CHESTER's popular gift card scheme has seen the city's economy boosted to the tune of over £100,000.
Designers Chester BID are celebrating after The Chester Gift Card hit £100,000 in sales, however it is estimated that the impact could be greater still.
More than 125 businesses, from independents and large retailers to restaurants and experiences have benefitted, with many reporting an overspend since it was launched in November 2020.
One of the businesses that have taken part in the scheme is Lakeland, on Northgate Street.
Cathy Dallimore, General Manager said: "The Chester Gift Card has been great for us. Customers have told us that they like the variety of places they can spend their gifted amount. We’ve found in this store that there is an overspend of around £10-£20 - which is good all around."
Jim Dorrington, Operations Director at Mediterranean restaurant and bar Artezzan on Pepper Street said that many of his guests use the card as part of their shopping day.
Jim said: "Chester is a great place to spend a day. The Chester Gift Card allows shoppers to pick up some great pieces from boutique shops - offering a plethora of goods and products - and then enjoy a leisurely lunch and a cocktail here with us. It really gives them the true Chester experience."
The Gift Card Voucher Association says there is an average of between 35-65 percent overspending for gift cards, something CEO of Chester BID Carl Critchlow was keen to leverage with the introduction of the card.
He added: "We are delighted that sales of the card have now reached such an epic figure. With the additional spending too, the figure going back into the local economy has well surpassed £150,000 which is fantastic for the businesses we look after and the wider city too.
"Chester has always had a great choice of shops, bars, restaurants and things to do and see. The Chester Gift Card gives visitors an added option to enjoy it all at once!"
You can find more information about the gift card online, from how to buy and how eco-friendly the card is https://experiencechester.co.uk/chester-gift-card/. The gift cards are also available to purchase in the Visitor Information Centre.
Businesses who wish to take part in the scheme should contact: luka@chesterbid.co.uk.
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