GLASGOW will soon have its own local gift card to help struggling businesses who have suffered economic hardship as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. 

The Glasgow Loves Local gift card is being launched to encourage shoppers to spend more on local businesses across the city. 

The card is a collaboration by the Scotland's Towns Partnership (STP) and card operator Miconex, with the funding of the Scottish Government.

The card is specially designed for Glasgow, and only works on shops and businesses within the city. There are 32 similar cards for different regions in Scotland aiming to boost local economies after many businesses struggled during the COVID-19 pandemic. 

Councillor Angus Millar, Depute City Convener for Inclusive Economic Growth at Glasgow City Council, said: "Supporting local businesses in Glasgow will play a vital part of the city's economic recovery from the pandemic, and the Glasgow Gift Card is a welcome initiative to help the high street and the wider city economy.  I would encourage any businesses in Glasgow interested in this scheme to sign up."

There is no registration cost for businesses, and it is hoped that the card will create a sense of community spirit after such a long period of isolation and fear, and prioritise supporting local businesses rather than shopping further afield. 

STP's Chief Officer Phil Prentice said: "We have never valued local life, the people and businesses around us more. The Scotland Loves Local Gift Card initiative embraces that.

"We can't wait to see people loving local life by using their region's gift card, whether that be while out shopping, meeting friends for a coffee or meal - or making a day of it and doing it all. This is an ideal way of supporting the brilliant businesses in our communities.

"These gift cards will be a remarkably powerful way of unlocking spending potential - and keeping that money in local communities for longer. The more businesses that sign up, the better the local experience will be. We have had tremendous interest and support so far.

"Local businesses need our support - our communities need our support. Businesses can help people to be there for them by becoming part of Scotland Loves Local family. There has never been a scheme on this scale in Scotland."

Companies are also being encouraged to use the card to support other companies as part of their corporate rewards scheme. 

The Glasgow Loves Local gift card launches later this year, and if you think your business may benefit from this you can register HERE.