BRIDGWATER Chamber of Commerce is joining the call for residents to look to the high street for products and services, before taking custom out of the local economy to multinational businesses (May 2024).

It has joined other local stakeholders in raising awareness of the variety of businesses that operate in and around the town and encouraging consumers to shop locally where possible.

Former Chamber Manager, and current board member, Diogo Rodrigues said: “In Bridgwater, we are lucky to have a thriving business community which offers a huge variety of great products and services to people living in the area and beyond. My hope is that by increasing awareness of these businesses, people can feel real pride in their local area, which in turn has the potential to transform the town into a welcoming, open and safe environment to trade in.

“In my capacity as former Chamber of Commerce Manager, and in my work as a Bridgwater and Somerset councillor, I have been lucky to meet business owners who not only operate in Bridgwater, but also work incredibly hard to support our community. Whether through supportive networking, grassroots sponsorships or even offering to lend a hand to people in need, these companies and the people who run them are an asset to the town.

“It can be challenging to always support local, especially if there is additional cost involved, but I believe that if everyone could think local first as a default instead of opting for the convenience of large companies, they would be surprised at what is on offer to them.”

Bridgwater Chamber of Commerce supports Bridgwater businesses through networking, events and involvement within lobbying and discussions about the future of business in the town. It is currently preparing for its Business Expo, which will take place on 21st June 2024 at The Canalside.

Mr Rodrigues continued: “For those who aren’t aware of what Bridgwater has to offer in terms of business opportunity, I would encourage you to join us for this year’s Business Expo to meet some of our fantastic local business owners.

“The event will offer an opportunity to find out more about businesses operating in and around Bridgwater, an option to listen to insightful panels and a chance to speed network at an event hosted by Neil Fellowes, Marketing Director at Sedgemoor fm.

“For the networking portion of the event, you couldn’t be in safer hands! Sedgemoor fm has added huge value to the business community with its monthly Business Breakfast and continues to provide a supportive networking event that provides insight and opportunity to those that attend.”