MORE THAN 100 local businesses have now signed up to the Fife Gift Card initiative.

The scheme, which it's hoped will help fuel the region’s fightback from COVID-19, allows shoppers to spend the gift cards at retail, hospitality, leisure and attractions as well as accommodation and health and beauty businesses.

And in today's Press, readers can win the chance to spend £100 with local businesses.

The gift cards can only be spent with businesses in the region so the money stays in the local economy.

One participant is Kincardine business Superfly Soap, which was launched in 2018.

Its owner, Lisa McWatt, said: "I immediately wanted to get on board with the Fife Gift Card. One of my main priorities as a business is to reduce emissions and cut down on the environmental impact of the products I create.

"Buying things off Amazon is an easy option but I think during the lockdown, people became more aware of what’s around them and more appreciative of it, wanting to support independent brands and makers. People also started to change their habits in a positive way, walking to the shops or cycling and using the businesses around them. It’s vital that we keep up that change.

“One of the biggest benefits of shopping local is the environmental benefit. When people shop local with small businesses, most of the ingredients that went into creating that product were sourced locally which means less delivery miles. Not only that, it’s the change that it can make to local businesses and the area.

“We still need to keep money in the community. If people spend with Superfly Soap, it stays in the area, and it’s a huge support for owners like me. This is the time when we really need to shop local, to keep money in our communities.

"You get really lovely unique items when you shop local. Giving someone a Fife Gift Card shows a little more thought. You’re giving something from your area, and it gives you a little happy feeling!"

David Grove, Fife Council's lead officer town centre development, said they were pleased to support the initiative. He added: "We are committed to encouraging spending locally – helping secure jobs and build a more sustainable, vibrant future for communities and people.”

Businesses can register by visiting www.lovelocal.scot/giftcard and find out more about the Fife Gift Card at: https://scotlandgiftslocal.com.