Skipton launches new app to encourage residents and visitors to explore the town and support local businesses

Skipton Business Improvement District (BID) has launched a new partnership with multi-award-winning app LoyalFree, as part of their mission to support the commercial wellbeing of Skipton's Town Centre.

LoyalFree is an innovative place promotion app that showcases vital area information for locals and visitors including a local guide, exciting trails, digital loyalty cards, exclusive deals and fun local events. The free-to-download app is designed to boost footfall and sales in the town by encouraging consumers to explore the area and support local businesses.

Back in 2009 businesses voted for a Business Improvement District (BID) to be set up in Skipton and re-voted for the BID to continue in 2014 and again in 2019. Since then, the BID has invested in supporting the vibrancy and vitality of the town, continuing their efforts with the integration of the LoyalFree app! BID members will now benefit from advertising opportunities, customer insights and social media support. Local businesses already signed up include Oakleys Grill & Pizzeria and The Flip Side Crepes.

Skipton BID Manager, Sarah Howsen said “It is fantastic Skipton are joining the Loyal Free partnership after its success across the country. It has been a difficult couple of years, and this is a free, simple solution to help businesses connect with new customers. All businesses need to do is email info@loyalfree.co.uk quoting Skipton BID, stating their offer.

BID Chairman, Andrew Mear said “ We are encouraging all our BID members to sign up and provide their offers to inspire people to shop local.  The trails we have already developed will motivate visitors and residents to explore areas of the town they haven’t previously visited and benefit our vast array of retail and hospitality business which Skipton is proud to be home to.”

LoyalFree’s digital trails are a great way that app users can explore the town’s history, hidden gems and best independents! There are already some exciting trails live on the app including The Live Entertainment Venues Trail, Skipton Coffee Guide and The Canal Quarter Trail where app users can explore Skipton’s community of independent shops, businesses, cafes, restaurants and pubs!

Keep your eyes peeled for more trails being added very soon, plus interactive experiences in the town through the place promotion app.

Sophie Hainsworth, co-founder of LoyalFree, said: ‘‘We are very happy to be working with Skipton BID to encourage residents and visitors to explore the town and be able to offer local businesses a way to expand their digital presence.’’

Download the LoyalFree app before the end of May and you can be in with a chance of winning a fantastic selection of delicious cakes alongside their own blend coffee to the value of £40, supplied by the amazing Ellie Warburton’s! The in app competition can be entered with just one click every day for even more chances to win!

You can download the LoyalFree app for free here: www.loyalfree.co.uk/download or search ‘LoyalFree’ on the iOS and Google play store. 

If you’re a BID levy payer in Skipton please email info@loyalfree.co.uk for details of how you can get involved in the scheme.