Gabriel Edwards from the William Morris Big Local writes about an exciting new initiative aimed at getting people to shop at local independents
Walthamstow has recently seen a surge in community efforts to support local businesses, artists, and values.
From Banksy’s striking new artwork on Bonners Fish Bar, featuring two pelicans swallowing fish, to the peaceful gathering of thousands in a show of unity against far-right groups, the community is making its voice heard.
This outpouring of support extends to opposition against the opening of a large-scale Gail’s Bakery in Walthamstow Village, where residents have voiced concerns that the chain would dismantle the character of Orford Road and threaten the survival of independent businesses.
Amid these events, the William Morris Big Local has launched an innovative project to further boost the visibility of independent businesses. Through the “Discover Local” initiative, launching in September, we are offering a unique way for locals to connect with these businesses through film, podcasts, and a trail map with prizes to be won.
Local artist and poet Angry Dan has created a playful map of the William Morris Big Local area featuring 50+ independent businesses nominated by locals.
Between the 9th and 13th of September residents will be able to get hold of an Angry Dan trail map One Hoe Street at the William Morris Big Local exhibition.
Trailers will be encouraged to visit twelve independent businesses that are taking part in the Discover Local Trail and collect trail stamps as they go. Completed trail cards will be entered into a prize draw with vouchers and signed copies of large printed maps up for grabs.
Given the many challenges faced by businesses in recent years, it’s more important than ever to shop at independent establishments, as your money circulates within the local economy far more effectively than when spent at large chains or online.
In 2023 alone, a staggering 7,800 independently owned businesses closed, according to the British Independent Retailers Association.
Jon Salmon, a member of the William Morris Big Local Partnership, expressed his passion for the campaign, saying: “We were heartened by the number of nominations people gave us for their favourite and sometimes overlooked local businesses, but it’s become even more a case of use ’em or lose ‘em.”
Now, William Morris Big Local is asking you to go on a journey to discover, find, and shop local.
For a full rundown of the projects and to download your Discover Local Trail Card visit this link
No news is bad news
Independent news outlets like ours – reporting for the community without rich backers – are under threat of closure, turning British towns into news deserts.
The audiences they serve know less, understand less, and can do less.
If our coverage has helped you understand our community a little bit better, please consider supporting us with a monthly, yearly or one-off donation.
Choose the news. Don’t lose the news.
Monthly direct debit
Annual direct debit
£5 per month supporters get a digital copy of each month’s paper before anyone else, £10 per month supporters get a digital copy of each month’s paper before anyone else and a print copy posted to them each month. £50 annual supporters get a digital copy of each month's paper before anyone else.
More information on supporting us monthly or annually
More Information about donations
