Carmarthenshire County Council has launched a project to encourage people to shop local this Christmas and support independent businesses who have been struggling during the covid 19 pandemic.

The 100% Sir Gar project, is an online showcase, developed by Carmarthenshire County Council with support from town and community councils, businesses and retail groups to give local retailers and producers a platform to highlight their products.

With the festive period fast approaching, it is hoped that the online directory, will be a vital resource for customers looking to buy presents for loved ones and to see what local independent businesses can offer. For the people of Carmarthenshire to support local traders and businesses during the end to a difficult year.

100% Sir Gâr is a virtual shop window, highlighting a wide range of wonderful home-grown and handmade products by talented local people.

It has been launched on the Discover Carmarthenshire website and will be shared widely across local social media feeds over the coming weeks.

Carmarthenshire County Council and traders have been working with local businesses to develop 100% Sir Gar, encouraging them to take advantage of the free advertising at a time when they may need it most.  Any local independent business or producer can sign up to be included and take advantage of the free marketing opportunity.

Leader of the Council, Cllr Emlyn Dole, said,

“Our small independent businesses have never been through such a tough year, and at a time when we’re all starting to prepare for Christmas we’re asking people to shop 100% Sir Gâr. Please support your local businesses at a time when they need you the most.

Here in Carmarthenshire we are lucky to have a vibrant and diverse range of small local businesses who are producing some wonderful arts and crafts, food and drink, fashion, homeware, wellbeing and cosmetics, gifts, toys and more.

If you’re thinking of buying gifts for your family, or simply want to treat yourself, visit 100% Sir Gâr and buy something truly unique whilst helping local people and businesses and keeping the Carmarthenshire economy moving. Your support will be so greatly valued.”

Pethau Pert owner Catrin Gwyn, added,

“As a new business that was born in the lockdown period, Pethau Pert is excited to be involved in 100% Sir Gâr. We see this as an opportunity to raise our profile and find new customers who are looking to support local businesses during these times.”