Woodbridge Town Centre Management
5 November 2009
The historic market town of Woodbridge is turning the postal strikes into an opportunity to promote local shopping. Their campaign encourages people to do their Christmas shopping in the town, rather than risk goods being delayed in the post.
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The campaign is aimed at reminding consumers of the disadvantages of online shopping and possible postal delays. The posters appearing all over the town urge shoppers not to get ‘stuck in the post’ or ‘caught in the net’ and buy their festive gifts locally.
The campaign was the idea of Spike Powell, owner of The Woodbridge Kitchen Company. He explained “This is a light-hearted way to remind people of the benefits of shopping. The posters are a bit tongue-in-cheek but our customers love it. At Christmas, many people want to enjoy shopping in a place where you can chat to the staff, see and touch what you’re buying and then take it straight home. We call it Real Shopping.”
Woodbridge has proved a resilient shopping centre despite the economic climate; new arrivals include an independent jeweller on the town’s Market Hill, two restaurants, an aromatherapist and retail stores.
Town Centre Co-ordinator Marion Wells is proud of the town’s success: “We have a close-knit business community who work hard to offer consumers a unique range of products and excellent service. The campaign for Real Shopping highlights our strengths”.
The campaign is supported by many businesses including boutiques, toyshops, gift shops and food & drink retailers, all keen to encourage Real Shopping in Woodbridge.