A NEW store has been launched to offer discounts at independent stores and businesses in Herefordshire and other Wye Valley areas to encourage post-Covid recovery.
According to its website, the “Local Discovery Card” is “the largest and most diverse, community-oriented, digital discount card in our region”. They offer memberships that use their digital discount card to get instant access to hundreds of discounts at local businesses in the Forest of Dean, Wye Valley, and surrounding areas. Their motto is “save.support.discover”.
There are three membership options suitable for locals and tourists alike, with sites and sites from partner companies from 15 industries.
Young & Green is an independent company in Herefordshire that makes sustainable housewares made from 100% recycled materials. They initially joined as a new company to get their message across, to support other independent businesses and in return invest in the local community.
Lizzie Young of Young and Green in Ledbury Market
Young & Green owner Pamela Young said it opened her eyes to all of the exceptional independent businesses in the area.
“Not only did it bring together a supportive community, it also demonstrated the abundance of natural resources the area is, not just in terms of agriculture, but also the diversity of artistic talent and a wide range of entrepreneurs,” said Ms. Young.
“After many months of upheaval, the LDC allows our local community to celebrate this!”
Some of the companies have got to know each other personally since joining, which has enabled them to network on site.
“It was great to exchange ideas and support each other because you keep asking what you are doing. Only someone in a similar situation can appreciate this, ”said Ms. Young.
The pandemic has hit many companies hard. The Local Discovery Map shows customers how many independent stores there are in their area that all sell genuine items and services.
“I think the pandemic, like me, has all given us time to pause, reflect, and reevaluate our lives.”
It is very important for Ms. Young to reduce our CO2 emissions by shopping locally and to appreciate nature, each other and what is on our doorstep.
“The Local Discovery card embodies that,” she said.
“A big thank you to Heather at LDC for reaching the hand and getting it on its way.”
Visit https://localdiscoverycard.co.uk/ for more information.
The participating companies in Herefordshire are:
• Donovan’s woodwork
• Tilly’s – a local farm shop on wheels
• Mommy’s fudge
• Gasthof Rein
• Oh My Goat – goat milk ice cream
• Young & Green – Sustainable Housewares
• Berries unlocked
• Milling Bros – sawmill services
• Krämer & Co. – luxurious natural scented candles
• Pennants and Cheeks
• Herefordshire baskets
• Pixley Berries – Liqueur with lots of fruit
• Mini first aid
• Sprout & Co. –
• Border Escapes – your guide to the borders and beyond
• Snoring Doric
• Penrhos spirits
• Harryella does
• Sophia Davenport – watercolor artist
• JD Gaynan & Son – Ledbury Jewelers
• Bordello banquets – bespoke catering and entertainment