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Village shops in Herefordshire will soon be able to benefit from advice and business support tailored specifically to meet their needs.
Herefordshire Council is now affiliated with both ViRSA (Village Retail Services Association) and the RSA (Rural Shops Alliance).
ViRSA has extensive experience of assisting communities where a village’s only shop is at risk of closure (or has closed).
It has been particularly successful in helping parish councils and action groups to set up village-backed investment rescue packages. It also offers specialist advice on how to start a community shop.
Cllr Charles Mayson, Cabinet Member (Rural Regeneration and Smallholdings), said: “Village shops, post offices, garages and pubs are often at the centre of social activity and the support now available through ViRSA and the RSA will help to secure the future of these vital services.”
The RSA offers a proactive approach to retaining a healthy network of village retail businesses.
In addition to lobbying, the RSA offers a range of support to rural shops including a newsletter and website, sponsored business development courses, workshops between retailers, manufacturers and suppliers, exclusive deals and promotions with manufacturers and suppliers, and an advisory service.
The council’s affiliation means that rural shops in Herefordshire will be able to access these services for free.
Any rural shop wanting further information should contact Shane Smith, Community Regeneration and Grants Assistant on 01432 260611 or email shanesmith@herefordshire.gov.uk
VILLAGE SHOPS TO RECEIVE FREE BUSINESS SUPPORT
Village shops in Herefordshire will soon be able to benefit from advice and business support tailored specifically to meet their needs.
Herefordshire Council is now affiliated with both ViRSA (Village Retail Services Association) and the RSA (Rural Shops Alliance).
ViRSA has extensive experience of assisting communities where a village’s only shop is at risk of closure (or has closed).
It has been particularly successful in helping parish councils and action groups to set up village-backed investment rescue packages. It also offers specialist advice on how to start a community shop.
Cllr Charles Mayson, Cabinet Member (Rural Regeneration and Smallholdings), said: “Village shops, post offices, garages and pubs are often at the centre of social activity and the support now available through ViRSA and the RSA will help to secure the future of these vital services.”
The RSA offers a proactive approach to retaining a healthy network of village retail businesses.
In addition to lobbying, the RSA offers a range of support to rural shops including a newsletter and website, sponsored business development courses, workshops between retailers, manufacturers and suppliers, exclusive deals and promotions with manufacturers and suppliers, and an advisory service.
The council’s affiliation means that rural shops in Herefordshire will be able to access these services for free.
Any rural shop wanting further information should contact Shane Smith, Community Regeneration and Grants Assistant on 01432 260611 or email shanesmith@herefordshire.gov.uk