More than 80 Angus businesses helped by support scheme

The scheme included a small grants scheme and advice tailored to help with business development.

Supporting local economic recovery following the Covid-19 pandemic, the Angus Independent Retailer Programme helped independent retailers within the county’s seven burgh towns with the resources, skills, and expertise they need to sustain and grow their businesses in an ever-changing market.

The programme, delivered by Elevator, was tailored to each individual business’s needs, and gave them access to help and advice on topics such as marketing, business planning, stock control, e-commerce, social media and visual merchandising.

Angus Council Leader, Councillor Beth Whiteside said: “It is wonderful to see so many of Angus’s independent retailers engage with the programme and take advantage of the 1-1 advice on offer.

“I am delighted that we were able to provide eligible retailers with the tools they need to continue to recover following the Covid-19 pandemic. It is wonderful to hear from those who participated that the support was beneficial and has helped them to grow their businesses and adapt to the changing markets by improving their resilience.”

Funded by £400,000 of Local Authority Covid-19 Economic Recovery (LACER) money, the programme also included a grant scheme to support development and improve customer experience.

Gail McGraw, who owns Brechin florist and gift shop Poppies, said: “Angus Council along with the Elevator team deserve a gold star for providing this course. I would urge any other business given the opportunity to participate in future courses to attend, they won't be disappointed.”

Caroline Smith from Quirky Boutique, a ladies fashion and accessories boutique in Carnoustie, said: “I found the programme very informative and enjoyed every minute of it. It made me think out of the box very quickly on changes I want to make to the ‘look’ of my business and with their support hope to achieve this.”

Judi Milne at The Bob Tree, a creative embroidery business in Montrose, thanked the teams for their invaluable advice and support. Commenting: “I’m definitely feeling more confident about moving my creative embroidery business forward, making the best use of my time.”

Professor Gary McEwan, CEO of Elevator commented, “At Elevator, our mission is to drive transformational change. We were therefore delighted to deliver this retailer-focused community wealth building programme on behalf of Angus Council. The engagement and results have not only highlighted the resilience and skills of retailers across Angus, but also their hunger to succeed. We are proud to work with an innovative Council who share our passion for entrepreneurial local communities and the part they play in building a more equal, prosperous and vibrant economy.”