Named ‘thetncard’, it has been developed by marketing specialist Jess Gibson from Tonbridge as a means to encourage people who live in the towns to support local traders.
Ms Gibson told the Times: “We’re a loyalty card for those living, working and socialising in Tunbridge Wells and Tonbridge – with the aim of encouraging locals to support our town centres and independent businesses a little more.
“It’s free for businesses to join the scheme, but they need to offer an exclusive discount to card members.
“The focus is smaller independent businesses, but we’re welcoming support from community-focused chains where it’s offered.”
She added that there will also be additional benefits for businesses in signing up, including social media exposure, being listed on ‘thetncard’ website, plus window stickers and other marketing material.
For local people, the card will cost £20 for a year’s membership, which would provide the individual with exclusive discounts from local businesses in both Tunbridge Wells and Tonbridge, as well as invitations to member-only events.
Ms Gibson continued: “We have a physical card for members, but also there will be the option of accessing us using the app Stocard. And ten per cent of all card sales goes to supporting West Kent Mind.”
The loyalty scheme is being launched on Wednesday February 5 at the Hotel du Vin in Tunbridge Wells and The Old Fire Station in Tonbridge, and ‘thetncard’ already has the backing of both the local authorities.
Tonbridge & Malling Borough Council leader Nicolas Heslop said: “I met with Jess to hear about her plans for thetncard and offered to support the promotion of this exciting initiative.
“It already has great support from retailers, and my offer of support includes helping make introductions to other retailers for them and raising the profile of the loyalty card.
“We do have a vibrant high street, but it is also important we support retailers by spending and buying locally.”
While Cllr Jane Marsh, head of Culture, Leisure and Economic Development at Tunbridge Wells Borough Council, added: “I am always very pleased to hear of any initiative that encourages support for local businesses and will watch the progress of this project with great interest.
“The charitable element of the card supporting West Kent Mind will, I am sure, be welcomed by shoppers.”
And a spokesperson for West Kent Mind said: “We are thrilled to be part of this brilliant community initiative and are thankful for the support shown to our charity.
“Supporting local businesses whilst raising awareness around mental health among those who live and work locally is key to our ethos and position within the community.”
For those wanting to sign up or to learn more, please email: info@thetncard.com
