Have yourself an authentic East End Christmas
East End traders are calling on the public to make their Christmas shopping experience more authentic with a special weekend celebrating independent businesses.
Some of the area’s most colourful characters are taking part in East End Indie Weekend on December 1st, 2nd and 3rd.
“Our high streets and markets are bursting with creative talent and unique products. They offer a very fresh alternative to bigger chains selling mass-produced items."
Jenna Fansa of the Local Buyers Club said: “Our high streets and markets are bursting with creative talent and unique products. They offer a very fresh alternative to bigger chains selling mass-produced items. Choosing an authentic East End shopping experience this winter offers a chance to meet some fabulous traders, many of whom have a rich history in the area and it’s usually a calmer shopping experience.
“Independent traders have had a tough year, with average rent increases of 10% or more and business rate hikes. Shopping local this Christmas will be a big boost for them, which in turn helps local communities.”
East End Indie Weekend is run by the East End Trades Guild and supported by the Local Buyers Club, a new discount card offering savings at some of the best local and independent businesses in the area.
Shoppers taking part in the event will be invited to join in a treasure hunt (find and photograph any five blue plaques inside Guild members' premises and share on Instagram, tagging @east_end_trades_guild and the business) for a chance to win one of 5 luxury hampers filled with products donated by members of the East End Trades Guild.
A special collectable map designed by world-renowned artist Adam Dant signposting the best local businesses will be given out by each participating business during the weekend.
Among the shopping areas taking part are Well Street & Victoria Park, Columbia Road, Broadway Market & London Fields, Roman Road, Spitalfield, Shoreditch, Brick Lane and Bethnal Green.
Alternative London will be running food-based walking tours during the weekend, celebrating the best local restaurants and street foods.
For a full list of the businesses taking part or for more information, visit: www.eastendtradesguild.org.uk
What is the Local Buyers Club?
We're on a mission to help you discover and support the best local and independent businesses.
We've negotiated discounts for our members at dozens of fantastic restaurants, shops, bars and businesses throughout North and East London. We help promote them and raise awareness of the advantages of shopping locally.
Join now and we'll send you a free collectable Adam Dant designed map (while stocks last)
Join Local Buyers Club and, for just £12 per year, you'll be helping to support local business and you'll receive a discount card to use at any of the 100+ businesses listed on the site.
