Summer of Independents campaign launched at indie showcase

Crafters, makers, bakers, barbers and bar tenders gathered together to showcase their one-of-a-kind products and services at the InExeter independent showcase in St Stephens Church on 27 June.  Celebrating the launch of InExeter’s Summer of Independents campaign, which will champion Exeter’s vibrant independent scene, the event shone a light on a handful on the brilliant indie businesses in the city. 

Businesses including The Roots Foundation, Mantis, Erin Cox, The Belt Makers, March Coffee, the Recycled Candle Company, and Chococo were on hand at the event to show and talk to attendees about their unique products and offer samples, with The Den Barbers even offering on the spot beard trimmings. Coolings and South Street Standard provided delicious canapes, washed down with a spicy rum cocktail made by The Oddfellows.

During the event, this year’s Summer of Independents competition to find Exeter’s most loved independent businesses was launched. From Fore Street to Sidwell Street and all in-between, independent shops, cafés, professional services and businesses offer original products and experiences to the city and this July voters will be invited to vote for their favourite indies.

Ann Hunter, InExeter manager said; “Our independent businesses are crucial to the health of our high streets and give our city character. The passion, creativity, entrepreneurship and personality that our independent businesses bring to Exeter and our local communities is immense and we as a city should and need to support them. By shopping with our independents, you support the local economy, you help grow local talent, you receive personal service, you can find a unique range of products, you help build communities and you shape local identities.”

Voting will open on 4 July (Independent’s Day) and is open over three categories: Food and Drink, Retail and Services. A winning voter will also be selected and will win a £250 InExeter independent gift card which can be spent in over 70 of the city’s fantastic independent businesses. 

All of InExeter’s independent businesses will be eligible for voting and a winner will be chosen from each category.  

There are four ways to vote:

Head to www.inexeter.comto cast a vote online, 

Vote via the InExeter social media channels using the hashtag #myexeterindie

Email Info@inexeter.com

Pick up a voting card at any participating independent shop and drop into the Tourist Information Centre. 

Voting closes on 31st July 2019.

After the initial voting shortlisted businesses will be visited by a mystery shopper. Once this stage is complete, a judging panel will choose the Independent Business of the Year for each category based on the mystery shopper evidence & original votes from members of the public.

For more information about the Summer of Independents competition, visit www.inexeter.com

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