There’s no doubt that 2020 has been a difficult year for businesses but one piece of good news is the East Lothian Gift Card has been selling fast.
In fact, the value of cards sold in the run up to Christmas has more than doubled on the previous year, to almost £50,000. And in terms of the numbers of cards sold, this has increased by almost five times on the same period in 2019.
John McMillan, the council’s spokesperson for Economic Development, said: “The gift card was launched in 2018 with the aim of supporting our town centres and local businesses and boosting East Lothian’s economy. This year’s sales have been fantastic and I think that’s down to the fact the cards are so easy to buy online and people have been doing much more online this year – but also due to a real willingness to shop local and support our local businesses.
“This is good news for all of the traders, attractions, service providers and hospitality venues that have signed up to accept the gift card. I’m sure many have already benefited throughout the year from gift card spend. Even though most of our businesses will be closed from Boxing Day for three weeks under the latest government announcement, I am sure they will benefit enormously when people are able to get out and spend their cards in 2021. I am very pleased the East Lothian gift card has been useful to local people, particularly this year, and is helping our efforts to support local businesses. Thanks to East Lothian Investments Ltd, the council’s arm’s length company for setting up and managing the initiative, and to the Economic Development team who have worked so hard to promote and process the many sales this year.”
Although gift cards ordered now will not arrive in time for Christmas, it’s still a great gift all year round and is available from the gift card website.
Any businesses interested in joining the scheme should contact elinvestments@eastlothian.gov.uk or visit the website.