Loyalty scheme to boost Fylde traders

The Loyal To Fylde scheme is to be piloted in Lytham and St Annes from next month with the aim of being extended to the whole of Fylde borough.

Costing £12 a year for consumers and from £15 a month for traders, it offers customers benefits such as discounts and special offers for backing independent businesses – and it is also hoped to generate donations to charity.

The scheme has been devised by Lytham resident Shaun O’Meara, a self-employed project management consultant who has been delighted with the reaction so far.

He said: “It allows customers to collect points just by spending with local independent businesses.

“Retailers benefit by marketing tailored offers and informing consumers of new products and services.

“As it grows, the aim is to donate to local charities from customer and retailer subscriptions.”

Shaun is looking to initially establish a base of at least 500 consumers and 50 businesses across Lytham and St. Annes, then expand to the rest of Fylde.

“We have already surpassed targets towards launch with 120 consumers and 15 businesses signed up,” he said.

Denize Ashton (pictured inset), chairman of the Lytham Business Partnership, said: “Encouraging people to shop local whenever they can has to be a great idea.”

Details at www.loyaltofylde.co.uk