Support Rugby businesses online with ShopAppy

Rugby Borough Council joined forces with ShopAppy during the lockdown before Christmas to give the borough's independent shops and businesses the opportunity to trade online for free, with no commission on sales.

Nearly 40 businesses have now signed up to Rugby's ShopAppy platform, which allows shoppers to browse products, book appointments, buy online for home delivery or click and collect.

Every business which signs up to ShopAppy can create its own online store, with free marketing support also on offer.

The platform caters for independent shops, businesses, service providers, market stall holders and home businesses.

The ShopAppy team visited Rugby Market on Friday (30 July) to promote the platform, handing out free tote bags to town centre shoppers and offering the chance to enter a free prize draw to win shopping vouchers.

Cllr Jill Simpson-Vince, Rugby Borough Council portfolio holder for growth and investment, encourage both businesses and customers to embrace the benefits ShopAppy brings.

"The council funded the ShopAppy platform to support the borough's businesses in last year's lockdown during the crucial run-up to Christimas, but online shopping still has a part to play in the borough's economic recovery now Covid restrictions have been eased," Cllr Simpson-Vince said.

"By fully-funding the ShopAppy service for a year, the council ensured our businesses enjoy all the benefits of having an online store while removing the barriers which often prevent moving online - upfront investment and specialist support with the technology.

"For residents, the platform provides the flexibility to browse and buy online, book an appointment or arrange to click and collect, while supporting local businesses via Rugby's own virtual marketplace."

Businesses interested in joining Rugby's ShopAppy online trading platform can find out more information at www.rugby.gov.uk/shopappy

Residents can visit Rugby's virtual marketplace at www.shopappy.com/rugby