The new Keep It Local campaign is aimed at encouraging residents to support local businesses and strengthen the Havering’s economy
Havering Council has launched its Keep It Local campaign, urging residents to support businesses within the borough and strengthen the local economy. The initiative encourages people to prioritise shopping, dining, and using local services rather than travelling outside the area. It also promotes the use of local tradespeople and encourages businesses to source supplies from fellow Havering enterprises, fostering a robust and interconnected economy.
Spending money locally has a direct and lasting impact on the borough’s economic growth. When residents choose Havering’s businesses over alternatives outside the borough, they contribute to the sustainability and success of these establishments. This not only keeps money circulating within the community but also helps businesses expand, innovate, and continue providing essential services. As local enterprises thrive, they create more job opportunities, allowing residents to work closer to home, which strengthens the community and improves overall economic resilience.
Keeping business within the borough also plays a crucial role in reducing environmental impact. Shopping locally means less need for long-distance travel, cutting down on carbon emissions and helping to create a greener environment. By reducing congestion and pollution, Havering can work towards cleaner air and a healthier future for residents. Additionally, when businesses source their supplies from within the borough, they contribute to a sustainable and circular economy, ensuring that financial benefits remain within the community rather than being spent elsewhere.
The campaign also highlights the importance of strengthening community spirit. Local businesses bring character to high streets and shopping areas, offering unique services and products that reflect the culture of Havering. Residents who support these businesses help preserve the identity of their borough while fostering connections with business owners, traders, and neighbours. A thriving local economy ensures that independent businesses can continue to serve their communities, keeping town centres vibrant and lively.
Councillor Ray Morgon, Leader of Havering Council, emphasised the significance of the campaign and encouraged residents to take part. He expressed pride in the borough’s diverse range of businesses and their contribution to making Havering a great place to live and work. Councillor Morgon, along with Councillor Graham Williamson, Cabinet Member for Development and Regeneration, recently visited The Pink Parachute pottery café in Hornchurch, where they spoke with customers about the importance of shopping locally and supporting independent businesses.
To further promote the Keep It Local initiative, Havering Council will host a Business Showcase event at Havering Town Hall in Romford on Thursday, 20 March 2025. The event will highlight the wide variety of businesses operating within the borough, offering visitors the opportunity to explore local services, meet business owners, and discover what Havering’s high streets have to offer. Open to the public throughout the day, the showcase aims to reinforce the message that shopping locally benefits the entire community.
The Council is inviting residents and businesses to share their Keep It Local experiences as case studies, highlighting success stories and demonstrating the positive impact of local support. Those interested in featuring their business can email advertising@havering.gov.uk. Residents are also encouraged to follow #KeepItLocalHavering on social media for updates, success stories, and ways to get involved in supporting the campaign.
