A festive campaign has been launched to encourage people to shop, eat and spend their leisure time in Sunderland.
Spend It In Sunderland was commissioned by Sunderland’s BID to promote ways that people can support the local economy.
“Spend It In Sunderland is all about showing what the city has to offer and asking people to buy local when they are making their Christmas purchases,” said Sharon Appleby, Chief Executive of Sunderland BID.
“We have so many amazing independents for anyone looking for something different, along with lots of great high street names.
“The campaign is not just about shopping however – it’s about getting people to make the most of all the other ways you can spend your time in the city.
“It could be going out for a meal, going to the theatre or the cinema or just enjoying some of the Christmas activities such as the Once Upon A Winter Trail or the Winter in Sunderland experience at Keel Square.
“We just want to highlight that there’s nothing better than Spending It In Sunderland this festive season.”
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Sunderland’s BIDs includes the City Centre BID and the Seafront BID and is supported by the Bridges and Sunderland City Council.
The campaign will also draw attention to the Sunderland Gift Card scheme which can be used at more than 200 different outlets across the city.
To date, the say the gift card has added £450,000 to the local economy.
“At the Bridges, we’re proud to be part of a campaign that really captures the spirit of Christmas in our city and celebrates all that Sunderland has to offer,” explained Karen Eve, Centre Director at the Bridges Shopping Centre.
“Whether it’s picking up gifts, enjoying festive food and drink or taking in the lights and winter activities, every penny spent helps strengthen our local economy and we’re delighted to play our part in delivering a magical Christmas for the whole community.”
