For those hoping to support local shops this Christmas, but anxious about in-person shopping during the pandemic, Uptown Saint John may have the solution.
The business improvement association announced it has partnered with more than 30 businesses to provide free delivery to Saint John and neighbouring municipalities.
Executive Director Nancy Tissington said they learned from last spring’s lockdown how they might be able to help local shops.
“(Local business owners) realized they had to do some deliveries, so we just thought we’d bear some of the burden off their shoulders… while they’re trying to keep up with the Christmas rush,” she said.
The service has proven to be quite popular since launching last month, with Tissington estimating they are delivering between 30-35 packages daily.
Deliveries are made in the Uptown Saint John vehicle from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on weekdays, and their delivery area extends 25 kilometers from the uptown area, including Grand Bay-Westfield, Rothesay, and Quispamsis.
“When our driver picks up, his name is Nick, so we’ve dubbed him Saint Nick now, because he’s out in his sleigh delivering all these parcels,” Tissington laughed.
The free delivery promotion will run until December 21.
Business owners had a look of relief when they pitched them on the free delivery plan, Tissington said. She believes it’s imperative residents have access to local businesses in the holiday season, especially after the economic downturn caused by COVID-19.
“I know they’re very disheartened right now, but they’re also there for us, helping us to get through Christmas in a local way,” Tissington said. “I think it’s important that we serve them back so they’re there when we get back to the other side.”
