Loyalty card scheme to benefit shoppers

DEREK HEFFERNAN

A LOYALTY card rewarding shoppers for using local and independent shops to boost the local economy will be introduced by the council.

As well has helping local businesses, it is hoped the scheme will promote variety and choice and create jobs.

Councillor Derek Heffernan said: “The card in Rochdale offers all sorts of offers and we want to bring that here to Oldham. We know we aren’t going to take people completely out of supermarkets but this will encourage them to shop locally. It will benefit the whole of the borough.”

The Rochdale scheme has been operating since 2010. Residents are rewarded for shopping at over 200 shops and businesses in the town centre.

Oldhamers will be able to apply for the card online. The council’s website will be regularly updated with available offers and discounts

Councillor Heffernan added: “If people do just a small percentage of their shopping in local business, the difference to the economy would be massive.”