Date: 20/12/2007
Friendly service with the personal touch is a key priority at family-run High Street News in Higher Buxton, where customers can expect a warm and approachable welcome.
As supporters of High Peak Borough Council's current Shop Smart, Shop Local campaign, Pauline and Jim Davies and their son Kevin pride themselves on treating each customer as an individual, as well as being part of the community they serve.
"We offer a range of specialist services tailored to the needs of each customer, including a delivery service and a 'save' service, where we keep back magazines and publications that they take regularly so they don't miss out on a copy," said Kevin, who starts work at 5am to make sure customers receive their daily order.
"If there's something they want, such as a particular magazine or confectionery, and we don't stock it, we'll do our best to source it for them. We also cater for the needs of disabled people. As it would be difficult for us to install a ramp, we have fitted a door bell that they can ring, and we will go out to serve them.
"To us, our customers are the most important aspect of our business - we always put them first. We have a core of regulars and have built up a rapport with them over the years. We like to think it's more than just a place where people shop, they stop and chat, not only with us, but with other customers as well."
As well as a wide range of newspapers and magazines, sweets and tobacco, High Street News stocks an extensive selection of greetings cards and stationery, sells National Lottery tickets and has a machine where customers can 'top up' their mobile phones.
A notice board advertises local events, including fund raising efforts, and the Davies regularly organise special promotions in support of local charities. They also employ two full time and two part time staff, all of whom live locally.
"I think it's important for people to support local shops, because that's what creates a sense of community," added Kevin. "Whenever we can, we use local businesses and recommend their services. It's vital for us all to help each other, because if local shops continue to thrive, it will help to keep the local economy alive."
Added long-standing customer Betty Buttrill: "I enjoy shopping at High Street News because all the staff are so helpful and friendly. Nothing is too much trouble, and they stock a wide range of goods for all age groups, including children. Their prices are competitive and if they don't have something in stock, they will do their best to get it for you."
The 'Shop Smart, Shop Local' campaign in the Buxton and Central areas of High Peak aims to promote the social, environmental and economic benefits of supporting local businesses. As part of the campaign, customers can collect a sticker each time they buy something in a participating shop and stick it on a passport.
When one of the sections on the passport is full, it can be entered into a monthly prize draw if handed in at Buxton, Chapel, New Mills and Whaley Bridge Town Halls, Glossop Municipal Buildings, or posted to High Peak Borough Council, Hayfield Road, Chapel-en-le-Frith SK23 0QJ. Monthly prize draws will take place from now until March 2008.
Further information about the campaign, including tool kits full of marketing and promotional ideas and ways to encourage people to spend in local shops, are available from Helen Pakpahan, economic development officer, on 0845 129 77 77 or customer-services@highpeak.gov.uk.