Tunbridge Wells retailers have got together to launch a Christmas working group with the aim of making the town the number one destination for shoppers during the festive season.
The initiative, which has the backing of the Times and is headed by Royal Victoria Place centre manager Nicky Blanchard, involves small and large businesses from every part of town.
Those involved have all contributed financially to the campaign to promote Tunbridge Wells, which will feature initiatives possibly including competitions, free parking and festive events.
Joe Lloyd, managing director of independent coffee trader Perk and Pearl, said: “As an independent business in Tunbridge Wells, I believe it is vital all businesses, big and small, should pull together to embrace everything that this brilliant town has to offer.
“We have a unique offering of places to shop, eat, work and stay, the concept of working together ensures that Tunbridge Wells is at the top of the list of places to visit during the festive season.”
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Joanne Wicker of Payne and Son Jewellers welcomed the creation of the initiative and hoped it would lead to further promotion of retailers and restaurants on the High Street.
She said: “Any plan that gets businesses together to promote shopping in the town is a good idea.
“It is good to have a greater sense of working together rather than having the top of town versus the bottom of town.
“We have different characteristics but that doesn’t mean we should be rivals.”
Mrs Blanchard believed the new initiative will help to cement the town’s reputation as a top place to shop, dine and enjoy a range of Christmas activities.
She said: “I’m very excited for Royal Victoria Place to be working with businesses in all areas of Tunbridge Wells this Christmas.
“I do believe that by working together we have a much stronger offer to tempt new customers to the town.”
