‘Support York indies this Independents Day’ – Impassioned plea as businesses reopen

A business leader has called on York residents to spend in local shops, cafes and bars as more of the city reopened today (Saturday).

Chairman of Indie York Johnny Hayes said it was crucial that residents backed city businesses.

Before the crisis hit, Indie York was planning to host ‘Independents Day’ today – 4 July – championing the small businesses that make the city so special.

Given how hard businesses have been hit by the coronavirus crisis, today is now even more important.

Johnny said: “Today is a big day for our local high streets and for independent businesses in particular.

“But it is the next few months that will be so very important for their survival.”

Need help to survive

Pubs, café, hairdressers and cinemas were allowed to reopen today under the easing of coronavirus lockdown restrictions.

York was busy at lunchtime with people taking advantage of the chance to dine out again.

Johnny said: “Local shops and businesses need the support of local residents.

“York is a city of independent businesses with over 65% of city centre businesses being independently owned and run.

“This is one of the things that make York so special. There is no doubt that the number of tourists coming to the city will be massively reduced at the moment.

“It is not easy running a small independent business and this post-lockdown period is going to make it much harder still to survive.

“So it is local support that is much needed. There are plenty to chose from in York. They will not all be open yet as some are holding back to see how things go in the next week or so.

“So please show your support for local independent businesses.”