Initiative launches in Stellenbosch to support local businesses

In an effort to bolster the local tourism and SME recovery of businesses located in Stellenbosch, Visit Stellenbosch has launched Support Stellensboch.

 On 5 September, locals and visitors will receive a voucher to the value of 50% of what they spend (for transactions of R200 or more), redeemable through SnapScan at any participating restaurant

Stellenbosch local businesses have been severely impacted by the lockdown and Covid-19, resulting in the local community coming together to create innovative solutions to assist one another.

Jeannneret Momberg, CEO Visit Stellenbosch, the town’s official Destination Marketing Organisation explains the aims of the new initiative

“As an extension of Visit Stellenbosch’s initiatives, Support Stellenbosch has been created to inspire locals to support local and stimulate our town’s economy and pave the way for its swift recovery. To that end, we are extending this solidarity to support our restaurants and tourism businesses that continue to be affected by the lockdown and resulting lack of patronage.”

Endorsed by the Stellenbosch Municipality, Stellenbosch University, Cape Winelands District Municipality, and Wesgro, the innovative Support Stellenbosch campaign calls on residents to support local business, experience Stellenbosch as tourists, and inspire their networks to discover what Stellenbosch has to offer, in times of Covid-19 and beyond.

An online directory

Support Stellenbosch initiatives include an online directory of restaurants, accommodation, and experiences which are “Stellenbosch Ready”. These businesses have been qualified and certified to have adopted Visit Stellenbosch’s safety and hygiene protocols, endorsed by the World Travel & Tourism Council.

The initiative will start within the first week of September and will offer locals and visitors the opportunity to explore Stellenbosch and support local businesses.

“On Saturday, 5 September, we kick off a Support Stellenbosch month with a fresh new rewards campaign where locals and visitors will receive a voucher to the value of 50% of what they spend (for transactions of R200 or more), redeemable through SnapScan at any participating restaurant within the campaign period (capped at a maximum of R400). There are also special travel packages, accommodation, and experience discounts,” explains Momberg.

Support Stellenbosch will include a special Showcase of the town for locals in the last weekend in September, October, and November, providing locals with special offers.

“This astounding show of support among Stellenbosch accommodation, experiences and restaurants to revive the town’s tourism economy is an incredible example of what one town can do when it comes together behind the common goal of making it safe and easy for guests to visit. This is a first for South Africa. There’s nothing we like more than hosting friends in Stellenbosch. This initiative allows us to do just that,” concludes Momberg.

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Feature image: Supplied