An innovative move that’s set to power local spending and hand a lifeline to struggling high street businesses has been unveiled

In the wake of mounting high street closures, climbing household costs, and rising parking fees, an exciting new initiative with a mission to save residents money and bolster independent Lichfield businesses is poised to launch.

By contributor Justine Halifax
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Last updated

The brainchild of growing Lichfield-based movement NetworkLocal, a new free and innovative business directory will go live at the end of this month. Designed to boost SEO, footfall, and business visibility, the searchable listing is set to deliver unparalleled promotion for independents at zero cost.

NetworkLocal’s proud founder, Kellie Johnson, pictured, said: “This is your chance to stand out, at no cost, and to be part of something that truly puts local first.

“There’s nothing else quite like NetworkLocal out there. 

Kellie Johnson, founder of NetworkLocal.
Kellie Johnson, founder of NetworkLocal.

"We exist solely to support our local economy: For the good of the community, not for profit. Our platform connects independent businesses with local people who care about shopping small, saving money, and keeping high streets alive."

Powering Local Spending for a stronger Lichfield community

The launch follows the loss of at least seven beloved high street businesses in recent months, including Friary Shoes, The Bittersuite, Eden, Trinity Brew Co, The Dancer's Room, Encore!, and 4533.

Supported by Lichfield Chamber of Trade & Commerce and Andrew Downing-Booth Estate Agents, NetworkLocal also launched the MyLichfield District Card.

This completely free discount and rewards card gives Lichfield and Burntwood residents, and those in surrounding villages. access to exclusive offers at more than 90 independent businesses.

Residents with postcodes WS13, WS14, WS15, DE13, B74, B75, B78, B79, WS7, WS8, WS9 can sign up now at networklocal.co.uk.

NetworkLocal's MyLichfield App
NetworkLocal's MyLichfield App

More plans to ease financial burden on local shoppers in the pipeline

NetworkLocal has also revealed that it has more plans in the pipeline to further extend its mission.

It’s put forward a proposal to Lichfield District Council for resident-only parking discounts, via the MyLichfield District Card, to be introduced.

Kellie added: “This initiative further aims to ease the financial burden on local shoppers while driving traffic back to our high streets and producers’ markets.

“Supporting local starts here: Together, we can save our high streets, and your pennies.”

Local businesses and residents urged to join the growing movement

For further savings and community perks, residents are able to upgrade to the MyMidlands Card to unlock discounts at an additional 60+ businesses across the Midlands, monthly prize draw entries, and free social events and network opportunities at a cost of £7.50 per household annually (RRP £30pp).

Following its launch at the end of this month, the free business directory, which is open to all local independent businesses, will unlock the following:

  • A searchable listing to boost Google rankings and online visibility,

  • Free marketing through NetworkLocal’s active platforms,

  • Invitations to events, mentoring, and PR support,

  • Optional free and affordable upgrade packages to connect you with national clients.

To sign your local business up for a free directory listing and to claim your free MyLichfield District Card, visit networklocal.co.uk. For more information email info@networklocal.co.uk or visit networklocal.co.uk.