal and this figure will be reviewed based on demand, a spokeswoman for the council said.

She added: “The launch of the portal is timely, given the November lockdown, and gives residents an easy way to continue to purchase from any local independent businesses that are trading online in the run up to Christmas.”

The Virtual Horsham initiative forms part of the Council’s recently launched Buy Local campaign which is supporting local traders that have continued to work tirelessly throughout the Coronavirus to deliver vital services for local people.

Horsham District Council cabinet member for the local economy councillor Paul Clarke explained: “Choosing to buy your goods from local bakers, farm shops, independent cafes or a district-based craftsperson is a really good way to support a circular economy.

“Every time you buy local you are helping a whole network of suppliers and tradespeople, keeping local jobs open for local people.

“I would encourage as many of you as possible to access the Virtual Horsham shopping portal and shop local as much as you possibly can.

“Buying local is also good for the local environment, reducing our District’s carbon footprint – so it’s a win-win all round.”

The overall Buy Local campaign highlights how local traders have adapted to support public health guidelines, putting enhanced measures in place to keep their customers and staff safe, the council said.

Businesses not able to re-open their premises have adapted their services to provide efficient online buying processes such as click and collect and home deliveries, and this Virtual Horsham portal will enable easier access to these businesses.

The Buy Local campaign encourages local people to choose local suppliers either online or in person, as this helps to support a whole network of people behind the scenes.

Visit Horsham owner, Gavin Hewins added: “We were keen to build on the success of the Essential Horsham Shopping and Services portal we created with the Council in March this year, and which is being updated for this lockdown.

“This shopping portal goes beyond this and offers the community a one stop directory to keep their online purchasing local.”

For more information visit www.virtualhorsham.co.uk