​The Mayor of Taunton, Cllr Fran Smith, has made her first virtual appearance at the opening of the Wilton and Sherford Community Shop.
 
The Mayor appeared by video link at the opening in the Churchill Meeting Hall, Middleway, on Easter Monday. The shop, registered as a Community Interest Company, is being run by volunteers to help local residents with access to basic provisions during the Covid-19 pandemic.
 
It was established with a grant of £1,500 from the Charter Trustees for Taunton Unparished Area Grant Fund. A further £1,000 from the Somerset Community Foundation will be used to provide much needed stock.
 
Cllr Smith said: “This is a much needed local shop in an area with a high number of older members of the population.
It’s wonderful to see people rally round to support each other and those in need during the current crisis, and I was delighted to be able to take part in the official opening while still observing advice on social distancing.”
 
Wilton and Sherford CIC Director, Natalie Dyson, said: “It really is utterly unbelievable to think what our little team has achieved in under two weeks.
 
We set up a not for profit Community Interest Company, obtained start-up funding, recruited volunteers, opened a business bank account, appointed accountants, built relationships with stockists, begged and borrowed from all over Taunton and were met with incredible kindness by the people who donated things,
 
Really I am humbled beyond belief at the amazing skill set we have between us and the camaraderie we have developed. I’d like to give a big shout out to every individual and all the businesses and organisations that have helped to make this happen.”
 
The shop will provide a convenient local drop-in facility for residents to pick up basic provisions including groceries, household items and toiletries
 
The volunteers can also arrange to deliver items to the community of Wilton and Sherford which has a high proportion of older members of the population.
 
All items will be sold on a not for profit basis.

Why?

Personalized Service
A small business owner will go the extra mile to make you happy. Local businesses are owned by your neighbours and friends. They care about you and are invested in your community.

Unique Products
A national chain will sell hundreds or thousands of identikit products. Local stores sell unique merchandise in smaller numbers so you will buy something truly individual.

It supports the arts
Small local businesses support creativity! Look for art on display created by local artists. These are one-of-a-kind pieces you won’t find anywhere else.

It helps the local economy
The money you spend in a local business stays within your town and community, thus improving its future.

How?
Instead of purchasing items from national chains, try to purchase things from a business local to your area.

Buy a gift or a gift card at a local business in your area and give to a friend, family member, or co-worker. This will introduce the company to someone new and allow for the “shop local” mantra to spread.

Promote their business! If you like a particular shop or independent restaurant share and like their social media accounts. Spread the word.
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Give them a great review. Send them a thank you. Say why you love them and let them share your testimonial.

You boost the local economy
For every £1 spent with a small or medium-sized business 63p stayed in the local economy, compared to 40p with a larger business.

You increase the value of your home
High streets populated with thriving independent businesses boost the prices of nearby homes. Discount stores and charity shops decrease home values in the area.

It is more ethical
When you shop at local butchers, bakers, farm shops and green grocers, it is likely that a decent percentage of the produce has had a short field-to-fork journey.  As a bonus it means the food is likely to contain more nutrients and have less packaging.

You support local entrepreneurs
Head for your local artisan market. These help foster the talents of the next generation of British designers and retailers. There is a constant turnover of new products, and sellers listen to customers’ demands. From food to fledgling clothing designers there will be something for everyone.

You help to build your local community
Bookshops, cafés and craft shops often drum up custom by hosting events, from reading groups to knitting clubs and children’s events. If local businesses are not supported, these fun local groups tend to disappear too.
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You might get a better deal or some good advice
Local independent businesses can use their discretion to reward regular custom. Butchers will give advice on cooking times, and how large a joint you might need to feed a family get-together, with some leftovers. Get to know your local traders.