The Harrogate Gift Card is here, just in time for Christmas – but what’s it all about?
What is the Harrogate Gift Card
Like most gift cards, you can pre-loaded with any value up to £500 and can be used in participating town centre shops, restaurants, bars, cafes, businesses and attractions.
The card gives you the flexibility to enjoy a bespoke Harrogate experience, from hairdressers to theatre tickets, retail to restaurants. It’s the perfect present this Christmas.
How many shops can I spend my Harrogate gift Card with?
Officially launching on 15th November, currently more than 80 shops and businesses in the town centre have signed up to accept the gift card, with more expected to join.
Confirmed shops include Harrogate Theatre, big brands including Marks and Spencer and Primark. Plus well-loved independents such as Imagined Things bookstore, Sophie Likes and Ogden’s. You can also spend in popular cafes, such as Bean & Bud and Baltzersens, as well as restaurants and bars with Konak Meze, Las Iguanas, and Revolution de Cuba all accepting the card.
Businesses that accept the card will display a sign in their window or at their till. You’ll find a list of all shops and businesses who are participating at www.harrogategiftcard.co.uk
Where can I purchase the Harrogate Gift Card?
You can purchase the Gift Card online at www.harrogategiftcard.co.uk. Or pop into the Harrogate Tourist Information Centre, Harrogate Theatre and Harrogate Bus Station who will be delighted to sell you a Harrogate Gift Card.
Why is it good for Harrogate?
“The Harrogate Gift Card locks spend into the local economy” says John Fox, Chairman of the Harrogate Business Improvement District (BID). “It can only be used in registered town centre businesses, not online or out of town. It means both the purchaser and recipient are supporting their local town.”
The Gift Card scheme has already been piloted and seen success by BIDs in other towns and city centres, such as Wolverhampton. The concept takes a leaf out of Bristol which has become renowned for its fierce independent spirit with the Bristol Pound, the UK’s largest local currency.
Such schemes work to make local economies more resilient and sustainable. Which is exactly what we need in Harrogate.
The Harrogate Gift Card is just one of the may schemes being developed and rolled out from the Harrogate BID. It’s more thoughtful than a cash gift as it demonstrates loyalty to local businesses and we hope, bolsters pride in our town. It’s a way to create a community that understands the value of their town centre at a time when High Streets across the UK are struggling.
So now you know what my family will be getting on Christmas Day. What are you buying yours? Do you think the Harrogate Gift Card is a good Idea? Comment below.
