Shoppers can support small, local businesses and get essential goods delivered directly to their front doors, following Enfield Council’s partnership with online marketplace ShopAppy.com.
ShopAppy.com, a scheme supported by Visa, allows people in Enfield to browse and purchase from multiple shops in one transaction, 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
They can then arrange for a delivery that not only is fast and convenient but will provide a boost to the local economy during a time of great uncertainty.
The marketplace also provides a convenient way for customers to continue to shop locally, while creating an increased sense of community when many may feel isolated as a result of the coronavirus crisis.
Enfield Council partnered with ShopAppy.com as one of several support initiatives for businesses in Enfield during the COVID-19 pandemic and lockdown. The Council is funding membership to the platform for one year and has already seen many signing up from all across the borough.
Products include a veg box from Nokta Food Centre on Fore Street, a Halal meat box from Deniz in Angel Edmonton, chocolate treats from Love Brownies Cafe in Southgate, or a bath-soak from Aromatic Aromas in Forty Hill. Edmonton Green Shopping Centre owners Crosstree Real Estate Partners have also kindly agreed to partially subsidise a number of deliveries as part of their ongoing support for the initiative.
The Leader of Enfield Council, Cllr Nesil Caliskan, explained: “We are heading towards one of the steepest and severest downturns that our economy has ever seen. It is critical that we do as much as possible to show our support for our high streets, small businesses and local initiatives as they slowly start to reopen. This simple but brilliant platform will have real benefits for town centres and independent retailers, particularly those who do not have the funds or the know-how to launch an online offering.
“At the same time, we also need to help residents who have been unable to get essential items easily, who cannot leave the house or do not have the means to get to several places for the things they need. When restrictions are lifted fully, we also know customers will continue to support local businesses either online or will visit these shops in person. As a result, there will be an increase in footfall and our plans for the regeneration of our town centres will be supported by a loyal customer base.
“Enfield’s small businesses are the beating hearts of our communities and local economies. I know from speaking to residents that they want to help them as much as possible. Those who are already tech savvy want to move away from the big supermarket chains. This is the perfect way to show mutual support during difficult times.”
Sabri Marsaoui, Asset Director of Edmonton Green Shopping Centre said: “We are pleased to be supporting this partnership between ShopAppy and Enfield Council. It is such a great initiative that aims to encourage people to come into our towns and centres across the borough, making it easier to support our local independent businesses, which are the heartbeat of our community.”
Participating is quick and easy and you can start shopping straight away. You can order from any retailer across Enfield – the service is borough-wide. Goods will be delivered by vehicles but a click and collect service will be launched when the lockdown is lifted completely. Strict hygiene and social distancing measures will be in place to protect retailers, delivery people and customers.
ShopAppy.com founder, Dr Jackie Mulligan, said: “We are delighted to be working in Enfield and to be partnering with Enfield Council on this launch of the ShopAppy.com. With our partnership with VISA helping us provide support to more small businesses across the UK, we are certain this will provide a real and tangible benefit to Enfield businesses and the community.”