Stirling residents encouraged to boost city economy by £5 million by supporting local businesses

Spending £1-per-week with a local business could boost Stirling's economy to the tune of almost £5 million, according to Go Forth Stirling BID.

New data suggests that Stirling's economy could receive a near £5 million injection if each resident spent just an extra £1-per-week with local businesses.

Go Forth Stirling Business Improvement District (BID) is among those emphasising the significant impact this could have, safeguarding the future of businesses and protecting jobs, as part of Scotland Loves Local Week.

Scotland's Towns Partnership (STP), the organisation leading the Scotland Loves Local initiative, has estimated a £4.8 million boost for the Stirling region's economy from this simple additional £1 spend with local businesses.

The campaign is raising awareness throughout this week, under the slogan People Make Places, highlighting the human impact of choosing local.

Go Forth Stirling director Danielle McRorie-Smith said: "Local businesses – and the people behind them – are at the heart of every community.

"Many are family-run and have thrived for generations thanks to the dedication of their staff and the support of local people. Choosing local celebrates their contribution and helps secure a vibrant future for us all."

Stirling businesses are among those featured in the national drive to inspire and encourage action in every community.

Rosalind Wardley-Smith, owner of The Golden Lion Hotel in the city centre, said: "Our focus is on supporting Stirling's local community from the businesses on our high street to the people who work here.

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"We're proud to employ local staff, give back to local enterprises, and invest in initiatives that strengthen our city. Everything we do is about supporting local initiatives from within Stirling."

Made in Stirling is a venture that showcases how backing neighbourhood businesses can create a knock-on effect throughout entire communities.

The organisation has converted a former department store in the town centre into a retail outlet, gallery, event venue and workshop space that backs more than 100 creators, with roughly 70% hailing from Stirling.

The initiative is striving to help breathe new life into the high street and shopping economy by providing access to arts and culture.

Paul Jenkins, Commercial and Creative Director of Made in Stirling, located on King Street, explained: "Local support is so important. Our mission is to revitalise the high street and make Stirling not only a centre they visit for its heritage, but for all of the amazing local businesses we have across Stirlingshire."

STP champions the vital role that towns and neighbourhood areas play in building a better Scotland and the necessity to invest in them.

Its Chief Officer, Kimberley Guthrie, said: "The reality is that £4.8 million is the tip of the iceberg of what can be achieved in Stirling. If £1 more every week can make a transformational impact to the people who make our places, just imagine what is truly possible by choosing local even more.

"Money stays local for longer when you spend with local businesses. The multiplier effect is massive. These businesses spend with other businesses, who employ other local people, who then spend with other local businesses. Every penny spent is an investment in the future of your area.

"The jobs and livelihoods of your neighbours, friends and family depend on you doing so."