Headlines: St Helens economic recovery & Christmas at Liverpool ONE

A new programme aiming to attract shoppers back to town and district centres in St Helens by harnessing digital technology has been launched by the council.

The initiative, Local Rewards, a collaboration between St Helens Borough Council, St Helens Chamber and social media specialists Maybe* Tech aims to help businesses recover from the impact of COVID-19 by giving them the support they need to reach more customers and make more sales.

The programme will launch featuring over 500 high street businesses from across the region.

Funded by the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority’s town centre fund, Local Rewards allows businesses to communicate with, and reward shoppers, when they hit the high streets.

It has been created with the intention of ‘levelling the playing field’ between local retailers and online giants.

Businesses can also cross-promote and support their high street neighbours to create an online network of connected traders.

Home Bargains sponsor for Southport Flower Show 2022

Home Bargains has been announced as the Headline Sponsor at next year’s Southport Flower Show.

The Show is the largest independent flower show in the country, attracting over 55,000 visitors across four days. 

Alan Adams, General Manager of Southport Flower Show and Victoria Park, said: ”We are delighted to welcome Home Bargains as our headline sponsor for our much anticipated 91st show. Home Bargains play a huge part in our community, and we are overjoyed that they have agreed to support us on our return next year.”

Liverpool ONE has launched its Christmas countdown

Christmas is set to arrive at Liverpool ONE with an evening of festive fun, including resident elves, tap dancing turkeys and pop-up pantos.

On Friday 12th November, the estate will be transformed into a festive wonderland with a bit of help from some life-sized squirrels, walking presents, and live entertainment. 

Donna Howitt, Place Strategy Director at Liverpool ONE, said: ”This time of year is always exciting as everyone starts to gear up for the festive season.

“With plenty of new additions to the retail lineup this year, the offer is strong, and we’re looking forward to welcoming festive shoppers to Liverpool ONE.”