GoLocal is the new, Newcastle exclusive, discount card that can be used in tons of local and independent businesses around the city. Founder Oscar Slacke has said that the intention behind the card is to encourage student to support local businesses, instead of gravitating towards chain brands and huge names - and it seems to be working well, as many businesses involved have already reported increased footfall.
In an interview with ChronicleLive, Oscar said that “students can have a really big impact on their local community, not just in Newcastle, but in university cities all over the country. Even if students shifted their spending 10 or 20% more towards local businesses than big chains, it would have a big impact.”
But what businesses are actually involved? There’s a great mix: Spy Bar in Jesmond, barbers, Cubanos in Grainger Market, vintage clothes, Aidan's Kitchen in Sandyford, coffee shops, and Dough Daze in the city centre; there’s sure to be something for everyone. A full list of all businesses involved is available on their Instagram or website, where you can also sign up for free.
There’s a great mix of businesses involved; there’s sure to be something for everyone ... keep an eye on their socials to see if your favourites are signing up next.
More businesses are expected to join, and Slacke has said that they have “asked students their favourite local businesses and are pitching to them to get involved,” so keep an eye on their socials to see if your favourites are signing up next.
Although the scheme began in Newcastle, there are hopes to roll it out in university cities all over the UK, encouraging students everywhere to support independent businesses near them. Its especially pertinent in Newcastle, though, as the opening of a Freight Island venue may overshadow locally owned businesses and venues.
So, don’t forget to sign up to GoLocal to get your free digital discount card and unlock tons of brilliant student discounts; it's simultaneously helping you save money and supporting local businesses, it's a win-win situation for everyone.