Nicola Sturgeon considers giving Scots £100 shopping vouchers to help retailers
The news comes as the Northern Irish Government recently revealed plans to roll out a voucher scheme early in the new year, with qualifying people to be given between £75 and £100 to spend in shops – but not online.
An industry leader said it is “encouraging” ministers are considering their calls for a voucher scheme – which they believe could help retailers in the post-Christmas period, when sales can drop.
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Hide AdResponding to a question at the daily coronavirus briefing on whether Scotland will introduce a similar scheme, the First Minister said it was something being considered.
Ms Sturgeon said: “We are looking at that, and considering that.
"We recognise with all of these things there is an importance of acting quickly just now, so I can't give you a date for when we’ll make that decision but it's something that is under consideration.
“I can't give you a definite answer to the question today, but hopefully we'll say more about that before too long.”
Many shops across Scotland have had to close their doors as a result of the coronavirus pandemic.However, Scottish Retail Consortium director David Lonsdale said a voucher scheme such as this in Scotland could give a “much-needed shot in the arm” to shops and other businesses.
He spoke after Ms Sturgeon confirmed the Scottish Government is “looking at that and considering that”.Mr Lonsdale said: “It is encouraging that Scottish ministers appear to have listened and are responding positively to our calls to consider the potential for a high street voucher scheme.“The retail industry and our high streets are facing profound challenges at the current time due to a combination of factors including pandemic-induced restrictions and economic downturn, which have weighed on consumer demand.“If a voucher along the lines envisaged for Northern Ireland is introduced here it could put money into people’s pockets and help get the Scottish economy moving again, giving a much-needed shot in the arm to shops and other consumer-facing firms like eateries in the leaner months early in the New Year.”