Beating the crunch in St Austell

A new initiative has been launched in St Austell to encourage local people to use local services, and save money in the current downturn.
Beat the Crunch is a Cornish coupon booklet system that hopes to create extra value and strengthen loyalty between customers and local businesses.

It is the brainchild of Alex Summers, who explained: “Coupon culture is big business and a brilliant remedy for gaining new custom during the downturn. The aim is to reach everyone who wishes to economise with a simple message of – save money and spend locally.

“The idea is to get people shopping in their local town, lending their support to the local businesses and saving money in the process.”

The booklet includes 11 different special offers and members pay £9 weekly for the design and distribution. Most shops and members have offered money saving offers to directly encourage spending and maximise brand exposure.