MP LAUNCHES 'KEEP TRADE LOCAL' CAMPAIGN IN SHIRLEY (East Staffordshire Liberal Democrats)

East Staffordshire Liberal Democrats <info@libdems.org.uk>

MP LAUNCHES 'KEEP TRADE LOCAL' CAMPAIGN IN SHIRLEY

March 31, 2009 12:00 AM
Originally published by West Midlands Liberal Democrats

Solihull's MP Lorely Burt yesterday teamed up with the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) and local traders to launch the FSB 'Keep Trade Local' campaign in Shirley high street.

Mrs Burt, who campaigned with Lib Dem councillors and Shirley residents against the 'Heart of Shirley' Asda development on local parkland, introduced FSB Regional Organiser Linsey Hunter to local retail businesses, including Coffee Roaster, TOYK and City Meats.

Lorely said:

"It's even more important to support local independent retailers during this severe economic downturn when everyone is tightening their belt.

"For every pound spent in independent shops, 50p goes back into the local economy; whereas only 10p for every pound spent in the big supermarkets stays local.

"It makes sense to support our local retailers," added Lorely. "Without them our high streets will die."

Shirley West councillor Howard Allen and Shirley South Councillor Tim Hodgson also attended, and will promote the scheme with independent Shirley retailers.