Fashion boss backs campaign to boost Barnsley

Rita, whose own business Nomad Atelier is based in the Tobacco Warehouse in George Yard, is working with neighbouring businesses to raise awareness of what local shops have to offer both in-store and online.

The campaign to boost trade in the town’s Victorian Arcade and surrounding area has been initiated by Barnsley Business and Innovation Centre, through Enterprising Barnsley - the business support arm of Barnsley Council.

It aims to kick-start promotion of the shops, restaurants and bars through social media, events, better signage and infrastructure and collaboration between businesses.

Rita, who has 50 years’ experience in the fashion industry, said: “We are all embracing this new initiative and it feels great to be pulling together in the same direction to improve the area and increase sales for everyone.

“It’s been an extremely tough time for all independents in recent years as big high street brands have promoted the concept of all-year-round sales and a ‘pile it high sell it cheap’ culture. We now need to fight back and promote our offer.”