As Lanson continues to expand its list of modern shops, business owner Sarah Bradley has told Launceston Life why shopping locally is so important, and with Christmas on its way, why wouldn’t you buy from the amazing range of local businesses?
Owner of beautiful interiors and gift shop The Byre, located on Broad Street, Sarah has seen Launceston consistently develop since relocating to this central shop space two and a half years ago.
But Sarah explained that it’s down to the people of Launceston to use the shops, cafes, delis and markets, to make sure the town centre is able to thrive for years to come.
“Launceston relies on the locals,” she told Life. “We’re still here being supported by the locals, which is great. This summer, I did notice that there were more visitors than previous years, but on the whole it’s locals that keep me going.”
Using small independent shops often provides a more personal experience to customers. “I always wanted a shop where people could come and enjoy the whole shop,” Sarah continued. “I want to make sure that it’s a calm environment where people can take their time to browse, and even just have a chat!”
With the difficulty posed to many businesses during the lockdowns over the past couple of years, Sarah was still supported throughout this challenging period by offering home deliveries in and around Launceston, being able to make sales despite having to close her shop for a long time.
“When we came out of lockdown, I think people appreciated coming into the shops after being away from them for so long,” Sarah said. “People need to keep realising that the little local shops are what keeps the town going, so make sure you’re visiting them as much as you can.”
This goal shouldn’t be too hard to achieve with the amazing community spirit Launceston has, but Sarah thinks that people need to adjust their mindsets towards shopping locally, to ensure independent businesses are able to be here for years to come.
She said: “There’s a really nice community in Launceston, and people from other areas are discovering our town a bit more. People need to make a conscious choice to shop local, they have to make the effort. Perhaps that means making a little plan of what you need to buy, then you can set out and find whatever you need in the shops.”
It’s clear that the independent businesses in Launceston support one another too. In fact, while Sarah chatted away to Life, Jade Harvey from Let’s Get Naked Refill popped in to grab a couple of bits, and stopped for a chat too! It’s fantastic to see a friendly community of businesses supporting each other, despite the challenges they’ve all had to face because of Covid-19 and Brexit.
“I think it’s really important that people open their eyes to what’s going on in the town,” Sarah added. “There’s always so much going on in the town centre, and there’s a real core team of people pushing things for the town. People need to give back to the community and support it!”
The Byre will be open throughout the festive season, and will also be open during the town’s late night shopping nights on the 10th and 17th December.
If you’re in town at any time, why not pop in to see Sarah and browse her fantastic selection of eco-friendly and Fairtrade gifts, home interior items, books, toiletries and more?
Remember, shop locally this Christmas - and the rest of the year too!
The Byre is located on Broad Street, Launceston, and also has a website where you can shop for all the eco-friendly goodies from the comfort of your own home! https://www.thebyrelaunceston.co.uk/