Issue 3 2021

News Supporting Small Businesses A recent survey reveals optimism from small businesses owners as over a third expect to recruit new staff in 2021. As thousands of shops, hospitality venues and many other businesses plan to reopen in line with the government roadmap, the national discount scheme, My VIP Card, has new data highlighting that many small businesses are optimistic about 2021 and over a third (36%) are planning to recruit and expand their teams once lockdown measures ease. The survey also highlighted that there is confusion amongst small business owners with regards to government legislations around the legalities of vaccinating staff, how their insurance is impacted and the legislation required to open safely and legally. For the retail and hospitality sectors this is a vital time as they have already missed out on Christmas, Valentines and Mother’s Day trade and is imperative that the government offers crystal clear advice to allow these businesses to open seamlessly. My VIP Card recently launched a national campaign, ‘Everyone is a VIP to someone’ to support small business owners and raise awareness of mental health issues in the UK. The scheme has been actively supporting thousands of businesses through the pandemic by offering free membership and promotion to our national network of members. Many local shops and services have adapted their solutions to offer online, click and collect or takeaway services and My VIP Card allows a ‘one stop shop’ to find all the amazing offers and discounts available in your local community and beyond. The national discount card gives local shoppers access to thousands of discounts, helping them save on average £500 a year while supporting their local high street. Maddy Alexander-Grout, Founder of My VIP Card, added, “It is hugely positive to see so many businesses planning to recruit when lockdown measures ease. I have personally spoken to hundreds of local business owners and many are really struggling to survive and are obviously keen to reopen but they need the advice and support to ensure they can do so correctly and efficiently. My VIP Card is here to support small businesses across the UK by raising awareness and actively encouraging shoppers to benefit from local discounts. If you need support or know a small business that would benefit from becoming part of our network, then please get in touch.”

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