Angry Perth traders are this evening launching their own campaign to re-energise the high street to combat what they see as the city centre’s decline.
The Better Perth group is firing the first salvo in its battle this week with its inaugural First Thursday promotion.
It has persuaded more than 50 traders to open late with special events, promotions and entertainment to entice shoppers and workers to spend more time and money in Perth.
From a historic department store to small independent boutiques and cafes, a diverse range of businesses are joining together to reverse the fading fortunes of the Fair City’s high street.
The traders hope their model could serve as inspiration for other towns and cities nationwide that have been hit by out-of-town shopping developments and online retailing.
One of Better Perth’s founders, three-times Scottish hairdresser of the year Charlie Taylor, said: “There is no point in competing against one another when the real enemy is online shopping and inertia.
“Perth is a beautiful city that has been laid waste by the growth in out-of-town developments and online shopping.
“After years of city-centre decay, business owners have had enough and are doing things for themselves.
“We want to reinvigorate Perth and reawaken the sense of community that has been gradually ebbing away over the past years.
“We aim to serve as a beacon of hope for other beleaguered city-centre businesses.”
The campaign aims to tempt people to stay on after work and normal trading hours tonight, as well as all subsequent first Thursdays of each month over the coming year.
Among those taking part, McEwens department store will be opening late for only the second time in its 147-year history, offering customers a range of enticements.
Meanwhile, Eva Lucia’s boutique will be hosting a fashion show and giving 10% discounts on all purchases.
For designated drivers, Caf Tabou will be offering a complimentary First Thursday Berry Buzz mocktail with every meal.
Others are planning discounts of up to 20% on goods and food or putting on free entertainments.
Charlie Taylor and her team are also joining in with a charity Blow Dry Party Bar to raise money for Marie Curie.