News

Angus Council is pleased to announce the Angus Independent Retailer Programme, delivered with Scottish Government LACER funding, to support local economic recovery following the Covid-19 pandemic.

The Angus Independent Retailer Programme is open to independent retailers within Angus’s seven burgh towns and aims to increase footfall and spend in the local economy.

Angus Council Leader, Councillor Beth Whiteside said: “Our town centres have been significantly impacted following the Covid-19 pandemic, with many independent retailers struggling to sustain their businesses long-term as the footfall within town centres decreases, with the number of people buying online increasing considerably.

“This important, bespoke programme will help equip eligible independent retailers with the tools they need to recover and grow by learning how to adapt to the changing markets and improve their resilience.”

Funded by £400,000 of Local Authority Covid-19 Economic Recovery (LACER) money, the programme will deliver tailored support for independent retailers with 1-1 business advice to help the retail sector maintain long-term sustainability. The programme will also be combined with a small grant scheme for eligible businesses to support business development and improve customer experience.

Elevator have been appointed to deliver a bespoke retail programme, and will be introducing themselves to retailers in Arbroath, Brechin, Carnoustie, Forfar, Kirriemuir, Monifieth, and Montrose to engage with eligible businesses who wish to take part.

Professor Gary McEwan, Elevator’s Chief Executive, said: “Our team is committed to ensuring that independent retailers in Angus are provided with the resources, skills, and expertise they require to sustain and grow their businesses. Whether they are newly established or already have years of experience, our team and partners will be providing them with all the necessary tools which are beneficial to further the growth of their retail business.

“Businesses will be able to access help and advice on topics such as marketing, business planning, stock control, e-commerce, social media, visual merchandising and much more. We are looking forward to providing Angus businesses with expert advice that is 100% tailored to their individual needs.”

Please visit our Angus Independent Retail Programme page for full information and to find out how eligible businesses can apply.