As we all know, the convenience retail sector is very big on community, through both providing for and building relationships within.
Our sector aims to create a sense of belonging and connection by actively engaging with the local community; whether it be events, supporting local schools or sports teams, or simply just through providing a gathering place for neighbours to meet and socialize.
During Christmas, having a sense of community is heightened because it’s a time when people come together to celebrate and spread joy; there’s a sense of warmth that encourages people to connect with their neighbours, friends, and maybe even strangers!
Retailers can definitely make a positive impact on their communities during the festive season through a mirage of different ways; and not all of them necessarily have to be a 3 for 2 offer on Celebrations boxes!
Stores can be decorated with all sorts of seasonal décor; lights, tinsel, wreaths and whatever else puts the Merry in Merry Christmas! Decorations as well as hosting community events- such as carol singing, hot chocolate stands, miniature Christmas markets- can really help retailers give the spirit of Christmas that warm, traditional feeling to their locals.
Similarly, Jules Convenience in Telford, owned by retailer Julie Kaur, plan to hold a Christmas Fayre inside and outside of the store on the 16th December 2023.
This event supports local families who needs a bit of kindness on the run up to Christmas, as well as Teenage Cancer Trust, a charity in which the store is planning on hosting a tombola and raffle for in order to make a donation.
Retailers can also spread the joy with a range of festive giveaways, using social media to their advantage to promote any active competitions. This not only generates excitement, but also encourages engagement within the community- who wouldn’t want to win something Christmassy this time of year?
Similarly to Hovis, who are giving 5 lucky retailers a hamper each to gift to someone in their local community, retailers can collaborate with small businesses in the area to put together something that can be used in their own giveaways/ as prizes; both boosting the local economy and giving local businesses more exposure.
Coca-Cola Europacific Partners also hosted their 2023 ‘The World Needs More Santas Like You’ competition, where £30,000 was given gradually throughout the month of November for retailers to either donate to a nominated registered local charity or be used to make Christmas extra special in their local communities by hosting a festive event or celebration.
This way, retailers would have had the opportunity to get the ball rolling early on the Christmas community gathering.
In regards to Christmas community competitions, Susan Connolly, a retailer with four SPAR stores across Wiltshire states, “We do a daily advent calendar for customers with prizes ranging from remote control cars, to hampers and more,”
In terms of community events, Susan adds, “We also hold a Christmas Eve carol service with the local reverend, with mulled wine and mince pies.” A wonderful way to bring the Yuletide cheer, definitely!
Overall, we at C-Talk believe that prioritizing community involvement and spreading holiday cheer can make Christmas that much more magical for everybody involved; retailers, customers and shopworkers alike.
