People across Derbyshire urged to shop local this Boxing Day
East Midlands Chamber of Commerce says local businesses need extra support after a tough few years
Last updated 26th Dec 2022
People will be heading to the high streets today to try and get a bargain today.
Due to the pandemic, and cost-of-living crisis, the past couple of years have been difficult for businesses. They are hoping no restrictions and the Boxing Day sales will bring people to their stores, despite people living on more of a budget due to rising costs.
Chris Hobson is from East Midlands Chamber of Commerce, he said: "We're seeing lots of talk and lots of different stories of people struggling with the cost of living, but we also know that people do still put aside for these special times and special purchases. We are hoping people will still be doing that.
"Businesses will be doing all they can when it comes to pricing and when it comes to experience for families and communities, as they always do."
He goes on to say: "When we talk to some of our retailers, they will be taking potentially up to a quarter of their total income for the year, just over this holiday period. Obviously we have all the presents being bought at Christmas, we also have the sales. It's part of many peoples traditions to get out for the Boxing Day sales.
"Regardless of what's going on, Christmas and New Year is always going to be busy. It's been a really difficult year for many people, and a very uncertain year. Retailers are doing all they can to make themselves welcoming.
"They are open and there, and we would urge people to support their local retailers."
Speaking ahead to the New Year, Chris said: "2022 has been a very difficult year for all sorts of reasons. I think there's a lot of hope for 2023, it feels like there's more certainty going into next year, compared to previous years.
"from a different perspective, I think what retailers would like is just a little bit of boredom so they can go about their business."