‘Use it or lose it’: Horsham business leader’s message to shoppers

Chairman of the Billingshurst and Horsham Chamber of Commerce, John Wright, is urging shoppers in the area to support local businesses as lockdown restrictions ease.

From Monday June 15 non-essential retailers will allowed to reopen.

John said: “I would like people to think about [it] a bit more and the significance of spending money locally.

“Don’t assume a business is closed – give them a call.

“My attitude is get out there and support businesses and spend money providing you’re able to.

“It’s a tough one to ask people to do that because I do appreciate a lot of people are nervous about things.

“You can’t really ask people to just drop those fears – that would be irresponsible.”

Spending money locally supports businesses but also residents who work for the firms, according to John.

He added that if businesses don’t receive backing they may not survive.

John said: “The people who work there will no longer have a job. Use it or lose it.

“It’s critical we support our businesses more than ever.”

But word of mouth can play a big part in backing local firms.

John urged people to share good experiences or write a review if they receive great service.

He said: “A personal recommendation is massive.

“The key in recovering things from coronavirus is sharing great experiences.

“People are very quick to complain – to criticise – but not so quick to praise.

“If you’re talking to others and you can recommend a business then that really helps that business.

“The word of mouth is just as important.

“If you get a good experience then tell everyone about it.”

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