Sunderland is a popular and busy destination, but like other cities, it has suffered the impact of the global economic downturn due to rising inflation. There is still a strong business community; everything from local retailers to the sex scene in the city is thriving, according to the escort platform Erobella. However, business leaders believe things could be better, and they have come up with a potential solution.Â
Sunderland Business Improvement District (BID) is encouraging business owners and shoppers to support local enterprises this festive season by engaging with the city’s gift card scheme. The Sunderland Gift Card offers a practical solution for anyone seeking the perfect present or corporate gift.
A Great Opportunity
With the Christmas shopping season now in full swing, the gift card presents an excellent option for businesses looking to reward employees or clients and for shoppers uncertain about what to buy for loved ones. Since its launch, the scheme has seen more than 200 local businesses participate, ensuring over £300,000 worth of transactions remain within Sunderland’s economy.
To make the process even more accessible, Sunderland BID has introduced a click-and-collect service. This new feature enables customers to purchase the gift cards online and then collect them from the BID office located at The Yard in the city centre. Additionally, buyers can still choose to have the cards delivered directly to their chosen recipient. Corporate buyers now benefit from increased flexibility, with options to pay by card or receive an invoice.
Gift cards can also be purchased in person at various locations, including the Bridges shopping centre, the Museum & Winter Gardens, the National Glass Centre, and libraries in Washington and Houghton. For those preferring digital options, e-cards are available, which can be sent directly to the recipient’s e-wallet. Recent updates to the system have made it possible to purchase multiple digital gift cards simultaneously, streamlining the process further.
The Chief Executive of Sunderland BID, Sharon Appleby, highlighted the numerous advantages of choosing the Sunderland Gift Card, particularly for corporate gifting. The flexibility of the cards ensures recipients can select something they truly want, making them a versatile and personalised gift. Appleby emphasised that the expanded purchasing options make it easier than ever to obtain the cards, whether for personal or business use.
Ocado Jumps on Board
One business embracing the scheme is Sunderland-based Ocado, an online groceries provider. Recognising the value of rewarding its workforce, Ocado has incorporated the gift cards as part of its employee engagement strategy. This aligns with their ongoing commitment to acknowledging the hard work of their Customer Hub colleagues, who consistently deliver exceptional service to Ocado Retail customers.
The Sunderland Gift Card initiative continues to drive local spending, foster community support, and provide a practical gifting option during the holiday season. By keeping the funds circulating within Sunderland, the scheme supports local businesses, helping them thrive during the critical Christmas trading period.
Through innovations such as click-and-collect, expanded delivery options, and digital solutions, Sunderland BID is making it more convenient for both individuals and businesses to invest in the local economy. This commitment not only strengthens the city’s business community but also ensures a more sustainable and prosperous future for Sunderland.