The Company of Master Jewellers (CMJ) has been named an official sponsor of Independent Retailer Month UK, part of a global month of events that encourages consumers to shop at local retailers in their community.
The July event will give retailers signed up to the initiative the chance to make the most of free business tools and advice, providing them with ideas on how they can celebrate Independent Retailer Month UK and attract shoppers to their stores.
Clare Rayner, UK lead for Independent Retail Month UK, said: “Too often businesses shy away from promoting the simple fact that they are independent and the benefits of shopping locally. By being part of Independent Retailer Month UK we aim to give them a reason to promote themselves, draw customers into their stores to find out more and generally engage with the communities they serve.
“Having the support of the CMJ, the largest jewellery and watch buying group in the UK, is a great opportunity for us as we try to encourage more and more high-quality retailers to take part.”
Stores are encouraged to use their association with the campaign to approach local press, hold customer promotions and events and generally increase the profiles of their business throughout the month.
Willie Hamilton, chief executive of the CMJ added: “The ethos of Independent Retailer Month UK fits perfectly with that of the CMJ. We are fully committed to any campaign that supports independent retailers and encourages them to promote the unique services they offer to their community. We hope that our members will support Independent Retailer Month by signing up and getting creative.”
Other supporters of the initiative include the Association of Town Centre Management (ATCM), Action for Market Towns (AMT), the National Association of British Market Authorities (NABMA), the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) and Skillsmart Retail.
