A NEW scheme to help get

the local economy back on its feet after the coronavirus pandemic has been launched in East Ayrshire.

In conjunction with the UK Government’s ‘Shop Local Week’, one of the hardest hit areas in the UK will receive a boost with new gift card programmes designed to stimulate the local economy.

East Ayrshire Council have launched the new Town and City Gift Cards scheme in association with Scottish tech firm Miconex.

This is a joint initiative between the local authority and the Kilmarnock Business Association – with over 80 businesses like Brownings the Bakers, Donsport, Cards ‘N’ Things, The Flower Shop and Bar Luca signed up.

Cards can be purchased with a value of between £10-£500 as gifts, with the recipients able to use the card like a debit card across multiple outlets.

According to data from the Office of National Statistics, 61 per cent of businesses in Scotland reported a decrease in turnover in June and July of this year.

So it is hoped the introduction of the gift cards will help consumers spend more money in Cumnock.

Speaking on the potential benefits, a Cards ‘N’ Things spokesperson said: “It’s quite obvious – the more ways you can get people through the door to spend money, the better for businesses.

“Anything that helps make it easier for people to spend money has got to be a good thing.

“It was definitely a simple decision to sign up to the scheme.

“We got the card machine through last week and it’s nice and simple to use so it’s all positive.

“Credit must go to those behind the initiative.

“The last thing businesses can afford to do in this current climate is turn down a customer because they can’t take a payment.

“Any ways in which money can be spent in the town, the better.”

East Ayrshire councillor Jim Roberts added: “We’ve realised just how much we need our small local retailers.

“It’s really important that we all now do our bit to support them through the tough times that will inevitably be ahead.”