The King’s coronation is the ideal chance for people to get behind businesses across Scotland amid hopes of a bank holiday trade boost.
Scotland Loves Local campaign leaders say enterprises of all kinds throughout the country hope the long royal weekend will bring with it a financial windfall.
Many are making plans to mark the coronation, whether by attending street parties, community events or inviting friends and family to witness the event together.
And people are being urged to choose local as they buy food, drink, bunting and more for the festivities, whether for historic occasion on Saturday May 6 or in enjoying the celebratory bank holiday the following Monday (May 8).
Scotland Loves Local is the campaign led by Scotland’s Towns Partnership (STP) to make the nation’s communities stronger through grassroots action.
STP Interim Chief Officer Kimberley Guthrie said: “There are so many brilliant businesses in every region of the country. So, when we raise a glass to King Charles, enjoy a slice of cake or blow up a balloon in his honour, we can make a real difference by ensuring it’s locally bought or produced.
“It’s a message that His Majesty, as a tremendous supporter of sustainable local produce, businesses and his love of Scotland, would undoubtedly agree with.
“Rising costs are placing increasing pressures on local businesses. That makes these large-scale events more important to them than ever, as people stock up on supplies for the celebrations or simply want to enjoy extra time together.”
Experts estimate that the coronation will bring with it a £1bn boost to the UK economy.
Shops, bars, restaurants, visitor attractions and many more businesses hope to benefit.
The hope of a trade boost is shared by the Scottish Grocers’ Federation (SGF), long-term supporters of the Scotland Loves Local campaign.
Luke McGarty, SGF’s Head of Policy and Public Affairs, said: “A coronation is a wonderful opportunity for people to celebrate within their community, with family, friends and neighbours.
“Recent years have shown that our members are at the very heart of their communities and that they have their fingers on the pulse of what customers need and want.
“Convenience retailers and staff will be working as hard as ever to ensure that everyone can access the goods and services they need locally while people enjoy the national holiday.”
Communities across the country are being encouraged to take part in The Coronation Big Lunch on Sunday May 7.
People are also being urged to spend using the Scotland Loves Local Gift Card, ensuring the money they spend stays local for longer by directly supporting shops, attractions and jobs in the area.
You can find out more about the gift card by clicking here.
