Shoppers urged to swap the online basket for Farnham’s high street

A campaign has been launched encouraging Farnham residents to think twice before clicking “buy” online and consider whether they could find what they need on their local high street instead.

Waverley Borough Council has brought its “When did you last visit your local high street?” campaign to Farnham to encourage people to change their shopping habits and support independent businesses.

It follows a launch in Haslemere earlier this year and is part of a series across Waverley.

While messages such as “shop local” and “use it or lose it” have become familiar, the council wants residents to go a step further by buying locally what they might otherwise order online.

Farnham has a wide range of independent retailers, and the council hopes the campaign will highlight both the businesses themselves and the people behind them.

Cllr Liz Townsend BEM, Waverley’s portfolio holder for planning and economic development, said: “Farnham is home to a fantastic range of independent shops and businesses, each bringing something special to the character and vibrancy of our town.

“Whether it's discovering something different, getting friendly advice or finding a product you won't see everywhere else, shopping locally offers plenty of reasons to explore what's on our doorstep.

“We're encouraging residents to think about where they shop and, where possible, choose local. From a coffee or lunch to that special gift, every visit and every purchase helps support local businesses, sustain jobs and keep our town centre thriving.

“By making small changes to our shopping habits, we can all play a part in supporting the businesses that make Farnham such a great place to live, work and visit.”

As part of the campaign, the council has spoken to a selection of Farnham’s independent retailers about how their businesses began, the products and services they provide and what being part of the town’s community means to them.

Businesses being showcased include Pullingers, Ranger's Furnishing Stores, Elphicks, Farnham Furnishers, Andre Noir jewellery and TDO Therapy Footwear.

Elphicks Managing Director Alan Bushnell said the department store, which has traded in West Street since 1881, had embraced online shopping but believed personal service remained one of the high street’s biggest advantages.

He said: “Online has its place - we all use it. But it can't be the whole answer. We have to remember what we're good at, and that's creating an enjoyable experience where people can see products, try them on and talk to knowledgeable staff.”

The campaign aims to show that independent shops can offer more than simply the products on their shelves, including specialist knowledge, carefully selected goods and a more personal service.

Cllr Townsend added: “Behind every independent business are people who bring passion, expertise and commitment to what they do.

“By choosing to shop locally when we can, we're helping to protect the unique character of our high streets and ensuring that local businesses have the opportunity to flourish.”

Residents can find out more about the Farnham businesses featured in the campaign and get ideas for their next local purchase through the Business Waverley website.